King Taksin The Great

Chapter 18: The Royal Family and Lineage of King Taksin

How many members were there in King Taksin the Great’s royal family, and what were their names?

King Taksin the Great, the monarch of the Thonburi Kingdom, had royal sons and daughters, as well as royal relatives and noble lineages descended from him, as follows:

18.1 The First Lineage of the Royal Dynasty includes:

  • 1.Her Majesty the Queen Mother, originally named Eiang or Nok Eiang, is believed to have been a noblewoman during the reign of King Borommakot of Ayutthaya. When King Taksin the Great ascended the throne of Thonburi, he elevated his mother to the title “Krom Phra Thephamat”. Prior to her passing, she suffered from a severe illness identified as “royal spinal inflammation” (Woramai Kabinsingh, 1997: p. 71).
  • 2.Her Royal Highness the Maternal Aunt, originally named Aun, was elevated to the royal title “Krom Luang Thewin Suda” during King Taksin’s reign. However, upon the change of reign, her rank was demoted, and she was henceforth known as Mom Aun.
  • 3. Her Majesty the Queen Consort, originally named Son, was granted the royal title “Krom Luang Batborija” by King Taksin. However, she was more commonly referred to as Her Majesty the Queen Consort of the Central Palace (Somdet Phra Akkhara Mahaesi Hor Klang). Upon the change of reign, her royal status was diminished, and she was thereafter known as Mom Son.
  • 4. Chao Chom Manda Princess Chim, a royal consort of King Taksin the Great, held the rank of princess due to her birth as the middle daughter of the ruler of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Chao Nakhon (Nu), who led the Nakhon Si Thammarat faction. When King Taksin led a campaign to suppress this faction, Chao Nakhon fled to seek refuge with the ruler of Pattani but was captured and imprisoned in Thonburi. His daughter was then presented to the king as a court lady.

    Princess Chim was graciously bestowed royal favor and elevated to the status of a principal royal consort, residing in the Krom Luang Borija Phakdi Si Sudarak palace.

She later became Chao Chom Manda (Royal Consort) to His Royal Highness Prince Thassaphong, His Royal Highness Prince Thassaphai, His Royal Highness Prince Narenraracha Kumar, and Her Royal Highness Princess Panjapapi. Later, during the reign of King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II), the three princes were demoted in rank and given the titles Phra Phong Norin, Phra Intharaphai, and Phra Narenraracha, respectively. The year of death of Chao Chom Manda Princess Chim is not recorded in any known historical sources.

Note: The City of Nakhon Si Thammarat

In the Thonburi period, Phra Chao Nakhon Si Thammarat (Noo) was the ruler of the city. Prior to the fall of Ayutthaya to the Burmese, Nakhon Si Thammarat was a vassal state, thus it had noble positions typical of a vassal, including a deputy ruler (Uparat), Phraya Chakri, and officials analogous to the chatusadom system. Members of the royal family were appointed to high ranks such as Chaophraya Chakri.

Phra Chao Nakhon Si Thammarat (Noo) had three daughters: The eldest was named Chum, sometimes called Nuan, known at the time as “Thul Krom Hong Yai” (the Senior Princess). She was married to the city’s deputy ruler, Phraya Uparat (Phat).

The middle daughter was named Chim, who was given as a consort to King Taksin and highly favored, honored with the title Krom Luang Boribhadri Sri Sudarak as the Left Queen Consort. The people of Nakhon Si Thammarat called her “Thul Krom Hong Klang” (the Middle Princess). She bore three sons and one daughter.

The youngest daughter was named Prang (or Noo Lek). She was also a consort of King Taksin, called “Thul Krom Hong Lek” (the Youngest Princess) by the people of Nakhon Si Thammarat. After the death of the eldest princess Chum, King Taksin granted the title of deputy ruler (Uparat) to Phat, although Chao Chom Manda Prang (the youngest princess) was pregnant. Any child born would be considered the foster child of Uparat Phat and thereby hold authority and prestige in Nakhon Si Thammarat, a vassal city in the south.

(Source: Julalada Phakdipoomin, “Phra Ong Suea and Phra Ong Chang,” Sakun Thai 48(2488): June 25, 2002, pp. 27, 49)

  • 5. Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai: Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai, a consort of King Taksin the Great, was the third daughter of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I) and Queen Amarindra. It is believed that she was born in the year 1761 BE (1761 CE). Because her father, Somdet Chaophraya Mahakasatsuek, was highly favored by King Taksin and rendered many meritorious services, Chim was elevated and honored as the principal consort (Phra Ratchachaya), commonly known as Chao Chom Chim Yai.

Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai passed away in the year 1779 BE (during the Thonburi period when Thonburi was the capital) at the age of 18, only 12 days after giving birth to her son, Prince Suphanwong. Upon Somdet Chaophraya Mahakasatsuek’s return from the royal campaign, a funeral was held with full royal honors. Later, when Somdet Chaophraya Mahakasatsuek ascended the throne, he graciously elevated Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai, his daughter, to the rank of Somdet Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe Chaofa Chim Yai (Her Royal Highness Princess Chim Yai). Prince Suphanwong was also granted the title Somdet Chaofa Krom Khun Kasatanujit.

King Taksin The Great

    1. Royal Consorts: These were royal family members from the Ayutthaya period who became royal consorts of King Taksin the Great, totaling 12 individuals:

    6.1 Princess Suriya
    6.2 Princess Chanthawadee
    6.3 Princess Pinthawadee
    6.4 Princess Fuk Thong

    These four princesses were daughters of King Boromkot.

    6.5 Princess Thapthim, daughter of King Phuttha Suea (King Tiger)
    6.6 Princess Mit, daughter of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Mahasenaphithak (Prince Kung)
    6.7 Princess Prathum, daughter of King Uthumphon
    6.8 Mom Chao Princess Bupha (or Buppha), daughter of Krom Muen Jitsunthorn, granddaughter of King Boromkot
    6.9 Mom Chao Princess Ubon, daughter of Krom Muen Theppipit, granddaughter of King Boromkot
    6.10 Mom Chao Princess Mani, daughter of Krom Muen Sepphakdi, granddaughter of King Boromkot
    6.11 Mom Chao Princess Chim, daughter of Prince Jeed (or Jit)
    6.12 Mom Chao Princess Krajad, daughter of Krom Muen Jitsunam, granddaughter of King Boromkot

  • 7. Royal Consorts of the Rank “Chao Chom Mom Hom Ham” include:

    7.1 Chao Chom Manda Amphan, daughter of Chao Uparat Jan (Nakhon Si Thammarat), progenitor of the Chantharojanwong family
    7.2 Chao Chom Manda Ngern
    7.3 Chao Chom Manda Thim, daughter of Thao Song Kandarn Thong Mon

Note: Somchot Ongsakul (1911: 1-3) wrote in his book “Love for the Land: From Lanna to Tha Phra Chan” that

“… After the restoration of Chiang Mai in the year 1770 (B.E. 2313), a beautiful woman from the city of Lampang followed as a court lady (bat borijarika) serving King Taksin of Thonburi, dedicating her service to the kingdom and helping to foster good relations between Thonburi and Lanna. However, the details about this lady are not found in historical records…”

The details are as follows:

First Presentation of the Court Lady:
The Thonburi Royal Chronicles (Panjanumas Edition, Jeim) recorded the story after the restoration of Chiang Mai as follows:

“… On Thursday, in the second lunar month, the 3rd waning day, while at the riverside palace in Chiang Mai, His Majesty declared that a Lao noble named Swamiphak had sought refuge under the Royal Patronage. This noble had rendered loyal military service against the Burmese and was thus granted arms — a long gun, a short gun, spears, and clothing — and was appointed as Phraya Wichianprakarn, governor of Chiang Mai.

On that day, Phraya Wichianprakarn presented a court lady (bat borijarika) as a tribute…”
(Somchot Ongsakul, citing Thonburi Royal Chronicles and Daily Military Records of the Thonburi Period, Prachum Phongsawadan, Vol. 40, Bangkok: Kurusapa, 1969, pp. 67-68)

However, King Taksin did not accept her, regarding it as “taking away someone else’s child.” He therefore returned the lady, together with 1 chang (a unit of silver) and a set of cloth, as recorded in the Thonburi Royal Chronicles:

“… His Majesty graciously bestowed 1 chang of silver and one set of cloth, then returned the lady to Phraya Wichianprakarn…” (same source, p. 68)

Second Presentation of the Court Lady:
The main royal army of Thonburi, after departing Chiang Mai, arrived at Lampang, where Phraya Kawila awaited to pay respects. The Thonburi Royal Chronicles recorded:

“… On Tuesday, in the second lunar month, the 8th waning day, the army moved from Hang Chat and camped at Lampang. At 4 PM, His Majesty paid homage to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, offered flowers of gold and silver, and generously bestowed gifts to the Lao people… Moreover, Phraya Kawila presented a court lady (bat borijarika) as tribute…” (same source, p. 69)

King Taksin graciously ordered that the court lady (natda nari) be returned to Phraya Kawila, along with a gift of one chang (a unit of silver) and a set of cloth, because he did not wish to “take someone else’s child away,” as had been done previously when a lady was returned to Phraya Wichianprakarn of Chiang Mai. However, Phraya Kawila and the Deputy Governor of Lampang respectfully petitioned, as recorded:

“… Now, the lady herself is willing, and her parents and all her relatives have agreed as well, though it may cause harm due to separation from her parents…”

King Taksin accepted this and, as the Royal Chronicles record:

“… He thought that since her loyalty was sincere, he therefore took her along with the procession…”

Thus, the court lady from Lampang entered the Thonburi royal court according to the wishes of Phraya Kawila of Lampang.

(Later, King Rama I, Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulalok the Great, appointed him as Phraya Mangraochiraprakarn Kampaengkaew, governor of Chiang Mai. Source: http://www.lannaworld.com/person/kingcm1.htm, accessed September 16, 2004)

18.2 Royal lineage of princes and princesses

There are a total of 30 members: 12 titled Chao Fa (royal princes/princesses), 16 titled Phra Ong Chao (princes/princesses), and 2 commoners. The names of the mothers of many members are not recorded.

  • The rank of Chao Fa consists of a total of 12 members, with their names listed in order of age as follows:

1. Somdet Phra Maha Uparat Chaofa Krom Khun Inthraphithak (Jui), son of Somdet Phra Akharamesee Krom Luang Batborija, was executed along with his royal father in the year 1782 (B.E. 2325).

          1.1 The sons and daughters of Somdet Chaofa Krom Khun Inthraphithak (Jui) numbered four: Princess Madue, Princess Saali, an unnamed prince, and Prince Thongin (or Thongin).

Note: Princess Madue was a consort (Mom Ham) of Krom Muen Narateves, the eldest son of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Phimuk (Wang Lang). Princess Saali was a consort (Mom Ham) of Krom Luang Senibirak, the youngest son of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Phimuk as well. Prince Thongin served in the reign of King Rama I and held the title Phraya Kalahom Ratchasena.
(Source: Julalada Phakdipoomin, “The Thonburi Royal Family and the Chakri Dynasty,” Sakun Thai 48(2483): May 21, 2002: 78)

          1.2 The lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Inthraphithak (Jui), the Grand Deputy King of Thonburi, is divided into two branches:

  • a. The “Sinsuk” branch, which originates from Chaophraya Yommarat (Suk), son of Prince Thongin, who was a son of Somdet Phra Maha Uparat.

  • b. The “Intrayothin” branch, which originates from Khun Chai Nut, younger brother of Chaophraya Yommarat (Suk), also son of Prince Thongin.

Note:
A. Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Inthraphithak (Jui)
Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Inthraphithak, originally named Jui, was the eldest son of King Taksin the Great and Somdet Phra Akramahesri Krom Luang Batborija (Son). He held the high title of Somdet Phra Maha Uparat (Grand Deputy King) and was the heir apparent. Throughout his life, he actively participated in military campaigns.

In mid-1781 (B.E. 2324), when King Taksin led a military expedition against Cambodia, Krom Khun Inthraphithak was ordained as a monk but temporarily left the monkhood to join the campaign. It was believed that King Taksin intended to expand his kingdom and influence by installing his son, Krom Khun Inthraphithak, as ruler of Cambodia. The king instructed Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasat Suek to install his son as the monarch of Cambodia after the civil war there had settled.

However, before this plan could be realized, unrest and rebellion erupted in Thonburi, leading to the fall of King Taksin’s reign. Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasat Suek quelled the rebellion and, together with officials, decided to execute King Taksin. He then crowned himself as the first monarch of the Chakri dynasty.

Meanwhile, Krom Khun Inthraphithak remained in Cambodia but fled to Khao Noi after the regime change. He was captured and executed alongside his father and Phraya Kamhaeng Songkhram (Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima, Pin), a trusted military officer who fought in every battle alongside King Taksin.

Somdet Phra Akramahesri Krom Luang Batborija (Son), the queen consort, was demoted to “Mom Son,” and their children of royal prince/princess rank were also demoted, although they remained respected by the people and maintained close ties with the Chakri royal family through marriage alliances. Descendants of Krom Khun Inthraphithak established the Sinsuk and Intrayothin noble clans, which continue to this day.

(Source: Lek Pongsamthai, “The Royal Lineage of King Taksin and the Chakri Dynasty,” Silpa Wattanatham, Vol. 23(6), April 2002, p. 63)

B. Chao Chai Thong In (Khun Chai Thong In) was the son of Chao Fa Krom Khun Inthraphithak (Chao Jui), the Grand Uparat who was regarded as the eldest son of King Taksin the Great.

Khun Chai Thong In later held the title Phraya Klahom Rajasena. It is said that Somdet Phra Bowon Ratcha Chao Maha Surasinghanat, during the reign of King Rama I, favored him greatly and regarded him as a foster son. When Prince Lamduan and Prince Intaphat rebelled after the death of Somdet Phra Bowon Ratcha Chao, Phraya Klahom Rajasena (Thong In) joined the rebellion. Consequently, he was executed by royal decree along with the two princes and several co-conspirators.
(Source: Julalada Phakdipoomin, “Phra Ong Suea and Phra Ong Chang,” Sakun Thai, Vol. 48 (2493): July 30, 2002, p. 86)

  1. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Noi, son of Somdet Phra Akramahesri Krom Luang Batborija, was executed alongside his father.

  2. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thatphong, son of Krom Boribhadri Sri Sudarak (Princess Chim, daughter of the ruler of Nakhon), later served as a royal physician during the reigns of Rama I and Rama II. He became the progenitor of the Phongsin family line.

          3.1 The sons and daughters of Chao Fa Chai Thatphong number 17 in total, including:

  • Khun Ying Sila, who served in the royal inner court,

  • Khun Chai Sawat, who held the title Khun Chai Phonphai,

  • Khun Ying Sangiam, who was the wife of Phraya Sanéhamontri (Noi Iad) of the Jaturongkakul family.

Note: Phraya Sanehamontri (Noi Iad) was the son of Chaophraya Nakhon Si Thammarat (Noi), who was a royal son of King Taksin the Great, and Chao Chom Prang (younger sister of Krom Luang Boribhadri Sri Sudarak). Therefore, Khun Ying Sangiam and Phraya Sanehamontri (Noi Iad) were cousins on their father’s side.

During the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV), Khun Ying Sangiam held the position of Palat (secretary) to Chao Khun Ying Num, daughter of Chaophraya Yommarat Mahaphichaiyath (a close noble relative). Chao Khun Ying Num was a third-degree royal relative, granddaughter of Chao Khun Ying Nuan, a first-degree royal relative (a lady-in-waiting of Queen Amarindra in Rama I’s reign).

Khun Palat Sangiam once served as a royal nanny in the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and was greatly favored, who was affectionately called “Khun Rat Noi” (likely derived from “Khun Palat Noi”).

  • Khun Ying Kulap, Khun Ying Phueak, Khun Ying Jeen, Khun Ying Gleeb

  • Khun Ying Wek, Khun Chai Nut

  • Khun Chai Rach, who held the title Phra Norin and was the progenitor of the Pongsin family

  • Khun Ying Plub, wife of Krom Muen Phuminthraphakdi, progenitor of the Ladawan family

Note: Khun Plub had three children. Her eldest daughter was Mom Chao Sarapee. Mom Chao Sarapee was greatly favored by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Somdet Chao Fa, a royal child of King Chulalongkorn and Phra Wimada Thewi Krom Phraya Sutthisininat, affectionately called her “Pa Phee” (Aunt Phee). King Chulalongkorn also followed suit and called her “Pa Phee.” In the royal literary work Klaiban (Far from Home), “Pa Phee” is mentioned several times.

  • Khun Ying Chan was the wet nurse of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).
  • Khun Ying Jeep, Khun Ying Hrun, Khun Chai Chub, Khun Chai Chai.

  • Khun Ying Khao was the wet nurse of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Chakraphat Phong, the middle younger brother and co-mother’s child of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

        3.2 The royal line of Somdet Chao Fa Thatphong has one branch called “Pongsin,” which traces its origin to Khun Chai Rach (Phra Narin), the son of Chao Fa Thatphong.

  1. Somdet Chao Fa Ying Komon — mother’s name unknown

  2. Somdet Chao Fa Ying Buppha — mother’s name unknown

  3. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Singha — mother’s name unknown

  4. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Sila — mother’s name unknown, founder of the Silanon family

        7.1 he sons and daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Sila number four:

  • Khun Ying Thap, wife of Krom Phra Itsaret, founder of the Suriyakul family

  • Khun Ying Plap, wife of Krom Muen Kasat Sri Sakdidej, founder of the Israsena family

  • Khun Ying Nu

  • Khun Chai Im, titled Luang Ratchanararak, founder of the Silanon family

7.2 The lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Sila continues directly through his son Khun Chai Im, who held the title Luang Ratchanararak, forming the “Silanon” family line.

8. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Lek — mother’s name unknown

9. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thatphai, son of Krom Luang Boribhadri Sri Sudarak, was executed in 1785 (B.E. 2328) on the charge of having an affair with a consort of King Phra Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II).

          9.1 The sons and daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thapai number 13, including:

  • Khun Chai Dan, who served as Luang Mongkolrat during the reign of King Rama IV (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Chom Klao Chao Yu Hua)

  • Khun Ying Noi, who was a royal consort (Chao Chom Manda) during King Rama IV’s reign, and mother of two princes born before his accession:
      • Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong, Krom Muen Mahesawan Siwilas
      • Phra Ong Chao Supradit, Krom Muen Wisanunat Niphat

  • Khun Ying Luk In

  • Khun Ying Aran (or Hiran)

  • Khun Chai Hera

  • Khun Ying Phum

  • Khun Ying Fai

  • Khun Chai Mangkon

  • Khun Chai Lek

  • Khun Ying Phueak

  • Khun Ying Nu

  • Khun Chai Jui

  • Khun Chai Noi

Note:
A. The lineages of Phra Phong Norin and Phra Inthraphai (Somdet Chao Fa Thatsapong and Somdet Chao Fa Thathapai) — When Somdet Chao Fa Thatsapong was about 12 years old and before his coming-of-age ceremony (Sokan), he followed his royal father, King Taksin the Great, into the monastery during the king’s temporary ordination.

King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I) held deep respect and affection for King Taksin the Great. After the country stabilized, he ordered King Taksin’s remains to be exhumed and cremated at Wat Bang Yi Ruea Tai. King Rama I personally attended the cremation ceremony wearing white robes as a mark of great respect and honor for King Taksin.

Regarding King Taksin’s sons and daughters, Rama I kindly nurtured and appointed them to various royal positions. He granted Somdet Chao Fa Thatsapong and Somdet Chao Fa Thathapai the titles “Phra Phong Norin” and “Phra Inthraphai” respectively. Both were appointed as royal officials serving in the court.

King Rama I showed special favor to Chao Fa Thatsapong, raising him alongside the king’s own adopted royal son (the son of the King of Cambodia). He ordained both young princes as monks together in a grand royal ceremony alongside Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Senanurak.

(Source: Julalada Phakdipoomin, “The Royal Family of Thonburi and the Chakri Dynasty,” Sakun Thai 48(2483): 21 May 2000: 78)

Due to the fact that both sons of King Taksin the Great possessed medical knowledge and held positions allowing them to attend the royal court just below the rank of ministers, and because of their close and frequent access in medical duties, Phra Inthraphai (Prince Thatsipai) developed an illicit relationship with a consort of King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai. This became known to the King, who ordered an investigation. Upon confirming the truth, he decreed the execution of both Phra Inthraphai and the consort. This occurred in the 10th month of the Year of the Monkey (B.E. 2355).
(Source: http://pantip.inet.co.th/caf?/library/topic/K1578551 /K1578551.html, 27/6/2002)

B. Chao Chom Manda Noi
The second daughter of Phra Inthraphai (Somdet Chao Fa Thatsipai), known as Khun Ying Noi or Chao Chom Manda Noi, became a consort of King Mongkut (Rama IV) while he held the title Somdet Chao Fa Mongkut. She gave birth to two sons:

  • Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong, Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas, the progenitor of the Napuang na Ayudhya family line

  • Phra Ong Chao Supradit, Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat, the progenitor of the Supradit na Ayudhya family line

In the Year of the Monkey, B.E. 2367, King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai ordered Somdet Chao Fa Mongkut to enter monkhood. At that time, Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong and Phra Ong Chao Supradit were aged 2 years and 2 months respectively.

During Somdet Chao Fa Mongkut’s monastic period, King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai passed away without appointing any heir. Senior officials and the royal family then bestowed the throne upon Prince Jessadabodindra, who later became King Rama III of the Chakri dynasty. Somdet Chao Fa Mongkut remained in monkhood for 27 years during the reign of King Nangklao (Rama III).

Chao Chom Manda Noi lived with Phra Phong Narin (Somdet Chao Fa Thatspong), her uncle, who also raised Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong. Meanwhile, Phra Ong Chao Supradit was raised and supported by Somdet Chao Fa Chutamani (King Pinklao), who resided in the old Thonburi Palace.

Chao Chom Manda Noi was a woman deserving of sympathy, as her grandfather, King Taksin the Great, was executed; her father, Somdet Chao Fa Thatsipai or Phra Inthraphai, was also executed. Her personal life was troubled since her husband remained in monkhood for 27 years. After King Mongkut ascended the throne, he did not favor or give special recognition to Chao Chom Manda Noi. She exhibited strange behavior, possibly as a form of seeking attention.

Once, King Mongkut was traveling by boat from the water palace to Wat Khemapatlat Kaew when a royal barge was closely followed by a smaller boat racing alongside it. Chaophraya Sappeth Phakdi (Chaophraya Mintrasak Thamrong (Pheng)) questioned but was not told whose boat it was. The women on the small boat laughed mockingly. Upon inquiry, it was revealed that the boat belonged to Chao Chom Manda Noi. This behavior displeased the King and worsened their already strained relationship, leaving no chance of reconciliation.

This incident was recorded by King Mongkut in a royal letter to Chao Chom Manda Phueng, dated Wednesday, the 15th day of the waxing moon, 12th month, B.E. 2398, stating:

“I set out in a royal procession boat from the water palace on the 16th day of the waxing moon at around 11:30 a.m., arriving at Wat Khemapatlat Kaew at 8:04 a.m. A small boat was paddling closely alongside competing with my royal barge, exceeding the police boats and other escort vessels, even reaching the side of my barge. At first, I thought it was Lady Luu Kra Phuey (meaning Princess Chanthra Monthon) who might cry, and her mother might send her by small boat to me. So I asked whose boat it was—there was a curtain covering it, and many women sat at the stern. The police followed but could not identify the boat as part of the royal procession. Nobody stopped the paddling. Sappeth Phakdi asked many times but no one replied. I asked repeatedly but no one told me whose boat it was. The women at the back laughed heartily, which angered those on the royal barge. I considered ordering to fire upon them according to law, but feared rumors of cruelty would arise. After long paddling competition chasing my royal barge, I ordered the police to apprehend them. When they tried to seize the boat, it paddled away, but was eventually captured. It was found to belong to the mother of Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas, pretending to act coquettishly, mocking me openly in front of royal attendants, which was most detestable. I ordered Phra Inthraphat to arrest the boat and bring the culprit to me to be punished. Remember this, servants, remember well.”

I wrote to Krom Muen Maheasaworn informing him, and also issued orders to Thao Srisatja and Thao Sophanives to keep her securely until my return. I wished she would be beheaded according to her father’s lineage. Such has often happened like Khun Samlee, mother of Princess Nadda, who despite her son’s affection and strict upbringing, could not be spared and was beheaded before.”

This royal letter shows the King’s displeasure. As for Chao Chom Manda Noi’s fate afterward, there is no clear evidence. It is only known that she was confined within the inner palace along with Ma Talab and Ma Yoi, who were also on the same boat.
(Source: Sansanee Veerasilpchai, 2539 [1996]: 80-82)

When Chao Chom Manda Noi passed away, King Mongkut (Rama IV) graciously granted a royal cremation ceremony for her at the rear garden of the palace belonging to Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat. After the funeral rites of Chao Chom Manda Noi were completed, Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat planned to build a temple on the garden land where her cremation had taken place.

The method used by Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat to construct the temple was to scatter coins all over the designated area. He then instructed his servants and retainers to clear the trees and grasses in order to collect the coins. This was effectively the way he paid wages for the labor.

The temple construction was not yet completed when Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat passed away in the Year of the Dog, B.E. 2405, at only 38 years old. King Mongkut then bestowed the duty to Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas to continue the temple construction. However, Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas also died later in the Year of the Rabbit, B.E. 2410. King Mongkut then took personal responsibility to oversee the completion of the temple.

He appointed Phra Ya Ratchasongkhram as the chief overseer of the construction until its completion. The temple was then given the name “Wat Tri Thotsathep,” meaning “The Temple Built by Three Deities.” The King also ordered that Phra Kru Julananayok (Khong), the deputy abbot and a disciple of Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phra Pavaresvariya Lonkon from Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, be appointed as the first abbot of Wat Tri Thotsathep.

C. Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas and Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat

Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas was initially born with the title Mom Chao and named Mom Chao Nopphawong (or Nopawong). When King Mongkut ascended the throne, he graciously elevated his title to Phra Ong Chao with the full name according to the Suphannabat:
“Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong Warongk One Akkhamahamakhut Paramutmararachoros.”
He was appointed as a Phra Ong Chao of a different department (different Krom), with the title Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Krom Muen Maheasaworn Siwilas. During King Nangklao’s reign (Rama III), he did not hold any official government post. However, in the reign of King Mongkut, he served as the commander of the palace guard troops.

Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat was initially born with the title Mom Chao Supradit. When King Mongkut ascended the throne, his title was elevated to “Phra Ong Chao Supradit Woraritthirat Mahamakut Borus Yarattanaratchawororos,” and he was appointed as Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat. He served as the head of the Treasury Department (Krom Phra Khlang Samat) and was sent to study and observe governance and city development in Singapore. King Mongkut graciously sent him along with Somdet Chao Phraya Borom Maha Sri Suriyawongse (Chuang Bunnag), who at that time held the rank of Chao Phraya. Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe Krom Muen Wisanu Natniphat was thus the first royal prince to be sent abroad to study government affairs and development.

10. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Narendrarajakumarn, son of Krom Luang Boriphat Phakdisrisudarak.

       

The sons and daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Narendrarajakumarn number 18 individuals, including:

  • Khun Chai Chui, who served as Nai Chalorng Naiyanat (chief of the royal kitchen) in the reign of King Nangklao (Rama III)

  • Khun Chai Wong, who held the title Phra Narong

  • Khun Chai Kasem, who was Luang Mahavisut Kosa (had daughters who were royal consorts of King Pinklao)

  • Khun Ying Kham

  • Khun Chai Nut, who was Phra Bamreo Ratcha, later promoted to Phra Ya Uthai Tham (had one granddaughter named Sila who married into the Thamsarot family)

  • Khun Chai Nat, who was Phra Ratchaphimond

  • Khun Chai Nak, who was Luang Phiphatsanunthorn

  • Khun Ying Chan

  • Khun Ying Saeng

  • Khun Chai Rung, who was Phra Ya Samphop Phai, later promoted to Phra Ya Jirayumontri, founder of the “Rungphairoj” family line

  • Khun Ying Uam, Khun Ying Foi, Khun Ying Thap, Khun Ying Prik, Khun Chai Inthanin

  • Khun Ying Amphon, Khun Ying Amphan

  • Khun Ying Sut, who had a daughter named Malai, a royal consort of King Pinklao

10.2 The lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Narendrarajakumarn continues directly through his son Khun Chai Rung (Phra Ya Samphop Phai), which is the “Rungphairoj” family line.

11. Somdet Chao Fa Chai Suphanwong, Krom Khun Kasat Anuchit (known as Chao Fa Men), son of Chao Chom Mad Chim Yai, a royal daughter of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I), was executed in the year 1809 (B.E. 2352).

          11.1 The sons and daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Suphanwong, Krom Khun Kasat Anuchit, whom the Chakri dynasty permitted to hold royal titles, numbered 13 in total, including:

  • Mom Chao Chai Yai, who was executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Ying Talap

  • Mom Chao Ying Pom

               

  • Mom Chao Chai Suwan, executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Ying Yi Sun

  • Mom Chao Chai Nu Phueak, executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Chai Sawat, executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Ying Samlee

  • Mom Chao Ying Sarapi

  • Mom Chao Chai Lek, executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Ying Mui

  • Mom Chao Chai Daeng, executed along with his father

  • Mom Chao Ying, name unknown

Thapra Palace is currently Silpakorn University, Thapra Campus.
(Image from the commemorative book celebrating the 60th anniversary of Silpakorn University)

Note:
A. Somdet Chao Fa Suphanthuwong, Krom Khun Kasat Anuchit
When King Taksin the Great was crowned and ascended the throne, King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama I), then holding the title Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasatsuek, gave his eldest daughter, Somdet Chao Fa Ying Chim Yai (the senior royal concubine), to be a royal consort of King Taksin the Great. She gave birth to a prince named Somdet Chao Fa Chai Suphanthuwong, commonly known as “Chao Fa Men” (the “smelly prince”), in the year 2322 BE (1779 CE). Twelve days after his birth, his mother passed away. King Taksin honored the status of Somdet Chao Fa Ying Chim Yai by granting her a royal cremation equal to that of a princess because Prince Suphanthuwong was a maternal grandson of Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasatsuek.

During the reign of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I), Prince Suphanwong, the son of Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai, held the status of a royal grandson and was granted a new name: Chao Fa Aphaithebet. The officials abbreviated this to Chao Fa Aphai. However, King Rama I noted that this name was similar to the names of two princes from the Ayutthaya period, so he graciously bestowed a new name: Chao Fa Thammathibet. Later, he was given the noble title Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranujit and had his residence on the west side of Na Phra Lan Road, known as Wang Thapra (Thapra Palace).

It is assumed that King Taksin the Great intended for his royal grandson, Prince Suphanwong, son of Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai, to ascend the throne. The grandfather (King Rama I) would then be a crucial support, since Chao Chom Manda Chim Yai was the eldest daughter of Somdet Chao Phraya Maha Kasatsuek (later King Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty). (Source: Jullada Phakdipoomin, “Phra Ong Suea and Phra Ong Chang,” Sakun Thai 48 (2488): June 25, 2002, p. 119)

On Thursday, September 7, 1809, late at night, King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great passed away. On Friday morning, the royal cremation rites were performed, and the body was enshrined at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall.

On Sunday morning, September 10, 1809, King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II), the Prince of the Front Palace, went on alms rounds near the royal palace. He ate eggs on a Chaeng tree and discarded the eggshells to the ground. Phaya Aphai Phuthon (Noi), then serving as Phaya Anuchit Racha, a police captain, picked up the eggshells and found a mysterious note hidden inside. The note revealed that the sons and daughters of King Taksin the Great — specifically Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranujit, Prince Oranipha (Noo Dam), and Chao Chom Manda Samleewan — conspired with several officials to rebel and seize the throne.

The king thus graciously ordered the eldest prince, Krom Muen Jesadabodin (later King Rama III), to investigate. The inquiry confirmed the plot, implicating several officials, including Chaophraya Phon Thep (Bunnag from Mae La), Phaya Phetphani (Klom), Phaya Ram (Thong), Phra Inthadet (Kratai), Chamuen Sathan Montian (On), Nai Khun Nen (nephew of Chaophraya Phon Thep), and others, totaling 40 conspirators including 10 attendants of Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranujit, along with 3 members of the royal family. (Source: Sujit Wongthet, copied from writings of Luang Phanichyalak (Permyos Israsena, M.L., 1985: 62))

King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II) graciously ordered the stripping of the royal title of Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranujit, reducing him to commoner status known as “Mom Muen,” and then ordered his execution by slow burning at Wat Pathum Khongkha.

As for Prince Oranipha (Noo Dam), Princess Samleewan, and the conspirators among the officials, the king decreed that they all be executed by beheading.

As for the six sons of Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranujit, also known as Mom Muen, they were also punished. They were reportedly drowned by being weighed down and thrown into the sea at the river mouth (some say at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River).
(Pramin Kruathong, 2004: 108-115; Sujit Wongthet, 1988: 62-63; and http://pantip.inet.co.th/caf?/library/topic/K157851/K1578551.html, 27 June 2002)

Buddha images at the Viharn Kod (Corridor Shrine) of Wat Pathum Khongkha.

Regarding the rebellion case of Chao Fa Muen (Mom Muen), Pramin Kruathong (2004: 108-115) raised questions in the article titled “The Rebellion Case of Chao Fa Muen: The Crown Prince of King Taksin”, suggesting that this case likely “…had more behind-the-scenes reasons than what appears in the records. There were multiple underlying causes, along with many inconsistencies, especially considering that all the conspirators were former officials of King Rama I. This conflicts with the evidence, as it raises the question why the rebel group chose to elevate Chao Fa Muen as king, while these ‘former officials’ had once participated in the overthrow of King Taksin’s throne.”

  1. Somdet Chao Fa Ying Panjapapi, a princess, daughter of Krom Luang Brijapakit Srisudarak
    Somdet Chao Fa Ying Panjapapi was the 11th daughter of King Taksin the Great. She was one of the princesses who had marital ties with the front royal family of the Chakri dynasty. She was married to Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Isaranurak, a son of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Srisudarak, who was the elder sister of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great and Chao Khrua Ngoen.

Somdet Chao Fa Krom Khun Isaranurak served as the head of the Ministry of the Interior during the reign of King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II). He was the progenitor of the Isarangkun family line of Ayutthaya. (Lek Pongsamkhaithai, “The Royal Lineage Connections of King Taksin’s Descendants with the Chakri Dynasty,” Silpa Wattanatham, Vol. 23, No. 6, April 2002, pp. 63, 65.)

The sons and daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Ying Panjapapi, who was the consort of Chao Fa Krom Khun Isaranurak (a son of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Srisudarak, the younger elder sister of King Rama I) and the founder of the Isarangkun lineage, numbered five. They were:

  • Mom Chao Chai Yai Isarangkun

  • Mom Chao Chai Klang Isarangkun

  • Mom Chao Ying Srifa Isarangkun

  • Mom Chao Chai Sunthara Isarangkun

  • Mom Chao Ying Rosasukon Isarangkun

  • The rank of Phra Ong Chao includes 16 royal children, whose names are listed in order of their ages as follows.

1. Phra Ong Chao Amphawan, son of Chao Chom Madah Tim, was a royal son of King Taksin with Mom Tim, who was the third daughter of Thao Song Kandarn (Thong Mon), the overseer of the palace keys at Thonburi. It is presumed that Thao Song Kandarn was a Mom Ham (secondary consort) of a Mom Chao (a prince or princess of the Ayutthaya royal family) who settled in Tha Sip Bia, Ayutthaya — an area inhabited by Mon immigrants.

Mom Tim had only one royal child, Phra Ong Chao (son) Amphawan, who was King Taksin’s third son among 30 children. Later, in the Rattanakosin era, he was called “Khun Wan.”

Khun Wan had only one eldest son named “Khun Chai Rai” and six daughters.
(Jullada Phakdipoomin, “The Royal Family of Thonburi,” Sakul Thai 48(2493): 30 July 2002: 86)

          1.1 Phra Ong Chao Amphawan had 7 children as follows:

  • Khun Chai Rai, who had a daughter named Khun Klin, the royal governess of Somdet Krom Phraya Phanu Phan Wongsawat

  • Khun Ying Saeng, who was a royal consort of Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet, the founder of the Kunjarat family line

  • Khun Ying Sanguan

  • Khun Ying Thomya, a secondary consort of Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet

  • Khun Ying Phueng, a secondary consort of Krom Khun Ratchasiha Wikrom, founder of the Chumsai family line

  • Khun Ying Phrom

  • Khun Ying Luk In, a secondary consort of Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet

2. Phra Ong Chao Ornipa (Noo Dam), son of Chao Chom Madam Amphan (who was a full sibling consort together with Chao Chom Madam Samliwan), was executed during the reign of King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai (Rama II) in 1809 (B.E. 2352) on charges of conspiring to overthrow the Chakri dynasty.

Phra Ong Chao Ornipa had 6 children as follows:

                 

  • Khun Chai Klin

  • Khun Chai Peng

  • Khun Chai Chang

  • Khun Chai Pan

  • Khun Chai Talap

  • Khun Ying Khlee

3. Phra Ong Chao Sumali — mother’s name unknown.
4. Phra Ong Chao Thamrong — mother’s name unknown.

Phra Ong Chao Thamrong had 3 daughters, namely:

  • Khun Ying Somthap

  • Khun Ying Plabjeen

  • Khun Ying Saisoi

  1. Phra Ong Chao Lamang — Mother’s name unknown. During the reign of King Rama III, he held the title Phraya Sombatban.

  2. Phra Ong Chao Chamchuri — Mother’s name unknown.

  3. Phra Ong Chao Sangwan — Mother’s name unknown.

  4. Phra Ong Chao Samliwan — Daughter of Chao Chom Mad Amphan. She was executed during the reign of King Rama II (Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai) for involvement in a conspiracy to overthrow the Chakri dynasty.

Note:
Chao Chom Mad Samliwan
Phra Ong Chao Samliwan was the eighth daughter of King Taksin the Great, born to Chao Chom Mad Amphan, who was the only daughter of Uparat Chan (also spelled Uparat Jan), from Nakhon Si Thammarat. When King Taksin conquered Nakhon Si Thammarat, he appointed the governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat (Noo) and Uparat Chan to serve in Thonburi. Uparat Chan became Phraya Intharakrara, within the Krom Chang (Elephant Department), then was promoted to Phraya Surintharatchanaorabadi Sri Suriyasak, the Left Supreme Officer, then was assigned to govern Thalang (present-day Phuket) as a regional governor. Later, he was promoted to Chaophraya Surintharacha. When Chaophraya Maha Sena (Pli) died during the reign of King Rama I, he was expected to be appointed as Samuha Kalahom (Minister of Defense) but declined due to old age and continued to govern the region until his death. His descendants were granted the surname “Chantarojanawong” by royal decree. (Sujit Wongthes, 1985: 63-64)

Princess Samliwan was appointed consort to Somdet Phra Bowonratchawangmahasenaunik (later known as Somdet Chao Fa Krom Luang Sena Narisat), while he held the title of Phra Chao Lukya Thoe Somdet Chao Fa Krom Luang Sena Narisat — the Front Palace during the reign of King Rama II. He was said to be of great beauty, kind and gentle-hearted, and was the youngest royal son, being five years junior to King Buddha Loetla Nabhalai (Rama II).

Chao Chom Manda Samliwan had been the royal consort of Somdet Phra Bowonratchawangmahasenaunik since the reign of King Rama I. It is said that Chao Chom Manda Samliwan was a woman of resolute character, possessing a disposition sterner than that of her royal husband. She bore six royal children. During the reign of King Rama II, she was adjudged to have conspired with Chao Fa Krom Khun Kasattranuchit (known as Chao Fa Muen, or “Chao Fa Men”), her half-brother by a different mother, in a plot against the Chakri dynasty, and was consequently executed. It is related that Somdet Phra Bowonratchawangmahasenaunik grieved deeply over the loss of his consort, yet Chao Chom Manda Samliwan accepted her fate with dignity and courage.
(Julaladda Phakdipoomin, “The Front Palace in Early Rattanakosin,” Sakulthai 48(2490): 9 July 2545, p. 64)

8.1 The Royal Issue of Princess Samliwan, Consort to the Front Palace (Somdet Phra Bowonratchawangmahasenaunik) under King Buddha Loetla Nabhalai

There were six royal offspring:

  • Phra Ong Chao Chai Yai (The Eldest Prince), born in the Year of the Pig (B.E. 2334), who died in childhood

  • Phra Ong Ying Prachum Wong (Princess Prachum Wong), born in the Year of the Tiger (B.E. 2337)

  • Phra Ong Ying Nadda (Princess Nadda), born in the Year of the Dragon (B.E. 2339)

  • Phra Ong Ying Khanittha (Princess Khanittha), born in the Year of the Snake (B.E. 2341)

  • Phra Ong Chao Phong Isaret, Krom Muen Kasat Si Sakdidej, born in the Year of the Monkey (B.E. 2343), progenitor of the Isaresena family of Ayutthaya

  • Phra Ong Ying Narumon (Princess Narumon), born in the Year of the Rat (B.E. 2347)

(http://pantip.inet.co.th/caf?/library/topic/K157851/K1578551.html, 27 June 2545; Sujit Wongthet, 2528: 63)

Note on Phra Ong Chao Phong Isaret, Krom Muen Kasat Si Sakdidej:
He was the eighth royal child of Somdet Phra Bowonratchawangmahasenaunik and Princess Samliwan, born November in the Year of the Monkey (B.E. 2343). He was much beloved by his royal father as he was both a “grandnephew” to King Buddha Loetla Nabhalai and a “grandnephew” to King Taksin the Great. He was the only Front Palace prince who was a royal grandson to both monarchs. In the Year of the Dog (B.E. 2405), King Chulalongkorn graciously conferred upon him the title Phra Chao Rajawong Thoe Krom Muen Kasat Si Sakdidej, founding the noble Isaresena family of Ayutthaya.

The consort of Phra Chao Rajawong Thoe was Khun Ying Plab, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Sila, the eighth son of King Taksin the Great. Khun Ying Plab bore three sons: Mom Chao Krajang Isaresena, Mom Chao Chantri Isaresena, and Mom Chao Saowaros Isaresena.

Mom Chao Saowaros was the father of Chaophraya Vorapong Phiphat (Mom Rajawongse Yen Isaresena), Minister of the Royal Household in the reign of King Prajadhipok (Rama VII).

Phra Chao Rajawong Thoe Krom Muen Kasat Si Sakdidej passed away in the eighth lunar month of the Year of the Dog (B.E. 2417), during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), aged 75 years.
— (Lek Pongsamsakthai, “The Lineage of the Taksin Royal Family and the Chakri Dynasty,” Silpa Wattanatham, Vol. 23(6): April 2545, pp. 64–65)

Note on royal titles:
The royal children of kings bear the prefix ‘Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe’ or ‘Somdet Phra Chao Borom Wong Thoe’ for princes (Chao Fa). For the Front Palace in the reigns of Rama I to Rama IV, the prefix ‘Phra Chao Rajawong Thoe’ was used, while during Rama V the Front Palace royal children were styled ‘Phra Rajawong Thoe’.

Additional Royal Children whose mothers are unknown or not specified:

  1. Phra Ong Chao Kanthawong

  2. Phra Ong Chao Mekhin

  3. Phra Ong Chao Isinthon

  4. Phra Ong Ying Praphaipak, daughter of Chao Chom Manda Ngern

  5. Phra Ong Chao Bua

  6. Phra Ong Chao (unnamed)

  7. Phra Ong Chao Nu Daeng

  8. Phra Ong Ying Sudchatri

  • The two members of the royal lineage who became commoners are:

1. The Lineage of Chaophraya Nakhon (Noi):

Somdet Phra Chao Krung Thonburi bestowed Chaijom Prang (also known as Khun Nu Lek), daughter of Chaophraya Nakhon, to be the consort of Chaopat, the Uparat (viceroy) of Nakhon Si Thammarat, although she was already pregnant at that time. Chaopat accepted her and was henceforth titled the Lord (Sri Muang) of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Later, she gave birth to a son in Nakhon Si Thammarat named “Noi” in the Year of the Horse (Mae Mia) 2317 BE (1774 CE) (Sang Phatnotai, undated: 262).

However, some documents record that Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was born on Monday, the 13th day of the waning moon in the 10th lunar month, Year of the Dog (Cho) in the 1138th year of the Chula Sakarat era, corresponding to 27 August 2319 BE (1776 CE), in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat. At the time of Chaijom Prang’s childbirth, Somdet Phra Chao Krung Thonburi graciously bestowed upon the newborn the royal rank and insignia befitting a Phra Chao Luk Ya The (Prince) at Nakhon Si Thammarat.
(Reference: http://www.navy.mi.th/navy88/files/Nakorn.doc, 31/03/2547)

Traditional Thai-style monk’s dwelling (Kuti) at Wat Wang Tawan-ok, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province (image from Thai journal)

Note: Methinee Srirungreung (2004: back cover page) wrote about the residence of Chao Chom Prang in the Thai journal article titled “Traditional Thai-style Monk’s Dwelling (Kuti) at Wat Wang Tawan-ok, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province” as follows:

“…Wat Wang Tawan-ok is located along Ratchadamnoen Road. It was originally known as the eastern palace garden (Uthayan) — the residence of Chao Chom Prang. Later, Chaophraya Nakhon (Noi) donated the eastern palace and its garden to be converted into a temple, similar to the western palace garden area which became Wat Wang Tawan-tok. In 1888 (B.E. 2431), Phra Kru Kachart (Yong) along with his disciples constructed a cluster of kuti — three timber houses with gabled roofs connected together. The walls, doors, windows, and ventilation openings were decorated with distinctive traditional Nakhon Si Thammarat motifs. In 1910 (B.E. 2453), the Association of Siamese Architects selected the kuti at Wat Wang Tawan-ok as a distinguished preserved building in the category of religious monuments and temples.”

Later, Noi, the son of Chao Chom Prang, became Chaophraya Nakhon (Noi), who was sometimes called “Noi Khuen Muang” (Noi the Returnee), a title believed to have been given by King Mongkut (Rama IV). This was because after serving many years in the capital, he returned to govern Nakhon Si Thammarat, succeeding Chaophraya Phat (his adoptive father) and Phra Chao Nakhon Si Thammarat (Palat Nu), the biological father of Chaophraya Phat, who had formerly ruled Nakhon.

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was considered the most powerful ruler of Nakhon Si Thammarat. His authority extended over all southern principalities, including Sai Buri, Terengganu, and Perak. He was also the commander of military forces in the southern and western sectors.

The duties he undertook during his tenure included the following:

1. Military Affairs: Several campaigns were conducted as follows:

1.1 While holding the rank of Phra Borirak Phubet, serving as assistant governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, he commanded the army to build warships and patrol boats and led the forces to attack the Burmese at Thalang. Upon the successful completion of the campaign, many Burmese prisoners and weapons were sent to Bangkok. This earned him great royal favor from King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai.

1.2 After being appointed Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, he conducted four military campaigns against the state of Sai Buri:

  • First campaign: In 1821 CE (B.E. 2364), Sai Buri was a tributary state of Siam since 1785 (B.E. 2328) during the reign of King Rama I (Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulalok). At that time, the governor of Sai Buri was Phaya Sai Buri named “Moguramsa.” Upon his death, a royal decree appointed “Tonku Pangngaran” as the new governor. This Tonku Pangngaran, known formally as “Phra Rattanasongkhram Ramphakdi Sri Sultan Mahamad Rattanaratchabotin Surintarawongsa, Phaya Sai Buri,” initially swore allegiance to Siam but soon shifted loyalty to Burma.

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi, upon learning this, grew suspicious of Tonku Pangngaran’s conduct and employed a Chinese man named “Tha Lai” to spy on Tonku Pangngaran in Penang. Moreover, Tonku’s brother, Tonku Mom, dissatisfied with his brother’s rule, reported his actions to Chaophraya Nakhon Noi.

Additionally, a Chinese merchant named Lim Hoi from the capital, returning from trade in Penang, inspected a Burmese ship and discovered secret letters from King Bodawpaya of Burma. The letter instructed Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran to distance himself from Siam and encourage Sai Buri to attack southern Siam in alliance with Burma.

After confirming these facts, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi reported to King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai. The King commanded Chaophraya Nakhon Noi to lead an army to subdue Sai Buri, stating:

“Phaya Sai Buri has clearly betrayed by conspiring with the enemy, making Sai Buri a treacherous base against us in the south. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi shall lead the southern cities’ armies to bring Sai Buri under Siamese control with full authority.”

However, instead of attacking immediately, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi employed a political stratagem by sending a letter to Tonku Pangngaran, instructing him to prepare rice supplies in warehouses for the expected Burmese invasion. As expected, Tonku Pangngaran denied the order, which Chaophraya Nakhon Noi used as a pretext to begin the attack.

He then led troops from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, and Phatthalung in a combined land and naval assault with a total force of 7,000 men. Siamese casualties numbered 700, while Sai Buri lost 1,500 men. Tonku Pangngaran fled with his followers to live in exile in Penang under British protection.

With Sai Buri conquered, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi appointed his son, Phra Phakdi Borirak (Saeng), as governor of Sai Buri, and another son, Nai Nut, as the city’s chief official. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi then reported this success to King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai, who promoted Phra Phakdi Borirak (Saeng) to “Phaya Aphai Thibes Mahaprates Ratchathibodin Inthara Aisawan Khanda Sema Matyanuchit Sit Songkhram Ramphakdi, Phaya Sai Buri.” Nai Nut was promoted to “Phaya Senanuchit,” the chief official of Sai Buri.

In the same year, King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai elevated Chaophraya Nakhon Si Thammarat to the rank of “Chaophraya Nakhon Si Thammarat” and granted him full authority over Sai Buri and Perak, confirming his status as the royal governor responsible for both cities. This greatly enhanced Chaophraya Nakhon Noi’s political standing.

  • Second campaign: In 1822 CE (B.E. 2365), a rebellion broke out in Sai Buri, led by Tonku Mahamad, Tonku Yoso, and Raya Pattani Sindara — relatives of Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran — who rallied some 2,000 insurgents. The uprising was quashed swiftly by Chaophraya Nakhon Si Thammarat before it gained traction.

  • Third campaign: In 1826 CE (B.E. 2369), although Sai Buri had been defeated in all previous campaigns, the city was still unstable. Tonku Pangngaran claimed Sai Buri as his hereditary possession, inherited from his ancestors, and persistently sought to reclaim it. He petitioned the British governor of Penang, Fullerton, stating that if the British East India Company did not support him, he would follow his fate but would not abide by the “Burney Treaty,” asserting that Sai Buri was not a gift or appointment from Siam but his ancestral right, and he would rather die than comply with the treaty.

Regarding this matter, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi conducted negotiations with Henry Berney, a representative of the British East India Company stationed in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Subsequently, a treaty was concluded between the Siamese government and the British Company’s representative in Bangkok on June 20, 1826 (B.E. 2369). As a result, the Governor of Penang ordered the removal of Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran from Penang Island, depriving him of the ability to use Penang as a base for rebellion. Thereafter, Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran shifted his support to his nephew named Tonku Den, son of Tonku Raya.

In 1831 (B.E. 2374), Tonku Den led approximately 3,000 followers to seize Sai Buri, specifically the province of Wellesley, and with a naval fleet, blockaded the mouth of Sai Buri. Phaya Aphai Thibes (Saeng), then governor of Sai Buri, was unable to resist and fled to Phatthalung. Tonku Den thus easily took control of the city.

Upon hearing of this conflict, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi assessed that the forces of Nakhon Si Thammarat alone were insufficient to suppress the rebellion. Therefore, he requested Phra Surin, an official of the Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Mongkhon (the Front Palace Ministry), who was assisting in Nakhon Si Thammarat, to mobilize troops from Songkhla and the Malay cities including Yaring, Yala, Saiburi, Nong Chik, Pattani, Raman, and Ra-ngae, to support the campaign against Sai Buri.

However, the governor of Songkhla refused to cooperate due to previous grievances against Chaophraya Nakhon Noi, and the city of Yaring also refused and even instigated a rebellion. Consequently, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi had to lead 7,000 troops from Nakhon Si Thammarat, accompanied by 300 war elephants, to attack Sai Buri in 1831 (B.E. 2374).

The campaign succeeded with relative ease; the forts of Sai Buri were captured and the city was taken in the same year. Tonku Den, the rebel leader, was killed in battle, and his severed head was sent to Bangkok as a trophy.

Following the victory, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi divided his forces to quell the rebellion in the Malay cities: the naval fleet blockaded the mouth of Sai Buri, while the land forces joined with troops from Bangkok and Songkhla to subdue the Malay states. The rebellion was suppressed swiftly and thoroughly beyond expectations.

Notably, during this campaign, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi became very angry with his two sons — Phaya Aphai Thibes (Saeng), governor of Sai Buri, and Phaya Senanuchit (Nut) — for their failure to perform adequately as city governors, as both had fled when Tonku Den attacked rather than defending the city. As a disciplinary measure, he ordered each son to receive thirty lashes, despite their having faced enemy weapons in battle, so as to set an example and discourage similar behavior among the troops.

The Fourth Campaign Against Sai Buri in B.E. 2381 (1838)

Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran persisted in his efforts to reclaim Sai Buri from Siam. He orchestrated another rebellion, led by Tonku Muhd Saad and Tonku Abdullah, notorious pirates operating in the western seas, who joined forces with Huan Mali, the leader of the Malay pirates based on Koh Yao (present-day Phang Nga Province). Together, they seized control of Sai Buri by land and sea. Phaya Aphai Thibes (Saeng), the governor of Sai Buri, along with the Siamese officials, fled once again to Phatthalung.

Having established control over Sai Buri, the rebels then advanced to attack Trang, while another faction moved against Songkhla, Pattani, and the seven Malay principalities.

At that time, the governors of Songkhla (Seng) and Chaophraya Nakhon Noi were attending the royal cremation ceremonies for Somdet Phra Sri Suralai, the Queen Grandmother. Upon learning of the rebellion, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi immediately returned to mobilize troops from Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung, organizing a force. He entrusted his three sons — Phaya Aphai Thibes (Saeng), Phaya Wichit Sorakrai (Klom), and Phaya Senanuchit (Nut) — to lead approximately 4,000 soldiers to counterattack Sai Buri. This campaign was successful.

However, shortly after the successful assault on Sai Buri, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi fell ill with a stroke (lūm pathjuban). Before he could lead the army back, he passed away. In response, Bangkok dispatched Phra Wichit Narong (Phat) and Phra Ratchawarin, who brought around 800 troops to help defend Songkhla. The rebels besieging Songkhla, upon hearing of Sai Buri’s fall and the approaching Siamese reinforcements from Nakhon Si Thammarat and Bangkok, panicked and fled without attacking Songkhla. Thus, the forces of Nakhon Si Thammarat subdued Sai Buri once again with relative ease.

Regrettably, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was not able to personally demonstrate his military prowess in this campaign, as he had passed away due to his illness.

The Role of Chaophraya Nakhon Noi as the Viceroy of Sai Buri and Perak

His significant contributions are twofold:

  1. He successfully retained control over Sai Buri, preventing it from falling into the hands of the rebels, thereby maintaining Sai Buri as a vassal state under Siamese suzerainty.

  2. He conducted negotiations with the British East India Company, ultimately securing their recognition that Sai Buri was a tributary state of Siam and preventing the Company from supporting Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran’s attempt to reclaim the city.

Additionally, Bangkok entrusted Chaophraya Nakhon Noi with extending his authority over Perak. Although he was able to exert control over Perak for a time, by approximately B.E. 2369 (1826) he was compelled to relinquish it to British influence to avoid direct conflict with the British East India Company during that period.

2. On Diplomacy

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was regarded as one of the foremost diplomats of the kingdom. Endowed with keen political acumen and shrewdness, he elevated Nakhon Si Thammarat’s influence over the Malay states and commanded the respect and caution of the British East India Company, whose commercial and political power was spreading across Southeast Asia. His notable diplomatic achievements are as follows:

2.1 Negotiations with John Crawfurd in B.E. 2365 (1822)

Following Chaophraya Nakhon Noi’s military campaign against Sai Buri in B.E. 2364 (1821), during which he sought to sever ties between Sai Buri and Burma, Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran fled to seek refuge under the British at Penang Island. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi requested the Governor of Penang, Robert Philipps, to surrender Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran. However, Governor Philipps refused. Enraged, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi protested against the British Company.

Upon learning of this, the British Governor-General in India dispatched John Crawfurd to Penang, emphasizing trade matters over territorial disputes. The initial negotiations began on 21 May B.E. 2365. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi did not attend these talks, understanding that Crawfurd would be conciliatory toward the Penang Governor. As expected, the Governor allowed Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran to return to rule Sai Buri. The Siamese side refused to accept this and consequently, the negotiations failed.

2.2 Further Negotiations with the British Company at Penang in B.E. 2365

After Crawfurd’s departure, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was ordered by Bangkok to persistently seek the surrender of Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran from the Penang Governor. Repeated requests were denied.

In retaliation, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi instructed Siamese officials in Sai Buri to levy export taxes on goods purchased by the British from Sai Buri. This caused significant inconvenience to the British, who requested Chaophraya Nakhon Noi to cease collecting these export duties. They claimed that when Phaya Sai Buri (Mokuram Sa) had leased Penang to the British, an agreement was made exempting British goods from taxation on export to Penang.

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi responded firmly that Sai Buri was a vassal city under Bangkok’s sovereignty, and that no such concession was ever granted by Phaya Sai Buri (Mokuram Sa) in relation to the British. He declared the British had acted unilaterally in making that agreement and he would not honor it. Consequently, the British had to bear the economic burden themselves, as they were effectively supporting Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran’s rebellion.

This diplomatic exchange substantially curtailed British influence in the region.

       2.3 Negotiations with Henry Berney at Nakhon Si Thammarat in B.E. 2368 (1825)

The British Company at Penang repeatedly sought to negotiate with Chaophraya Nakhon Noi due to grievances over export taxes on goods from Sai Buri, and their desire for Pangngaran to regain control over Sai Buri. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi, however, remained indifferent.

Failing to reach an agreement, the chief British official stationed in Bengal, India, appointed Henry Berney as envoy to negotiate with the Siamese government. At that time, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was convening military forces from Trang and Satun to attack Perak and Selangor, aiming to prevent the expansion of his domain into Malay territories.

To impede these military campaigns, the British dispatched warships to blockade the mouth of Trang Bay, causing Chaophraya Nakhon Noi to halt his advance on the two cities. Consequently, negotiations took place in Nakhon Si Thammarat in July B.E. 2368.

The outcome was a preliminary agreement signed on 31 July B.E. 2368 at Nakhon Si Thammarat to serve as a basis for further negotiations with the Siamese government. The key points were:

  • Chaophraya Nakhon Noi would cease sending troops to Perak and Selangor, and likewise, the British would refrain from occupying or interfering in those two cities.

  • The British Company would not interfere with the governance of Sai Buri, allowing Phaya Sai Buri Pangngaran to return as ruler. The British were to compel Sai Buri to pay an annual tribute of 4,000 dollars to Siam.

  • Chaophraya Nakhon Noi promised that if the Thai monarch consented to Pangngaran’s return to Sai Buri, he would withdraw all Siamese officials from Sai Buri and would not attack it again.

This conciliatory stance by Chaophraya Nakhon Noi aimed to avoid escalating conflict with the British Company. Stubborn resistance risked prolonged hostilities in the Malay region, which had long been problematic. Furthermore, the British were in the midst of expanding their colonial reach in Asia, and any warfare would inevitably fall under Chaophraya Nakhon Noi’s responsibility.

2.4 Negotiations with Henry Berney’s Diplomatic Mission in Bangkok in B.E. 2368 (1825)

Henry Berney traveled to India to obtain approval from the Governor-General of Bengal for further negotiations with the Siamese government in Bangkok.

He then journeyed back via Penang, Singapore, Terengganu, arriving at Nakhon Si Thammarat on 28 October B.E. 2368, where he stayed for eight days. Subsequently, he traveled by sea to Bangkok, led by Chaophraya Nakhon Noi’s son as guide.

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi himself traveled overland and arrived in Bangkok on 4 February B.E. 2369, about two months after Berney’s arrival.

The Negotiations at Bangkok

His Majesty King Nangklao (Rama III) convened an important delegation for negotiations, consisting of Krom Muen Surintraraks, Chaophraya Aphai Phubet, Chaophraya Mahasena, Chaophraya Phra Khlang (Dis), and most trusted of all, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi. The latter bore the heavy responsibility as intermediary to coordinate understanding between His Majesty King Nangklao and the envoy of Berney.

The negotiations proceeded smoothly, culminating in the signing of the treaty on 20 June B.E. 2369 (1826). The key provisions were as follows:

Article 12
Siam shall not obstruct trade within the cities of Terengganu and Kelantan. Merchants and inhabitants under British dominion shall continue to trade freely in these two cities. Likewise, Britain shall neither attack nor disturb these cities in any manner.

Article 13
Siam covenants to govern Terengganu and provide protection to its city and all inhabitants as appropriate. Moreover, Siam promises that upon the departure of Chaophraya Nakhon Noi from Bangkok, the families, slaves, and retainers of the former ruler of Terengganu shall be allowed to return at their discretion. Britain pledges to relinquish all claims to Terengganu and shall not permit the former ruler, Phraya Terengganu (Pangran), nor his slaves and retainers, to cause harm or disturbance to Terengganu or its subordinate territories. Furthermore, Britain agrees to arrange for Phraya Terengganu (Pangran) to reside elsewhere, forbidding his presence in Terengganu, Penang, Perak, Selangor, or Burma. Should Britain fail to comply, Siam reserves the right to levy taxes on rice and paddy exports from Terengganu as before.

Article 14
Siam and Britain agree that Phraya Perak shall continue ruling Perak and shall pay tribute as before, according to his will. Britain shall not interfere, and Chaophraya Nakhon Noi may freely send 40 to 50 persons—whether Siamese, Malay, or Chinese—to Perak without British objection. Britain shall not dispatch troops to disturb Perak, nor allow Selangor to disturb Perak; likewise, Siam shall refrain from attacking Perak.

This treaty yielded mutual satisfaction for both Siam and Britain. Britain succeeded in preventing Chaophraya Nakhon Noi from expanding his domain into the Malay states and avoided further taxation. Siam secured British acknowledgment of Terengganu as a vassal state under Siamese suzerainty, thereby formally resolving a significant dispute with the British East India Company at Penang.

At the outset, many Siamese representatives opposed Chaophraya Nakhon Noi’s concessions, deeming them disadvantageous to Siam. However, through his prudence and wisdom, Chaophraya Nakhon Noi brought the matter to a successful resolution, understanding that the path to resolving international political problems was not through warfare alone but also through diplomatic means, which would lead to a just and lasting peace.

3. In the Field of Shipbuilding

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi possessed great expertise in ship construction as follows:

3.1 He built royal transport ships (kamphan luang) for carrying war elephants to be sold abroad, generating substantial revenue for the nation from the sale of elephants.

3.2 He constructed warships ranging from small vessels to large ones requiring double rows of oarsmen. The warships built during his time were larger than those previously seen, totaling as many as 150 ships. Chaophraya Nakhon Noi himself possessed a great warship fleet numbering as many as 300 vessels stationed at Trang, which is believed to have been the largest naval force at that time. Even Bangkok only began seriously developing its naval forces during the reign of Rama III in B.E. 2371, when Siam entered into conflict with the Vietnamese.

3.3 He built warships suitable for both riverine and open-sea warfare. His Majesty King Nangklao (Rama III) wished Chaophraya Nakhon Noi to construct a ship featuring a fish-mouth prow and a paddlewheel stern, equipped with two banks of oars and sails for sea navigation. The ship measured nine sok and one khep wide at the bow, and eleven wa in length. This vessel was presented to His Majesty, who bestowed upon it the name “Maha Pichai Rerk” (Great Auspicious Victory). This ship served as a prototype for the construction of an additional 30 vessels. The King also praised him, saying:
“… The lords of the western southern provinces lack the discernment of this Chaophraya Nakhon; whatever he undertakes is finished with great skill and refined workmanship, and he understands the difference between good and ill …”
Thus, His Majesty conferred upon him the title “Nawi Sthapanik” (Naval Architect).

4. In the Field of Governance

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi earned great royal trust from the capital, which conferred upon him the following powers:

4.1 He held authority over the entire southern provinces, extending to Terengganu, Terengganu, and Perak, making him a lord with greater power than other provincial governors.

4.2 He served as the supreme military commander of the western southern front.

4.3 He was appointed chief of the diplomatic delegation negotiating with the British East India Company, being the most important figure in the envoy, successfully achieving significant outcomes.

4.4 He was appointed as acting ruler (phu samet rajakan) of Terengganu and Perak, granting him absolute governing power in those cities, fully trusted by the central government.

4.5 He was a strong and decisive ruler, showing no partiality—even to his own two sons—whom he ordered flogged for abandoning their duties and failing to show full military capability in battle. It is said that the Rattanakosin-era female poet Khun Phum (Busabha Tha Ruea Chang) prayed:
“May they never become boatmen under Chaophraya Nakhon,”
for it was known that boatmen must row swiftly and in perfect coordination, thoroughly knowledgeable of every port procedure. Any neglect could result in capsizing the vessel, which meant all boatmen would be punished by having to carry the boat ashore together—a form of collective discipline among rowers.

Chaophraya Nakhon Noi was born on Monday, the 13th day of the waxing moon (Kham) in the 10th lunar month of the Year of the Rooster, Atthasak era, Chula Sakarat 1138, corresponding to 27 August B.E. 2319 (1776 A.D.) in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat. He passed away suddenly from a stroke shortly after leading a victorious campaign against Terengganu, before he could return his army to Nakhon Si Thammarat. He suffered from dizziness and vomiting, with thick saliva and phlegm pressing on his chest, with symptoms beginning on the 8th day of the waning moon, 6th lunar month. On the 14th day of the waning moon, 6th lunar month, Chula Sakarat 1210, at about 11 p.m. on Tuesday, 14 May B.E. 2382 (1839 A.D.), he passed away at the age of 64.

Those descended from Chaophraya Nakhon Noi, of the lineages Na Nakhon, Komarakul Na Nakhon, and Chaturongkul, comprise 34 sons and daughters in total. Among the males, three served in the royal court of the Chakri dynasty monarchs, three were provincial governors, five served as city magistrates, three as city secretaries, and one as assistant royal official. Among the females, ten were royal consorts (Chao Chom) of King Nangklao (Rama III), two were consorts of King Mongkut (Rama IV), one was a consort of King Pinklao, one served in the inner royal court, and five were women not in official service.

The noble house of Chaophraya Nakhon Noi branched into three direct family lines as follows:

  • The Na Nakhon line, directly descending from Chaophraya Nakhon Noi himself.

  • The Komarakul Na Nakhon line, descending directly from Chaophraya Mahasiritham (Muang or Noi Yai), son of Chaophraya Nakhon Noi and Lady In (a royal consort from Bang Chang lineage).

  • The Chaturongkul line, descending directly from Khun Chai Noi It, son of Chaophraya Nakhon Noi and Lady In.

2. The Noble House of Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In or Thong In)

Nattawut Sutthisongkram (B.E. 2509) researched and compiled in the book “Oras Lap Phra Chao Taksin” that during the campaign when Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Pin) served as the vanguard for King Taksin the Great in the expedition to subdue Vientiane, Lady Pheun passed away. The King graciously bestowed Princess Yuan (or Chuan), a royal consort and younger sister of Krom Luang Boriphrabodi Si Sudarak (daughter of Chaophraya Nakhon [Nu]), upon him. The princess was then pregnant. After moving to the city of Nakhon Ratchasima, she gave birth to a son whom Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima, as adoptive father, named “Thong In.” Thong In later became Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima (also known as Chaophraya Kamhaeng Songkhram).

Although there is no direct evidence in chronicles or historical records, it is generally accepted that both Chaophraya Nakhon Noi and Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In) were sons of King Taksin the Great.

2.1 Descendants of Chaophraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In)

Complete details of all descendants are not fully available. However, it is known that there were 28 male and 22 female descendants. Among the males, 20 held official ranks and noble titles. Among the females, three served as royal consorts of King Nangklao (Rama III), and one as royal consort of King Pinklao.

          2.2 วงศ์เจ้าพระยานครราชสีมา (ทองอินทร์) หรือเจ้าพระยากำแหงสงคราม ซึ่งมีภริยาและอนุภรรยาหลายคน บุตรของท่านซึ่งแยกสายสกุลไป 13 สาย ได้แก่ สายอินทรกำแหง มหาณรงค์ อินทโสพัศ นิลนานนท์ เนียมสุริยะ ชูกฤส อินทนุชิต คชวงศ์ ศิริพร เชิญธงไชย เมนะรุจิ อธินันทน์ พรหมนารท

18.3 Noble Lineage of the Prince’s Descendants

(Great-nephews and grandnephews) total 105 persons.

  • Male royal grandchildren, as far as documented evidence shows, number four persons as follows:

  1. Chao Nara Suriyawong — A senior royal grandson (พระเจ้าหลานเธอชั้นผู้ใหญ่), whose paternal lineage is not clearly recorded. He was appointed as the ruler of Nakhon Si Thammarat, succeeding Chao Nakhon (Noo). He passed away in the year 2319 BE (1776 CE). There are no records of his descendants forming a royal lineage.

  2. Krom Khun Anuraksangkaram — Originally named Boonmee before the establishment of the royal family. He was granted the title “Chao Ram Lak” for his distinguished service in military affairs. However, he was executed in the year 2325 BE (1782 CE).

  3. Krom Khun Ram Phubet — Originally named Boonjan before the establishment of the royal family. He was appointed as Chao Boonjan. He was surrounded and killed by officials loyal to King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great while on a military mission in Cambodia in the year 2325 BE (1782 CE).

  4. Krom Khun Surinthrasangkaram — No historical records or biographical details are available.

  • Royal Granddaughters (Female) of King Taksin who served in official capacities

Chao Chom Manda (Royal Consorts), royal granddaughters of King Taksin the Great who served as Chao Chom Manda under King Rama III (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Nang Klao Chao Yu Hua) and King Rama IV (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Chom Klao Chao Yu Hua), were daughters of Chao Phraya Nakhon (Noi), who gave nearly all of his daughters as royal consorts to both kings.

1.1 The eldest daughter was Chao Chom Manda Noi Yai (born of Lady In, a noblewoman of Bang Chang lineage). She served as Chao Chom Manda to King Rama III and gave birth to a prince named Phra Ong Chao Chalermwong.

1.2 The thirteenth daughter was Chao Chom Manda Bua (born of a lesser consort). She served as Chao Chom Manda to King Rama IV and gave birth to princes and princesses as follows:

  • Phra Ong Chao Chalermlakonloet — passed away in youth.

  • Phra Ong Chao Srisitthithongchai, known as Krom Khun Sirithat Sangkat, founder of the noble family Sritawat Na Ayutthaya.

  • Phra Ong Chao Orathai Thepkanya (Princess Orathai Thepkanya).

  • Phra Ong Chao Watthananawong, known as Krom Khun Muruphongsiriphat, founder of the noble family Watthanawong Na Ayutthaya.

  • Phra Ong Chao Damrongrit — passed away in youth.

2. Consorts and Royal Concubines of the Front Palace Princes of the Chakri Dynasty
Many grandchildren of King Taksin the Great became consorts and royal concubines of the front palace princes of the Chakri dynasty, including: 

2.1 Khun Ying Saeng, the eldest daughter of Phra Ong Chao Amphawan, the third son of King Taksin the Great, became the consort of His Royal Highness the Second Rank Prince Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet, progenitor of the Kunja family of Ayutthaya.

Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet was the twenty-second son of King Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai. He served as the head of the Royal Cavalry Department and was appointed Krom Muen during the reign of King Rama III. During the reign of King Rama IV, he was graciously elevated to the rank of Krom Phraya and was appointed head of the Royal Elephant Department as well. Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet commissioned the construction of Wang Ban Mo, located in the eastern moat area, presently known as Atsadang Road opposite the Department of Provincial Administration. Wang Ban Mo is one of the oldest architectural sites from early Rattanakosin period, distinct from the Grand Palace and the Bowon Sathan Mongkhon Palace. Its hallmark is the throne hall, which became the archetype for royal residences of princes of the rank Phra Ong Chao.

Khun Ying Saeng bore issue including Mom Chao Singhanat Kunja, the eldest son of Krom Phraya Phithak Thewet, and Mom Chao Ying Lamun Kunja. Mom Chao Singhanat served during the reign of King Rama V, commanding the Royal Guards Department and the Royal Entertainment Department, and was granted the title Phra Worawong Thoe Phra Ong Chao Singhanat Rajadhurongkrit. He was the father of Chaophraya Thewet Wongwiwat (Mom Rajawongse Lan Kunja), who commanded the Cavalry and Royal Entertainment Departments and later served as Minister of Public Works and Minister of Agriculture, passing away in the Year of the Dog, 1922, during the reign of King Rama VI.

       

2.2 Khun Ying Phueng, the fourth daughter of Phra Ong Chao Amphawan, became the consort of His Royal Highness Krom Khun Ratchasiwakorn, the twenty-first son of King Rama III (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Nang Klao Chao Yu Hua). His former title was Phra Ong Chao Chum Saai, and he primarily resided and worked at Wang Tha Phra. Krom Khun Ratchasiwakorn was known for his stern disposition and serious dedication to royal duties. He served faithfully under King Rama III and continued in service into the reign of King Rama IV. Like King Rama III, he favored large-scale construction projects that emphasized solid structure over ornate detail. He was skilled in architectural calculations following traditional Thai methods and oversaw the Departments of Stonework and the Ten Artisan Guilds. Krom Khun Ratchasiwakorn was the progenitor of the Chumsai family line of Ayutthaya. He passed away in the Year of the Dragon (2411 BE).

2.3 Khun Ying Plap, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Thatsapong (or Phra Phong Narinn), became the royal concubine of His Royal Highness Krom Muen Phumintharaphakdi, the fifteenth son of King Rama III. He served in the Department of the Ten Artisan Guilds. Khun Ying Plap bore three sons: Mom Chao Sai Saraphi Ladawan, Mom Chao Ladawan, and Mom Chao Phueak Ladawan. In old age, Krom Muen Phumintharaphakdi suffered from cataracts and vision loss. At the same time, Chaophraya Thipakornwong Maha Kosathibodi (Kham Bunnag) was similarly afflicted. King Rama IV graciously ordered Western doctors to perform eye surgery on both noblemen, successfully restoring their sight. A portrait of Krom Muen Phumintharaphakdi was later presented to the Western doctor as a token of gratitude. Krom Muen Phumintharaphakdi died in the Year of the Dog (2417 BE) during the reign of King Rama V.

2.4 Khun Ying Thap, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Sila, the eighth son of King Taksin the Great, became a royal concubine of His Royal Highness Krom Phra Ram Isaret, the twenty-second son of King Rama I (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok). Krom Phra Ram Isaret served in royal judicial and advisory roles and was the progenitor of the Suriyakul family line of Ayutthaya.

3. Service Close to the Royal Court

Besides serving within the inner court as royal consorts or ladies-in-waiting to His Majesty King Rama III and King Rama IV, or as concubines to the front-ranking princes of the Chakri dynasty, many noble ladies of the royal lineage descending from King Taksin the Great also served closely at the royal court. Among them were Khun Ying Chan and Khun Ying Khao, daughters of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thatsapong.

3.1 Khun Ying Chan was the wet nurse of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn, commonly referred to as “Phra Nom Chan,” and was deeply revered and cherished by His Majesty.

3.2 Khun Ying Khao was the wet nurse of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Chakraphat Phong, the younger brother in utero of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn.
— (Lek Phongsamkitthai, “The Relationship Between the Royal Families of King Taksin and the Chakri Dynasty,” Silpakorn Wattanatham, Vol. 23, No. 6, April 2002, pp. 67-69)

A. Summary of the Royal Lineages Descending from King Taksin the Great:

  • Sinsuk (Lineage of Phra Maha Uparat)

  • Intrayothin (Lineage of Phra Maha Uparat)

  • Pongsin (Lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Thatsapong)

  • Silanon (Lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Sila)

  • Rungphairoj (Lineage of Somdet Chao Fa Narentraratchakuman)

  • Komarakul Na Nakhon (Lineage of Chao Phraya Nakhon Noi)

  • Jaturongkul (Lineage of Chao Phraya Nakhon Noi)

  • Na Nakhon (Lineage of Chao Phraya Nakhon Noi)

  • Na Ratchasima (Lineage of Chao Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In)) and its branches, details relating to Chao Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima follow.

B. Families Connected through the Female Lineage

These divide into two groups:

  • Those connected to the Chakri dynasty and who established new royal family names, totaling seventeen lineages, including:

  1. The Isarasena family                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Descended from Princess Samliwan, daughter of King Taksin the Great, who was mother to Phra Ong Chao Phong Isaret, Krom Muen Kasatsri Srisakdidej, son of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Mahasenanurak of the Front Palace during the reign of King Rama II (Phra Bat Somdet Phra Buddha Loetla Nabhalai).

                                     

2. The Isarangkun Family
Descended from Somdet Chao Fa Ying Panjapapi, daughter of King Taksin the Great, who was consort to Chao Fa Krom Khun Isranurak, son of Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Srisudarak, elder sister to King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great (Rama I).

3. The Palakawong Family
Descended from Princess Maduea, daughter of Somdet Phra Maha Uparat Krom Phra Intarapitak, and Phra Ong Chao Pan, Krom Muen Narateves, son of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Phimuk (Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Anurak Theves).

4. The Saneewong Family
Descended from Princess Sali (sister of Princess Maduea) and Phra Ong Chao Daeng, Krom Luang Saneeboribark, son of Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Phimuk (Somdet Chao Fa Krom Phra Anurak Theves).

5. The Kunchorn Family
Descended from Mom Chao Ying Saeng, daughter of Phra Ong Chao Ampawan, and Phra Ong Chao Kunchorn, Krom Phra Phitak Theves, son of King Buddha Loetla Nabhalai (Rama II).

6. The Chumsai Family
Descended from Mom Chao Ying Phueng (sister of Mom Chao Ying Saeng) and Phra Ong Chao Chumsai, Krom Khun Ratchasiwakorn, son of King Nangklao (Rama III).

7. The Ladawan Family
Descended from Mom Chao Ying Plap, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thatsapong, and Phra Ong Chao Ladawan, Krom Muen Phuminthraphakdi, son of King Nangklao (Rama III).

8. The Suriyakul Family
Descended from Mom Chao Ying Thap, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Sila, and Phra Ong Chao Suriya, Krom Phra Ram Isaret, son of King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great (Rama I).

9. The Nopphawong Family
Descended from Mom Chao Ying Noi, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thapphai, the first consort of King Mongkut (Rama IV), commonly called “Chao Chom Manda Noi.” Her firstborn son was Phra Ong Chao Nopphawong, Krom Muen Mahesawan Siwilas, the progenitor of the Nopphawong family.

10. The Supradit Family
Also descended from “Chao Chom Manda Noi,” through her son Phra Ong Chao Supradit, Krom Muen Wisnunat Niphat.

11. The Srithawat Family
Descended from “Chao Chom Manda Bua,” the 13th daughter of Chao Phraya Nakhon (Noi), a consort of King Mongkut (Rama IV). One of her sons was Phra Ong Chao Srisitthongchai, Krom Khun Sirithatchasangkas, who was the 13th son of Somdet Phra Borommaratchachonnani (King Mongkut’s father).

12. The Wattanawong Family
Also descended from “Chao Chom Manda Bua,” through her son Phra Ong Chao Wattananuwong, Krom Khun Muraphongsiriphath.

13. The Thongyai Family
Descended from Chao Chom Manda Sangwan in the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV), who was daughter of Nai Salaywichai (Thongkham Na Ratchasima), son of Chao Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In). She was mother to Phra Ong Chao Thongkongkon Yai, Krom Luang Prachak Silpakorn, the progenitor of this family.

14. The Thongtham Family
Also descended from Chao Chom Manda Sangwan, through Phra Ong Chao Thongtham Thavalyawong, Krom Luang Sanphasat Supakit.

15. The Phanumart Family
Descended from Chao Chom Manda Iam of King Pinklao’s court, who was the daughter of Mom Chao Kasem (Luang Mahavisut Kosa), son of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Narentharatchakuman. She was the mother of Phra Ong Chao Phanumart, the progenitor of this family.

16. The Kanchanawichai Family
Descended from Chao Chom Manda Prik Lek in Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Wichayacharn of the Front Palace during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). She was the daughter of Khun Ying Wek, daughter of Somdet Chao Fa Chai Thatsapong, and mother of Phra Ong Chao Kanchanophasrasami, Krom Muen Chanchai Bowornyot, the founder of this family.

17. The Jarunroj Family
Descended from Chao Chom Manda Choi of King Pinklao’s court, daughter of Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Mek Na Ratchasima), son of Chao Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima (Thong In). She was the mother of Phra Ong Chao Jarunroj Ruangsri, Krom Muen Jarasporn Patiphan, progenitor of this family.

                    – The clans closely related to other families comprise 21 lineages, namely:

  1. The noble lineage of Thephasadin na Ayutthaya
  2. The noble lineage of Kamalas
  3. The Ratnagos family
  4. The Saeng-Chuto family
  5. The Ratnapanu family
  6. The Thammasaroch family
  7. The Viphatasilapin family
  8. The Sriphen family
  9. The Sriyaphai family
  10. The Bunnag family
  11. The Buranon family
  12. The Suwong family
  13. The Laksanasut family
  14. The Sukkasikorn family
  15. The Buranasiri family
  16. The Daengsawang family
  17. The Saengtai family
  18. The Mittrakul family
  19. The Juladilok family
  20. The Saiyasilpi family

  21. The Jaturongkul family

                                        

c. Lineages of the royal family whose exact degree of relation is unknown comprise six individuals:

  1. The Mom Chao (Her Serene Highness) in Somdet Chaofa Krom Khun Inthraphithak, who passed away in the year 2320 BE (1777 CE).

  2. Mom Chao Saeng, who passed away in the year 2321 BE (1778 CE).

  3. Mom Chao Pathumpaichit, whose name appears in historical chronicles; he was appointed as the ruler of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

  4. Mom Chao Narathibeth, mentioned in the Royal Chronicles (Chusiri Jamraman, 1984: pages 72–81).

  5. Phra Ong Chao Anurut Thewa.

  6. Phra Ong Chao Chetthakuman (Tuan Boonyaniyom, 1970: page 208).