King Mongkut and Crown Prince Chulalongkorn visited Wa Kor to witness the eclipse. Both fell critically ill and the King finally passed away causing great sorrow to the people.

Despite his youth, King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) began his reign confidently as the nation began to thrive towards modernization.

The King ruled the country with integrity and compromise while allowing members of the royal family to take charge of various administrtive posts.

During the Reign of Rama V, the abolition of slavery became effective. The process was carried out gradually so as to avoid confrontation and violencd.

Children of the "Phoonsombat" and "Sawasdisri" grew up happily at their residencess by the riverside where water was still fresh and clean.

The King anticipated the future of the nation and planned ahead so that the princess had opportunities to study abroad or learn foreign languages. The Sawasdisri family also followed this procedure.

Where they graduated these young men returned to serve the county to fulfil the wishes of the King.

During this period of progress and development the King never took sides and alway listened to all parties.

Frequently travelling incognito the King visited the peopli throughout the country.

Rivers and canals were still the means for transportation and water systems for agriculture and irrigation.

Ocean ship companies from the West were hired to dig large and small canals such as Rangsit Canal.

Diplomatic relations were extended when the King made royol visits to neighbouring countries as well as Europe. Friendship with sovereigns such as Tsar Nicholas II helped the country to colonial threat.