Phraya Chaiboon Monument

The Phraya Chaiboon Monument in Phrae marks the spot where Phrae’s governor was killed on 27 July 1902 for refusing to surrender the city to Shan (Ngiao) rebels. Free to visit, daily 08:00-16:30, about 4 km from town on Highway 101.

Hook

Phraya Chaiboon — born Thong Yu Suwannabat in Uttaradit’s Phichai district — became governor of Phrae in 1897 and was elevated to the rank of Phraya in 1900. On 24 July 1902, Shan fighters led by Phaka Mong and Sala Po Chai stormed Phrae, overwhelming the 12-man police post at Pratu Chai. Phraya Chaiboon went into hiding rather than sign the city over to the rebels. Three days later, starving, he came out to ask villagers at Ban Rong Kot for food; someone reported him for the reward, rebel forces captured him, and he was killed on the spot when he again refused to cede Phrae. Each year on 25 July, Phrae province holds a wreath-laying ceremony to mark his death.

Experience

The monument stands on the site of his killing, a simple memorial rather than an elaborate structure — a statue and inscribed plaques giving the history above, set within a small landscaped area. It functions more as a place of civic memory than a tourist sight: locals visit for the annual commemoration and to pay respects, rather than as a stop on a typical sightseeing loop.

Insider Tip: If you’re in Phrae around 25 July, the province’s annual wreath-laying ceremony here gives a more complete picture of the story than the plaques alone.

Atmosphere & timing

Expect a quiet 15-20 minute stop — there isn’t much to linger over beyond the monument and its inscriptions. Early morning or late afternoon avoid the worst of the heat, since shade is limited around the site.

Watch out: This is a place of local historical significance where Thais come to pay respects — dress and behave respectfully rather than treating it as a casual photo stop.

Practical

Pair it with other Phrae heritage sites such as Khum Chao Luang Mueang Phrae or The Prae City Pillar for a fuller picture of the province’s history around this period.