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Phraya Sri Sunthon Voharn Monument (Noi Acharayangkun) is one of the most meaningful cultural and historical landmarks in Chachoengsao Province. Located on Sri Sothon New Road, directly opposite Bang Pakong Park Seminar Center within Rajabhat Rajanagarindra University, the monument reflects the pride of local residents in honoring a distinguished Thai language scholar who laid the foundation for early modern Thai education.

 

For those interested in the history of Thai education, the name “Phraya Sri Sunthon Voharn (Noi Acharayangkun)” represents a key intellectual figure whose influence spanned from the reign of King Rama III through King Rama V. He was renowned for his mastery of the Thai language, textbook compilation, and the composition of didactic poetry. His work established structured methods of teaching Thai literacy during a formative period in national educational reform. The monument therefore symbolizes not only a commemorative statue, but also the intellectual heritage of Thailand.

 

The statue is cast in metal and stands 2.65 meters tall on a stable pedestal within an open and accessible public area. It was officially inaugurated on 8 June 1999. The creation of the monument was a collaborative effort among government agencies, community organizations, and educational institutions in Chachoengsao, all aiming to honor a native son whose contributions extended to the national level.

 

Phraya Sri Sunthon Voharn was born in Chachoengsao. Growing up along the Bang Pakong River, which historically served as a vital commercial and communication route in eastern Thailand, he was shaped by a culturally diverse and intellectually active environment. He later entered royal service, beginning during the reign of King Rama III and continuing through the reigns of King Rama IV and King Rama V.

 

Among his most significant achievements were the composition of moral verse and the compilation of foundational Thai textbooks, including Mulabot Banphakit, Wanitnikon, Aksorn Prayok, Sangkhayok Phithan, Waiphot Phichan, and Phisan Karan. These works systematized Thai language education, covering reading, writing, vocabulary, syntax, and semantics. They were regarded as the most comprehensive Thai language textbooks of their time and played a central role in shaping literacy in modern Siam.

 

The monument’s location on Sri Sothon New Road, one of the main routes in Chachoengsao, allows convenient connections to other major attractions such as Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, Baan Mai 100-Year Market, and the Bang Pakong River. Visitors can easily organize a one-day cultural walking itinerary within the city.

 

Symbolically, the statue is often regarded as representing the “National Teacher of Thai Language.” The dignified posture of the figure reflects the composure and scholarship characteristic of intellectuals in the early Rattanakosin period. The pedestal design is intentionally simple, emphasizing the importance of the individual rather than elaborate decoration, consistent with the scholarly character of Phraya Sri Sunthon Voharn.

 

Visitors typically include students, educators, and travelers interested in Thai educational history. Many local schools bring students here as part of off-campus learning programs to better understand the origins of structured Thai language instruction and the role of influential scholars in shaping national identity.

 

A visit to this monument goes beyond photography. It represents standing before a symbol of Thailand’s educational reform era, particularly during the reign of King Rama V, when modern administrative and educational systems were established. Standardized textbooks were critical to raising literacy and strengthening communication skills across the kingdom.

 

Getting There From Bangkok, travel via Bangna–Trad Road or Motorway No. 7 toward Chachoengsao. Upon entering the city, follow Sri Sothon New Road. The monument is located opposite Bang Pakong Park Seminar Center within Rajabhat Rajanagarindra University. By train, disembark at Chachoengsao Junction Station and continue by local transport to the site.

 

The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are moderate and natural light enhances the statue’s details. Photographers may use the open sky or university buildings as balanced background elements.

 

This monument reflects the pride of Chachoengsao residents in being the birthplace of a nationally recognized scholar. The city is therefore not only known for Wat Sothon, but also for producing intellectual leaders who shaped Thailand’s linguistic and educational foundations.

 

In cultural terms, commemorative monuments such as this serve as anchors of collective memory, reminding future generations of the value of scholarship and education. The site functions both as a public space and as a meaningful historical landmark.

 

Overall, the Phraya Sri Sunthon Voharn Monument stands as a cultural attraction that reflects the roots of Thai education and the broader reform period of the nation. It is ideal for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Chachoengsao beyond conventional tourism.

 

 

A: It is located on Sri Sothon New Road, opposite Bang Pakong Park Seminar Center within Rajabhat Rajanagarindra University in Chachoengsao.

 

A: He was a distinguished Thai language scholar who compiled foundational textbooks during the reigns of King Rama III to King Rama V.

 

A: No. The monument is open to the public free of charge.

 

A: The metal statue stands 2.65 meters tall.

 

A: The official inauguration ceremony took place on 8 June 1999.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, Baan Mai 100-Year Market, Bang Pakong River Park, and other central Chachoengsao landmarks.