Open Day at the Waterlands Archive

How did people deal with illness, health and mental wellbeing in the past? What stories lie behind hospitals, GPs, mutual aid societies and centuries-old healing methods? During the Waterlands Archive’s Open Day on Sunday 18 October, the focus will be entirely on the national theme of History Month: Body & Mind.

Be amazed by a varied programme full of fascinating talks, inspiring stories and creative activities. Historians, healthcare professionals and archive staff will guide you through the history of healthcare in our region. Discover the history of the regional mutual aid societies and healthcare in Purmerend, hear about the development of general practice and learn about the impressive history of the former Meerenberg mental asylum, which after 1918 became the Provincial Hospital near Santpoort, where patients from the Waterland region were also admitted.

Folk medicine and ‘tea tasting’
The world of folk medicine also comes to life. Learn about traditional healing methods and enjoy a ‘tea tasting’ featuring medicinal plants. You can also have your photograph taken in a nostalgic style (a so-called ‘carte-de-viste’) as part of the exhibition ‘Photographed in the Waterland region’. You will receive a digital portrait afterwards.

The plague, smallpox, pills and patients
During a behind-the-scenes tour, you’ll get an exclusive glimpse into our storage areas and discover remarkable documents relating to, for example, the plague, smallpox, pills and patients. You’ll also see photographs and other hidden treasures from the archives. Stories that have remained unknown for centuries are brought back to life.

Whether you’re interested in history, photography, health, heritage or are simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes at an archive, this Open Day offers something special for everyone. Keep an eye on the website; the full programme, including all practical information, will be published shortly.