Catharinastraat 3, Nijkerk

Nestled in the charming streets of Nijkerk, the building at Catharinastraat 3, originally known as the Catharinaklooster, stands as a testament to centuries of rich history and architectural beauty. This former women's monastery, with its storied past, offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the women who once inhabited its walls and the community it served.

The Origins of Catharinastraat 3

The history of Catharinastraat 3 dates back to the mid-15th century when Aelbert van Dockem purchased a house at Beekstraat 1 (later renamed Catharinastraat 3) in 1452. This building became part of the St. Catharinaklooster, a sanctuary for unmarried women and widows. Named after the legendary St. Catherine of Alexandria, the monastery was dedicated to caring for the sick and orphaned, a testament to the charitable spirit of the era.

The monastery complex extended from Beekstraat to the corner of Verlaat, encompassing a large garden and several buildings, including a hospital and a large barn. The garden, known as the Kloostertuin, was a serene space where the nuns could find solace and engage in their daily chores. However, the construction of a shed in the garden that obstructed the Breede Beek led to legal disputes with residents of Langestraat, highlighting the challenges faced by the monastery in maintaining harmony with the local community.

The Decline of the Monastery

By the late 16th century, the number of nuns had dwindled significantly. In 1593, only four nuns remained: Mary Carsen, Aeltje Brants, and Barbara Everts. The last nun, Barbara Everts, was buried in the choir of the Grote Kerk in 1611, marking the end of an era for the Catharinaklooster. The street names Bagijnenstraat, Kloosterstraat, Catharinastraat, de Pastorie, and Verlaat still serve as reminders of the monastery's historical presence.

The Transformation During the Reformation

The Reformation brought significant changes to the Catharinaklooster. The monastery complex, which included the nuns' residence, a hospital, a large barn, a brewery, and a shoemaker's workshop, was sold. During the French period, the Gelderse government acquired the monastery, leaving it vacant for years. The devastating plague epidemic led to the establishment of a fund by prominent Nijkerk residents to care for the many orphans left behind. This fund facilitated the purchase of the St. Catharinaklooster on September 2, 1637, for 6,200 guilders, transforming it into a Reformed orphanage.

A year later, the house at the corner of Catharinastraat and Verlaat was officially transferred to the orphanage. The orphanage was governed by six overseers who managed its operations. The former nuns' residence became known as the Second Parsonage, housing over thirty Reformed ministers over the years. Among its notable residents was Gerardus Kuypers, known for his role in the Nijkerkse beroeringen. The building also served as a temporary jail, with a cellar used to detain criminals.

A New Chapter as a Private Residence

In the 20th century, the building at Catharinastraat 3 transitioned into private ownership. The Schueler family, one of the first lay owners, renovated the property into a residence after 1940. The Second Parsonage remains privately owned and continues to be used by a church congregation. A keystone above the Breede Beek, dating back to 1754, features a carved lion from the city of Nijkerk, a unique detail that distinguishes it from the lion on the city's coat of arms.

Exploring Catharinastraat 3 Today

Today, visitors to Catharinastraat 3 can appreciate the building's historical significance and architectural charm. The well-preserved structure offers a window into the past, allowing visitors to imagine the lives of the nuns who once walked its halls and the orphans who found refuge within its walls. The surrounding streets, with their evocative names, serve as a constant reminder of the building's rich history and the community it once served.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to explore the quaint streets of Nijkerk, a visit to Catharinastraat 3 promises to be a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on the city's past and the enduring legacy of the Catharinaklooster.