RUMAH SAKIT ZAMAN BELANDA DI DEPOK INI ADA TUGU CORNELIS CHASTELEIN 1914 || Main Ke Depok Lama Yuk

Summary

This video explores the historical significance of Cornelis Chastelein, a key figure in Depok's colonial past. The host takes viewers on a journey through Depok Lama, showcasing colonial-era landmarks, including the GPIB Immanuel Church and the oldest hospital in the city, Rumah Sakit Harapan Depok. The focus then shifts to the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein, a monument commemorating the controversial figure, which was dismantled in the 1960s for its colonial associations. The video dives into Chastelein's complex legacy, highlighting his role in Depok's development and his unusual treatment of slaves. The host urges preservation of the monument as a valuable historical lesson.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cornelis Chastelein was a colonial figure, but his contributions to Depok are debated due to his complex history.
• 😀 Depok Lama was once a bustling center during the colonial era, with buildings that remain from that time.
• 😀 The GPIB Immanuel Church in Depok is the oldest in the city, dating back to 1713, originally supported by bamboo columns.
• 😀 Cornelis Chastelein built the Immanuel Church as an act of compassion for slaves who had to walk long distances for church services.
• 😀 Depok Lama contains many historical buildings, including a former European children’s school and the first cinema in Depok.
• 😀 Depok's first cinema, Elsandra, was known locally as 'Misbar' (abbreviated from 'Gerimis Bubar').
• 😀 The Rumah Sakit Harapan Depok (Harapan Hospital) is the oldest hospital in Depok, originally used as a government office during the colonial period.
• 😀 The hospital was also rumored to have been the residence of Cornelis Chastelein.
• 😀 The Tugu Cornelis Chastelein (Cornelis Chastelein Monument) was erected in 1814 to commemorate his death, but was later demolished in the 1960s due to its association with colonialism.
• 😀 The monument was controversial, with some arguing that it should not be destroyed as it had historical value, despite its colonial ties.
• 😀 Cornelis Chastelein’s legacy is viewed as mixed: he was a former VOC official who later freed his slaves and left land to them, especially those who were Christian.

Q & A

Who was Cornelis Chastelein and why is he significant to Depok?

Cornelis Chastelein was a colonial figure who played a key role in the founding of Depok. Initially a high-ranking official in the VOC (Dutch East India Company), he later became a landowner and played a significant part in developing Depok. His monument, the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein, commemorates his contribution to the city.

Why was the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein originally demolished?

The Tugu Cornelis Chastelein was demolished in the 1960s because it was viewed as a symbol of colonialism, which was controversial during a politically charged time in Indonesia, especially during the era of 'Demokrasi Terpimpin' and the rise of anti-colonial sentiment.

What was the controversy surrounding the rebuilding of the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein?

When efforts were made to rebuild the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein, the local government of Depok opposed it, arguing that Cornelis Chastelein should not be honored due to his colonial ties. This sparked debate among historians and local residents who viewed his contributions to Depok more positively.

What was Cornelis Chastelein’s role in Depok before it became a city?

Cornelis Chastelein was one of the first to open up land in Depok and was a wealthy landowner. He also played a role in bringing enslaved people from various parts of Indonesia to work in Depok.

What was the significance of the Gereja Immanuel in Depok?

The Gereja Immanuel is the oldest church in Depok, originally founded by Cornelis Chastelein in 1713. It was established to serve the enslaved people who worked for him, allowing them to worship in a nearby church after a long walk from Depok to Senen.

How did Cornelis Chastelein treat the enslaved people under his care?

Chastelein is said to have treated the enslaved people more humanely compared to others. He viewed them like children and ultimately freed them, even leaving his land to them, especially those who were Christian, at the end of his life.

Why is the area of Depok Lama historically important?

Depok Lama is historically significant because it was the center of colonial activity in Depok, with various colonial-era buildings and institutions, including churches and schools for European children.

What role did the government of Depok play in the fate of the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein?

The government of Depok initially opposed the reconstruction of the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein due to its association with colonialism, leading to a debate about whether such a monument should be honored or erased from history.

What is the current state of the Tugu Cornelis Chastelein?

The Tugu Cornelis Chastelein still stands today, though its inscription has been removed. It remains a point of discussion about the legacy of colonial figures in Indonesia and their commemoration.

How did Cornelis Chastelein’s actions contrast with the colonial system he was part of?

While Cornelis Chastelein was initially part of the colonial system, he eventually opposed the VOC's management of colonies and was critical of slavery. His actions in freeing his enslaved workers and treating them as equals were in stark contrast to the broader colonial system.