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Object of the Month – July 2025
A Colorful Tile Full of Hope
On July 12, 1943, Marijke Quist was born. Her arrival was commemorated on a cheerfully painted birth tile bearing her name, birth date, weight, and place of birth: Steenbergen. But the tile tells more than just the facts—it serves as a joyful symbol of new life in a time of war and uncertainty. The stork, ornamental lettering, and clock were lovingly hand-painted, giving the tile a warm and personal touch.
Zeeland in the Background
Although Marijke was born in North Brabant, the roots of her story lie in Zeeland. Her parents, Adriana de Ruijter and Abraham Quist, lived in Sint Philipsland during the Second World War. Due to the dangers and shortages in the region, they travelled to nearby Steenbergen for the birth—seeking peace and medical care with the convent sisters.
A Hot Water Bottle with a Message
Alongside the tile, Marijke also received a unique hot water bottle, crafted from a spent artillery shell casing. A family member from Zeeland carefully repurposed it into a warmer to protect the child from the cold. The contrast between the military metal and the domestic function of the bottle highlights the resilience and creativity of families during wartime.