The ancient steam locomotive, the heritage of Tha Chalom iron rails

#GetDiscountNotDependingOnLuck **Review of Ancient Steam Locomotive, Tha Chalom Station: Experience the Heritage of Iron Rails of Time** If you are a person who is fascinated by the history and classics of Thai trains, visiting the "Ancient Steam Locomotive" at Tha Chalom Station, Samut Sakhon Province will be an experience that will take you back to the golden age of the railway, where high-speed technology had not yet replaced the smell of smoke and the whistling sound of steam engines. This small station is not only a destination for tourists, but also a proud monument of the community that firmly preserves the engineering and cultural heritage. ### **Tha Chalom Station: The Gateway to the Old World of Steam Trains** Tha Chalom Station is located in Samut Sakhon City, near the famous Mae Klong Railway Market (Umbrella Market). Although it is a small station and trains do not pass through very often, what attracts people is **“Steam Locomotive No. 824”**, a classic black shiny locomotive parked elegantly outdoors. This locomotive was built by Japan in 1929 (during the reign of King Rama VII) and used to serve on the Southern Railway line. Before being decommissioned in the era when diesel technology replaced it, it has now been restored and displayed as a memorial for future generations to study. ### **Steam locomotive: an engineering marvel of the past century** This locomotive is characterized by its large wheels, tall smokestacks, and dense metal structure that demonstrates its strength. On the vehicle, there is also a historical information sign telling about its origins and past uses. Villagers say that steam locomotives used to be an important driving force in transporting goods and passengers between provinces, creating prosperity for communities along the railway. Even though more than 90 years have passed, some mechanisms are still intact, such as the bogie wheels and engine room, reflecting the expertise of Thai and Japanese craftsmen in the past. ### **Atmosphere around the station in the old community** Standing and watching a steam locomotive amidst the environment of Tha Chalom Station is like traveling through time. This station still preserves its original architecture very well. Cream-colored wooden buildings with zinc roofs, a simple black station name sign, and old railroad tracks that stretch along the community. In the late afternoon, soft sunlight hits the locomotive, creating long shadows on the cement floor, similar to scenes from old movies. Sometimes, there is the sound of motorcycles passing by. Or the greetings of the locals walking around make you feel that "time" here is slowing down. ### **Recommended photo spots and activities** - **Vintage photography:** The black locomotive against the blue sky or green leaves on the side of the road is a perfect photo spot, especially during the Golden Hour (evening before sunset) when the light is soft. - **Learn history:** Read the information signs near the locomotive to understand the role of steam trains in the development of the country. ### **Route and advice** - **Getting there:** Tha Chalom Station is about 40 kilometers from Bangkok. You can drive along Phra Ram 2 Road or take a train from Wongwian Yai Station to Mae Klong Station and then take a motorcycle taxi. - **Recommended time:** You should come in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun. - **Things not to miss:** See traces of the actual use of the locomotive, such as the chimney and engine control room. ### **Summary: A living heritage** The old steam locomotive at Tha Chalom Station is not just a decoration of the city, but a symbol of the past prosperity of Thai railways. This place is suitable for history lovers. And travelers who want to see the "real" from the past, which is hard to find in this era where everything is replaced by technology. A visit will make you appreciate the value of conservation and understand that...sometimes the past teaches the present to preserve the future. **(More information)** - **No admission fee** Open for free every day - **Please check the weather** before going. If it's raining heavily, it may not be convenient to see the outside of the building. - **Stop and try fresh seafood** at Samut Sakhon Market, which is not far away!