Medan Journal (Day 5): Huta Siallagan

The Stone Chair

The Entrance to the Village - Seen here are the Panglulubalang(?s).

Hua Siallagan is a small village in Ambarita, founded by the Siallagan clan about a hundred years ago (hence the name). It is surrounded by thick brick walls and bamboo (used to be, at least) to keep enemies and wild animals at bay.

The Panglulubalang (a large stone at the entrance of the village) is believed to be the village’s guardian and shaman - sort-of (he wards off evil spirits).

I just wish they can get a better signboard. *Sigh*

Inside the village, there are eight traditional Batak houses built adjacent to each other, still standing strong despite being there for more than a hundred years!

Did you notice the orange fences underneath the house? 

The household's livestocks are stored here. 

Look at the Design of the Roof. This Two-Pointed End on the Roof is the Hallmark Design of the Batak Toba's tribe.

The main attractions: the two stone chairs. One for the hearings and stuff (in the middle of the courtyard), and another was reserved for executions (further up the village). Yup, it’s another gruesome death process (if you don’t know what I’m talking about, click here).

Hau Habonaran (i.e. Tree of Truth) is a large tree situated in the middle of the courtyard, where you can find the first stone chairs (and tables, duh). It was said that it was planted by the founders to determine the land's suitability for settlement. Obviously this is a good place, for the tree is alive and... well, there is a village here.

This site is the place where the kings and elders held council to discuss local affairs, including criminal cases and whatnot.

The First Stone Chair in the Middle of the Courtyard. Hau Habonaran is behind Ummi. 

Daddy hanging out with the stone dude.

Some of old relics inside the house

Criminals/offenders kept under the Chief's house while awaiting trial's results/execution. 

The leg is cuffed to prevent him/her from running away.

The Second Trial Stone - The Execution site. We didn't stay to listen to the lady's story - I had enough blood & killing for today - but I reckon it was a really interesting talk. 

So there you go folks. Now you know a little bit of Samosir's history. Unfortunate for us, today's our last day at Samosir Island. That afternoon, he headed back to Parapat and then Medan. Our Medan journey will end very soon.

Tomorrow will be our last day at Medan. But we're not done yet. I still have a little something to share with all of you. Stay tuned!