Travel like the wind, Suchart Choolee
The Chao Phraya River has long flowed through this land, nurturing communities that gradually grew into an important town. Though not a central metropolis, Pathum Thani has never lacked charm. Beneath the simplicity of daily life lies a wealth of hidden stories, reflected in the province’s motto, “Land of sacred lotuses, city of golden rice, Mon heritage, city of Dharma, united at the royal residence, brilliance of the Chao Phraya, progress in industry.”
Amid the passage of time, some images remain unchanged, like the old man pedaling his tricycle rickshaw, taking passengers from the market, weaving through familiar streets that slowly transform with each generation, passing by the Old Provincial Hall of Pathum Thani and the former Governor’s Residence. The Old Provincial Hall was built during the reign of King Vajiravudh, Rama VI, who enacted reforms to modernize the national administration. One royal decree changed the term “mueang” to “changwat,” or province, officially on May 19, 1917. Administrative offices were moved from the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, in the Khok Chaplu area, to the west bank in Bang Prok Subdistrict, which became the provincial center.
A key structure built during this time is a Western-influenced masonry building with a two-story central portico, decorated with European-style stucco designs. The gable features a Garuda, the balustrades shaped like traditional makhwat fruit, and the wooden ventilation panels are intricately carved, showing the refined architectural taste of that era
The Old Provincial Hall serves as a symbol of the time, representing the transformation of Thai governance. Recognized for its historical and architectural value, the building was registered as a historic monument on February 18, 1996.
Nearby stands another significant landmark, the White Raft House, a rectangular wooden building painted in clean white, featuring open balconies that welcome breezes from the Chao Phraya. Once used to host esteemed visitors, including King Ananda Mahidol, Rama VIII, and HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the house offered a peaceful view of boat races and river life.Inside the White Raft House stands a room enshrining the statue of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, where locals come to pay their respects, a reflection of the enduring bond between monarch and people.The Old Provincial Hall and the White Raft House are not merely buildings, they are cultural treasures, telling the story of Pathum Thani’s legacy in governance, architecture, and the deep relationship between the royal court and its citizens.
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