The horse market is back at the Dwingelermarkt in Dwingeloo. Especially for the 300th anniversary, the horses and ponies returned to the Brink, where there used to be a lot of trading by hand. The market has been held since 1725 and was known for years as a large animal market with sheep, cows and horses. In recent years, however, the animals disappeared from the picture and only the commodity market remained.
“That is really part of the Dwingelermarkt,” says Lisette Bel of the foundation board. “That action is a part of tradition and a sight from the past.” After the anniversary edition, a new board took office, which would like to preserve the horse market. However, that tradition actually needs to be rebuilt.
Of the two larger horse traders, one ultimately failed to attend. Jaap Aatzmann was there, with 22 ponies. “This used to be a huge market. There were hundreds of horses and ponies here,” he says. It’s not really busy yet. “The organization asked us to participate, so we do. But it is quiet, very quiet.”
According to Aatzmann, competition is lurking. For example, in two weeks there will be a horse market in Heerenveen. “More buyers come there, so the chance of a sale is greater.” Still, he thinks it is important to persevere. “Once such a market has disappeared, it is difficult to get it back. The most important thing is that the organization continues to survive.”
The new board also has confidence in the future of the horse market, says Bel. “It is something unique. And with all the activities surrounding it, you really complete the atmosphere of such a traditional market.”
At the end of the morning, Aatzmann still manages to sell a pony. There was no more bargaining, but according to the buyer it was still a good deal. The ‘E-pony’ is delivered to your home the next day.
