Pioneering, discovering, experimenting, engaging in adventures ... these are things that are inseparable from 'Make It Happen'. Looking for new horizons and taking new roads is certainly not new. Following dreams and engaging in adventures has long been part of the city and DNA of Rotterdam.
Pilgrim Fathers
Consider, for example, the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers from Rotterdam in 1620. You need to have a good dose of courage to leave your familiar environment behind, to step on a ship and to move to a new future in another country. The Pilgrim Fathers were the first in 1620 to take the adventurous journey to the new country (America), departing from Delfshaven on the Speedwell - later followed by the Mayflower. This was the historic starting point for people who began their pursuit of a better future in Rotterdam.
The now famous Rotterdam icons Holland America Line, ss Rotterdam and Hotel New York are all directly linked to this history. For those who want to find out more about this: a special exhibition will be on show in Museum Rotterdam until 1 November 2018. The exhibition is named 'Hotel New York, Story of Pioneers'. It takes a closer look at these often personal stories.
New views and adventures
The entire Kop van Zuid with the Wilhelminapier, Hotel New York and the ss Rotterdam together form a story that is full of innovation, pioneering and taking different roads. They are all special places where you can still experience the same feeling today as all those people who sought adventure through the ages. Stand at the quay, close your eyes, smell the salt of the sea ... in your mind you make the big crossing, discover new vistas and experience your adventures.
