In 1942, twelve Jewish Rodgers were deported to Auschwitz extermination camp. Only one of them returned. Today, after the unveiling had been postponed several times, the monument by artist Mariet Schedler was ‘transferred’ to the Noordenveld municipality.
80 years after NSB mayor Hendrik Roelof Bruininga approved the transport of ‘his’ inhabitants to Auschwitz, Reina Oudcomfort stands with tears in her eyes at the monument ‘Departure point’. Her father’s brother, Markus Oudcomfort, was deported here in 1942, among others. It does not leave Reina – who came especially to Roden from Heiloo in North Holland – untouched.
The Holocaust plays an indelible part in the history of Reina and her relatives. In the past, the subject was often discussed and at a later age Reina went in search of the many relatives she lost during that time.
Although she kept track of which family members lost their lives during the persecution of the Jews, little else has been done with it, Reina says. “Then this is quite beautiful,” she says, pointing to the monument. “That there is something.”
The three meter high monument, framed with soaring cranes, has been given the name ‘Departure Point’. Not only because the twelve Jews from the village were put on transport from here, but also because it now adorns the so-called public transport hub of Roden. Buses run here every day, and travelers can relax on the benches around the monument.
‘From this point of departure, no one has to flee anymore, disappear, everyone can leave and come home safely’, the monument reads. Unlike 80 years ago, the point is one of hope, not despair.
Text continues below the photo.