Kruiskerk

The Kruiskerk, also known as the Hervormde kerk van Coevorden, is a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural prowess of the Netherlands. Nestled in the charming town of Coevorden in Drenthe, this church stands as one of the earliest Protestant church buildings in the country. Its intriguing past, coupled with its striking architectural features, makes it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

A Glimpse into History

The history of the Kruiskerk is as captivating as its architecture. The current structure, completed in 1645, stands on a site that has been home to at least four previous churches, and possibly even five, according to historian Johan Picardt. The earliest recorded church on this site was destroyed by fire around 1508. The subsequent church, built with funds partly raised through the sale of indulgences, faced severe damage and had to be rebuilt. However, Coevorden, unable to bear the costs alone, saw its church repurposed for the city's defense, leading to further damage and eventual reconstruction.

Coevorden holds the distinction of being the first city in Drenthe to surrender to Maurits van Oranje. This event, along with the subsequent attempts by Francisco Verdugo to reclaim the city, likely inflicted significant damage on the church. For decades, the deteriorating condition of the church was a cause for concern, with services being held in a residential house due to its unfit state. In 1628, the province of Drenthe provided a substantial subsidy of one thousand guilders to Coevorden, marking the beginning of efforts to address the church's condition.

Reconstruction and Architectural Marvel

The 17th century saw renewed efforts to address the church's dilapidated state. In 1637, the States General granted permission for a tax on every barrel of beer sold in Coevorden, paving the way for the construction of a new church. By 1641, construction commenced on the new Dutch Reformed Church, designed in the shape of a Greek cross, inspired by the Noorderkerk in Amsterdam. The construction was completed around 1645, and during this period, church services were held in a horse stable, highlighting the community's resilience and dedication.

In 1890, the church’s tower was struck by lightning, resulting in a fire. A new, larger tower was subsequently built, although the church's foundation was not designed to support such a structure. This led to the reinforcement of the church's supporting elements in 1929. The current tower, with its elegant spire and clock, is a prominent feature of the Coevorden skyline and a testament to the church's enduring presence.

The Organs of Kruiskerk

The Kruiskerk has been home to several notable organs over the centuries. From 1658 to 1895, the church housed an organ built by Theodorus Faber, which may have incorporated parts from older instruments. This organ was maintained by renowned organ builders such as Arp Schnitger, A.A. Hinsz, H.H. Freytag, and P. van Oeckelen.

The lightning strike and ensuing fire in 1890 inflicted significant damage on the Faber organ, leading to its replacement. Thanks to a generous donation of 2,500 guilders from a dedicated churchgoer, Aleida Kramer, a new organ was commissioned from organist and organ builder Jan Proper of Kampen. This new organ was inaugurated on August 29, 1897. During the 1950s and 1960s, the organ was painted white, but a comprehensive restoration between 1970 and 1972 by the Zwolle organ builders Van den Berg & Wendt restored its original brown color. The balustrade from the original 1658 Faber organ was also reinstated during this restoration.

The Kruiskerk has been graced by the talents of several distinguished organists, including Willem Hendrik Zwart, who served from 1945 to 1954, and Henk Plasman, who held the position from 1964 to 2010.

Notable Figures and Memorials

The Kruiskerk has been a significant venue for many notable figures in its history. Johan Picardt, a historian and preacher, delivered sermons in the church and passed away in Coevorden. Mijndert van der Thijnen, the church's sexton from 1670, collaborated with Carl von Rabenhaupt on plans to reclaim Coevorden from Bernhard von Galen, also known as Bommen-Berend. During this period, the church was used as a prison, resulting in further damage. To honor these individuals' contributions to the church's history, memorial stones have been erected within the church.

Visiting the Kruiskerk offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore a site rich with history and architectural beauty. Its storied past, combined with its striking design and the tales of resilience and community spirit, make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Coevorden. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Kruiskerk promises a fascinating and enriching experience.