Rama I's Chakri dynasty met its first great test in the massive Burmese invasion of 1785. King Bodawpaya of Burma (1781-1819) sent more than 100;000 troops in five armies against Siam. The Burmese forces that invaded southern Thailand enjoyed initial success but were halted at Thalang; in central Phuket; by the bravery of the local defenders.

Two sisters - Chan; or 'Date Plum'; and Muk; or 'Pearl'; the widow and sister-in-law of the late governor; organised the resistance by ordering the local women to cut their hair short and dress as men. When the Burmese commander saw the defences; he was fooled into thinking Thalang had many more soldiers than was actually the case!

The court in Bangkok; on learning of the two sister's brave action; distinguished them with royal titles. Miss Chan was named Thepkasatri; or 'Angelic Queen'; and Miss Muk became Si Sunthorn; or 'Goddess of Beauty'. Today they are still seen as local folk heroes and spiritual guardians of the island. They stand together on the Heroine's Monument at Thepkasatri Road; brandishing long swords towards any future invaders of the island.