This Sunday we spent a few hours observing the Watereniodmuseum – the national knowledge and remembrance of the flood of 1953. The museum was huge and we had a beautiful day outside to explore it. The first thing we saw was a map showing a simulation of the different air pressures at the average sea levels, wind levels, and the resulting water levels. The surrounding area explained how the different pressure areas moving with the wind and how charts can be used to predict weather forecasts.
On January 31st 1953, the storm made its way towards the North Sea Region, with winds up to 200 kilometers wrecking ships and bringing havoc. Water levels rose insanely high causing dikes to burst and devastating floods swept the area. All wires and cables were also wiped out from the waters, making the area totally isolated from the world. Radio transmissions were heard by ships in the area who all rushed to their aid.
Another display was a table filled with pictures taken of the flood and the devastating effects it had on the area.
Several other displays described stories told by survivors of the flood and some of the horrible things they saw – such as loosing pets and family members, and seeing their belongings wash away. Several art pieces made in remembrance were also displayed in the museum. This piece particularly stuck out to me – the islands were firstly painted by the artist and then embroidered all the names of the victims of the floods. The piece is called “Drowned”.
Many countries sent aid to the victims of the flood as well as the Red Cross to aid those impacted. Houses were gifted to those left homeless – and one was actually displayed that we were able to walk into. A small scale modelwas placed next to the walking display. It was similar to a typical house today – however some notes made by previous families said that amenities in the house such as a shower and toilet.
The last part of the museum had interactive displays about how floods have devastated different communities for centuries and what guidelines and safety measures can be taken to ensure the least amount of damage is done and to be aware of how climate change can affect water levels in the future. After the final museum display we were able to walk outside and actually see the dike. It was a gorgeous view and we got lucky with such a nice day to see it!
This museum was so sad but so informative of the culture and devastation the community faced at the time. It was also inspiring to see what measures are being taken for the future to ensure safety and protection from floods such as these. On our way out we stopped for a sandwich at the cafe and to relax before another long bus ride back to the hotel. We got some Chinese dumplings for dinner and trout an easy night in to rest for tomorrow!