The name Sentosa brings to mind the sun, the sea, and the sand. But the island itself has a layered and fascinating history. Early records show that Sentosa had begun as a secret pirate hideout, then a tranquil fishing village, before being used by the British to build forts and coastal defence systems. In fact, on the very site of The Barracks, the Blakang Mati Artillery Barracks once stood. It was home to the British soldiers who came from afar. Away from their family and kin, it was here that they had forged a sense of camaraderie and friendship with one another.