Zuiderzeestraatweg

The Zuiderzeestraatweg was, from the second quarter of the 19th century until deep into the 20th century, the most important land connection between the western Netherlands and the northeastern provinces. King William I ordered the construction of this strategic road between Amersfoort and Zwolle in 1825. The road is still largely intact and between Harderwijk and Hattemerbroek the original name has also been maintained. During the Hunger Winter, the strategic importance of the Zuiderzeestraatweg increased even further. From the end of September 1944, Seyss-Inquart prohibited all food transports to the western Netherlands. Rations in the cities quickly shrank, and when a very harsh winter broke out, many people began searching for food. First in their immediate surroundings, but soon further to the east and north of the country. The number of 'hunger trekkers' exceeds all comprehension. Research indicates that in Amsterdam about 62% of all households went on a hunger trek. It is estimated that around 50,000 people left their homes daily in search of food. According to estimates, about 200,000 people crossed the Old IJssel Bridge near Zwolle. Assuming a period of about 6 months, this amounts to an average of more than 1,000 people per day! On the short winter days, the crowds peaked in a relatively short time, as around four in the afternoon, it was time to look for shelter before darkness and the accompanying uncertainty of the night set in. For those who experienced it, the images are forever etched in their memory: a long procession of women, teenagers, and older men, cycling (on wooden rims), walking, or using handcarts, cargo bikes, or strollers, away from home for days in hopes of finding a bit of food. It resembled the Kalverstraat in the last days before Sinterklaas, it was so busy; only along the Zuiderzeestraatweg, poverty reigned supreme. Hunger trekkers traveled back and forth covering distances of more than 200 kilometers, all with an uncertain outcome. The Germans were always lurking, and at the Old IJssel Bridge, many literally and figuratively walked into the trap. Many fell victim to their poor condition; it is estimated that about 22,000 people perished during the hunger treks. Eyewitnesses saw them lying in cargo bikes, covered with straw and food.

IJsseldelta