Vector of Memory
It was at this spot that the liberation of Appingedam began on 23 April 1945. Canadian troops entered the town after heavy fighting. A moment that brought freedom, but also left deep marks on the town and its inhabitants
In the early morning of 23 April 1945, Canadian soldiers reached the Solwerderstraat in Appingedam. Thus began the liberation of the town, after years of occupation. House by house was checked for German presence, while the battle was still in full swing.
The liberation was not without controversy. From surrounding areas, including Delfzijl and the coast, the city came under fire from German artillery. Especially around the strategic Oosterdraaibrug heavy fighting ensued, damaging many buildings.
By morning, a large part of Appingedam was in the hands of the Canadian troops. German prisoners of war were housed in places such as the town hall and Hotel Kraaima (now known as the Wapen van Leiden). The Nicolaïkerk was used as an observation post in the liberated town.
Still, the friendly...
In the early morning of 23 April 1945, Canadian soldiers reached the Solwerderstraat in Appingedam. Thus began the liberation of the town, after years of occupation. House by house was checked for German presence, while the battle was still in full swing.
The liberation was not without controversy. From surrounding areas, including Delfzijl and the coast, the city came under fire from German artillery. Especially around the strategic Oosterdraaibrug heavy fighting ensued, damaging many buildings.
By morning, a large part of Appingedam was in the hands of the Canadian troops. German prisoners of war were housed in places such as the town hall and Hotel Kraaima (now known as the Wapen van Leiden). The Nicolaïkerk was used as an observation post in the liberated town.
Yet the liberation brought new uncertainty. German troops continued to shell the city, leading to a curfew. An evacuation followed shortly afterwards: almost all residents left their city. About 7,000 people moved on foot to surrounding villages, while Appingedam was left badly damaged.
The Vector of Memory marks this place and this story. Part of the Liberation Route Europe, it connects locations across Europe where the history of liberation becomes tangible. Here you pause at a decisive moment: the day when freedom came closer, but also its impact became visible.