Hendrikus NIJHUIS                                                                         

Maria SCHOENMAKER

Children

♂ nn Nijhuis

♀  Bernardus Johannes Antonius Nijhuis

♂  Johanna Gezina Maria Nijhuis 

♀  Johannes Frederikus Antonius Nijhuis

♀ nn Nijhuis

The Genealogical Story of Hendrik (Hennek) of Hackelis

Introduction:

Hendrikus (Hennek) Hackelis, born in the village of Borne, was a man of remarkable strength and character. Standing at approximately 1.60 meters with a stocky build, Hendrik was known for his physical strength, precision in his work, and his strong-willed personality. He lived a full life marked by personal conviction, devotion to his family, and a commitment to his community. His story reflects the history of his times and his family’s contributions to the local fabric of life.

Early Life and Education:

Hendrik was born into a modest family in Borne, where he attended the "Piet Mans Kolkstraat" primary school. This school was known for being "neutral," reflecting the village's lack of Roman Catholic schools at the time. Hendrik's early education was marked by his exceptional aptitude in mathematics, a subject he greatly enjoyed and excelled in. His teacher, Mr. Heijmerickx, likely saw in Hendrik the potential for great things, and his love for math was reflected in his outstanding academic results.

Family and Early Career:

As a young man, Hendrik contributed to the family’s livelihood by helping his father in the café and butchery business, "De Bonte Koe." However, the death of his father led to the closure of the family business, leaving Hendrik without a trade. Undeterred, he joined the firm Lederboer as an apprentice turner under the guidance of his mentor, Kobus Slot. Hendrik demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship and a keen eye for precision in his work.

When disaster struck and the factory burned down, Hendrik moved on to work for Machinefabriek Stork, a factory in nearby Hengelo. At Stork, Hendrik’s talent for his craft became even more apparent, as he was known for his meticulous attention to detail and the high quality of his work. Due to his expertise, he was often called upon for night shifts, where his precision continued to shine. His confidence in his abilities sometimes led to conflicts with his superiors, as Hendrik’s strong-willed nature made him unwilling to compromise on quality.

Hendrik worked at Stork until the age of 55, when economic difficulties forced him into early retirement. Despite his career being cut short, Hendrik’s craftsmanship and work ethic left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Marriage and Family:

At the age of 29, Hendrik married Maria Shoemaker, a woman from Hengelo. Despite his wife’s family having already built them a house in Hengelo, Hendrik’s stubbornness and independence led them to settle instead in Borne, at the corner of Grotestraat and Ennnekedijk. Maria, a deeply spiritual and humble woman, was the backbone of their household. Her strong faith and devotion to others shaped the family’s values. Maria was known for her generosity, often helping neighbors in need by providing food and comfort during difficult times. A devout worshipper of St. Anthony, Maria believed strongly in the power of prayer, especially in times of trouble.

Together, Hendrik and Maria raised a family. Their daughter Johanna, who would later take on the role of caretaker following Maria's untimely death, was a central figure in the household. Although Hendrik played an important role in the family, it was Maria who managed the home and cared for their children with quiet grace and unwavering faith.

Tragedy and Transition:

After 14 years of living on Grotestraat, Hendrik and Maria planned to move to the Oude Hengeloseweg. However, tragedy struck when Maria passed away suddenly on Thursday, September 27th, 1928, just days before the move. The cause of her death was likely pleurisy, a devastating illness that left Hendrik heartbroken and unable to cope with his loss.

Maria’s death marked a turning point in Hendrik’s life. For the first time, he found himself alone, without his wife to manage the household or care for the children. Hendrik, known for his quick temper and stubborn personality, struggled to adjust to his new life as a widower. In the absence of his wife, it was their 20-year-old daughter, Johanna, who assumed the role of mother and housekeeper, caring for her younger brothers and taking over the daily duties of the home.

Hobbies and Personal Life:

Despite his gruff exterior, Hendrik had a deep love for nature and a strong creative streak. He played trombone in the local orchestra, “Bornse Harmonie,” a hobby he continued throughout his life. However, his devotion to the orchestra was sometimes tested by his mood—at one point, he overslept and found the orchestra waiting at his door. Though he did not feel like playing that day, Hendrik joined them out of a sense of duty, showing the commitment that was a hallmark of his character.

Although Hendrik was known for his short temper and stubbornness, he was also a man of good character, deeply devoted to his family and friends. He took pride in his craftsmanship and his contributions to the community, and his children remember him as a loving father despite his sometimes difficult personality.

Later Years and Death:

In his later years, Hendrik’s health began to decline. At the age of 80, he contracted jaundice, from which he never fully recovered. Hendrik passed away on Thursday, January 9th, 1962, just three months shy of his 87th birthday. He died at his home on the Oude Hengeloseweg, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, and a life lived with integrity.

Legacy:

Hendrik's life story is a testament to the strength of character, perseverance, and the importance of family. He was a man who lived by his own rules, unafraid to challenge authority and fiercely independent. His contributions as a craftsman, his devotion to his children, and his love for his wife and community continue to be remembered by those who knew him.

Hendrik (Hennek of Hackelis) was not just a man of physical strength, but one of inner resolve, shaped by the trials and triumphs of his life. His legacy lives on through his children, his work, and the memory of a man who, despite his flaws, was deeply loved by those closest to him.

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