Purpose

Way back in 1954, Zadkine's poignant life-sized statue "The City Destroyed" was the Rotterdam landmark. Reconstruction from WWII was well under way. Caltex Oil was building a refinery in what is now the Botlek, bringing in U.S. personnel to set it up. Building was going on all over the city to meet the housing demand. There was a U.S. Consulate in the center of town, located above a shoeshop. American women who had married Dutchmen had moved to Holland. Young wives stayed at home with the children in those days.

The American Women's Club of the Hague received a resignation from one of its Rotterdam members. Without a car, she was no longer able to attend meetings now that she had a baby. Word was passed to one of their active members, the Rotterdam Vice-Consul's wife, a good organizer. Here was an opportunity to get people together in Rotterdam. At her invitation, a group of Americans got together at the Vice-Consul's apartment on the Pieter de Hoochweg. Every young woman was pleasantly surprised to find so many others who hardly knew anyone except their Dutch neighbor. Friendships were bonded that very afternoon, and they resolved to meet again. "May I bring my Dutch neighbor?" someone asked, "I can always call on her when I don't know where to find things here."

The small group started to meet once a month at each other's homes. Dutch friends who were invited provided a welcome link to the new environment. One or two offered to give Dutch lessons. They became well-attended. Identity was established when someone came up with the appropriate name. The club was indeed an anchor for Americans and for Dutch members as it was a "tie" to things American. America was well-respected because of its part in the liberation and through the Marshall Plan for the reconstruction of Europe.

There was work ahead for the young club. Volunteers became members of the Steering Committee, their duties written up in a constitution. Financial contributions to put out a monthly newsletter became modest dues. The club came of age. Although perhaps not strictly necessary, approval was politely requested of the American Consul General.

"You have my blessing," the Consul Smiled.

— Sandra Wepster