Interview: Mathieu Willemsen, Curator of the Dutch National Military Museum

Published on May 24, 2018
Duration: 5:30

This video explores the unique firearms collection at the Dutch National Military Museum, highlighting its role as a testing ground for European arms manufacturers. Curator Mathieu Willemsen discusses the museum's extensive experimental firearms, its historical significance, and specific notable pieces like the Bergmann-Mauser conversion and 17th-century Willem II pistols. The collection's strength lies in its 19th-century experimental arms, showcasing a wide array of designs and innovations.

Quick Summary

The Dutch National Military Museum's firearms collection is unique due to the Netherlands' historical role as a testing ground for European arms manufacturers. It houses a significant number of experimental firearms, especially from the 19th century, including unique conversions and rare 17th-century pistols, making it a vital resource for firearms history.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Forgotten Weapons & Guest
  2. 00:11Dutch National Military Museum Overview
  3. 00:49Curator's Book: Trial and Experiment
  4. 01:00Netherlands as Arms Testing Ground
  5. 01:45Bergmann-Mauser Conversion Example
  6. 02:01European Experimental Firearms
  7. 02:24Museum Display vs. Reserve Collection
  8. 03:03Strength in 19th Century Firearms
  9. 03:09Museum History & Bombing Incident
  10. 03:38Museum Location and Scope
  11. 03:54Curator's Path to Role
  12. 04:16Guns as Art
  13. 04:27Unique 17th Century Pistols
  14. 04:47Arms Trade and Dutch Economy
  15. 05:02Visiting the Museum

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Dutch National Military Museum's firearms collection unique?

The collection is unique because the Netherlands historically lacked major arms manufacturers, leading it to test and acquire a wide variety of experimental firearms from European nations. This resulted in a significant number of 'trial and experiment' pieces, particularly from the 19th century, making it a key resource for understanding firearms development.

What types of experimental firearms are featured in the Dutch National Military Museum's collection?

The museum's collection includes a diverse range of experimental firearms from various European countries, such as Bergmann rifles converted to Mauser systems, Austrian Mannlicher conversions, and French conversions. They also house unique 17th-century restocked pistols, with a notable strength in 19th-century experimental arms.

Can the public access the entire firearms collection at the Dutch National Military Museum?

No, only a portion of the collection is on public display (around 20-30 firearms). The majority is held in the reserve collection, which is not open to the public but is accessible to serious researchers by appointment.

What is the significance of the 19th-century firearms in the museum's collection?

The 19th-century experimental firearms are a particular strength of the Dutch National Military Museum's collection, with Curator Mathieu Willemsen stating it is considered one of the best in Europe. These pieces showcase a wide array of innovative designs and testing conducted during that era.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →