Commemorating 150 Years of Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, was founded in 1864 as the headquarters of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills district during British rule. Nestled in the rolling hills of the East Khasi Hills, its cool climate and scenic beauty made it an attractive colonial retreat, earning it the moniker "Scotland of the East." In 1874, when Assam was carved out as a separate province, Shillong was chosen as its capital, a status it retained until 1972, when Meghalaya became a full-fledged state, and Shillong was declared its capital.
Shillong’s historical significance is deeply intertwined with the Khasi-Jaintia culture, British administration, and post-independence development. The city witnessed significant socio-political transformations, from resistance against colonial rule to the growth of indigenous self-governance. It became a hub of education and intellectualism, with institutions such as St. Edmund’s, St. Anthony’s, and the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) shaping generations of scholars.
Through the 20th century, Shillong emerged as a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Bengali, Nepali, and Assamese communities, alongside its indigenous roots. The music scene flourished, and the city became renowned for its contributions to Indian rock and jazz. However, the city also saw political movements for tribal rights, particularly in the late 20th century, which reshaped its demographic and administrative landscape. Today, Shillong balances its colonial legacy, indigenous heritage, and modern aspirations as a center of governance, tourism, and cultural vibrancy.
One of the most striking sections of this museum is the exhibit fashioned after an Assam-type house, a quintessential architectural style of old Shillong. These houses, made from wood, stone, and corrugated iron sheets, were designed to withstand the region’s heavy rainfall and occasional earthquakes. The museum’s Assam-type house section meticulously recreates this classic Shillong home, complete with sloping roofs, wooden floors, and high-ceilinged rooms that allow for natural ventilation.
Inside, visitors can explore antique furniture, vintage household items, and archival photographs that capture Shillong’s bygone era. The exhibit also features a recreated living space adorned with wooden almirahs, and cast-iron fireplaces—elements that were once integral to Shillong’s homes. Through this immersive experience, the museum offers a glimpse into the colonial-era lifestyle while celebrating the resilience of indigenous craftsmanship that shaped the city's unique architectural identity.
