Genuuje - Stories from Venlo's last working-class neighborhood - Paul Seelen

Genuuje. Stories from Venlo's last working-class neighborhood (2014) is a beautiful, nostalgic book by Venlo historian and author Paul Seelen. In this work, he delves deeply into the rich history and folk culture of the well-known Venlo district Genooi (in Venlo dialect: Genuuje).

Seelen, known for keeping local history alive, paints a warm and vivid portrait of a neighborhood with a unique character in this 120-page book.

What is the book about?

Genooi is often seen as Venlo's 'last true working-class neighborhood.' While other old working-class neighborhoods (such as the notorious slum 't Hetje in the city center) were completely demolished in the 1930s, Genooi retained its authentic working-class character much longer.

The book is a collection of historical facts, unique old photos, and especially many personal stories and anecdotes. Seelen delved deep into the archives for this, but primarily also spoke with the (former) residents of the neighborhood.