A monument to Dirk Willemszn in Asperen!

A special fund has been established by the Historical Association Oud Asperen to commemorate the selfless act of Dirk Willemszn in our town of Asperen, on that cold day in May 1569. By adhering to his principles on that day, Dirk proved to his fellow believers that one can remain faithful to God even when faced with the consequences of a cruel death. His example has inspired many and it is therefore only fitting that this be commemorated at the place where he performed his act of faith in 1569: the former moat of his prison, Waddestein Castle in Asperen.

The Historical Association Asperen (Vereniging Oud Asperen) has published the book "Dirk willemszn son of Asperen” issued, recording the proven facts surrounding his life and deeds in the years leading up to his death on 16 May 1569. The revenue this book is intended solely to pay for a statue in honour of Dirk in our city of Asperen.

Via the this link allows you to participate in this fund. It will be used exclusively for the creation and maintenance of a floating monument, based on the world-famous etching by Jan Luyken, as depicted in the 1685 edition of the famous Martyrs Mirror van Thieleman van Bragt. On the waterfront of the slotgracht there will also be an explanation of the deeds and beliefs of Dirk Willemszn, so that even those who do not yet know his remarkable life story can understand the meaning of the monument.

On this information board a plaque will be attached with the names of all donors who contributed to the monument and its maintenance. A standing committee, with its own treasurer, will manage the placement and maintenance of the monument, sign and any renewed plaque in the future.

We cordially invite you to join us in honoring Dirk Willemszn in his hometown of Asperen. And maybe you can visit us to see the result with your own eyes.

Theo Witjes
President of the Historical Association Oud Asperen
Author of the book "Dirk willemszn son of Asperen”