As the third-generation business owner of a rope wholesaler in Chinatown, Somchai grew up amidst the district’s distinct and colorful history, culture, food, and architecture. However, the anti-Chinese sentiment in the first half of the 20th century, fueled by the growth of Communism, led to a rejection of his own heritage. Being close to his mother, he found himself involved in preparing traditional offerings for ancestor worship—a complex process involving numerous elements. This experience sparked his curiosity, leading him to question the logic behind these traditions. Additionally, he became intrigued by the origins of his own home in an area known as Wat Ko, and old maps indicated that the area was indeed surrounded by canals. Somchai listened to elders recounting their stories, talked to other locals, and researched maps, photos, and documents at the National Archives. Through this, he built up a wealth of knowledge about Chinatown’s community history, which he now shares with others as a local expert and guide. He believes that by recognizing the origins and values of our principles and traditions, we can understand our heritage and move forward into the future.