The Viskeperk
Location and origin
The little square at the end of the Visstraat – near the Kaai where the original harbour was located – has been used for selling fish since the Middle Ages. As early as 1462, Duke Philips de Goede gave permission for the so-called ‘innegeld’ at the fish auction to benefit the city. In 1472, this right was in turn leased to Cornelis Hughenzn for 3 pounds and 11 shillings and in 1578 to Christiaen Dirickszn for 8 pounds a year. This marked the beginning of an organised fish trade in Tholen.
Sales took place at the ‘vischmert’ where the fish were judged by the inspectors, and sales were organised by the ‘inneman’. This system remained in use until the Second World War.
Rules and traditions
The fish market had strict rules. For example, Article 161 of a medieval police regulation stipulated that all fish landed had to be inspected. Moreover, fish could only be traded at the market. The ‘inneman’ took care of the selling of the fish, while two inspectors appointed by the city council monitored the quality. Spoiled fish had to be thrown back into the harbour. Violation of the rules could result in fines, the proceeds of which went partly to the poor and partly to the inspectors.
From banks to fishperk
In the 16th century, the layout of the market consisted of two fish banks in an open square. Around 1590, the space was paved with cobblestones from the nearby battered and later completely drowned town of Reymerswael. An enclosure was added in the 17th century: the Viskeperk. Water from the central well kept the market clean, while the fence kept trade clear and orderly.
Attendance, decay and recovery
The Viskeperk remained in use until World War II. After that, the site fell into decay. In 1981, the ‘Huis and Heem’ association breathed new life into this historic site. The original rusty metal posts were replaced with natural stone ones, preserving the look of the original fishperk.
Current significance
A lot in its surroundings has disappeared or changed, however, this place with a rich maritime history has remained. The Viskeperk symbolises a centuries-old tradition of fishing, trade, cooperation and concern for quality.
