Jim Thompson House
Who Was Jim?
Jim Thompson, an American who was born in Delaware, in 1906, practiced architecture prior to World War II. He volunteered for service in the U.S. Army, campaigned in Europe, and came to Asia as part of the force that planned to liberate Thailand. But, the war ended before the military campaign was set in motion. He arrived in Bangkok a short time later as a military intelligence officer attached to the O.S.S. After leaving the service, he decided to return and spend the remainder of his life in Thailand. He was so enthralled by Thailand and the people who live here that he established a residence which later became known as the Jim Thompson House.
Learn More about History in Thailand
Silk weaving, a long neglected cottage industry, captured Jim Thompson's attention, and he decided to revive the craft. His gifts as a designer and textile colorist, contributed substantially to the industry's growth and to the worldwide recognition of Thai silk. He gained further recognition due to the construction of his Jim Thompson house combining six teak buildings which represented the best of traditional Thai architecture. Most of the houses were at least two centuries old and were easily dismantled and brought to the present site, some from as far away as the old capital of Ayudhya.
On March 27th 1967, Jim Thompson disappeared while on a visit to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia. Since then, not a single clue has turned up as to what might have happened to him. His famous Thai house, however, remains as a lasting reminder of his creative ability and his love of Thailand.
Admission Details
The Jim Thompson House is open everyday from 9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m..
You are only able to see the inside of the houses when accompanied by a tour guide. The 100 baht admission fee includes the cost of the compulsory guide. The last tour begins at 4:30 p.m.
The house and museum are located on Rama I road, across from the National Stadium.
Learn More about History in Thailand
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