Museum 1940-1945

Netherlands, the South Holland Dordrecht

History
The Museum 1940-1945 in Dordrecht was officially opened by Prince Bernhard in June 1988. The basis of the collection is the collection of Mr K.P. Makkelie. Even today, objects from the war are still being donated by private individuals and companies, so that the collection has expanded considerably over time. Since 2001, the museum has been housed in a restored historical building in the old town centre.

Details
The war years in Dordrecht and the surrounding area form the main subject. During the May Days of 1940, fierce fighting took place in and around the former garrison town. 200 Dutch soldiers died during battles around the Eiland van Dordrecht. This battle receives a lot of attention, but the years of occupation are also discussed in detail, with the themes of resistance, collaboration, persecution, civilian life and liberation. There are also regular temporary exhibitions. Several showcases are dedicated to people who played an important role during the war, such as the bearer (posthumously) of the Military Order of William Aart Alblas and the murdered Jewish trainer of DFC, Arpad Weisz.

Besides military uniforms, weapons and a Willys Jeep, it is mainly smaller objects that make up the collection, such as home-made cigars from home-grown tobacco, war money, food stamps, surrogate soap, blackout bicycle lights, Nazi propaganda, NSB memorabilia and military insignia. Outside the museum, a garden also contains the remains of aircraft crashed in the region. Dioramas including a hiding room and of the fighting in May 1940 provide additional information.

The museum has a small library including local and national newspapers, periodicals and wartime pamphlets. The museum also offers opportunities for guided tours for school classes. A scavenger hunt is available for children.

Why visit
Museum 1940-1945 has two floors and is relatively small. The use of multimedia is limited. A visit is nevertheless well worthwhile and a must for those who want to know more about the battle around Dordrecht in May 1940, and of the city's history during the occupation years. The varied collection and its recognisability are of interest to visitors who know the stories of parents or grandparents or want to know more about this period. Moreover, the museum always has knowledgeable guides on hand to answer questions and give guided tours. They know the story behind every museum piece. Fascinating and surprising stories lurk even behind the small objects.

Location
The museum is located at Nieuwe Haven 27-28, a 15-minute walk from the station. This characteristic harbour area with atmospheric historical buildings is a nice place to stroll. The shopping area in the new town centre is within walking distance. A visit to the war museum can be combined well with a visit to the Dordrechts Museum which houses a large art collection. Dordrecht borders National Park De Biesbosch which offers many recreational opportunities. This is also where the Biesbosch Museum is located, and from where tours (also themed on World War II) by whisper boats are organised through the nature reserve.

Future
For some time now, the museum board has had expansion plans because the current space is actually no longer adequate. There are no concrete plans yet.