Crematie is the Dutch word for cremation.
In 1874, a group of Dutch people organized a foundation for the introduction of corpse burning in the Netherlands. They lobbied to allow cremation, which was forbidden by law. Their efforts led to the building of the first crematorium in 1913 and the first cremation took place in July 1914. Technically, this was still illegal, since it would take until 1955 for the law to be changed.
Cremation of an unknown person, 1917. Credits: collection Nationaal Archief (Public Domain)
Film about the first crematorium
This film, created by the foundation for the introduction of corpse burning in 1925, promotes cremation.
Source
“In Europa+ 1925: Driehuis/Westerveld – het eerste crematorium van Nederland,” NPO Geschiedenis (http://www.npogeschiedenis.nl/nieuws/2008/januari/In-Europa-1925-Driehuis-Westerveld-het-eerste-crematorium-van-Nederland.html : published 3 January 2008).
About Yvette Hoitink
