Lanna in 1897 : Reflections from Pierre's Orts' Diary

Abstract

The article aims to study Belgian Pierre Orts' diary written while on a mission in Chiang Mai assigned by the Siamese government from August 3, 1897 to January 5, 1898. The diary on Lanna vividly reflects various matters, such as the Western interferences with Lanna's domestic affairs, though Lanna was then a part of Siam. Apart from providing an interesting picture of the administration and economy, it conveys the writer's opinions on the high commissioner of Monthon Laos Chiang, the local government system, tax and duty collections and the governor's income. The diary, therefore, is regarded as a useful source for the study of Lanna history at that time. It could be implemented to broaden the historical perspectives and outlooks on the old Lanna as well as recreating the past.