The Nationaal Onderduikmuseum in Aalten tells the major history of going into hiding and resistance during the Second World War through ‘small’ personal stories. By zooming in on these stories and the choices and dilemmas of ordinary citizens in the border region, a picture emerges of a community in ordinary and extraordinary times. The mission of the museum is:

“Telling the major history through small stories and connecting them to the democracy and rule of law of today.”

The heart of the museum is an authentic building that was inhabited during the years of occupation by the Kempink family and their two young children. The story of this house is unique: while eight people in hiding were concealed in the attic, the German Ortskommandant kept his office in the front room of this same house due to its central location. The vaulted cellar served as a shelter for the entire neighborhood during bombings.

We do this with a large group of enthusiastic volunteers and a small staff.