Kellies's
castle | 1920
I first read about this site in a book in the 80's, "Asian
Adventurer", about this long forgotten building left
standing overgrown in the jungle. This was actually the first
story that got me hooked on exploration of abandoned colonial
sites.
Unfortunately I never did manage to get to Kellie's castle
when it was in its abandoned state. I would imagine it would
have made for some great exploring.
The building had many features planned into it. This even
included an elevator for the 6 storey main tower, if it had
been installed it would have been a first in Malaya at the
time. At the top of the building would have been a roof top
courtyard for parties and social evenings.
The overall architectural style of the building is obviously
of the British 'Raj' style, with multifoil and keyhole arches
used in abundance.
In 1926 tragedy struck when William kellie Smith died of Pneumonia,
all work at the castle was then stopped. Kellie's distraught
wife sold the estate and castle and returned back to Scotland
and so the castle was left unfinished.
Today the site is now a tourist attraction. Restored,
shored up and cut away from its jungle shackles, it now stands
proud on a small hill and easily seen from the main road.
Well done to all concerned.
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