Remember the date April 6 1932. It marked a momentous occasion for Bangkok. It was the day King Prajadhipok Rama VII opened the Memorial Bridge. It was to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Chakri dynasty. This dynasty also marks the founding of Bangkok.
The Memorial Bridge stands as a testament to Bangkok’s rich history. It connects Phra Nakhon and Thonburi. The bridge is more than just a crossing. It’s a landmark with many stories.
Originally, the Memorial Bridge had a different Thai name. It was called Phra Phutthayotfa Bridge. This name honors King Phutthayotfa Chulalok Rama I. He was the first king of the Chakri dynasty. The bridge is often shortened to Saphan Phut. This translates to Bridge of Buddha.
Construction of the Memorial Bridge began in 1929. Dorman Long from England led the construction. Italian technicians from SNOS also helped. The bridge had a double-leaf bascule lifting mechanism. This mechanism is now inactive.
During World War II, Bangkok was bombed. The Memorial Bridge was a target. Bombs damaged tram lines. The Japanese military hospital and secret police headquarters were destroyed. It was eventually rebuilt in 1949.
The Memorial Bridge has appeared in popular Thai films. These include Sunset at Chaophraya and Homestay. It is also a great spot to watch fireworks. Especially during festival periods. Its green hue makes it distinctive. The Memorial Bridge gracefully spans the Chao Phraya River.
The bridge has seen immense changes. It has stood through historic events. The Memorial Bridge was the first road bridge across the Chao Phraya River.
The Siamese government wanted a monumental bridge. It should not interfere with river navigation. The design included ornamental gardens. There was a statue of King Phra Phuttayotfa. The bridge roads and gardens formed an arrow shape. This was the emblem of King Prajadhipok.
Challenges arose during construction. The land was marshy. The river was deep with a strong current. Engineers built reinforced concrete foundation posts. These went 30 meters below the riverbed.
Political tension brewed during the opening. The Great Depression hit Siam. The monarchy’s popularity declined. Some believed the Chakri dynasty would last only 150 years.
The opening of the Memorial Bridge was the last major event for King Rama VII. He was an absolute monarch. Less than three months later he was deposed.
The bridge opened up Thonburi. Before 1932, Thonburi had few modern roads. The government financed new roads. It also built the Wongwian Yai roundabout.
During the war, the Memorial Bridge was a key target. It was near a power station. Bombers were sent to destroy both. The bombs missed. They destroyed a Japanese hospital instead. Eventually, the bridge was hit and damaged.
In 1981, the lifting sections were sealed shut. This was to address traffic congestion. Larger vessels had to move downriver. Today, the Memorial Bridge stands next to the Phra Pok Klao Bridge. It was opened in 1984.