H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the U.S., Attends 35th Annual Reunion of the Descendants of the Siamese Twins in Mount Airy, North Carolina

H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the U.S., Attends 35th Annual Reunion of the Descendants of the Siamese Twins in Mount Airy, North Carolina

วันที่นำเข้าข้อมูล 18 Aug 2025

วันที่ปรับปรุงข้อมูล 18 Aug 2025

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On 19 July 2025, H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the U.S., along with the Embassy team, paid respects at the final resting place of the famed Siamese twins, Eng and Chang Bunker, at White Plains Baptist Church Cemetery. Following this, the Ambassador attended the 35th Annual Reunion of the Descendants of the Siamese Twins, organized by Ms. Misty Smith, great-great-granddaughter of Eng.

In his remarks, Ambassador Suriya reflected on the historical significance of the twins, whose arrival and fame in America predated the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between Thailand (then Siam) and the United States in 1833. He emphasized the enduring relevance of the reunion in strengthening Thai–U.S. relations and expressed his hope for the continued growth of cultural and familial ties between the two nations. The reunion welcomed approximately 200 descendants. Among the attendees were Mr. Surapon Suijavanich, President of the Thai-American Association of North Carolina, and his family.

As part of the visit, Ambassador Suriya toured the original residence of Chang Bunker, known as the Chang & Adelaide Home Place. The tour was graciously led by Ms. Alex Sink, Chang’s great-granddaughter, former Chief Financial Officer of the State of Florida, and Democratic nominee for Governor of Florida.

The 35th Reunion and the establishment of the Siamese Twins Museum served as powerful symbols of the rich cultural heritage and people-to-people connections that continues to unite Thailand and the United States. The Royal Thai Embassy was deeply honored by the warm welcome extended by the descendants of the Siamese Twins and the people of Mount Airy.

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