Colonial-style manor house

In the charming village of Oegstgeest, nestled in the province of South Holland, stands a magnificent testament to the past: the Colonial-style manor house, locally known as Rhijngeest: hoofdgebouw. This splendid estate, a national monument, is a beacon of history, architectural beauty, and serene natural surroundings. A visit to this manor house is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the Dutch elite and the evolving architectural trends over centuries.

The Historical Tapestry of the Colonial-style Manor House

The origins of the Colonial-style manor house trace back to the early 18th century. Initially, a humble farm occupied this site. Around 1720, a member of the Van der Meer family transformed the farm into a grand estate named Overgeest. This transformation marked the beginning of the manor's illustrious history. Overgeest exchanged hands in 1741, and in 1764, it was acquired by Hendrik Pieter Huighens from Leiden. By this time, the estate had already adopted the name Rhijngeest, as documented in the sale deed.

In 1775, Johannis Hoppesteyn became the new owner of Rhijngeest. Upon his death in 1806, his nephew Gijbert Johan Hoppesteyn inherited the estate. Gijbert, a resident of Leiden, used Rhijngeest as a summer retreat until his passing in 1832. The manor house's history is a rich tapestry of ownership, reflecting the changing fortunes and tastes of its successive proprietors.

A Grand Transformation

A significant transformation of the Colonial-style manor house occurred around 1840 under the ownership of Adriaan Leonard van Heteren Gevers. Adriaan, whose brother owned the nearby castle Endegeest, undertook extensive renovations that reshaped the estate's appearance and functionality. The original 1720 structure was incorporated into a new design, featuring a large central block flanked by two lower wings. A veranda with a balcony, supported by cast-iron columns, added a touch of elegance and grandeur.

The manor house's distinctive overhanging roof and ground-reaching terrace and balcony doors are hallmarks of the Indonesian style, reflecting the colonial influences of the period. The western clock tower, adorned with a bell inscribed with Erven Alewijn Crombosch 1766, adds a charming historical detail to the estate.

One of the manor's unique features is the winter garden on the south side, a conservatory designed to shelter tropical palms during the colder months. This addition underscores the estate's blend of practicality and luxury, catering to the whims of its affluent owners.

From Manor House to Sanatorium

The late 19th century brought a new chapter to Rhijngeest's history. In 1895, jonkheer Leonard Adrien Charles Gevers inherited both Rhijngeest and Endegeest. He sold Endegeest to the municipality of Leiden in 1895, followed by Rhijngeest in 1899. The manor house was repurposed as part of the psychiatric institution Rhijngeest, later renamed the Jelgersmakliniek. The house itself was adapted to accommodate female patients, undergoing further modifications to serve as a first-class sanatorium.

A Return to Private Ownership

In 1987, the Colonial-style manor house returned to private hands. A comprehensive restoration ensued, converting the manor into a residence and transforming the coach house into an office space. The estate's park, a verdant expanse with a rich history of its own, was opened to the public. The former Jelgersmakliniek building, dating back to around 1900, found new life as the town hall of Oegstgeest.

The Architectural Splendor

The Colonial-style manor house is a marvel of architectural design. The white-plastered mansion, with its two-story central block and lower side wings, exudes an air of stately elegance. The veranda and balcony, framed by cast-iron columns, offer a picturesque view of the surrounding park. The overhanging roof not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose, providing shelter for the balcony below.

The coach house, built around 1720, is an integral part of the estate's history. Constructed from red brick and featuring a single story with a surrounding hipped roof, it originally housed the coachman and stables for the horses. Today, it stands as a testament to the estate's enduring legacy.

The Enchanting Park

The park surrounding the Colonial-style manor house is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. Initially laid out in the 18th century with formal, geometrically structured avenues, the park underwent a transformation in the mid-19th century. It was redesigned in the English landscape style, featuring winding paths and serene water features that invite leisurely strolls and moments of reflection.

The 19th-century vegetable gardens, once essential for the psychiatric institution's food supply, were largely abandoned after World War II. During the 1987 restoration, the remaining vegetable garden was converted into an ornamental garden, adding to the park's charm. A six-sided wooden garden gazebo, dating back to 1925, stands in the southeast corner, offering a quaint spot to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

The park is managed by the Zuid-Hollands Landschap, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations. Visitors can explore the lush greenery, admire the historical structures, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of this historical estate.

Conclusion

The Colonial-style manor house in Oegstgeest, with its rich history, architectural splendor, and enchanting park, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you are drawn by its storied past, its elegant design, or the tranquil beauty of its surroundings, a visit to this remarkable estate promises a memorable experience that will transport you to a bygone era of Dutch elegance and charm.