Gezicht op de Hervormde Kerk te Midwolde 1897

This photographic print shows the Hervormde Kerk, or Reformed Church, in Midwolde, the Netherlands. Likely made in the late 19th or early 20th century, this image tells us about the institutional and cultural significance of the church in Dutch society. The Reformed Church was a dominant religious and social institution, particularly in rural areas. This photo, commissioned by Monumentenzorg, or the heritage services, shows a clear interest in preserving and documenting cultural heritage, reflecting a growing sense of national identity and history. The choice to document this church, and the way in which it has been documented, reflects a broader social and cultural valuing of religious heritage in the Netherlands. Historians can study sources such as local archives, church records, and contemporary accounts to better understand the place of the church in the community. By looking at how institutions like Monumentenzorg operate, we can better understand the social values that shaped the production and reception of this image.