The history of Veenhuizen
In the 19th century, the Netherlands went through a serious economic downturn and widespread poverty swept the country. General Johannes van den Bosch thought poverty could be eradicated through education and discipline; he therefore established several working colonies in Veenhuizen. In 1822 van den Bosch’s company ‘Maatschappij van Weldadigheid’ (Company of Benevolence) hosted poor families from the cities, widows, orphans and the homeless. Children received an
education while adults worked. By the end of the 19th century, this approach was abandoned and the colony was converted into a prison. Veenhuizen remained isolated from the rest of the country for many years. The penal colony was closed in 1986 and Veenhuizen became a simple rural village once again. However, the grid pattern of the village streets is a constant reminder of its past.
Regeneration and revival
Following the end of its prison era, many buildings in Veenhuizen were abandoned and the local economy, which depended on the prison, collapsed causing unemployment to rise. It was decided to regenerate the local economy by promoting the history of the site and the unique character of the former prison colony. Veenhuizen is today an unusual rural tourist destination, with a variety of cultural and natural attractions. The old buildings have been given a new purpose while preserving their unique architectural styles. A good example of this is Maallust, a former grain mill and storage space. This has now been converted into a brewery and a cheese farm. The former drugstore along with the kitchen and the hospital is now a hotel and health centre. The sleeping quarters of the cotton factory have been converted into guest lodges for visitors. Several art galleries and museums have also opened which showcase the unique history of the village. Veenhuizen currently welcomes approximately 160,000 visitors each year.
Sustainable tourism in the area
Tourism authorities and policy makers in the Netherlands place a high priority on sustainable development and the regeneration of Veenhuizen is a perfect example
of this in practice. The local authority seeks to involve and engage all stakeholders – residents, entrepreneurs and visitors – in preserving and revitalising the village. Local economy and people benefit from regeneration projects, as new jobs are created. The sustainable development of agriculture is encouraged; regional and organic products are used in tourists accommodations. Environmental friendly modes of transport are promoted, cycling and walking is encouraged. By striking a balance between environmental, economic and cultural aspects, Veenhuizen is becoming an increasingly attractive spot for tourists, as wells as a village with vast opportunities for its residents.
