Historic pocket watch finds new home at Museum Rotterdam

Historic pocket watch finds new home at Museum Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 27 August – A pocket watch with a remarkable wartime story has been donated to Museum Rotterdam by the grandchildren of Jewish Rotterdammer Alfred Overstrijd. The watch, made in 1910, is now on display at Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU.

Pocket watch with wartime history donated to Museum Rotterdam

The grandchildren of Alfred Overstrijd, a Jewish Rotterdam-born watchmaker, have donated a pocket watch he crafted in 1910 to Museum Rotterdam. The watch, created for Alfred's brother, Louis, is connected to a dramatic wartime story. Both brothers were arrested, deported, and murdered by the Nazis, and the watch disappeared during this time. After more than 80 years, it found its way back to the family. Now, the engraved pocket watch can be viewed at Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU, located at Coolhaven 375.

The journey of the pocket watch

Alfred and Louis's father, André David Overstrijd (1857-1938), founded a watch shop on Hoogstraat in Rotterdam. The brothers were expected to continue in the family business. During his studies to become a watchmaker in Switzerland, Alfred André (1887-1943) crafted the pocket watch as a final project. He gifted this watch to his brother, Louis David (1892-1944), on his 18th birthday on 13 January 1910.

During World War II, both brothers were arrested, deported, and killed, and the watch vanished. In 1944, Belgian farmer Gustave Janssens (1888-1976) discovered the watch in his field in Molenstede-Diest. It is believed that a German soldier, quartered with him, lost it while in the field. Recognising the inscription and suspecting the watch was stolen, Janssens decided to hide it.

Gustave was never able to trace the original owner. Decades later, his grandson, Pieter Janssens, rediscovered the watch and used the internet to search for the name Overstrijd. This search led him to the Jewish Heritage Rotterdam (Joods Erfgoed Rotterdam) website. With the help of historian Rob Snijders from the site, the descendants were found, and the watch was returned to the family in 2022.

Richard (1954), Joyce (1951), and Monique (1949), the grandchildren of Alfred Overstrijd, were unaware of the watch's existence and were emotionally moved when they received their late grandfather's watch.

Rob Noordhoek of Museum Rotterdam receives the pocket watch from the family.Rob Noordhoek of Museum Rotterdam receives the pocket watch from the family.

Donation to Museum Rotterdam

In autumn 2023, Alfred Overstrijd's grandchildren decided together to donate the pocket watch to a museum dedicated to World War II history, freedom, and education. “The choice fell on Museum Rotterdam because of the evident expertise and enthusiasm, combined with a personal touch,” explained Richard van Ameijden. “The fact that Alfred and Louis were from Rotterdam makes the connection even deeper.”

Rob Noordhoek, a curator at Museum Rotterdam, expressed his gratitude for the family's donation: “At Museum Rotterdam, we have Rotterdam timepieces from all eras in our collection, including pieces from the Overstrijd family. The personal, dramatic story and the extraordinary journey of this pocket watch add an emotional layer. It holds cultural and historical significance and tells a family story and bears witness to the inhumane persecution of the Jewish community in Rotterdam. It also shows how ordinary people, like the Belgian farmer and his grandson, try to do what is right.”

The watch

The pocket watch was crafted 114 years ago by Alfred during his studies at the watchmaking school in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, as a gift for his brother Louis's 18th birthday. It is a 'montre-école,' a high-quality ‘school’ pocket watch traditionally made as a demonstration of skill. The inscription reads: “Neufchâteau 1910, A.A. Overstrijd, pour mon frère Louis”.

The discovery and return of the pocket watch to Rotterdam is a remarkable wartime story. It was a pleasant surprise for all involved that the watch, after 114 years, still functions correctly.

Museum Rotterdam also holds other Overstrijd timepieces in its collection, including a clock on a green marble base from around 1900 and a silver pocket watch from 1910-1930. The enamel dial of the pocket watch bears the initials A.D. Overstrijd, referring to Alfred and Louis’s father, the founder of the watch shop on Hoogstraat in Rotterdam. “It is very special to us that there will soon be three timepieces from our family in the Museum Rotterdam collection, reunited in the birthplace of our parents and the brothers Alfred and Louis,” said grandson Richard van Ameijden.

Inside view of Alfred Overstrijd's pocket watch. Credit: Inez SmitInside view of Alfred Overstrijd's pocket watch. Credit: Inez Smit

Visiting Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU

Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU is currently the public and educational venue for the museum, located at Coolhaven. The focus is on the Second World War and the May 1940 bombing. The museum also aims to increase its visibility in the city through activities such as lending items from its collection, educational programmes, lectures, city walks, and presentations.

The museum is also working on developing a new city museum, a place where Rotterdam's heritage is preserved, shared, and brought to life, inspiring and connecting people. Together with the municipality of Rotterdam, a permanent location is being sought for the new museum.

Directions to Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU

Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU is located at Coolhaven 375, easily accessible by metro and tram. The Coolhaven area, named after the nearby harbour, is in the Delfshaven district, known for its historic character and canals.

Rotterdam’s Iwan Smit creates Duvel glass for offline talks

Rotterdam’s Iwan Smit creates Duvel glass for offline talks

ROTTERDAM, 22 August 2024 – Renowned Rotterdam-based artist Iwan Smit collaborates with Belgian brewery Duvel on a new series of limited edition glasses, designed to foster real-world connections in a digital age. The glasses feature unique designs inspired by common online dating questions and will be available from September.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, Rotterdam artist Iwan Smit has teamed up with Duvel to create a pair of limited edition glasses aimed at encouraging face-to-face conversations. The designs, which include motifs of mythical cats and bold dogs, are intended as icebreakers, drawing inspiration from a common question in the online dating scene: “Are you a dog or a cat person?”

Smit, known for his striking work, including pieces featured in the Boijmans van Beuningen museum, sought to create something that would bring people together in the real world. He explained, “While sitting in a pub for inspiration, I noticed many people around me engrossed in their phones. It led me to wonder whether we still ask each other these kinds of questions in person. The glass designs are meant to spark conversations, ideally over a beer.”

New Duvel Stamtafel at Bar Bokaal in Rotterdam

As part of this initiative, Duvel will be setting up special tables, known as “Stamtafels,” in various pubs across the Netherlands, including Rotterdam's Bar Bokaal. These tables will be equipped with phone boxes, conversation starters, and intimate lighting, creating an ideal setting for a first date, a chat with an old friend, or meeting new people. The intention behind these spaces is to provide a setting that facilitates genuine, offline connections, with the new designer glasses serving as a helpful tool in breaking the ice.

A dream realised for Iwan Smit

Smit has long admired Duvel’s tradition of collaborating with artists, a tradition that has seen contributions from creatives like Piet Parra and Franky Sticks. Smit shared his excitement about joining this prestigious list, especially as the colours and little devils in his design pay homage to Parra’s previous work. Smit’s journey with Duvel began years ago when he first encountered Parra’s glass design as a student at the Grafisch Lyceum. Now, he adds his own personal touch to this iconic collection.

Duvel’s commitment to accessible art

Since 2017, Duvel has provided a platform for artists to showcase their work through limited edition glass designs. The brewery's mission is to make art accessible to a wider audience, and these glasses, available in limited quantities, have become collectible items. Each year, Duvel offers artists complete creative freedom, ensuring that the resulting glasses reflect the unique style and personality of each designer.

Where to find a Duvel Stamtafel in Rotterdam: Bar Bokaal

In Rotterdam, Duvel has selected Bar Bokaal as the location for their Stamtafel. Situated in the heart of the city, Bar Bokaal is a vibrant spot known for its lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene. The Duvel Stamtafel here offers an inviting atmosphere, ideal for both locals and visitors who are looking to enjoy a meaningful conversation over a beer.

Popunie launches crowdfunding for Rotterdam pop book

Popunie launches crowdfunding for Rotterdam pop book

ROTTERDAM, 19 August 2024 – A new book aims to chronicle 70 years of Rotterdam's pop music scene, and the Popunie is seeking community support to make it happen. A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to fund the publication of “Rotterdam Popstad.”

New book to document 70 years of Rotterdam pop music

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched by the Popunie to publish “Rotterdam Popstad,” a book that aims to document over 70 years of pop music history in Rotterdam. The publication is set to cover the city's musical evolution from the 1950s to the present, capturing stories, events, and the cultural impact of local artists, venues, festivals, and industry figures over the decades.

The book is planned as a comprehensive reference of more than 400 pages, providing an in-depth look at the unique contributions of Rotterdam to the broader Dutch pop scene. With its release, the Popunie seeks to create a definitive account that reflects the city's rich musical heritage, offering insights and preserving memories that might otherwise fade.

Importance of Rotterdam in the Dutch pop scene

Rotterdam has long held a distinctive position within the Dutch pop music landscape. Since the emergence of pop music in the 1950s, the city has been recognised for its pioneering role, marked by influential artists, popular songs, vibrant music venues, festivals, and a dynamic music industry. “Rotterdam Popstad” aims to fully document this story, serving as a cultural and historical record that honours the city's unique role and inspires future generations.

The book is seen as essential in capturing moments and developments that have shaped Rotterdam's music scene, from early pop acts to contemporary innovators, ensuring these stories are preserved for both current fans and future enthusiasts.

Popunie launches crowdfunding for Rotterdam pop bookPopunie launches crowdfunding for Rotterdam pop book

The Popunie and 'Rotterdam Popstad'

The project is spearheaded by the Popunie, an organisation that has been supporting the Rotterdam and South Holland pop music sectors since 1985. “Rotterdam Popstad” is an initiative by Martin Scheijgrond, Popunie’s director, and has been authored by Remko van Bork. Van Bork, a dedicated musicologist, writer, researcher, and musician, has spent the past five years compiling the book. His expertise, along with the contributions of many others, promises a publication that truly captures the depth and diversity of Rotterdam’s pop music history.

Crowdfunding campaign underway

Despite the book being completed, additional funding is required to finalise its production and distribution. The Popunie is aiming to raise €20,000 through a crowdfunding campaign on Voordekunst. The funds will be used for design, printing, and promotion of the book, as well as to organise a launch event with an accompanying exhibition. The campaign also seeks to engage the community directly in the project, allowing music enthusiasts to contribute to the preservation of Rotterdam's musical heritage.

Supporters of the campaign will have the opportunity to receive various exclusive rewards, including mention in the book, special guest tickets to the presentation event at Theater Zuidplein, guided tours of notable music locations in Rotterdam, and exclusive access to the exhibition.

Planned release timeline

The crowdfunding campaign runs from August to September 2024. Once the funding target is reached, the printing process will begin in October, with the aim to launch the book at the Rotterdam Music Awards at Theater Zuidplein in December. An exhibition celebrating the book and the broader Rotterdam music scene is planned for January 2025, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Popunie. By late 2024 or early 2025, the book is expected to be available in shops and online.

How to find the launch event

The book's launch will be celebrated with a special event at Theater Zuidplein, located in the dynamic and culturally rich area of Rotterdam-Zuid. The area is easily accessible by public transport, with bus and metro connections available from Rotterdam Central Station. Visitors can also reach the venue by car, with ample parking in the vicinity. 

Historic banner acquired by Museum Rotterdam

Historic banner acquired by Museum Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 22 July 2024 – An historic banner from the Dutch Roman Catholic Metalworkers' Union has been acquired by Museum Rotterdam, shedding light on the city's industrious past. The banner, dating back to 1925, highlights the union's efforts to stand out in a divided society.

Historic banner enriches Museum Rotterdam's collection

Museum Rotterdam has recently expanded its collection with a notable banner from the Dutch Roman Catholic Metalworkers' Union (Nederlandse Rooms-Katholieke Metaalbewerkersbond Sint Eloy, afdeling Rotterdam). The banner, measuring 180 × 98 cm and dating back to 1925, features a central depiction of the patron saint set against the industrial backdrop of the 'Nieuwe Waterweg' Shipbuilding Company. Curator Mayke Groffen discovered a notebook in the City Archive detailing the creation of the banner. In difficult times, union members set aside wages to fund a first-class banner for demonstrations. This story can now be shared again after many years.

A celebration of Roman Catholic heritage

In 1925, the Rotterdam chapter of the Dutch Roman Catholic Metalworkers' Union celebrated its 35th anniversary. Leading up to the festivities, plans emerged to create a new banner. The board noted that while other clubs had beautiful flags, theirs was worn out. Members were encouraged to buy tickets to finance the new banner, which would be proudly displayed in demonstrations. This visibility was crucial in a divided society, where the Catholic union countered Protestant workers' associations and secular socialist unions.

The depiction: Saint Eloy with a ship under construction

In true Catholic tradition, the metalworkers were under the protection of Saint Eloy. The saint is prominently featured on the banner, holding a shining crown. The banner also includes references to blacksmiths, lamp makers, and electricians. The ship under construction symbolises shipbuilding as the main branch of metalworking in Rotterdam. Notably, the crane runway of 'de Furness' (as the Nieuwe Waterweg Shipbuilding Company was nicknamed) is depicted, with small figures representing the workers.

A city of work

During the interwar period, Rotterdam was proud of its ports and industry. The dynamism, modernity, and port works were considered the true beauty of the city, distinguishing Rotterdam from others. This banner not only reflects pride, but also the hard-fought battles metalworkers endured for labour rights. It is a valuable addition to the museum's collection, highlighting Rotterdam's identity as a working city. The museum is currently exploring conservation treatments to preserve the banner for future display.

This image shows the shipyard "Scheepswerf De Nieuwe Waterweg" in 1927, located in Rotterdam. It is part of the collection of the Rotterdam City Archives (Stadsarchief Rotterdam), specifically from the RDM collection (toegang 4181). The photo captures the large industrial cranes and structural framework typical of shipyards from that era, reflecting the industrial heritage of Rotterdam.This image shows the shipyard "Scheepswerf De Nieuwe Waterweg" in 1927, located in Rotterdam. It is part of the collection of the Rotterdam City Archives (Stadsarchief Rotterdam), specifically from the RDM collection (toegang 4181). The photo captures the large industrial cranes and structural framework typical of shipyards from that era, reflecting the industrial heritage of Rotterdam.

Museum Rotterdam

Museum Rotterdam currently operates one public and educational location: Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU at Coolhaven, focusing on World War II and the May 1940 bombing. The museum also enhances its visibility through loans from its collection, educational programmes, lectures, city walks, and presentations. Efforts are underway to develop a new city museum, a place where Rotterdam's heritage will be preserved, shared, and brought to life, inspiring and connecting people. Together with the municipality, the museum is seeking a permanent location for this new museum

Museum Rotterdam appoints new director Léontine Meijer-van Mensch

Museum Rotterdam appoints new director Léontine Meijer-van Mensch

ROTTERDAM, 11 July 2024 – Léontine Meijer-van Mensch has been appointed as the new director of Museum Rotterdam, effective 1 October 2024. Meijer-van Mensch, a distinguished professional in the cultural sector, brings extensive international experience to the role.

Léontine Meijer-van Mensch appointed as director of Museum Rotterdam

Léontine Meijer-van Mensch (1972) will become the new director of Museum Rotterdam on 1 October 2024. The museum, which is actively developing a new city museum, welcomes Meijer-van Mensch, a professional with a substantial international background in the cultural sector. She is currently the director of the ethnological museums of Leipzig, Dresden, and Herrnhut. Previously, she was the deputy director of the Jewish Museum in Berlin and a lecturer at the Reinwardt Academy in Amsterdam. Meijer-van Mensch will take over from the current interim director, Siebe Weide, who will support her until the end of the year.


“We welcome Léontine with open arms. With her can-do attitude, optimism, and courage, we see her as the perfect person to further develop the new city museum of Rotterdam.” – Patrick van Thiel, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Museum Rotterdam Foundation

Work experience

Léontine Meijer-van Mensch studied history and Jewish studies in Amsterdam, Jerusalem, and Berlin, and European cultural preservation in Frankfurt/Oder. She has worked on various research programmes and exhibition projects in Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, serving as a researcher, lecturer, and (deputy) director. Additionally, Meijer-van Mensch is the Chair of the Ethics Committee of the International Council of Museums (ICOM).


“I am looking forward to living, working, and going out in Rotterdam as a Rotterdammer. The city museum (stadsmuseum) for me is the place where all of this comes together, a place where you love to go, a place that connects. I hope that this can also be true for many Rotterdammers and those who visit the city.” – Léontine Meijer-van Mensch

Museum Rotterdam's current activities

Museum Rotterdam currently operates one location open to the public and education: Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU at the Coolhaven. This site is dedicated to the Second World War and the bombing of May 1940. Simultaneously, the museum is working on its visibility in the city through the lending of collection pieces, educational programmes, lectures, city walks, and presentations.

Development of the new city museum

Museum Rotterdam is currently working hard on developing a new city museum. This new museum aims to preserve, share, and bring to life Rotterdam's heritage, inspiring and connecting people. In collaboration with the municipality of Rotterdam, efforts are underway to find a permanent location for the new museum. In her new role, Léontine Meijer-van Mensch will shape and give substance to the new city museum.

Location and directions

The Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NU is located at Coolhaven. This area is easily accessible by public transport and car. It is a short walk from Coolhaven metro station, and parking is available nearby. For detailed directions and to plan your visit, use the following map: 

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