Corrie Ten Boom House
Nestled in the charming city of Haarlem, just a short train ride from Amsterdam, the Corrie Ten Boom House is a place of deep historical significance and a powerful symbol of courage, faith, and resilience. For those interested in World War II history, or for anyone seeking an inspiring story of human compassion in the face of unimaginable adversity, a visit to the Corrie Ten Boom House is a must.
The Story Behind the Corrie Ten Boom House
The house at 19 Barteljorisstraat in Haarlem was once the home and workplace of the Ten Boom family, devout Christians who owned a watch shop on the ground floor and lived in the rooms above. During World War II, the Ten Boom family bravely used their home as a hiding place for Jews and members of the Dutch resistance, shielding them from the Nazis. This secret refuge became known as “The Hiding Place.”
Corrie Ten Boom, the youngest daughter, was at the heart of these efforts. Along with her family, she helped save an estimated 800 Jewish lives. Unfortunately, the Ten Booms were betrayed in 1944, leading to the arrest of the entire family. Corrie and her sister Betsie were eventually sent to the Ravensbrück concentration camp, where Betsie perished. Corrie survived the war and later shared their story with the world through her best-selling book, “The Hiding Place,” which was also adapted into a film.
Exploring the Corrie Ten Boom House
Today, the Corrie Ten Boom House serves as a museum dedicated to the family’s legacy and the many lives they saved. Visiting the house is a moving experience that takes you back in time to one of the darkest periods in human history.
The Watch Shop and Living Quarters
Your visit begins in the watch shop on the ground floor, where Corrie and her father, Casper, worked. The shop has been meticulously preserved to reflect how it looked in the 1940s, with antique watches, tools, and displays. As you walk through, you can almost hear the ticking of clocks and the whispered conversations of those who sought refuge here.
Moving upstairs, you’ll find the family’s living quarters, which have been restored to their wartime appearance. The rooms are filled with photographs, furniture, and personal items that belonged to the Ten Boom family, providing a glimpse into their daily lives and the extraordinary circumstances they faced.
The Secret Hiding Place
The most poignant part of the tour is undoubtedly the secret hiding place itself. This tiny space, hidden behind a false wall in Corrie’s bedroom, could only be accessed through a small sliding panel in the closet. Up to six people could squeeze into the narrow, cramped area, which was no more than 30 inches deep. The guide explains how the family devised an intricate system of alarms and signals to quickly hide those in danger.
Standing in the hiding place, you can sense the fear and hope that must have filled the hearts of those who waited silently, knowing that their lives depended on it. The space has been preserved to allow visitors to experience just a fraction of the tension and urgency felt by the people who sought refuge there.
The Museum and Memorial Room
The museum also includes a memorial room that honors the lives of the Ten Boom family members and others who perished in concentration camps. Here, you’ll find letters, photographs, and testimonies that tell the story of the family’s faith and unwavering commitment to saving lives, despite the great personal risks they faced.
Visitors are often struck by the message of forgiveness and hope that permeates the house. Corrie Ten Boom spent the years after the war traveling the world, sharing her story and preaching forgiveness—even forgiving the very people who caused her family so much pain. Her faith and compassion continue to inspire countless people today.
Planning Your Visit
The Corrie Ten Boom House is located at Barteljorisstraat 19, right in the heart of Haarlem. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:
Opening Hours: The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Saturday, with guided tours available in Dutch and English. It’s important to check the official website for current opening hours and any special notices.
Entrance Fees: Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain the museum and its mission of sharing the Ten Boom story.
Guided Tours: Due to the small size of the house, visits are by guided tour only. These tours last about an hour and offer a detailed account of the Ten Boom family’s efforts during the war, providing an enriching experience for visitors.
Reservations: Given the museum’s popularity and limited space, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Getting There: Haarlem is easily accessible from Amsterdam by train, with frequent services running throughout the day. The Corrie Ten Boom House is just a short walk from the Haarlem train station, making it a convenient destination for a day trip.
Reflecting on the Experience
Visiting the Corrie Ten Boom House is more than just a historical tour; it’s an emotional journey that brings you face-to-face with the realities of courage and sacrifice. As you walk through the rooms where lives were saved and hear the stories of those who lived in fear yet held onto hope, you can’t help but be moved by the strength of the human spirit.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a meaningful experience, the Corrie Ten Boom House offers a profound reminder of the impact one family can have in the fight against evil and oppression. It is a place that encourages visitors to reflect on their values, their choices, and their capacity for kindness and bravery in the face of adversity.
In a world where the lessons of history are as relevant as ever, the Corrie Ten Boom House stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, faith, and forgiveness. Make sure to include it in your itinerary when visiting Haarlem—it’s a visit you will not forget.
