Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center
Former name
Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center
Established2009
Location661 Charoen Krung Road, Talat Noi Subdistrict, Samphanthawong District Bangkok 10100
TypeHistory museum

Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center (Thai: ศูนย์ประวัติศาสตร์เยาวราช) or Wat Traimit Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์วัดไตรมิตร) is a museum in Talat Noi Subdistrict, Samphanthawong District, Bangkok, Thailand. The museum focuses on the history of early Chinese immigrants in Siam (Thailand in present), especially in the area of Sampheng or popularly known as Yaowarat (Chinatown).

The museum has 6 exhibitions including Growing Up under the Royal Umbrella, The Birth of the Chinese Community of Rattanakosin(1782 - 1851), The Path to the Golden Age (1851 - 1957), Hall of Fame, Phra Barami Pok Klao, and Yaowarat today. For travel to Wat Traimit Museum, take buses 35, and 507 to Wat Traimit Wittayaram or take the subway (MRT) to Hua Lamphong Station and walk to Wat Traimit.[1]

The museum is open daily except Mondays from 09:00 AM to 05.00 PM, The admission fee is 40 baht for each person, free for Thai people.[2]

History

Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center is a private museum established with support from the Crown Property Bureau and Samphanthawong Business Community and is supported by the Thai monarchy.

On January 22, 2009, Mr. Teera Salakphet, Minister of Culture, and the executive committee of the Ministry of Culture Traveled to pay homage to Phra Thepphavana Vikram Assistant Abbot of Wat Traimit Witthayaram After that, he inspected the progress of the construction of the Phra Maha Mandap. Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakorn (Luang Pho Thongkham) was enshrined. Phra Thep Phawana Vikrom revealed that it took 1 year and 4 months to build the monastery by Captain Awut Ngern Chu Klin, a national artist. He controlled the construction and design of the Mahamandap. which began construction on the auspicious occasion On the occasion of His Majesty King Rama IX Celebrating His Majesty the King's 80th birthday in 2007.

The Maha Mondop is divided into 4 floors and the 2nd floor is an exhibition showing the relationship between Thailand and China from the Sukhothai period until the present. There is also the use of multimedia in organizing exhibitions. There is also an exhibition of the Ayutthaya period and the early Rattanakosin period. and organized an exhibition of this part as the bilge of a red-headed sampan. which is a vehicle used by Chinese immigrants to settle in Thailand next is a room showing a brief history of Chinese people who came to play an important role in Thailand, such as Chao Suan Niam, Phraya Chotukratchasetthi, Mr. Chin Sophonpanich, etc. and the last exhibition room is a room showing royal duties of His Majesty the King. and all members of the royal family regarding the relationship between Thailand and China. On January 26, 2009, at 5:00 p.m., Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn His Majesty presided over the opening of the Chinese New Year event. At Odeon Roundabout After that, he will proceed to Wat Traimit. To open an exhibition of 10 photographs of His Majesty's gracious hand, which were photographs taken when His Majesty attended the Beijing Games in China.[3][4]

Aims

Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center aims to create a place to show the important stories of Chinese immigrants who immigrated to Thailand from the Sukhothai period to the present. which will be told from the beginning of the Chinese community at Sampeng Until Sampeng became the largest market in Bangkok at that time. In the exhibition, there is also a display of the story of the development of the Chinese community. and shows the legend of the life of an important person who was an immigrant who came to settle and develop the Chinese community in Thailand. The story will be told using multimedia.[5]

Finances

Yaowarat Historical Center Located on the 2nd floor of the Phra Maha Mondop, Wat Traimit, the objective is to preserve and convey the long history of Thai-Chinese ancestors in Yaowarat. Its aim is to protect the ideals, values, and way of life for future generations. On the third floor of the Mahamandap, there is an exhibition of the world's largest pure gold Buddha statues. Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakorn Or what is known as "Luang Phor Thongkham"

This project was initiated in 2007 by the Samphanthawong District Business Group. It was created as a project to honor His Majesty the King. His Majesty the King's 80th birthday. This exhibition was designed by Rakluk Edutex Co., Ltd. under the guidance of Siriporn Pornchiwin, who provided insights into the beautiful Buddha statues.

Siriporn Pornchiwin emphasizes the exhibition's message about China's DNA: diligence, frugality, honesty, patience, and seizing opportunities. The Luang Por Thongkham exhibition delves into the history of the origins and importance of the Maravichai pose. Describe the creation of the Buddha image and tell various events. in father's life The royal ceremony to honor the new Maha Mandapa will take place during Chakri Day. The two exhibitions will then open permanently 10 days after Chinese New Year in 2009, with the combined budget for these exhibitions exceeding 70 million baht.

Architecture

Yaowarat Historical Center is located at the 2 of Phra Maha Mandap Wat Traimit Wittayaram Established in 2009

The 6 exhibition rooms will be divided according to the period since the arrival of the Chinese people and according to the events that happened to the Chinese people.

“Room 1: Growing up under the royal umbrella” This room will show the stories of people in the Yaowarat community. From the past until the present, there will be a video showing the stories of people in the Yaowarat community. Another zone will include the impressive story of the origins of Yaowarat Road.

“Room 2: The Birth of the Rattanakosin Chinese Community” Carrying mats and pillows on the back of the long journey from the coastal pier. When we arrived, we were amazed by the vivid video with lights, colors, sounds, and narration from the mouths of Grandma and Grandma. Introducing Yaowarat and Sampeng areas These are the largest Chinese communities in Thailand. This is often referred to as the city's "Chinatown," forming an enclave nicknamed the "Chinatown" of the city. "Chinatown" in Thai, refers to a miniature version of China in Thailand. This is the beginning of a new life.

The exhibition explores the origins of the Chinese community in the Rattanakosin period (1782-1851) by mapping the migration routes of Chinese immigrants from southern China, including Hakka, Teochew, Hokkien, and Hainanese. Contributing to prosperity

In the second room, many models have been made. For example, “Sampeng Pier” is the closest pier to Bangkok. There are cargo ships stopping and opening the market lively on the deck of the ship. Some of the products would be transported to various stores in Sampeng, which was Bangkok's largest commercial area/market at that time. “Hang Noodles” was a noodle shop where sellers carried equipment to travel around to sell. In that era, customers had to bring their own bowls to put the noodles in. Noodles are noodles made from rice flour with various ingredients added and the soup is poured into a bowl. It was introduced by the Teochew Chinese until it became popular in Thailand. “Chui Guo” is a traditional Chinese rice cake made from rice flour that is placed in a bowl and steamed until cooked. Garnish with garlic and finely chopped radish and season with dark soy sauce. Chuigua is considered a popular snack among Chinese people because it is filling and cheap. Currently, it is very difficult to make a living. “Lantern Shop” is a store that sells paper lanterns, both for home use and for use in various Chinese ceremonies. Chinese people often have a career in knitting sky lanterns. And in making the lanterns, letters will be written on the lanterns. The lanterns hanging in front of the store are usually painted in red. Lanterns with blue letters are often used at funerals. Chinese people like to use paper lanterns as home decorations. It is popular to hang it in front of the house or window to enhance good fortune. Weaving lanterns is a job that requires skill and expertise. Paper lanterns can be made from cardboard or mulberry paper. It will be woven into various patterns such as dragons, swans, and lotus flowers. The knitting of lanterns is often done in conjunction with writing letters on the lanterns. The letters written on the lanterns are usually auspicious words such as happiness, luck, and prosperity. At present, lanterns are still very popular. It is often used in Shan-Chinese religious celebrations and ceremonies. The exhibition room inside the second room will give the atmosphere as if we are under the boat. And there will be a monitor showing the life of Chinese people in the past amidst the sounds. Chinese conversation and creaking wood The exhibition in this room will show the hardships of those who have been separated from their native places. uncertainty in life and the hope that life would be better with clothes, mats, and pillows. The boats also carried goods for sale such as raw silk, Chinese paper, and umbrellas. By this exhibition room wants to convey The living conditions of the Chinese people who immigrated to settle here Whether it is trading or opening a small shop, they have to adapt to the environment. One interesting feature in this room is the Display of ceramic plates or bowls, or noodle shops made from various types of flour or processed foods. This exhibition shows some images of early Chinese communities. When the Chinese community is vibrant Viewers will see Chinese people enjoying a bowl of clear noodle soup, that emphasizes the perfect combination. Two flanking boards provide an insight into the evolutionary journey of Bangkok's Chinese community. It emphasizes their important role in trade and commerce. This journey culminated with naturalization as a Thai citizen. and is an important part of the cultural and economic development of the country. Inside the main hall, A virtual representation of Yaowarat Road shows remarkable development to accommodate the growing population of Thai-Chinese descendants. The crime scene included commercial buildings, houses, hotels, a Chinese school, a gold shop, a traditional Thai drug store, a fresh market, a shrine, and tram tracks for public transportation.

“Room 3: Path to the Golden Age” This room is an exhibition showing the development of the Chinese community, from Sampeng Market to the modern business district on Yaowarat Road. The exhibition room is divided into two zones a simulated office space for a rice trading company with rice quality inspection equipment on various tables and shelves. and a large simulation zone showing pictures of Yaowarat Road and various shops and houses around the year 1957, showing a prosperous era in terms of economy, way of life, and entertainment. A room called the "Rice Trading Company Office" replicates the inside workings of a Thai rice export business. Rice juicy trays, rice sample jars ready for export, rice sample packages from Yong (rice broker), rice sieve, zinc bowl for rice samples, and other tools are used to inspect the quality of rice intended for export on tables and shelves. The trade of rice is regarded as a significant industry that marks the start of other commercial ventures and the success of the Yaowarat region. Going into the subsequent room shows a spacious model exhibition space positioned in the middle of the area, which replicates the entirety of Yaowarat Road. On the wall that surrounds it, glass cases hold models of many stores that were located along this avenue during the time of King Rama V of Rattanakosin. In order to create a new business district and to rent out space for commerce, His Majesty King Chulalongkorn kindly approved the construction of contemporary shophouses on both sides of the road. Markets, eateries, opera halls, Poi Kuan stores, Chinese temples, Chan-ab stores, gold stores, Chinese schools, Chinese newspaper stores, hospitals for the disadvantaged, movie theaters, tea houses, and watch shops may all be found along Yaowarat Road. Opera, which is seen as an ancient performance art of the Chinese people, is performed in "Operation Theater." Usually, when they perform at large merit-making ceremonies, they build makeshift opera theaters. During the height of the entertainment district, there were numerous permanent opera houses constructed at very close distance to one another, resembling a gigantic movie theater. The well-known Tongke Opera House, I Lai Opera House, Tong Jia Opera House, Bua Jia Opera House, Sai Ho Opera House, and Tong Jia Opera House are located in the Yaowarat neighborhood on both sides of the road. Most of Yaowarat's operas are Teochew shows, which often present morally laden historical tales. Thus, opera houses can be seen as a means of both entertainment and education. especially for those who lack education. Alongside presenting delicious meals, the "Restaurant" space serves as an important hub for socializing among the Chinese community. It follows the Chinese custom of having serious conversations about significant issues—like business negotiations, resolving conflicts, or arranging marriages—over dinner. It has developed into a location for social gatherings, such as marriages. From the beginning, the Yaowarat area was home to a number of known restaurants, including "Hoy Tien Lao" and "Yod Fa Pattrakarn," which were founded on Sua Pa Road in 2477 BE. The grand building was three stories high, with a banquet hall and a dance and music area on the third floor. This restaurant was the first exclusive restaurant of its kind in Thailand and is seen as legendary in Yaowarat history.

“Room 4: Hall of Fame Life Legends”. This is the Hall of Fame, featuring videos illustrating the life stories of exemplary and inspirational individuals of Chinese descent in Thailand. These figures have become role models, leaving a lasting impact on the younger generation.

  • Lor Sorng Tha Yai: The philanthropist Lor Sorng Tha Yai, a separate official, provided money to found the renowned Eiam Lor Sorng Tha Yai School, which turns out exceptional people who are valuable contributors to society.
  • Luang Phakdi Pattharagorn (Ko Hui Jia) - successful rice merchant.

During his 5th reign, Luang Phakdi Pattharagorn developed a hospital and a school. He was a successful rice merchant. These businesses served as the starting point for projects that helped the less fortunate.

  • Tan Jinkang (Jittin Tanthuwanit) -respected paint manufacturer

Famous paint manufacturer Tan Jinkang started his career as a struggling artist and worked his way up to become a wealthy businessman.

  • Phra Sri Song Yot (Chao Sua Niyom) - identified as The seller of Sampeng Market. Chao Sua Niyom also referred to as Phra Sri Song Yot, was a well-known rice seller in Sampeng Market. He was very giving to the poor and very important to the Chinese community in Thailand.
  • Modern Icons. Now for some modern figures: Thiam Chokwatana, a leading businessman; Utok Thitipat, a well-known philanthropist and president of the Poetek Tung Foundation; and Chinn Sophonpanich, the founder of Bangkok Bank.
  • Chin Sophonpanich - The person who founded Bangkok Bank

Bangkok Bank's founder, Chin Sophonpanich, has had an important impact on the development of Thailand's banking industry.

  • Thitipat Utok. Poetek Tung Foundation President

President of the Poetek Tung Foundation Utok Thitipat is known for his volunteer work, which has a big influence on the community.

  • Chokwatana Thiam. Innovation Entrepreneur.

Leader businessman Thiam Chokwatana has significantly impacted both the community and the business community.

These extraordinary people, who lived in various eras, made a lasting impact on Thai-Chinese history and advanced the country's culture and economy. Future generations will find inspiration in their stories.[6]

“Room 5, Phra Barami Pokklao”, There will be striking images and stories in the next room. A picture gallery containing images of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej will be created. To the Yaowarat community, on the royal grace of His Majesty the King and the members of the royal family during the current reign.

“Room 6, Chinatown today”, with the last room offering an excellent representation of four points of view of Yaowarat in the present day: the Golden Road, the nation's biggest marketplace, the center of traditional Chinese culture, and the source of delectable cuisine

Importantly, in addition to learning about Yaowarat's stories from history. Remember that "Phra Phuttha Maha Wuwan Patimak" is a sacred object that Thai-Chinese people honor. Yang Duen also features a market where you may look around and buy many kinds of food items.

Opening Hours

Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center is open daily except Mondays from 09.00 am to 05.00 pm, The Entrance fee is 100 baht, free for Thai people.[7]

See also

References

  1. ↑ MEEpanda. "พาชมพิพิธภัณฑ์วัดไตรมิตรฯ เพราะเยาวราชไม่ได้มีดีแค่ของกิน". README.ME (in Thai). Retrieved 2023-11-30.
  2. ↑ Thailand, Museum. "ศูนย์ประวัติศาสตร์เยาวราช วัดไตรมิตรวิทยาราม :: Museum Thailand". www.museumthailand.com. Retrieved 2023-11-30.
  3. ↑ "ศูนย์ประวัติศาสตร์เยาวราช (มหามณฑปหลวงพ่อทองคํา วัดไตรมิตรวิทยาราม) | ฐานข้อมูลพิพิธภัณฑ์ในประเทศไทย. (n.d.)".
  4. ↑ Xiaoran, Xie (2018). Folklore museums and their roles in displaying and preserving communal cultural heritage : the case studies of Yaowarat Chinatown heritage center, Bang Lamphu Museum and Bangkokian Museum (Thesis thesis). Chulalongkorn University.
  5. ↑ "ศูนย์ประวัติศาสตร์เยาวราช". www.thongkasem.com. Retrieved 2023-11-30.
  6. ↑ "'เยาวราช'รำลึก". posttoday (in Thai). 2013-02-10. Retrieved 2023-11-30.
  7. ↑ Thailand, Museum. "ศูนย์ประวัติศาสตร์เยาวราช วัดไตรมิตรวิทยาราม :: Museum Thailand". www.museumthailand.com. Retrieved 2023-11-30.

13°44′13″N 100°30′39″E / 13.73692°N 100.510971°E / 13.73692; 100.510971


This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.