Royal Delft presents exhibition: Industry along the Schie

On March 12, 2025, Mayor Marja van Bijsterveldt will officially open the new exhibition Industry on the Schie: From Yeast to Delft Blue – Connected by Water. This exhibition highlights the industrial history of Delft and the crucial role of the Schie River as a connecting factor throughout the centuries. The exhibition at the Royal Delft Museum is a collaboration with the province of South Holland, TU Delft Hortus Botanicus, Expertise Platform Water, Erfgoed Delft, and Royal Delft – it can be visited until August 17, 2025.

The Schie: A Symbol of Delft Innovation

The Schie played an important role in the economic and social development of Delft. From medieval breweries to the world-famous pottery factories and the innovative factories of Van Marken, the river facilitated trade, transport, and growth. To this day, the Schie remains a symbol of Delft innovation.

Delft: From Industrial City to Knowledge City

The exhibition brings together 126 objects from ten lenders. The oldest object, a beer mug from around 1350, showcases the early industry, while the newest objects represent contemporary innovation projects that are still in development in 2025. The exhibition illustrates how Delft transformed from an industrial city to a knowledge city.

Connecting Stories: ‘The Factory for All, All for the Factory’

A unique part of the exhibition is the oral history project by Erfgoed Delft. Personal stories of former factory workers have been recorded, offering a human perspective on industrial heritage. For the first time, the histories of various Delft companies are brought together, leading to surprising cross-pollinations.

Lectures, Tours & More

In addition to the exhibition, there will be an extensive program of side events in collaboration with partners and Delft Marketing. This includes lectures by experts, exclusive tours, and walks along industrial heritage sites, allowing visitors to experience the history and impact of the Schie on the city even more deeply.

Visitor Information

Period: March 13 – August 17, 2025
Location: Royal Delft Museum, Rotterdamseweg 196, Delft
Tickets & Information: museum.royaldelft.com

More Information and Contact

For questions, more information, and/or images, please contact:
Saskia Wildschut
06 3038 5732
s.wildschut@royaldelft.com