Key Takeaways
Trok Ban Cheen: A Historical Overview
Introduction to Trok Ban Cheen
Trok Ban Cheen, located near Wat Sitalaram on Taksin Road, has a rich and intriguing history. It was once a bustling commercial hub that played a significant role in the economic development of the region. This community’s origins can be traced back to a Chinese merchant named Cheen Teng, who migrated to Bangkok and later expanded his business ventures to Chiang Mai and Tak. In Tak, Cheen Teng formed a partnership with two other Chinese merchants, Cheen Boon Yen and Cheen Tong Yoo, who eventually became government officials in thailand.
The Expansion of Business and Influence
Cheen Teng and his partners operated under a registered brand known as "Kim Seng Li." This enterprise was notably appointed as the monopoly tax collector in Chiang Mai, which encouraged a significant influx of Chinese settlers in the vicinity. Cheen Teng married a local woman from Tak and had one son, further solidifying his ties to the area. During the reign of King Rama V, Cheen Teng entrusted Luang Borirak Prachakorn, one of his partners, with the collection of taxes on opium, alcohol, gambling, and lotteries. This tax collection responsibility continued until 1909 when the government assumed control.
The Rise of Trok Ban Cheen as a Commercial Center
As more Chinese settlers arrived in Trok Ban Cheen, the community flourished with new homes and shops lining its narrow streets. The architectural style of these buildings featured extended roofs that provided shade for pedestrians, contributing to the area’s charm. A variety of shops emerged, selling kitchenware, fabrics, stationery, and items related to monk ordination. An important landmark was Sapan Tong, or Tong Bridge, built by Granny Tong Ma across the Noi canal, featuring a tall telegraph pole known as Sao Sueng.
Political Developments and Changes
With the advent of democracy in Thailand, Trok Ban Cheen gained political significance. Mangsai Chum-in, a resident of the area, became the first Member of Parliament from Trok Ban Cheen. The community was divided into three neighborhoods: Sao Sueng Village, Pak Klong Noi Village, and Ban Cheen Village. In 1952, the municipal government dismantled Sapan Tong, constructing a road over the canal and fencing the neighborhoods.
Decline and Preservation of Trok Ban Cheen
The vibrancy of Trok Ban Cheen waned after World War II as shops migrated northward, leaving behind old houses that remain in their original condition. These historic structures now offer tourists a glimpse into the past, allowing them to experience the slow-paced life that once characterized Trok Ban Cheen. Visitors can stroll along the streets, enjoying the preserved architecture and the echoes of a bygone era.
Conclusion
Trok Ban Cheen stands as a testament to the cultural and economic exchanges that shaped the region. Its history is intertwined with the stories of Chinese merchants who contributed to its growth and development. Today, it serves as a historical site where visitors can appreciate the legacy of its past while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this once-thriving community.