Pineapples were first cultivated in Singapore by Bugis settlers. In the 1850s, the number of pineapple plantations increased drastically when cultivation of Gambier was abandoned and the plantations were transformed into pineapple plantations. The pineapple industry eventually declined in the early 20th century when rubber became the prized cash crop. While Boat Quay eventually became Singapore’s business district, the area around the Rochor River was once considered as an ideal spot for this purpose. Despite the outcome, trade still flourished around the Rochor Harbour. The area was also a popular site for Europeans and settlers.
