The Canon of the Netherlands

In fifty windows, the Canon of the Netherlands takes you along the most important events, persons and objects that have made the Netherlands to what it is today. The Canon is the basis of the subject of history in primary and secondary education. An increasing number of museums are putting iconic highlights in the spotlight and organise special activities around the Canon. The Dutch Fortress Museum is part of the network of Canon Museum for the Canon windows of napoleon and King William I, with no less than three highlights.

Highlight 1: A fortified town

In 1811 Holland, which had been added to the French Empire a year earlier, was visited by Emperor Napoleon who wishes to inspect the fortifications. Accompanied by General Krayenhoff he came to Naarden and the Emperor was satisfied about the state of the fortress, with its six bastions and solid outworks. Since Napoleon’s visit the fortifications of Naarden have hardly been changed, which gives us a good insight into warfare during the French reign. The Dutch Fortress Museum as a location therefore dovetails with the Canon window of Napoleon.

Highlight 2: Smuggled note

From 17 November 1813 to 112 May 1814 the newly founded Dutch army under the command of General Krayenhoff besieged the French troops in Naarden Vesting. Around 2,000 French soldiers and citizens were waiting inside the fortress walls to be relieved by the French army, which would never arrive. Only after Napoleon had been sent into exile on Elba, the French troops surrender. During the siege sending a note through carrier pigeons is the only possibility to communicate with the outside world. This note of Nancy to Angelique gives us an insight into the difficult circumstances in which the besieged lived. This note also dovetails with the Canon window of Napoleon.

Highlight 3: Grand Cross of the Military Order of William

On 12 May 1823 Inspector General of Fortifications Krayenhoff is given the Grand Cross of the Military Order of William by Kin William I in the Royal Palace in Brussels. Cornelis Baron Krayenhoff (1758-1840), who also served under King Louis Napoleon and Emperor Napoleon, is the initiator of the New Dutch Waterline and is given this highest military award for the completion of fortifications on the southern border. This very special Grand Cross of the Military Order of William fits in with the Canon window of King William I.