Many of the historic spots that Vincent van Gogh would have visited during his time in Etten, Netherlands have since disappeared such as the old rectory, the windmill at Roosendaalseweg, the pollard-willows at the Leursestraatje, and the moor. However, there are still three locations where Van Gogh is believed to have sketched, that can be seen today as you take a walk in his steps.
Stationsstraat is a side street near the market that was called The Leursestraatje in Van Gogh’s time. He would walk along this street when he went to the station as well as on his way to work. Van Gogh would regularly visit the Kaufman family house on this street which offered a view of the Catholic Saint Lambert church.
The Protestant church, or Dutch Reformed Church, is now used as a council chamber for the town of Etten-Leur.
The Moeierboom is a large linden tree which dates back to the late 17th or early 18th century. The tree resembles an umbrella with horizontal branches which are supported by a metal scaffold. It is believed Van Gogh drew this tree in 1881, others believe that the tree in Van Gogh’s drawing is one situated in an orchard. Either way, the Moerierboom would have been enjoyed by Van Gogh in his time and can still be enjoyed by Etten-Leur visitors today.
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Other Etten-Leur locations to visit:
Near the old town hall is a statue of Vincent van Gogh erected on the 100th anniversary of his death by Hein Vree.
An old sexton house at the market in Etten is home to a Vincent van Gogh Information Center which offers a film titled, Vincent van Gogh, the sower of Etten. The Center also offers guided walkthroughs of the center. Etten also has a Van Gogh Shop and is host to an annual event titled, Van Gogh Lives! which is a 10 day art event each April.