Driehuis NH

In 1680, a tiny settlement nestled in the Dutch province of North Holland was known as “Drie Huysen,” meaning “three houses.” This unassuming hamlet would eventually blossom into the village we know today as Driehuis NH. Driehuis NH sits within the municipality of Velsen, approximately 8 km north of Haarlem and 15 km west-northwest of Amsterdam. Imagine a quaint village, a crossroads in the 19th century, evolving into a bustling commuter town. This is Driehuis NH. The heart of Driehuis NH boasts the magnificent St. Engelmundus Church. This Catholic church, built between 1893 and 1894, stands as a testament to Gothic Revival architecture, its three aisles reaching towards the heavens. Nearby, you’ll find the Estate Schoonenberg. Originally an 18th-century gardener’s house, it underwent a transformation in the mid-19th century. Extensions in the chalet style give it a unique charm, a blend of history and architectural whimsy. Its park, designed around 1800, offers a tranquil escape. Driehuis NH is also home to Westerveld Cemetery, a site of national heritage. Here lie the ashes of Anthony Fokker, the aviation pioneer. Also resting here is Christine Buisman, the phytopathologist who bravely unravelled the mystery of Dutch elm disease. For those arriving by train, Driehuis NH railway station, opened in 1957, provides a convenient gateway to the village. Located on the Haarlem to Uitgeest railway line, it connects Driehuis NH to the wider region. Even the renowned politician Pim Fortuyn, and field hockey player Stella de Heij, have called Driehuis NH home. Their presence further enriches the tapestry of this fascinating village. Driehuis NH may be small, but its history is vast. From its humble beginnings as “three houses” to its present-day charm, Driehuis NH offers a glimpse into the heart of Dutch life.