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.

The image above: A postcard of the Viskeperk in the Vischstraat. This picture shows the lively atmosphere of the former fish auction in Tholen where fish is auctioned off in the perk ca. 1898-1901.

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.In ca.1595, we still clearly see two fish banks inscribed on the site of the Viskeperk (at no.2).

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.

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.

Harbourmaster Frans Zoeteweij (right), and Siem Bestman of water sports association de Kogge (left), with the catch after a fishing competition in 1989. The proceeds were sold to the public, while the historic Viskeperk, then recently restored, was put back into full use for entertaining activities. The harbour master praises the eel caught during the competition (translation from an article in the local newspaper Eendrachtbode, 8 June 1989).

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.

The eastern part of Vischstraat in Tholen, circa 1910. On the left, Lanting’s timber shop in a dilapidated monumental building, next to it Johannes van Dijk’s smithy. At the front right the Viskeperk, the former fish auction. At the bottom of the end gable on the right, a remnant of the old water barrier from the time of the old harbour is visible.