Most of us are concerned with the cost of living – maintaining a comfortable standard of living, and how fast it rises. But what about the cost of dying in Singapore? Funerals and other death-related expenses do not come freely or cheaply. In researching the tombs at Bukit Brown, the Rojak Librarian wanted to find out how much it would cost the average person to die.

The public notice above shows the philanthropic efforts of Mr Aw Boon Haw (of the Tiger Balm fame) offering free coffins for those who may not be able to afford it. The cost of the coffin was $18 – presumably not a high-end model. I wonder how much is that today?

Using this newspaper clipping and other clippings from the time, the Rojak Librarian tries to figure out the cost of both living and dying in Singapore in the 1920s. Check out his post here.