Gooi area – A.W. Stork, 1929

THE GOOI AREA IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD

“Kaart van het Gooi en Omstreken”, [Map of the Gooi and surroundings], colour lithograph designed by A.W. Stork and published by the A.N.W.B. Tourist Association of the Netherlands in 1929. Size (sheet): 59 × 35.3 cm.

The map shows how, during this period, the Gooise landscape was increasingly adapted for recreational use and became more easily accessible. New and improved roads, railways and tram lines connected towns and villages, while walking and cycling paths opened up the surrounding woodland and heathland. The Gooi is depicted not only as a residential and natural area, but also as a destination for excursions and day tourism.

Although the Gooi itself largely consists of higher sandy grounds, it is surrounded on all sides by low-lying polders. Especially in Eemland and along the River Vecht, the landscape is strongly shaped by water management, with straight parcels of land, ditches and canals, which on the map form a clear contrast with the heath and forested areas of the Gooise plateau.

At the bottom of the map are detailed town plans of Bussum and Hilversum, showing street names, parks and key amenities. These inset maps highlight the rapid urbanisation of Hilversum in particular, which in this period developed into a media centre and a commuter town, while Bussum is presented as a green residential area characterised by villa neighbourhoods.

Price: Euro 450,- (incl. frame)