Since the past,
Khlong Phasi Charoen has served as an important waterway for the Nong Khaem area. The
canal was constructed in 1871 during the reign of King
Rama IV. As a result, many key local landmarks such as temples, communities, markets, and the police station were established along its banks. On July 15, 1904, the royal barge passed through Nong Khaem via Khlong Phasi Charoen during low tide. While the forward escort boat carrying King
Rama V's retinue reached Krathum Baen, the King's own barge was unable to proceed. His Majesty stayed near Wat Nong Khaem, which has long been a spiritual anchor for the community. In the past, the area around Nong Khaem and its surroundings consisted mainly of rice fields and plantations. During the flood season, locals used rowing boats to reach the waterfront market at Wat Nong Khaem. As early as 4:00 a.m., boats filled the canal, selling various goods along Khlong Phasi Charoen. The name of the district comes from
nong which means '
wetland' and
khaem which means
'reed' (
Saccharum arundinaceum), a reedy plant, reflecting its environment in the past. It was set up as
Amphoe Nong Khaem in 1902. In 1938 it became a
king amphoe of
Phasi Charoen for about 20 years before it was elevated to district status again. It became a
khet in 1972 after Bangkok administrative reform. In 1998, the eastern part of Nong Khaem (
Lak Song Sub-district) was made part of the newly established district of Khet
Bang Khae. Nong Khaem is known for its abundant plantings of
canna in the centre median strip of
Phet Kasem Road. The flowers stretch along nearly five kilometres of roadway. They were planted in 1977 and have since become a district landmark. The old building of Nong Khaem Police Station more than 100 years old, located on the Khlong Phasi Charoen. Now it has been renovated into a museum and a learning centre for local culture. ==Administration==