Mount Erskine, Penang

Mount Erskine is a locality on the northeastern part of Penang Island. It was named after John James Erskine, the member of the town council of George Town around 1810. The Mount Erskine that we know today is a different place from the original Mount Erskine, which today is known as Mount Olivia, named after the late wife of Stamford Raffles, Olivia Mariamne Devenish (1771-1814). Due to Jalan Mount Erskine being built linking Fettes Park with Bagan Jermal, the entire stretch along the road became known as Mount Erskine.

Much of Mount Erskine is taken up by the Chinese cemetery there. This cemetery dates back to the early 19th century, and can be divided into different sections. The Cantonese-Teochew section is located closest to Gottlieb Road. Within its vicinity is the Kwangtung & Tengchow Association Funeral Parlour. Further up the road is a cemetery of the Hokkiens, managed by United Hokkien Cemeteries. It is one of the many Hokkien cemeteries in Penang, the others being at Batu Gantong, Batu Lanchang, Paya Terubong and Teluk Bahang.

Residential development in Mount Erskine occupy the land at the surroundings of the cemetery. The majority, such as Hong Seng Estate, are working class neighbourhoods for people who do not mind living in close proximity to cemeteries. Nonetheless, due to the size of the cemetery, it is just a stone's throw from the more affluent neighbourhood of Tanjong Tokong.

Public Transport

Presently Rapid Penang does not have a bus route passing through Jalan Mount Erskine. The nearest routes are through Fettes Park, Vale of Tempe and Tanjong Tokong.

Distance from Magazine Circus: 4.3 km

Amenities

The nearest school from Mount Erskine is the Penang Chinese Girls' High School. The nearest market from Mount Erskine is at Fettes Park and Tanjong Tokong village. The nearest shopping mall include Midlands One Stop, Island Plaza and Gurney Plaza. Petrol stations near Mount Erskine includes the Shell, Caltex and Petronas in Tanjong Tokong. The nearest hospital is Penang Adventist Hospital at Burmah Road.