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Object of the Month: July 2024
Rediscovered in Steenbergen
We have an intriguing piece of history in our collection: the barrel of a Sturmgeschütz (StuG) III, a mechanized gun from World War II. This particular part is connected to a story in the Steenbergen region.
The Sturmgeschütz III was a significant weapon during World War II. In the fall of 1944, five of these tanks became stranded near Steenbergen. Due to the strategic situation and the impossibility of transporting the tanks across the Steenbergse Vliet, the German paratroopers decided to destroy the tanks to prevent them from falling into enemy hands.
Post-War Repurposing
After the destruction of one of the Sturmgeschütz tanks on a farm driveway, the barrel was repurposed. This repurposing reflects the ingenuity of the post-war period. The barrel was used as a protective measure to prevent tractors from colliding with a diesel tank.
From Farmyard to Museum
Until recently (winter 2024), the barrel was still on the farmyard. After visiting our museum, the farmer decided to donate it to the Liberation Museum. Our volunteers have carefully conserved the piece, and it now has a place next to the display that covers the battles on the Brabantse Wal. This component of the Sturmgeschütz III provides a tangible connection to the events and strategic decisions of World War II in the Steenbergen region.