Ootmarsum's Night Watch tradition preserved with municipal support
Every New Year's Eve, Ootmarsum's Night Watch tradition unites locals and visitors in a centuries-old celebration. The municipality ensures its survival by supporting the role financially and symbolically, preserving a key part of the town's identity.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Tradition | Night Watch (Nachtwacht) |
| Location | Ootmarsum, Overijssel |
| Annual Event Date | December 31 - January 1 |
| Current Night Watch | Hans Bolscher |
| Tradition Origin | Around 1400 (originally city guard duty) |
| Previous Holders | Morshuis family (1917-2017) |
| Municipal Support | Modest fee for the role |
| More Information | Heemhuis Ootmarsum |
The municipality of Dinkelland, where Ootmarsum is located, plays a role in preserving local cultural heritage. By supporting traditions like the Night Watch, it ensures community cohesion and maintains the town's unique identity. The municipality also provides symbolic and financial contributions to sustain these customs.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Official visit to Heemhuis Ootmarsum focuses on the Night Watch tradition
We paid a visit to Heemhuis in Ootmarsum, where we reflected on the Night Watch tradition—a well-known event that brings people together every year. We discussed its origins and its significance today. We also spoke with Hans Bolscher, who currently holds the role of Night Watch.
On the night of December 31 to January 1, the Night Watch comes to life. At midnight, the clock tower chimes: “Twaalf heit de klok.” The crowd responds: “De klok heit twaalf.” This is followed by a group sing-along, after which the Night Watch parades through the town center. An annual highlight that draws many visitors.
The tradition dates back to around 1400. What began as a city guard duty has evolved into a cherished and recognizable moment for residents and visitors alike. Since 1917, the Night Watch role was held by members of the Morshuis family for three generations, preserving the tradition for a century. In 2017, the duty was passed to Hans Bolscher.
As a municipality, we consider it important for traditions like this to endure. They are part of the local identity and bring people together. That’s why we also addressed the Night Watch’s modest fee—a small compensation tied to the role. During the visit, this was symbolically handed over.
Want to learn more about this tradition? Visit: www.heemhuis-ootmarsum.nl (link is external).