Persfotobureau D. van der Veen photographed small and large events in the city and province of Groningen in the 1960s and 1970s. This section focuses on a weekly image from the collection of more than 500,000 negatives. Today: Plantsoenloop.
The grass of the Noorderplantsoen is sung by many students. The park is of great significance to young and old, Stadjer and student. In 1971 the park was designated as a national monument because of its historical and cultural value.
Runners who participate in the annual Plantsoenloop, the oldest running competition in Groningen, can literally feel the history under their running shoes. The ponds, paths and lawns are designed in English landscape style by garden and landscape architect Hendrik Copijn. The 20-hectare park was opened in 1880 in its current form. The edges and protruding corners next to the water are a reminder of the 17th-century city walls.
The twelfth edition of the Plantsoenloop in 1969 can also be called historic. In that year, women and girls participate for the first time. Although in the last login call in the Groninger Family messenger states that it concerns ‘the weaker sex’ and that it is ‘only’ a performance run, more than 150 women sign up. Judging by the firm steps of the ladies, they are certainly not inferior to the men!
This section is a collaboration with the Groningen Archives. Want to participate in The image of Groningen? Visit www.groningerarchieven.nl. Comment? [email protected]