Phase I - The Restored Workman’s Cottage
As one of only two of its kind remaining in Holland, the small workman’s cottage is an artifact itself. Phase I entailed a complete renovation, where it was dismantled brick-by-brick and perfectly restored to its original mid-1800’s condition.
The painstakingly detailed work was performed by skilled, yet all volunteer labor from the village. The beautiful little home was formerly the residence of Klaas van Schoneveld – the village historian who passed away on American soil while attending the 1999 Eenigenburg Family Reunion.
May 5, 2002 - Phase I Opening
It was blustery and cold, but that didn’t dampen the spirits of the 110 hardy souls that gathered for the Phase I Eenigenburg Museum opening. It was an excellent turnout for a village of only 50+ homes. Attending from the U.S. were family members Merritt Bethig, Julie & Jim Bockheim, Jean Bristow, Jill Eenigenburg & husband Kurt Kosty, and their daughters Angie (& husband Shawn) Kelly and Molly Kosty.
The 45-minute outdoor ceremony – mostly in Dutch and West Friesian, but translated into English – included acknowledging the workers, presentations of new funding, unveiling a statue of Klaas van Schoneveld, and a rousing concert by some young Eenigenburg villagers.
Jean Bristow, Merritt Bethig, Jill Eenigenburg and Julie Bockheim