Dik Trom's history

You've probably heard of him: Dik Trom is the great hero in the eponymous series of adventurous children's books and a celebrity in Haarlemmermeer. The exciting stories in the Dik Trom series are written by the Dutch writer Johan Kieviet. Due to his special character, Dik Trom was an archetypal Dutch boy and, in addition to books, he also appeared on stage and in film. Read more quickly about this special child hero.
Sculpture Dik Tom on a donkey on Dik Tromplein Hoofddorp

The story of Dik Trom 

Like the writer Johan Kieviet, Dik Trom lives in Hoofddorp, Haarlemmermeer. Kieviet was born in 1858 in Hoofddorp. His father was a carpenter and came to live in Hoofddorp shortly after the reclamation. He became a teacher, first in Vijfhuizen and then in Lisse. Dik Trom's stories connect the elements of Kieviet's life as it really was in Hoofddorp in the 19th century. The first book 'From the life of Dik Trom' was published in 1891. Dik Trom's books were eventually filmed several times and plays were also published.

Dik Trom in Hoofddorp 

Hoofddorp plays an important role in Dik Trom's books. All stories take place here! The memories of the writer Johan Kieviet formed the basis for these children's books. You will soon notice this when you read the books. For example, Dik Trom went to the same school as Kievit, he lived on the Hoofdvaart just like Kieviet and, like the writer, he had a father who was a carpenter.

Dik Trom mosaic on a bench in Hoofddorp
The Dik Trom tennis hall in Hoofddorp

Statue of Dik Trom 

To honor this hero, there is of course a statue of Dik Trom in Hoofddorp. In 1973, the bronze statue by visual artist Nico Onkenhout was unveiled, and it still stands today. Dik Trom is often depicted backwards on a donkey in illustrations, which served as inspiration for the image. There is also a Dik Tromschool in Hoofddorp, named after the hero.

2 young winners of the Dik Trom award with figurine in hand

Dick Trump Award 


The municipality of Haarlemmermeer has created The Dik Trom Award. This award is a unique municipal award for young people up to the age of 24 from Haarlemmermeer who dedicate themselves in a special way to others, to the neighborhood or to a good cause. Think, for example, of collecting money for victims of a disaster and keeping their own neighborhood clean. 

Hidden arts

Discover the hidden art and culture in Hoofddorp during the cycling route. Like for example..
9,4 km
C. Hoofddorp
Mill the Firstling