Research & Article

The objective of this paper focuses on surveying and gathering information in multi facets of historical and cultural knowledge in the Chinese community of Talad Noi in Bangkok. The Chinese in Talad Noi are more diverse in terms of dialect, occupation and religious beliefs. Initially, the development of Chinese in the neighborhood started off from the Hokkien (Fujian) and Hakka followed by Hainan. Together, they created a flourishing trade and sustainable development in the area after opening the country. These groups of Chinese believe in the existence of of their gods. As a result, shrines were erected according to their beliefs system. While a large group of Teochew people is a Chinese Catholic that belongs to the Holy Rosary Church (Wat Calvaire). Both roles of Teochew people and roles of Chinese Catholic are inseparable in the neighborhood. Not only they are the driving force in economic growth but also they play an important role in the dissemination of Christianity in Bangkok and provinces. To establish a Chinese school and social work organizations in Talad Noi proves a major support of the Chinese Catholic and remarkably giving the Chinese people to move forward to a modern urban society.