CHAIYAPHUM residents made merit yesterday at Phra Tamnak Khieo, in the provincial governor’s compound, to mark the 61st anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol’s visit to the northeastern province on November 4-5 in 1955.
People also paid respects to the late King’s portrait on the stairs leading to the royal residence including Daeng Khlangsombat, a 118-year-old woman from Khon Sawan district, who wished to pay homage to the beloved monarch for a last time.
Daeng said she still vividly recalled the time that she welcomed the royal couple during the 1955 visit.
Chaiyaphum Governor Chusak Trisarn opened his official residence so members of the public could join in a merit-making ritual yesterday in front of Phra Tamnak Khieo, where the King and Her Majesty the Queen stayed during the trip. Chusak said the ceremony to offer food to Buddhist monks was held to make merit for the late King, and to mark the 61st anniversary of his visit – to allow people to express their love and respect to the monarch.
The Chaiyaphum Media Club gave out 1,000 copies of a rare image of the late King greeting residents in front of the City Hall during the 1955 visit as a souvenir for people, while 30 public and private agencies brought food and drink that was distributed for free at the multi-purpose yard within the compound.
Phra Tamnak Khieo used to serve as the provincial governor’s residence until 1955, when it was modified as a royal residence for the King and Queen during their visit to the Northeast.
The royal couple travelled from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Bua Khok Intersection and then made a stop to visit loyal subjects in Dan Khun Thot district in Nakhon Ratchasima and the Chaiyaphum’s Jaturas district before travelling to Chaiyaphum City Hall. There, the Royals graciously conversed with local people, who were delighted and full of gratitude, before Their Majesties returned to Phra Tamnak Khieo for the night.
After the royal trip, provincial officials kept the royal residence as a learning centre about Thai history and culture (particularly 150 unique patterns of local silk weavers). They also displayed personal items used by the Royals during the trip.