The Thai Textile Society (TTS) was founded in 2004 with a clear mission: to promote, preserve, and celebrate textiles, particularly those from Thailand and Southeast Asia. What started with 15 passionate individuals at the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok quickly grew into a vibrant community, dedicated to sharing knowledge and fostering appreciation for textile arts.

Early Years (2004-2006)

The TTS's journey began with an inaugural meeting on February 23, 2004, at the Jim Thompson House. Key individuals, including Molly Kellogg, Poomchai Chumbala, and Kathleen F. Johnson, approved the charter, officially naming the organization the "Thai Textile Society." To simplify its operations, the group chose to register as an association under Thai law. Poomchai Chumbala started designing a logo inspired by a loom shuttle, and a nine-role Steering Committee was established. Early events included a launch party with a "Sarong through the Ages" theme and lectures by textile experts like Diana Myers and Gillian Green.

In 2005, the society focused on solidifying its structure and expanding its programs. The Steering Committee formalized roles, with Molly Kellogg as Vice President and Ruth Gerson as Tour Director. The calendar was filled with activities, including exhibitions on Cambodian textiles, lectures on Malaysian textiles, and a symposium called "Supernatural Unraveling the Secrets of Southeast Asia Textiles." Tours were planned for Uthaithani, Chiang Mai, and Vientiane.

The year 2006 marked a period of official recognition, with the society's registration finalized by July. The board discussed the need for more Thai board members to increase local representation. Programs continued to be varied, with lectures on textile care and Tai people, as well as "Collector's Corners" featuring topics like Cambodian textiles. The society also began offering textile weaving lessons and secured a new office space behind the Jim Thompson House car park, which was set to include a meeting room and library.

Administrative Challenges and Growth (2007-2009)

In 2007, the TTS faced persistent administrative and financial hurdles. The resignation of Treasurer Herbert Haar and the ongoing difficulty in securing a dedicated bank account posed significant challenges. The society hired Khun Chotinan Chatrapat as a part-time secretary and moved its books to the Jim Thompson Foundation Library. The TTS continued its pro bono PR services with TQPR Thailand and collaborated with organizations like The Siam Society. Despite the challenges, the society maintained a consistent schedule of lectures and "Collector's Corner" events and began considering educational outreach to secondary schools.

The year 2008 was focused on solidifying the TTS's legal and financial footing. The main challenge remained the finalization of the Executive Board registration and the opening of a bank account. Efforts were made to bring new board members onboard to resolve these issues. The society maintained an active calendar with lectures by Gillian Green and Susan Conway, and "Collector's Corners" on topics like Saris and Indonesian textiles.

A major turning point came in 2009 with the successful opening of a bank account in November 2008, which simplified financial operations and membership fee collection. The Executive Committee members were successfully re-elected with synchronized terms, and new Steering Committee members were welcomed. The TTS offered a robust program of lectures, including a presentation by Victoria Vorreiter on the "Songs of Memory" exhibit, and organized trips to places like Lopburi's Tai Yuan Village.

Adapting and Thriving (2010-2015)

In 2010, the TTS partnered with CDM Travel Company to handle the logistics for its tours and day trips, freeing up volunteers to focus on promoting textiles. The society also adjusted its international membership fees and implemented "revolving" memberships to ensure members received a full year of benefits. The year's activities included a popular "Collector's Corner" on "Eclectic and Rare Antique Textiles" and a successful study trip to Cambodia.

The year 2011 saw the society adapt to leadership changes and a major flood. A new Treasurer, Khun Radaporn Meevasana, implemented a new financial reporting form, and the society secured free legal services for its annual reports from Tilleke & Gibbins. The TTS's Facebook page showed increasing engagement, and a new initiative was proposed to establish a grant for Thai students studying textiles.

The year 2012 marked a true turning point for preservation. After some committee members resigned, a decision was made not to dissolve the society but to revitalize it. The TTS made a donation to a weaving school in Chiang Mai to support textile education. A new newsletter was launched, and the society's Facebook page saw a 125% increase in hits from June to August. Programs included a lecture by Julia Brennan on "Preservation of Thai Textiles" and plans for a trip to Sakon Nakhon.

In 2013, the TTS continued its mission, adapting to new leadership and expanding its programs. The society saw consistent membership growth, reaching 120 members by October, and began offering a Professional Courtesy Membership to staff of the Queen Sirikit Silk Museum. The TTS deepened its charitable efforts, providing support to the weaving school in Chiang Mai and to weavers in Mae Hong Son affected by a fire.

The year 2014 was marked by strong financial health and a growing community. The TTS made donations to Mae Hong Son weavers and a weaving project in Chiang Mai to support artisans and preserve traditions. The society's newsletter and Facebook page kept members informed and engaged. Events included lectures by renowned speakers like Ralph Isaacs and Dr. Dale Gluckman, as well as a successful excursion to Nan to explore local weaving.

Modernization and Resilience (2015-2019)

In 2015, the TTS focused on a robust program while navigating administrative challenges. The society implemented a small fee for lectures and Collector's Corners to help cover costs. Significant progress was made on the official registration of the board, a vital step for the society's long-term standing. The TTS also began discussing ways to support textile-related organizations, such as buying magnifying eyeglasses for elderly weavers.

The year 2016 was a period of active engagement and progress. The society made a donation to the Siam Society and continued discussions about donations to local museums and weaving communities. The TTS hosted impactful lectures, including one on "Confluence of Cultures Through Textiles" that had over 80 attendees, and held a successful Indigo workshop. The long-standing administrative hurdle of the TTS Board Registration neared completion.

In 2017, the TTS navigated significant transitions, particularly in its financial leadership, while continuing to offer a rich array of programs. The society hosted joint lectures with the Siam Society and held workshops and excursions to places like Saraburi and Surin. Significant progress was made on the TTS Board Registration, ensuring the society's formal legal standing.

The year 2018 was a time of smooth transitions and a packed calendar of events. Programs included talks on Indian saris, Hmong textiles, and a visit to the newly renovated textile room at the National Museum. A smooth transition saw Wipawee Tiyawes take over as Treasurer.

In 2019, the TTS continued to thrive despite changes in leadership. The society made important contributions to textile conservation, such as the purchase of the moisture-detecting instrument for the National Museum. Members enjoyed presentations on diverse topics like Indian saris, Hmong clothing, and the work of a US tapestry artist. The TTS also supported textile scholarship by purchasing Victoria Vorreiter's book on hill tribe research.

Digital Transformation and a New Era (2020-2024)

The year 2020 presented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the TTS showed remarkable resilience. The society adapted its programs, holding online and smaller-group events on topics such as antique Chinese textiles and Lahu and Hmong hill tribe textiles. They also managed to organize successful trips to Chiang Rai and Lampang. The pandemic highlighted the need for a robust online presence, prompting discussions about redesigning the website and exploring new email platforms.

In 2021, the TTS embraced digital transformation and welcomed new committee members, including Ake Rittinaphakorn and Dimpy Kongsiri. All memberships were extended by one year due to the pandemic, and the society introduced a new, more accessible couples membership. The physical PO Box was retired, signaling a shift towards electronic transactions. The TTS also began a significant digital transformation, with discussions about a new website on platforms like WordPress and a user-friendly newsletter program.

The year 2022 focused on reconnecting the community and modernizing operations. The TTS saw crucial committee changes, with Claudine Kohler leading electronic communications and Anna Fulgham taking the lead on the society's new digital magazine. The newsletter was rebranded as "Pah Thai Magazine," and the first printed copy was produced. The TTS also actively sought help to redesign its website.

In 2023, the TTS took significant strides in modernizing its governance and digital infrastructure. They expanded the Board of Directors and adjusted membership categories to better suit members' needs. A brand-new, user-friendly website was launched, replacing the outdated site and offering a modern platform for communication. The e-magazine continued to evolve, with plans for a special 20th-anniversary issue in 2024.

The year 2024 marked the society's 20th anniversary. Despite a major setback with a website hack that resulted in the loss of all material, the TTS demonstrated remarkable resilience by swiftly initiating efforts to develop a new website. The society continued to offer a vibrant schedule of programs, including a free visit to Jakkai Siributr's exhibition and a day excursion to Hua Hin. The year ended with the inaugural Collectors’ bazaar to show gratitude to all who had supported the Thai Textile Society, celebrating 20 years together.