Thailand

Central Thailand / Samut Sakhon

Like many Thai towns, Samut Sakhon, 28km (18mi) from Bangkok along Highway 35 (the Thonburi - Pak Tho Highway), had its name changed several times during its history. More than 450 years ago, the place was known as Muang Tha Chin (Town of the Chinese Pier) probably due to its dealing with a vast number of Chinese junks in the old days. In 1548 King Phra Maha Chakrapat commanded the settlement to function as the center for recruiting troops from various seaside towns. He changed the name from Tha Chin to Sakhon Buri.

In 1704 King Sua (Sanphet VIII) made a visit by Ekkachai (the royal barge) through the Klong Khok Kham (Khok Kham Canal) which had many curves. Phanthai Norasing, the coxswain, could not operate the steering properly thus causing damage to the prow when it hit the limb of a tree. To maintain the majesty of the palace law, Phanthai Norasing begged the king to have him executed. The plead was accepted.

However, in commemoration of Phanthai Norasing, King Sua commanded that a new canal be dug to eliminate the sharp curves of Klong Khok Kham. This new canal was completed in the reign of King Thaisa and named Klong Mahachai thus causing the people to call the town Muang Mahachai.

The town received its current name, Samut Sakhon, during the reign of King Rama IV (King Mongkut, reigned 1851-1868) but is still popularly called Mahachai.

Samut Sakhon Province is divided into three districts: the town of Samut Sakhon, Krathum Baen, and Ban Phaeo; it has an area of only 872sqkm (337sqmi), making it one of Thailand's smallest provinces.

More information on Samut Sakhon:

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