De Instuif - Jose and Joep Duckers

The book tells the story of De Instuif, a progressive youth initiative that emerged in the 1950s. At the time, leisure activities for young people were still heavily regulated, but De Instuif brought about change.

• The concept: It offered the emerging youth generation their own place to gather. Discussion evenings, lectures, and debates were organized on current social themes, traditionally concluding with a dance party.

• From Venlo to Blerick: The initiative proved to be a great success and was soon overflowing with young people. In 1956, the movement also spread to Blerick (under the umbrella of the Lambertus Parish), where it came to play a central role in the social life of the local youth.

The book is a rich collection of nostalgic memories, stories, anecdotes, and historical images. The authentic black-and-white photo on the cover (complete with the characteristic fashion, hairstyles, and glasses of that era) perfectly captures the atmosphere of the social evenings back then. A beautiful historical document for anyone who experienced this period in the Venlo/Blerick region or is interested in it.