During the 19th century, thousands of people left the Achterhoek region to build a new life in the United States. Many residents departed from Aalten as well. What began as a religiously motivated exodus grew into a broader emigration movement that continued well into the 20th century. On this page, you will find stories by and about these emigrants, as well as a list of emigrants from Aalten.
A mother remained faithful to her birthplace
American corporal visits Aalten in 1953 and speaks Achterhoeks.
Amsterdam Pier, Sheboygan
Once an important transshipment point for wood, agricultural products and fish.
Emigration from Aalten to America
In the 19th century, almost a third of the population of the Achterhoek emigrated to
Miss te Slaa has not forgotten the Netherlands after 42 years in the U.S.
Wilhelmina te Slaa (1899–1981) left for the US in 1911.
Peak became Pike in the US
How an emigrant from Bredevoort laid the foundation for a successful construction company in the
Pioneers in Wisconsin – Heebink
About the Heebink family from Aalten, their journey and how they fared in America.
Pioneers in Wisconsin – Hilbelink
Gerrit Jan and Garritjen Hilbelink emigrated to Wisconsin in 1847.
The Phoenix Disaster (1847)
At the end of 1847, dozens of residents from Oud-Aalten perished on Lake Michigan.
The sailing ship ‘Hector’ (1846)
In 1846, dozens of emigrants from Aalten left for America on this ship.
The sailing ship ‘Kath Jackson’ (1847)
In 1847, 131 emigrants from Aalten left for America on this ship.
The sailing ship ‘Leila’ (1854)
In 1854, about 120 emigrants from Aalten left for America on this ship.
The steamship ‘Nestorian’ (1869)
In 1869, more than 100 emigrants from Aalten left for America on this ship.
