Princess Laurentien of the Netherlands

What people wore

Modernization of Dutch religious habits

Between 1950 and 1970, many Dutch religious congregations modernized their habits, eventually transitioning to civilian clothing to better connect with society. These changes were often introduced on the feast day of the congregation's patron saint.

Getting around

The rise of roadside picnicking

As car ownership exploded, a new phenomenon called bermtoerisme emerged where people used road verges for recreational stops and picnics while watching passing traffic.

At the table

Time spent on meal preparation in 1964

In 1964, a Dutch housewife spent on average 515 minutes per day on household tasks, with 150 minutes specifically dedicated to meal preparation.

Music

Brass Bands in Local Community Life

Brass bands were essential for community identity, performing at important village celebrations like First Communion, Saint Nicholas Day, and Queen's Day. They also acted as local music schools for villages before professional music schools were widely available.

Daily life

Crowded classrooms and school coal stoves

Classes were often crowded, with some teachers managing up to 52 students in a single room, and children were sometimes asked to help teachers start the coal stove in winter.

What it cost

Work time required for milk purchase

In 1953, an industrial worker had to work eleven minutes to afford a liter of milk, whereas by 1993, that time had decreased to only four minutes.