Location changes and Inheritance of Chinese culture in Chinese shrines: Case Studies of Chinese shrines in Mueang Surat Thani District การเปลี่ยนแปลงของตำแหน่งที่ตั้งและการสืบทอดวัฒนธรรมประเพณีจีนที่ปรากฏในศาลเจ้าจีน : กรณีศึกษาศาลเจ้าจีนในอำเภอเมืองสุราษฎร์ธานี

Abstract

This research aimed to study the history and location changes of Chinese shrines, including their locations, the preservation of Chinese cultural traditions, and their social welfare roles in Surat Thani's urban society. The findings reveal that Chinese shrines in Surat Thani district have evolved over time, with changes in their number, location, and architectural features through various renovations. The history and location changes can be divided into two periods: before and after B.E. 2500 (1957 CE). The construction periods align with three phases of the Rattanakosin era: early, middle, and present. Currently, there are 13 Chinese shrines in Surat Thani district: 10 are open for worship and visitation, while three are neglected and no longer provide charitable services. Of these 13 shrines, three remain at their original locations and were registered under the Local Administration Act B.E. 2475 (1932 CE). Three others were relocated due to government land expropriation, land purchases, or donations, while seven new shrines were established between B.E. 2543-2557 (2000-2014 CE). The current locations are clustered in the old town community area, providing convenient access for worship, religious ceremonies, and Chinese cultural activities. These Chinese shrines serve not only as spiritual anchors for Thai-Chinese people but also stand as symbols of Chinese architectural art, centers for preserving Chinese cultural traditions, and hubs for community support services.