Veenkoloniaal Museum

In the heart of Veendam, a charming town in the Netherlands, lies the Veenkoloniaal Museum, a treasure trove of cultural and historical artifacts that tell the story of the Veenkoloniën (Peat Colonies). This museum is not just a building filled with relics; it is a journey through time, showcasing the rich heritage of an area that has played a significant role in Dutch history.

The History of the Veenkoloniaal Museum

The roots of the Veenkoloniaal Museum stretch back to 1939 when it was established by the Vereeniging voor Veenkoloniale Oudheidkunde. However, the foundation of its collection was laid much earlier by Eltjo van Beresteyn, who served as the mayor of Veendam from 1910 to 1916, and his successor F.J. de Zee, who held office from 1921 to 1940. Initially, the collection was housed in the town hall and later moved to a small room above the police station, which subsequently became the public library on Kerkstraat.

In 1989, the museum found its permanent home in the former R.H.B.S. building in Veendam. This historic building, designed by the architect and national master builder Jan Vrijman, was originally used as a school from 1911 until it ceased its educational function in 1987. The transformation of this building into a museum was completed in 1992, marking the official reopening of the Veenkoloniaal Museum.

Today, the museum is part of a larger cultural center, thanks to a 2004 expansion that connected it with the new Van Beresteyn cultural center. This integration brought together a theater, library, music, dance, and theater school, creating a vibrant hub of cultural activity under one roof.

Exploring the Collection

The Veenkoloniaal Museum offers a focused and meticulously curated collection that highlights three main themes: peat extraction, agricultural industry, and maritime history. Each of these themes provides a unique glimpse into the life and times of the Veenkoloniën.

The peat extraction exhibits delve into the history of peat bogs and the crucial role they played in the region's development. Visitors can learn about the tools and techniques used in peat cutting and the impact this industry had on the local communities.

The agricultural industry section emphasizes the industries associated with the Veenkoloniën, such as strawboard and potato starch factories. The museum pays special attention to the Avebe company, headquartered in Veendam, and its contributions to the local economy. Although strawboard production ceased in the mid-1970s, the legacy of this industry lives on through the museum's exhibits, which also highlight the ongoing production in modern cardboard factories in nearby towns.

The maritime history section is perhaps the most captivating, as it chronicles the golden age of Veenkoloniale sea trade in the mid-19th century. During this period, hundreds of ships from the Groningen Peat Colonies dominated the Dutch fleet, with over 60 percent of the nation's ships registered in this region. The museum's maritime collection includes an impressive array of artifacts, such as Baltic spoons, Riga maps, and Toejas (traditional maritime tools). A special room dedicated to Riga, a significant destination for these ships, offers a deeper understanding of the maritime connections between the Veenkoloniën and the Baltic Sea.

Special Exhibits and Art Collections

The Veenkoloniaal Museum is not just about history; it also celebrates art and culture through its diverse exhibitions. Each year, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of the region's heritage and contemporary issues.

One of the museum's prized possessions is the Familietrouw, the oldest peat ship in the province of Groningen. Built in 1894 at the Ten Horn shipyard in Veendam, this spitse praam (pointed barge) is a testament to the craftsmanship and maritime heritage of the area.

The museum also boasts an impressive art collection featuring works by artists and writers who have lived and worked in the region. Notable names include Bart Peizel, Geert Hendrik Streurman, Herman Mees, and Geert Teis. The museum has loaned some of these works to the Streekhistorisch Centrum and the Groninger Archives, ensuring that the artistic legacy of the Veenkoloniën is preserved and accessible to a wider audience.

A Visit to Remember

A visit to the Veenkoloniaal Museum is more than just a walk through history; it is an immersive experience that brings the past to life. As you explore the exhibits, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of the people who shaped the Veenkoloniën. From the challenges of peat extraction to the triumphs of maritime trade, the museum tells a compelling story of a region that has left an indelible mark on Dutch history.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the cultural heritage of the Netherlands, the Veenkoloniaal Museum in Veendam is a must-visit destination. Step inside and embark on a journey through time, where the echoes of the past resonate in every corner, and the spirit of the Veenkoloniën comes alive.