The captivating Bangkok Folk Museum is an intriguing visitor attraction in the Thai capital which although modest in size is fascinating to explore. The building in which the establishment is housed dates back to the World War II era; it is a fitting location for this institution as the museum aims to provide a genuine insight into the lifestyle and mode of living of middle-class residents of Bangkok during the war and its subsequent period.
This building was once the home of a typical local family, the Surawadees. The structures were constructed as far back as 1937 but have been refurbished and meticulously maintained. The visitor will see that there are in fact two principal buildings as well as a pleasant garden in the compound.
The building seen first features beautifully varnished floors and wooden walls painted green. On the bottom floor you will see a dining room, a library and offices. Inside an upstairs chamber of the first building you will find the so-called ancestors’ area which exhibits an array of the actual utensils and implements that were used by the former residents of the home. An outstanding example of these is an antique Benjarong container composed of authentic Thai porcelain decorated in five colours. This exceptional artefact is thought to have been created in the period of King Rama V. Numerous other porcelain creations to be seen at the venue are thought to date from the Rattanakosin period.
The second structure in the museum compound is located towards the rear. It was due to be occupied by a doctor, Francis Christian who happened to be the actual stepfather of the owner of the building. Here you will notice a selection of old-fashioned stoves of an earlier age. Another noteworthy exhibit is the doctor’s collection of cigars from this early period.
An intriguing element at the museum is an authentic old Bangkok kitchen, dating from the war era. Another nearby room exhibits the toilet and sanitation facilities available at this period in time.
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Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
