De historie van Ommen

Welcome to 'Umme'. For with this name it all started (first mention in 1133). Ommen, a Hanseatic town and municipality with a rich past, situated on the fertile banks of the Vecht, was an important link in a trading network that extended to the German county of Hesse. The historic Hessenweg, which still exists, is a lasting reminder of this period of lively trade and fertile land.

In the year 1248, Ommen was awarded city rights by Bishop Otto III of Utrecht, a privilege that was unique in the region at the time. Although the original deed no longer exists, there is still copy that confirms this important moment in Ommen's history. Bishop Otto III, who was not only an ecclesiastical leader but also ruled Overijssel as lord of the land, wanted to ensure peace in this region. City rights also served as a strategic move to gain support against the rebellious Drents. This was not only advantageous to the bishop, but also offered protection and many benefits to the Ommen people themselves.

With the acquisition of civil rights, residents of Ommen could live safely within the city walls, trade and enjoy various privileges such as the use of the Vecht Bridge and the grazing of cattle on common pastures. They could also elect their own administrators, something the inhabitants greatly appreciated. However, these rights came with responsibilities. The citizens of Ommen were required to stand guard and defend the town in times of need. It is this fusion of rights and duties that has shaped our community over the centuries into what it is today: a prosperous and close-knit welcoming community that takes pride in its heritage.

Of course, this is only a piece of history about the very beginning. Ommen has much more history of which we are very proud. The natural beauty of Ommen, with a third of the municipality's area covered by forest and heathland, has led to the development of tourism, especially thanks to the early involvement of the Boy Scouts. The landscape is considered the most beautiful and varied in Overijssel. From lush forests, moors, estates, the agricultural landscape and picturesque hamlets and a very cozy town.

Historically, Ommen plays an important role, with highlights such as the Sterkampen in the 1930s and the visit of Jiddu Krishnamurti, which put the town on the map worldwide. Baron van Pallandt's generosity in opening up his Eerde estate to the Boy Scouts laid the foundation for more than a century of scouting activities in Ommen, with Eerde Estate and Gilwell Ada's Hoeve taking center stage. Today, the entire municipality of Ommen remains a well-known and beloved destination for vacationers and culture enthusiasts.