The Schoonhoven Silver Factory H. Hooijkaas was for decades one of the most important and innovative players in the Dutch silver industry. Based in the historic Silver City of Schoonhoven, the company grew from a small-scale craft workshop into a thriving factory with approximately 150 employees. Today, Hooijkaas' unique creations have become beloved collectibles for enthusiasts of antique silver.
In this blog, we delve into the rich history of this iconic silver producer: from its establishment in the nineteenth century to the current status of their silverware.
The Founding and Early Prosperity (1874 – 1924)
The success story began in 1874, when silversmith Herbert Hooijkaas (1848-1926) opened his own workshop in Schoonhoven. He quickly managed to distinguish himself. Around 1890, the factory specialized in the electrolytic production of 'modern antique'. This consisted of silverware with detailed Old-Dutch scenes and historical designs, such as decorated silver boxes and miniatures.
When Herbert's sons, Willem and Andries Dirk, joined the company at the beginning of the twentieth century, the workshop officially transformed into the Schoonhovensche Zilverfabriek H. Hooijkaas.
Innovation and the Douwe Egberts Years (1924 – 1970)
After Herbert Hooijkaas retired in 1924, his son Willem took over leadership. Under his directorship, the company took a more modern path. In addition to traditional small and large silver items, the factory began collaborating with renowned designers such as Harm Ellens to produce sleeker, modern silverware.
During the Second World War, the factory faced an extreme shortage of raw materials. To keep the staff employed, Hooijkaas, in collaboration with other Schoonhoven smiths, temporarily switched to producing essential goods, such as spectacle frames.
After the war, the factory flourished like never before. From 1936, but particularly in the 50s and 60s, Hooijkaas launched a highly successful partnership with Douwe Egberts. Millions of Dutch people at the time saved up for the iconic silver-plated teaspoons (such as the well-known spoons featuring a small teapot) and tea caddies manufactured by Hooijkaas.
The End of an Era (1970 – 2008)
From the 70s onwards, the market changed. The demand for traditional silverware decreased and competition from abroad increased. After several acquisitions in the 90s (including by Zilverstad), the focus shifted from production to trade. Ultimately, the factory closed its doors for good on April 1, 2008, bringing an end to an important chapter of Schoonhoven's silver history after 134 years.
Although the factory no longer exists, the craftsmanship of Hooijkaas lives on. Today, Hooijkaas silverware is very popular among collectors and lovers of historical silver. Thanks to official Dutch silver hallmarks and the factory's specific 'HH' maker's mark, authentic pieces can still be accurately identified and dated.
In our selection at Zilverwebsite.nl, you will regularly encounter rare pieces from this Schoonhoven master. Consider, for example:
- Detailed miniatures: Such as the rare silver miniature street organ player from around 1950.
- Classic tableware: Including this beautifully crafted silver sugar sifter spoon from 1929, which testifies to the pure craftsmanship from the factory's heyday.
With a Hooijkaas object, you are acquiring not only a beautiful piece of silver but also a tangible piece of Dutch craft history.
