It was surmised that the title "Trat" was a corruption of "Krat" which is the name of a tree plenty in Trat Province and used in broom production.
In the Ayutthaya period during the reign of King Naresuan, the town was called "Baan Bang Pra."
While King Rama V was on the throne, the Thai government made a treaty with France granting the area of current Trat Province to the western country in order that France would withdraw its force from Chantaburi Province.
Later, on March 23, 1906, the King had to grant areas, namely Pratabong, Siem Reap and Sri Sophon to France in exchange with Trat, islands and towns on the right bank of the Mekong River. Thus, Trat residents regard March 23 as the "Independence Day of Trat" and organize "Trat Recalling Day" every year. They also built up King Rama V Monument at the City hall to commemorate the King's attempt to keep Trat with Thailand.
On January 17 1941, during the Indochina War, a French Squadron transgressed Thailand's territorial waters. A Thai Flotilla came to protect the land. Thus, the war which was later known as "Koh Chang Naval Battle" began. The Thai Troops won and managed to drive out the French, however, the Thai side lost three warships, namely Songkhla, Chonburi and Thonburi as well as some naval officers. Therefore, on the date of every year, the Thai Naval Army holds the annual merit-making day to dedicate to those who sacrificed their lives in their effort to protect the country.
"Use the menu below for more travel articles on Koh Chang culture"
