Around 1400 a small wooden chapel stood here. This was the humble beginning of the Oostzijderkerk. It belonged to the Catholic parish of Oostzaan. The Oostzijderkerk wasn’t always grand. It started small. Over time the community grew. They needed a larger church. So in 1460 a brick church was built. This new Oostzijderkerk was consecrated. A tower was added to its roof soon after.
The Oostzijderkerk wasn’t spared from the turmoil of history. In 1566 during the iconoclasm the church was plundered. A year later fire ravaged it. The Reformation transformed the Oostzijderkerk. Around 1585 it became a Protestant church. Reconstruction lasted until 1592. The church had a main nave and two smaller side aisles.
Growth continued. By 1623 the Oostzijderkerk needed more space again. An expansion was undertaken in 1684 and 1685. Two equally sized naves were created. The Rechthuis a courthouse was added to the church. The architectural style was a simple version of Dutch Classicism. After 1847 the Rechthuis became a consistory room. It was renovated in 1907. It’s still visible today.
The Oostzijderkerk continued to evolve. In 1850 a neo-Classical facade was added. A new tower was added in an eclectic style. This was completed in 1851. The side aisle was demolished during this extensive renovation. The interior of the Oostzijderkerk was transformed. Round arches on Tuscan columns now separate the two naves.
The Oostzijderkerk holds many treasures. Hundreds of tombstones lie within. They date from 1597 to 1830. Many of the older stones have symbols representing family names or professions. The church boasts seven stained-glass windows. These show scenes from the local history. Some depict timber cutting transport and construction of wooden houses and ships. A painting depicts cows inside the church during the 1825 flood. A 17th-century whaling ship model hangs inside. The original Flaes & Brünjes organ from 1863 is still in use.
Today the Oostzijderkerk stands as a testament to the past. It still serves the Protestant community. It’s also a venue for concerts and events. Its rich history and unique architecture make the Oostzijderkerk a must-see. It has endured centuries of change and remains a cornerstone of Zaandam.