Peel-Raamstelling - Asperge Railwayblocks 'Duits Lijntje'

The German Line was a 101 kilometer long route between Wesel (D) and Boxtel. It has existed from 1878-1945. Mail, goods and people were transported on this route.

With a ruse, the bridge at Gennep over the Maas had fallen into German hands on 10 May 1940. The Maas Line was thus immediately breached. Commandos, dressed as Dutch military police, captured the bridge without a fight.
After that an armored train and a train with troops were able to drive over the German Lijntje past the Peel-Raamstelling and thus attack from the undefended side. The barrier that had been put in place was not yet closed. Germany had only just invaded our country and they were not yet aware of this at the time of the position. The Peel-Raamstelling had in fact been rolled up and the troops were withdrawn to defend 'Holland'.

Parts of the German Line still exist. If you e.g. you walk on the Maas-Peelliniepad between St. Anthonis and Mill you pass a part of the old railway line with the barrier as a monument.

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Source

• Text: J. de Boer
• Photos: Jaco Tijssen