Deeply rooted in Heemstede lies a powerful symbol. It is named Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial. This statue embodies liberation and commemorates lives lost during World War II.
Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt translates to “A woman who breaks her chains.” Imagine the weight of oppression. Picture the moment of release. The statue captures this dramatic act. It is a tribute to freedom.
The Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial stands on Vrijheidsdreef. This translates to Freedom Lane. The lane’s name commemorates the liberation of the Netherlands from French rule in 1813. This location provides a fitting backdrop for a monument honoring liberation after the Second World War.
Mari Andriessen designed the Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial. Unveiled on May 4, 1948 it was Andriessen’s first war memorial. Many more followed. Andriessen initially faced rejection for his first design. The approved statue portrays a woman breaking free. Her averted gaze shows her resistance to the occupiers.
The Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial is made of Ettinger tuff stone. The statue stands 3.16 meters high. It is 71 centimeters wide and 1.06 meters deep. Its pedestal adds another 1.30 meters to the height. The pedestal is 2.50 meters wide and deep.
At the base of the Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial, a stone plaque reads “1940-1945.” Inscribed on the plaque are the names of 45 war victims from Heemstede. In 2015 eight names were added. The memorial now lists 53 names.
The Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial received a compliment in 2017. It was awarded for war memorials. This prize recognizes its importance to the community.
Originally, a monument honoring Queen Wilhelmina stood here. It was erected in 1939. The Germans destroyed it in 1941. This was done to suppress pro-Orange sentiments.
The Een vrouw die haar boeien slaakt War memorial serves as a poignant reminder. It honors those who perished. It symbolizes the enduring human spirit. It is a place for reflection. It reminds us of the cost of freedom.