Loei History

In 1853, King Rama IV realized that the number of people living in this part of Thailand had increased. He decided there were enough people in the area to establish a town, so he sent Phraya Tainam to survey the counties around the region. Phraya Tainam recognized that Ban Hae, which is situated on the banks of Nam Man canal, near the Loei river, was the best place for a town. He also realized that the existence of the surrounding mountains could provide a safe situation for a settlement. Phraya Tainam recommended that the King officially recognize this area as Muang Loei.

An Act was passed in 1897 to improve administrative structures in Thailand. The whole country was divided into Provinces, District (Amphoe), Counties (Tambon) and Bans (Villages).

Muang Loei was established in Amphoe Kudphong. On January 4th 1907. the Minister if the Interior proclaimed Muang Loei to be Loei Province (Changwat Loei). Also, in 1907, the name of the area was changed from Nam Loei Waterway to Nam Hueng Waterway.