“Ever wondered why this place is called Kleipoel?” Well, let’s dive into its history. I want to tell you an interesting story. This is about how a simple beer house evolved into something truly special. Today, we’re standing near the Kleipoel. It is more than just a bathing place.
Let’s turn back the clock to the 19th century. Several breweries occupied this spot since 1592. In 1864, Gerard Heineken acquired one. It was named “De Hooiberg”. Heineken was a smart 22-year-old. He transformed the brewery into a success with his mother’s help. They installed steam-driven machinery. They even started malting on-site. People drank between 200 and 450 liters of beer each year back then.
In the years 1868 to 1870, the Hulscher brothers struck a deal with Heineken. They wanted to convert part of “De Hooiberg” into a beer house. During the renovation, they found an old brick tablet. It showed buildings in the style of Oud-Neurenberg. It had the inscription “De Poort van Kleef”. Inspired, the brothers named their beer house Die Port van Cleve. The name referenced a medieval fortified city. Die Port van Cleve officially opened on September 5, 1870. It quickly became popular. “De Poort” served only “De Hooiberg” beer.
Locals and visitors loved “De Poort.” People from all over the country spread the word about it. In 1874, they expanded by adding a restaurant. It soon became famous for its numbered steaks. Also in 1874, Heineken moved “De Hooiberg” brewery. He moved it to the Buitensingel, now Stadhouderskade. Canal fill-ins made transportation by ship impossible. The Hulscher brothers continued to bottle “De Hooiberg” beer at “De Poort”.
In 1879, big parties were planned. They were for King William III and Queen Emma’s visit. The Hulscher brothers designed a project. Die Port van Cleve got electric lights. People had heard of electric lighting. However, they had never seen it in an establishment.
“De Poort” became even more popular. People wanted to eat under the bright lights. Even the mayor and aldermen visited. Manufacturers traveled from all over the Netherlands. They wanted to see the famous light.
Die Port van Cleve welcomed all social classes. Farmers, citizens, and stock market owners sat together. Clothing was the only differentiator.
In 1880, the Hulscher brothers bought a new building next to “De Poort.” On July 3, 1880, they opened Bodega “De Blauwe Parade.” In 1887, a tile tableau was designed. It featured a parade of children. They simulated historical triumphs from the Golden Century. The tableau honored Emperor Maximilian. His crown and the three crosses are visible. The crosses stand for heroism, determination, and mercifulness.
Ladies were not allowed in coffeehouses in the late 19th century. It was considered indecent. Behind Die Port van Cleve was a hidden courtyard. It was named “Het Tuintje”. During the summer, the garden filled with people. Loyal visitors brought their wives and daughters. Distinguished ladies came to visit. The garden closed to the public on August 24, 1885.
In 1888, the facade was renovated. It was done in the Dutch neo-renaissance style. Amsterdam’s architect Isaac Gosschalk designed it. He also designed the Westergas Fabriek and Groningen’s Central Station.
“De Poort” used a special system. It ensured fast service. After ordering, the waiter shouted. Another waiter echoed the order to the kitchen. The kitchen echoed the completed order back.
Around 1910, the upper floor became a modern French restaurant. It had its own kitchen and an elevator. The interior was elegant.
Die Port van Cleve faced hard times during World War I. Food distribution worsened. “De Poort” without steaks was not “De Poort.” Chefs developed new fish dishes. They used fried eggs and canned goods. They kept the company running.
During the hunger winter of World War II, Die Port van Cleve helped again. The kitchen ran a soup kitchen. It helped many households. Director Paula Kappelle managed the kitchen. She ensured enough food for the hungry people.
In the 1960s, “De Poort” expanded into a hotel. Six monumental buildings were connected. This created 122 rooms.
Aeon Plaza Hotels bought Hotel Die Port van Cleve in 1996. They renovated it. They preserved the historical appearance. Alfred Heineken attended the reopening.
In 2021, Die Port van Cleve became “Purveyor to the Royal Household.” It was for its rich history and social involvement.
From beer house to historical landmark, its story continues to evolve. The Kleipoel isn’t just a place. It’s a reminder of Amsterdam’s rich and ever-changing spirit.