Bangkokian Museum

"The Bangkok Folk Museum, also known as the Bangkokian Museum, offers visitors a rare glimpse into the lives of Bangkok's affluent families during the World War II period and its aftermath. Located at 273 Soi Charoen Krung 43, near the Sri Rat Expressway and just a short distance from the Chao Phraya River, the museum is housed in a building dating back to the 1940s. The museum provides an intimate look at the domestic life and possessions of its original inhabitants, reflecting the cultural and historical context of the time. In 2004, the museum was bequeathed to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration by Waraporn Surawadee, who inherited it from her mother. The museum is comprised of two main two-storey buildings and a lush garden. The first building features the family quarters, where displays include a variety of personal items from the original residents. Among these is a Benjarong jar, an exquisite example of Thai porcelain dating back to the reign of King Rama V. The second building was originally intended to be the home and clinic of Dr. Francis Christian, the stepfather of the museum's owner, although he passed away before moving in. The building houses his collection of cigars, early-20th-century stoves, and other historical artifacts. One notable exhibit is a replica of an old Bangkokian kitchen from the war period, as well as a display of the sanitation and toilet facilities used during the era, including two toilets placed side by side to illustrate the communal approach to sanitation at the time. In addition to the exhibits on the home life of Bangkok's well-off families, the museum also houses the local BMA Bang Rak District Museum. This section focuses on the district's history, particularly the canals and windmills that were once integral to the area. The museum offers insight into the early roads and waterways that helped shape Bangkok’s development during the period. Together, these collections provide a comprehensive look at the lifestyle, culture, and history of Bangkok during a transformative era."

"Compact museum focused primarily on 2 reconstructed houses from the early 20th century. Free entry where you can explore all the buildings. Very friendly and chatty staff. "