Standbeeld Kornelis Willen Everwijn

Kees Everwijn: Cartwright and Conductor

Kornelis Willem (Kees) Everwijn was born on 7 November 1896 in Zonnemaire and passed away on 6 June 1979 in Rilland. He grew up in a musical family and built a career as a cartwright and carpenter. His workshop was located on the Ring in Zonnemaire, opposite his home. He specialized in making and repairing farm carts, working with blacksmith A. de Vos to craft the wheels. But Everwijn was not just a craftsman; he was also a passionate musician and one of the driving forces behind the musical life on Schouwen-Duiveland.

A Musical Family

Music played a major role in the Everwijn family. Kees’s father, Hendrik Jan Everwijn, was one of the founders of the Nut en Uitspanning harmony in 1873. The role of conductor stayed in the family for generations. H.J. Everwijn led the harmony from 1908 to 1922, followed by J.P. Everwijn until 1933. From 1935, Kees himself conducted the orchestra and remained at the helm of Nut en Uitspanning for 25 years. Around 1930, the harmony had about 35 members — all men, as women were not allowed to join at the time.

Conductor and Administrator

Kees Everwijn was not only a conductor but also deeply involved in the administration of Nut en Uitspanning. From 1924 to 1948, he held various board positions, including chairman from 1924 to 1934. Under his leadership, the harmony became a key musical pillar in the region. His passion for music and dedication to the harmony left a lasting mark on the cultural life of Zonnemaire.

This statue was donated by the Renesse Foundation.