Monument voor 'Tante Riek'

In the heart of Winterswijk, a quaint town in the Netherlands, stands a poignant tribute to courage and compassion: the Monument voor 'Tante Riek'. This striking statue is not only a memorial to Helena Kuipers-Rietberg, affectionately known as 'Tante Riek', but also a symbol honoring all Dutch women who bravely participated in the resistance during World War II.

The Legacy of 'Tante Riek'

Helena Kuipers-Rietberg was an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by her unwavering commitment to justice and humanity. Alongside her husband Piet Kuipers, she provided refuge to Jewish individuals, escaped prisoners of war, and downed airmen from 1941 onwards. Her home became a sanctuary, a beacon of hope amid the dark times of Nazi occupation.

In 1942, Helena co-founded the Landelijke Organisatie voor Hulp aan Onderduikers (LO), a national organization that coordinated efforts to hide and protect those persecuted by the Nazis. Her work was instrumental in saving countless lives, and her legacy continues to inspire generations.

The Monument's Creation

The idea to honor 'Tante Riek' and other courageous women of the resistance was born in 1952. The Comité Monument Mevrouw Kuipers-Rietberg spearheaded the initiative, rallying nationwide support to fund the monument. Even Princess Wilhelmina contributed, underscoring the national significance of this tribute.

On May 4, 1955, the monument was unveiled by Princess Wilhelmina herself, marking a significant moment in Dutch history. The monument was later elevated onto a higher brick archway in 1961, enhancing its visibility and impact.

Symbolism and Design

The sculpture, crafted by Amsterdam-based artist Gerrit Bolhuis in 1953, depicts a woman standing protectively over a young, vulnerable deer. This imagery is rich with symbolism; the woman represents the nurturing and protective spirit of the resistance women, while the deer embodies those they sheltered and saved.

The monument stands proudly next to the town hall on the Mevr. Kuipers-Rietbergplein, serving as a constant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought against tyranny.

Inscriptions and Plaques

Adorning the brick archway is a powerful inscription: DE VIJAND WEERSTAAN which translates to Resisting the Enemy. This phrase encapsulates the spirit of defiance and resilience that characterized the resistance movement.

Additionally, a bronze plaque designed by J.J. Both features a portrait of 'Tante Riek' and bears a heartfelt tribute penned by A.L.H. Vrede. It honors her pivotal role in the LO and her ultimate sacrifice, stating:

Here stands the monument erected in memory of Mrs. H.T. Kuipers-Rietberg (Tante Riek) and in honor of the Dutch women in the resistance. Tante Riek initiated the establishment of the National Organization for Aid to People in Hiding (the L.O.), which during the war years 1940-1945 cared for approximately 300,000 people in hiding, greatly contributing to the liberation of our country. She was born on May 26, 1893, in Winterswijk and died on December 27, 1944, in the Ravensbrück concentration camp. H.K.H. Princess Wilhelmina of the Netherlands unveiled this monument on May 4, 1955.

A Place of Reflection and Remembrance

Each year on May 4th, the town of Winterswijk gathers to lay a wreath at the monument, part of the national Remembrance Day ceremonies. This annual tradition ensures that the sacrifices of 'Tante Riek' and her fellow resistance fighters are never forgotten.

The monument is more than just a historical marker; it is a place of reflection, inviting visitors to contemplate the courage and compassion that defined an era. It stands as a testament to the power of ordinary individuals to effect extraordinary change, urging us all to remember and honor those who stood up against oppression.

In conclusion, the Monument voor 'Tante Riek' is a profound symbol of resistance and resilience. It captures the spirit of a nation that, even in its darkest hours, found light in the bravery of its people. For anyone visiting Winterswijk, this monument is an essential stop, offering a moving glimpse into the indomitable human spirit.