Powering Change: Electricity and Urban Culture

Research & Article

Wat Liab Power Plant

This article explores how electricity transformed Siam into a modern society—from the first electric light during King Rama V’s reign to the rise of Bangkok’s night districts, new mobility systems, and the revival of the historic Wat Liab power station as MEA SPARK. More than a technology, electricity reshaped urban culture, everyday life, and the imagination of what “New Siam” could become.

The Museum Links Project: Our Process

VDO

Rattanakosin Historic Area, Bang Phlat District, Thonburi Area

This video takes you behind the scenes of Museum Links, a programme led by NDMI’s Museum Knowledge Development team. It follows the journey from first ideas to co-design with teachers from six schools, showing how learners use comparative maps, interpret historical photographs, and study present-day places on site. The film also showcases students’ work connecting their own discoveries to Modernising Siam—a way of learning history through exploration, evidence, and personal synthesis rather than memorising dates and names.

Prince Chantaburi Naruena

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Bureaucratic Reform, Economic and Fiscal Reformers, Establishment of Modern Ministries, Modern State-Building, Royal Family (non-monarchs), Reign of King Rama V, Reign of King Rama VI, Prince Chantaburi Naruenat

Prince Chantaburi Naruenat (1874–1931), born Prince Kitiyakara Voralaksana, was a son of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V). Educated in England, he became a leading moderniser of public administration, particularly in finance and trade, and is recognised as the founder and first Minister of the Ministry of Commerce in Thailand.

Mom Chao Samaichaloem Kritakara

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Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre, Architectural Heritage, Cultural Modernisation, Entertainment Culture, Royal Family (non-monarchs), Thai Architects, Western Influence in Siam, Reign of King Rama VI, Reign of King Rama VII, Mom Chao Samaichaloem Kritakara

M.C. Samaichaloem Kritakara (1895–1967) was a pioneering Thai architect and member of the royal family. Educated in France under a royal scholarship, he played a vital role in introducing Western architectural principles into Siam during a time of rapid modernisation. His most iconic works include the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre and Bangkok City Hall.

Queen Saovabha Phongsri

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Education and Learning, Education Reform in Siam, European Influence in Education, Gender Equality in Siam, Girls' Education, Nursing and Midwifery, Philanthropy and Patronage, Public Health and Social Welfare, Royal Women, Thai Red Cross Society, Reign of King Rama V, Reign of King Rama VI, Queen Saovabha Phongsri

Queen Saovabha Phongsri (1854–1919), known as the Queen Mother of Thailand, played a pivotal role in pioneering women’s education in Siam. At a time when women had limited access to learning, she championed the idea that the nation’s progress depended on the education of both men and women. She promoted women’s intellectual and moral development, supporting education in languages, science, mathematics, and ethics.

King Vajiravudh (King Rama VI)

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Poh-Chang School, Cement Industry in Siam, Education and Learning, Modern State-Building, Monarchs, Thai and Applied Arts, Western Influence in Siam, Women’s Empowerment, Reign of King Rama VI

King Vajiravudh (1881–1925), the sixth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, ruled Siam during a period marked by both external and internal challenges. These included the First World War, economic difficulties, and continued reforms following the reign of his father, King Chulalongkorn. His reign is noted for significant contributions in administration, education, health, and the arts.

King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V)

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Bureaucratic Reform, Education and Learning, Education Reform in Siam, Infrastructure Development, Modern State-Building, Monarchs, Urban Planning and Landscape, Western Influence in Siam, Reign of King Rama V

King Chulalongkorn (1853–1910), the fifth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, reigned for 42 years during a period of intense pressure from colonial powers. His reign was marked by major reforms that transformed Siam into a modern state, aiming to ensure that the kingdom was recognised as civilised and independent by Western nations.

King Mongkut (King Rama IV)

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Modern State-Building, Monarchs, Science and Technology, Timekeeping in Siam, Urban Planning and Landscape, Western Influence in Siam, Reign of King Rama IV

King Mongkut (1804–1868), the fourth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, reigned for 17 years during a period of dramatic change. He is remembered for opening Siam to the wider world, modernising its administration, infrastructure, and knowledge, and laying the foundations for a more internationally engaged kingdom.

Replica of the Royal Clock Tower

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Clock Tower (Replica), Rattanakosin Historic Area, Architectural Heritage, Commemoration of Rattanakosin 200 Years, Demolished Sites, Monuments, Science and Technology, Western Influence in Siam, Reign of King Rama IV, King Mongkut

Replica of the Royal Clock Tower on Sanam Chai Road, built in 1982 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Rattanakosin. It honours the original clock tower once located in the Grand Palace, a 19th century landmark of modernisation during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV).