A beautiful traditional farmhouse
Zwaantje Hans-Stokman’s Hof is a beautifully-restored traditional Saxon farmhouse in Schoonebeek in the south of Drenthe. Zwaantje Hans, one of the last remaining members of the family who lived in the farmhouse, has created a tourist attraction here by displaying the old-fashioned art of ‘sand-strewing’.
Sand carpet
In the past, sand carpets were a common sight in many farmhouses in the province of Drenthe. Up until the beginning of the last century, farmers here did not have carpets and floor-coverings. Floors in the various rooms consisted of large pieces of Bentheim sandstone and blue and red tiles. Once a week the farmer’s wife would decorate one of the bare floors with fine sand to make a ‘sand carpet’. In this way she could display her artistic talent. All kinds of figures were spread out to form a complete patterned carpet, a real work of art. The farmhouse kitchen then looked its Sunday best.
Tradition
People in Schoonebeek have continued to honour this traditional custom up to the present day. In this ‘sand-strewn’ farmhouse you can see the skill which it requires and even try it yourself. The farmhouse is also home to a permanent exhibition about the oil production that was very important for this area.
The oil exhibit in the rear of the farmhouse
Opening times
April to September from 13:00 to 17:00
Throughout the year by appointment
Closed Sunday and Monday
