The monument
In 1972, at the initiative of the Frisian Cultural Council, a memorial stone was placed in the sidewalk in front of the spot where the synagogue stood. In 1984, it was decided to place the stone on a pedestal in the shape of a Star of David. A number of Jewish citizens wrote letters of thanks: ‘…We really like the change from the Memorial Stone to the Star of David. Now people are standing by it instead of walking over it…’. Yet as early as 1995, given a letter sent in, it starts to be noticed that the monument is being used improperly by the public. One outraged Sneker even speaks of vandalism.
27 years later, 2022, nothing had changed. Marcel, Matthijs and Henk raise the alarm.
The municipality of Súdwest-Fryslân is asking for a plan of action. The initiative group asked excellent designer and artist Piet Cohen to create a design. Piet envisions a monument made of Corten steel containing six cast glass triangles. The design refers to the vanished Jewish community of Sneek captured in the symbol of the Star of David.
The Jewish history of Sneek
A small Jewish community arose in Sneek from the early 1700s. At first a handful, but as the number grew to about 20 people, a group bond was formed. Initially, part of a private home was used as a place of assembly. Later they were even able to purchase a house, the upstairs room of which was furnished as a synagogue. In 1823, land was acquired for the establishment of a cemetery.
In 1836, the Jewish community in Sneek numbered 120 souls, from 20 families. Still a relatively small group, but the house we purchased did become too small. The plan was conceived to build a “real” synagogue. The plan was carried out, and on March 12, 1836, the new synagogue was consecrated.
A living monument
It was clear to the initiators of the monument from the beginning that it is not only about a beautiful monument, but also about organizing all kinds of activities that make this monument alive.
In cooperation with the schools RSG Magister Alvinus and CSG Bogerman, teaching materials were developed that are part of the curriculum.
In addition, regular activities will be organized that will keep the memory of Jewish Sneek alive.
