B&B SCHANSKERHOF

DISCOVER OUR RICH HISTORY

HISTORY

Bad Nieuweschans, located in the north-east of the province of Groningen, has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. The village developed around the fortifications built in 1599 to protect against invasions. The first Jewish inhabitants settled in Nieuweschans in 1630, leading to the establishment of a synagogue in 1811. In 1868, the railway line between Groningen and Nieuweschans was opened, strengthening the connection with Germany and contributing to the economic development of the village. As for Hoofdstraat 13, it is plausible that this property played an important role in the history of Bad Nieuweschans. The village developed around the fortifications constructed in 1599, intended to protect against raids. In 1665, the entrenchment was still defended against the bishop of Münster, but in 1672 it was taken by Münster's troops. Only in July 1673 was the entrenchment recaptured by Karel Rabenhaupt. It is likely that Main Street 13 had a strategic function during this period, given its location within the fortress.

Location and Proximity of Important Buildings

BAD NIEUWESCHANS

  • Grain silo at Verlengde Hoofdstraat 3: A short distance from Hoofdstraat 13 is the grain silo at Verlengde Hoofdstraat 3. This silo, built around 1946 by order of H. Watermann, is an example of the Delft School style. The building has a rich history dating back to 1896, when the brothers G. and J. Watermann started a grain trade in Nieuweschans. This silo is a national monument and symbolises the agricultural and industrial development of the region.
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  • Old Remise at Oudezijl 1: Also near Hoofdstraat 13 is the Oude Remise, a former locomotive shed dating from 1877. This building testifies to the industrial history of Bad Nieuweschans and is one of the few remaining examples of this type of building in Groningen.

traditions and community life

TRADITIONS THAT BIND

The Schanskers are known for their active participation in events and festivities, which contribute to a strong village identity.

  • Burgundy Special Beers Festival
    Every year, the historic Voorstraat hosts the Bourgondisch Festival. This is a feast for lovers of special beer and local produce, with beers from local brewery and others Eggens, smoked eel, salmon and live music. Previous editions were graced by performances by the folk group, among others Rapalje.
  • St Nicholas parade
    The arrival of St Nicholas is a much-loved tradition. On a sunny afternoon in November, young and old gather at the music pavilion for a festive reception with performances by local primary school children. This annual entry is a joyous moment of connection in the village.

LOCAL INVOLVEMENT

COMMUNITY WITH CHARACTER

  • Bad Nieuweschans village interests
    This association is committed to the livability of the village and strengthening social ties. Through activities and projects - such as renovations of the football pitch and campsite - Dorpsbelangen ensures that the village continues to develop with an eye for community and tradition.
  • Citizens' initiatives
    Schanskers like to take matters into their own hands. Examples include local investments in sports facilities and green projects, often supported by programmes such as the East Groningen region deal. These initiatives show the strong sense of ownership and commitment among residents.

Historical and cultural heritage

MONUMENTAL AND LIVELY

  • Protected townscape
    Bad Nieuweschans has a protected townscape, which underlines how valuable the village's historical character is. Buildings such as the Main Watch on the Voorstraat recall the Schans' fortified past and are cherished by residents.
  • Remembering and remembrance
    Jewish history is also honoured. For instance, there is a plaque on the former synagogue and the monument commemorates "The Last Look" the Jews who were deported by train via Nieuweschans in WWII.

The Schanskers are proud of their heritage, value traditions and have a lively community where everyone is welcome. This unique lifestyle - a combination of history, solidarity and local pride - makes Bad Nieuweschans a special and engaged village in Groningen.

TIME LINE

Bad Nieuweschans' rich history.

1600

Beginning of the fortifications

In the early 17th century, Bad Nieuweschans was set up as a fortress by the States to defend against raids by the Spanish and the Westphalians. This made the village an important strategic point.

1630

Foundations of the seaside resort

Around 1630, the village became known as a seaside resort because of the thermal springs discovered there. This spring was soon used for medicinal purposes, making the village an important destination for people seeking health benefits.

19th century

Bathing area development

During the 19th century, Bad Nieuweschans' popularity as a spa resort increased. The construction of the Bathhouses and the thermal baths attracted visitors from far beyond the region.

1875

Rail link to groningen

The construction of the railway line to Groningen provided greater accessibility to the village. It stimulated both tourism and trade, and brought greater economic prosperity.

1910

Establishment of synagogue

The Jewish community in Bad Nieuweschans was flourishing around the beginning of the 20th century. In 1910, a synagogue built, which became an important social and cultural centre for Jewish residents.

1939-1945

Second
world war

During World War II, Bad Nieuweschans became a strategic hub because of its location near the German border. The Jewish community was hit hard, with many residents deported to concentration camps.

1950

Reconstruction after the war

After the Second World War, Bad Nieuweschans began the rebuild of its infrastructure. This included the renovation of the centre and the rise of tourism as an important economic factor.

1980

Protection of townscape

The historic centre of Bad Nieuweschans was in 1980 protected as a townscape to preserve the unique character of the village. This ensured that many old buildings, including the fortifications and the synagogue, were preserved.

2000

Rediscovering thermal springs

In the 2000s, the thermal springs brought back into the spotlight, with the renovation of the Thermal bath Bad Nieuweschans, which again became a popular wellness centre.

Present

Bad Nieuweschans as a tourist destination

Today, Bad Nieuweschans is a thriving tourist village that offers both historic sights, wellness, and natural beauty offers to visitors from within and outside the Netherlands.

CONTACT

ADDRESS

  • Hoofdstraat 13
    9693 AC Bad Nieuweschans

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