Ouwerkerk, the oldest village on Schouwen-Duiveland, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. But what really puts the village on the map is the impressive Watersnoodmuseum. This museum tells the gripping story of the 1953 North Sea Flood, during which one in six residents of Ouwerkerk lost their lives and large parts of the village were swallowed by water.
The village played a crucial role on that fateful night, as it was the last area where the dikes were closed. It took tremendous efforts and four caissons, transported from South England, to seal the final breach and keep the water at bay. At the Watersnoodmonument, featuring a poignant sculpture of a hand reaching out of the water for help, visitors can reflect on the tragic events and honor the victims.
But not all is gloom in Ouwerkerk. After the flood, a new natural area emerged around the village. The salty water that inundated the land rendered it unsuitable for agriculture. However, from this setback came something beautiful: the Ouwerkerk creek area, where new trees have been planted and a new ecosystem has flourished.
So, if you want to learn more about the 1953 North Sea Flood, witness the resilience of communities in times of crisis, and enjoy the beauty of nature, then Ouwerkerk is the place to be. A visit to the Watersnoodmuseum and a stroll along the creeks offer a captivating blend of history, emotion, and natural wonders.