Chr. Reformed Church

The Christian Reformed Church (Christelijk Gereformeerde Kerk) on Berkenhovenstraat in Aalten is a brick-built hall church, constructed in 1924 to a design by the Bredevoort architect B.H. Kolenbrander. The building replaced a smaller church from 1897, which stood closer to the street.

Although modest in size and set back slightly on the plot, the church stands out due to its refined details, such as the elegantly designed fanlights, the projecting corner piers, and the arched frieze on the front façade. Together with the adjacent former manse, the little church forms a characteristic ensemble in the street. Despite later modifications – including a modern extension and the loss of the original catechism room – the building has largely retained its authentic appearance.

History

The Christian Reformed Congregation in Aalten was instituted on 26 August 1897 as a continuation of the “Christian Reformed Congregation”. Initially, services were held in the homes of congregation members, but a simple small church was soon erected on the Kattenberg, seating approximately 90 people.

In 1900, the church acquired its first organ, a second-hand chamber organ purchased in Doesburg for 225 guilders. This was followed in 1924 by the construction of the current church on Berkenhovenstraat.

War Years

On 30 January 1944, German SS officers carried out a raid (razzia) in Aalten. Two churches were raided during the operation: the Westerkerk and the Christian Reformed Church. The occupying forces were intent on arresting young men and people in hiding (onderduikers) who were evading forced labour (Arbeitseinsatz) or who had failed to return from leave.

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Owners

Overview is incomplete.

Year	Plot	Owner	Description
			m²

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House Numbering

1900	1910	1934	1967
248	B294	B299	Berkenhovestraat 9