Distinctive "Dinxperwick" place-name sign goes on NRW tour

The place-name sign "DINXPERWICK" is a unique piece of which the inhabitants of the districts of Suderwick (city of Bocholt, Germany) and Dinxperlo (municipality of Aalten, Netherlands) are particularly proud. The sign, a play on words from the two place names, shows on the one hand the close, neighbourly bond between the people, and on the other hand it is a symbol of cross-border, exemplary commitment in Europe at municipal level.

The state government thinks that this idea should also inspire others. That is why it is now sending the place-name sign from Dinxperlo and Suderwick on a NRW-wide tour. It is part of a mobile exhibition entitled "MuseumMobil. We are looking for NRW history". The exhibition, organised by the state, can be seen at the "kult" museum in Vreden until 2 April 2023.

Dr. Ansgar Hörster, in his function as cultural councillor of the district of Borken, presented the plaque to the museum foundation at the exhibition opening in Vreden on 23 March. Afterwards, the exhibition, including the "Dinxperwick" sign and other exhibits, will travel on to Herford.

The "Dinxperwick" place-name sign, designed by Joop van Reken and developed by committed citizens, stood for many years on the border road "Brückendeich". It is a visible sign of the overcoming of national borders and stands for the numerous activities that take place in the area of the former German-Dutch border.

Since the "House of History North Rhine-Westphalia" has the original place-name sign on display, the citizens involved in Dinxperwick, Joop van Reeken, Johannes Hoven, Freek Diersen, Bertie Bussink, took down the existing sign in a joint action and handed it over to the representative of the district, Ulrike Brandt. In the meantime, the sign has already been replaced by a new one, financed by the district of Borken.