Boerderij Strunk, nestled in the charming town of Raalte in the Netherlands, is a captivating piece of history that offers a glimpse into the rural life of the past. This farm, established in 1796, stands as a testament to traditional Dutch architecture and cultural heritage. With its thatched roofs and rustic charm, Boerderij Strunk is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and the idyllic countryside of the Netherlands.
The story of Boerderij Strunk begins in the late 18th century when Evert van den Berg and Hermina Hulst founded the farm. A stone with their initials is still embedded in the rear wall, silently narrating the tale of its origins. Evert, a baker by profession, maintained a baking oven on the premises for many years. The farm was later inhabited by Egbert Jan Strunk and Antonia Oosterkamp, the last residents of the farm. Their marriage remained childless, and after Antonia's death in 1963, Egbert sold the farm to the municipality of Raalte for village expansion. Egbert continued to live on the farm until his death in 1968.
In 1984, the Raalter cultural historical society took the initiative to renovate the farm. The municipality entrusted the management to the Foundation for the Preservation of Boerderij Strunk, which ran the farm until October 2019. During this period, the farm was transformed into a cultural hub, housing an extensive collection of Salland costumes and everyday objects, and hosting annual events such as the Sallandse Slachtdag, a traditional home slaughter day.
The main building of Boerderij Strunk is a classic Old Saxon farmhouse, featuring a thatched wolf roof. The front facade is adorned with windows with rod divisions and shutters, and above the front door, a transom light with a tree of life adds a touch of elegance. The interior of the farmhouse is divided into a kitchen, a best room, and a hall, with a cellar and a small upper room above it. The best room still contains two box beds, offering a peek into the sleeping arrangements of the past.
The rear part of the farmhouse, known as the deel, features traditional pot stables on either side and a central threshing floor. A modern kitchenette has been installed in the former milk room, and the attic, which once served as an exhibition space, now houses storage and a central heating system. The kokhuus, a small building next to the farmhouse, was traditionally used for summer cooking to keep the main kitchen cool. Today, it houses the restrooms.
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Boerderij Strunk has long been a center for cultural activities. Until 2019, the front house was set up as an antiquities room, showcasing artifacts from the region's past. The deel provided a rehearsal space for local dance groups, including the Sallandse Folklore dance group and later the Ralda dance group, De Heeren van Salland, and Kwiek Dance. The barn and deel also hosted various events, such as coffee concerts and the annual Sallandse Slachtdag, drawing visitors from near and far to experience traditional Dutch culture and hospitality.
Since 2019, Boerderij Strunk has been vacant, awaiting renovation and a new purpose. In 2023, the municipality of Raalte put the property up for sale, opening the door to new possibilities for this historic site. While its future remains uncertain, Boerderij Strunk's rich history and cultural significance ensure that it will continue to be a cherished landmark in Raalte.
Boerderij Strunk's architectural features are a delightful blend of functionality and traditional aesthetics. The thatched roofs, typical of Old Saxon farmhouses, provide excellent insulation and a picturesque appearance. The front facade's windows with rod divisions and shutters, along with the transom light above the door, add a touch of elegance to the rustic structure. Inside, the layout of the farmhouse reflects the practical needs of rural life, with dedicated spaces for cooking, sleeping, and working.
The kokhuus and the barn are integral parts of the farm's architecture. The kokhuus served as a summer kitchen, allowing the main kitchen to remain cool during the hot months. The barn, rebuilt in its original style after a fire, now serves as a versatile space for storage and activities. Together, these structures paint a vivid picture of life on a traditional Dutch farm.
A visit to Boerderij Strunk is a journey back in time, offering a unique opportunity to experience the charm and simplicity of rural life in the Netherlands. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture aficionado, or simply someone looking to explore the Dutch countryside, Boerderij Strunk promises an enriching and memorable experience. As you stroll through the farm's grounds, you'll be transported to a bygone era, where the rhythms of rural life were dictated by the seasons and the land.
In conclusion, Boerderij Strunk is more than just a historic farm; it is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Salland region. Its walls echo the stories of the past, and its grounds provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. As Boerderij Strunk looks towards a new chapter, it remains a symbol of the enduring legacy of Dutch rural life and culture.
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