Vertrouwen

In 1903, the tjalk 'Vertrouwen' was built at the shipyard of the Van Zutphen brothers in Wilnis, North Holland. As the first iron ship constructed by this yard, it had a challenging start: upon launch, the ship was found to be “rivet-sick,” leaking in numerous places. After thorough repairs, however, it began its long life on the water.

Originally, the ship was named 'De Enige Zoon' (The Only Son), a tribute to its owner, Sinterniklaas, who grew up as the sole boy among seven sisters. In 1928, the tjalk was renamed 'Vertrouwen' (Trust) and lengthened by five meters. At the same time, a 22 hp Kromhout hot-bulb engine was installed by the shipyard, which had relocated to Vreeswijk and was renamed ‘De Klip.’

In 1939, the tjalk was acquired by skipper Geurt Fransicus van Dijk from Vreeswijk, who sailed it until 1950. During World War II, the 'Vertrouwen' narrowly escaped a tragic fate: a Spitfire attacked the ship, with a bullet piercing the cabin and Mrs. Van Dijk’s chair. Fortunately, she was not on board that day. The skipper managed to prevent further attacks by vigorously waving a Dutch flag, causing the pilot to abort his second run.

After the war, the ship changed hands and names several times, becoming known as 'Willy' while transporting sand and gravel across Dutch waterways. During this period, the deckhouse was raised, and a new Lister engine was installed, retaining some original components.

In the 1970s, the tjalk was saved from demolition by two passionate restorers who lovingly returned it to its original state. The extension was removed, the Kromhout engine fully restored, and significant forging and riveting work was carried out. One of the restorers even earned the nickname “Jelle Rivet.”

Although the tjalk later fell into disrepair again due to student habitation, it was given a new lease on life in 2003. The ship was equipped with new leeboards, a rudder, a fresh coat of paint, and a completely new rig, reclaiming its status as a “proud old lady.”

Since 2011, the 'Vertrouwen' has been powered by a modern 100 hp diesel engine and is cherished as private property, used for recreational sailing. A ship with a rich history and a soul that has stood the test of time.