Aletta Jacobs Room

In this room, you will learn more about Jacobs through many of her personal objects. Three of these objects have been included in the Canon of the Netherlands because they played an important role in the history of women’s emancipation.

The trunk

This cabin trunk accompanied Aletta Jacobs on her travels around the world in 1911 and 1912, as far as China and South Africa. Her trips with Carrie Chapman Catt, an influential American activist, were dedicated to the fight for women’s suffrage.

The uterus model by Fa. Auzoux

This model from 1844 was used to teach medical students about reproduction. During her studies, Aletta Jacobs became aware of how doctors treated women, and how little women knew about their own bodies. This model of a uterus is therefore a symbol of the understanding and power of the female body.

The desk

Aletta Jacobs must have written many of her books, articles and letters at this desk. She probably also met with patients here during her consultations as a general practitioner. The letter from J.R. Thorbecke from 1871, in which Aletta received permission to study medicine, is now on display on this desk.