New opportunities for an exhibition on 300 years of Jewish life in Amersfoort

Museum Amersfoort, in collaboration with the local council and the Jewish community, will explore how 300 years of Jewish life in Amersfoort can be showcased in 2027. The support offered by various organisations over the past few days opens up new possibilities for an exhibition.

Museum Amersfoort had previously decided to abandon its plan to develop an exhibition in collaboration with the Jewish community. As a small museum, we were concerned about whether we could adequately manage the organisation of this exhibition.

Over the past few days, various parties from the city and across the country have offered help and expertise. This support alleviates some of our concerns and opens up new possibilities.

On Thursday 5 November, the management and the Supervisory Board of Museum Amersfoort discussed this matter with Mayor Lucas Bolsius and Councillor for Culture Marjolein Perdok. During this open discussion, the shared interest in bringing the history of the Jewish community in Amersfoort to light was emphasised once again.

Looking ahead together

Paul Baltus, director of Museum Amersfoort:

“The reactions over the past few days have moved us. We have always believed that this story must be told. Our concern was about what we, as a small museum, could manage. The help now being offered to us alleviates some of that concern. With this support, we will explore the possibilities with an open mind and positive intentions, in dialogue with the Jewish community.”

The municipality of Amersfoort also attaches great importance to an exhibition on 300 years of Jewish life in the city. Mayor Lucas Bolsius has since spoken with the chair of the Jewish community, who has responded positively to the outcome of the discussions.

What happens next?

In the coming period, the parties involved will discuss the content, collaboration, format and location of a potential exhibition in 2027.

The history of the Jewish community is inextricably linked to that of Amersfoort. It is a story that needs to be told. We hope that, with the help offered and our joint efforts, we will find a fitting way to showcase this special part of our city’s history.