He was descended from the famous general Maha Thiha Thura, and his grandfather, Bo Shwe Kon (ဘိုးရွှေကွန်), was the grandson of Singu Min, who was the son of King Hsinbyushin.

It was very close to Insein Khawe Farm (now nearby Thamine Myo Thit Railway Station, Mayangon Township).

In the 1949 Battle of Insein during the Karen Conflict, his factory was destroyed by Burmese naval Bofors, artillery shells, and bombs.

In 1922, he won a seat on the Legislative Council of Burma representing northern Tharrawaddy District, Bago Division.

In 1940, the British government recognised U Thaw with the Taingkyo Pyikyo Saung [my] (T.P.S) award, which is given to persons who have promoted the welfare of their country.