The Jessore Collectorate Building, also known as the Jashore Collectorate Bhaban, is a stunning example of colonial architecture located in central Jessore, Khulna Division. It is amongst one of the oldest administrative buildings in South Asia, even in the British period; it was one of the local government functions performed in the present day.
Historical Background
First District (1781–1786): In 1781, the first district in the territory of present-day Bangladesh, Jessore, was created. By 1786, the British had formalized the administrative office–Collectorate–a means to regulate the collection of revenue and give centralization to local administration.
Construction Dates: The collectorate office was established in 1786 even as the landmark red brick building we see today is believed to have come up in 1801 or perhaps in 1883, according to various sources.
Cultural links: The building used to draw several heavyweights, such as Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, who stayed here during the mid-19th century. It continues to serve as a district office to this day.
Architectural Design
Colonial Elements: The structure reflects quintessential British colonial style: red brick walls with white-arched windows, circular decorative designs and cornice.
Overshadowed & Landscaping: The symmetrical two-level building with large front and administrative annex within a nicely landscaped, tree-shaded park that is often visited by locals and tourists alike.
Why Visit
Something to Appreciate (Architectural): A bold specimen of colonial architecture from the 1800s, it’s an excellent place for photographers or history buffs.
Living Heritage: The Collectorate is a functioning office with in-house administrative functions, a sneak peek into active local government process. What makes it different from the other colonial-period buildings is its regular operation during the weekday.
Nice Surrounding: Collectorate Park beside extends the experience of manicured lawns and the tree-lined pathway by the Bhairab River.
Best Time to Visit & Tips
Ideal Visiting Season:
The best time to visit is from November to February with pleasant weather and more outdoor comfort.
Visiting Hours:
For weekday observation of administration. Silence is golden — respect the offices.
Getting Around:
It is centrally located at Daratana Mor in Jessore. Rickshaw, Auto, local transport. Nearby places: Jessore Institute Library and Imam Bara.
Location & Access
- Location: Daratana Mor, Jessore Sadar, Jessore District, Khulna Division, Bangladesh
Distances:
- From Dhaka: ~206 km
- From Khulna: ~74 km
- From Chittagong: ~320 km
Transport Options:
- By road: Intercity bus services are to Dhaka and Khulna.
- By rail: through Jessore Rail station
- By air: Flights to Jessore Airport, from there on local rides
Cultural & Administrative Significance
- Revenue & Governance: It initially functioned as a land revenue collecting and judicial officer building constructed during British rule, later, it developed into a full district office.
- Historical Events: Built during the British Raj, it was the stage for the fierce clashes between the students and colonial police during the 1948 protests for the Bengali language.
- Local Pride: The Collectorate building is a testament to the heritage of the city, which has been historically the birthplace of various cultural icons and administrative pioneers, and is located in Jessore City.
The Jessore Collectorate Building is so much more than a red brick relic—it is a living monument to years of administration, architecture, and civil history in Bangladesh. The superb colonial architecture, history of functionality, and surrounding paths help provide a site rich with immersive opportunities for those interested in history, architecture, or local history,
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What is the Jessore Collectorate Building?
A: A historic colonial-era office in Jessore.
2. Q: Where is it located?
A: Daratana Mor, Jessore Sadar.
3. Q: When was it built?
A: Around 1801 or 1883.
4. Q: When was the office established?
A: In 1786.
5. Q: Who stayed here in the 19th century?
A: Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
6. Q: Is it still active?
A: Yes, it’s a working government office.
7. Q: What style is the architecture?
A: British colonial.
8. Q: What major event happened here in 1948?
A: Language movement protests.
9. Q: What’s nearby?
A. Imam Bara and Jessore Institute Library.
10. Q: Best time to visit?
A: November to February.
