It is not known when the reservoir was first built. However, there was a mention of an excavation site for a reservoir in the news during those times with the trial of Westphalite (explosives) supplied by Paterson, Simons & Co.. The first charge was conducted on 12 April 1899 on the excavation site meant for the reservoir near the foot of Mount Faber and the premises of the New Harbour Company, a company which was later renamed as Keppel Harbour Company in 19 April 1900.