Colonies of Benevolence

Frederiksoord

The Colonies of Benevolence are unique planned agricultural settlements, designed to be largely self sufficient. Besides Veenhuizen, they can also be found in the nearby villages of Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord and Willemsoord.

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In 1818, Johannes van den Bosch founded the first colony in Frederiksoord. His aim was to offer people living in poverty in the cities a new start through work, education and agriculture.

The Colonies of Benevolence are considered unique in the world. For this reason, UNESCO has added them to the World Heritage List.

Visit the Prison Museum in Veenhuizen to discover the story of the vagrants and impoverished families who took part in this remarkable social experiment. The goal was to help people build a new future while transforming uncultivated land into productive farmland.

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Frederiksoord

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Colonies of Benevolence

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