Famiri/Family: Tracing Surinamese-Amsterdam Family History

The exhibition Famiri/Family, Surinamese-Amsterdam stories from 1611 onwards at the Stadsarchief Amsterdam and National Archives in Paramaribo, Suriname, showcases the heritage connection between Suriname and Amsterdam, by telling the stories of families that have a history in both Amsterdam and Suriname.

For this exhibition, the archives have collected photographs, documents, and personal stories to explore the history of Surinamese-Amsterdamse and Amsterdamse-Surinamese families. One of the stories told is that of the Trowidjojo sisters from Java, who passed through Amsterdam when travelling from Indonesia to Suriname in 1900 to work there as indentured labourers. By placing untold histories centre stage and highlighting previously unexplored aspects of history from a fresh perspective, Famiri/Family aims to contribute to the commemoration of the abolition of slavery from July 2023 to July 2024.

Complementing the exhibition, both archives offer an array of activities. In Amsterdam, visitors are invited to participate in a family-friendly afternoon at the exhibit, with guided tours and activities for kids. Meanwhile, in Paramaribo, there will be a storytelling marathon and a bazaar with traditional meals when the exhibition comes to a close in October. Both archives also invite anyone interested in exploring their own family histories to visit and explore their databases to unravel more untold stories.

Famiri/Family can be seen until 14 January at Stadsarchief Amsterdam and 31 October at the National Archives in Paramaribo, Suriname. There are audio tours available in both Dutch and Sranantongo, plus visitors can watch a short, but impactful, documentary on the Surinamese Frijmersum family. Admission is free and open to all. So, don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the rich familial connections between Suriname and Amsterdam.

The collaboration between Stadsarchief Amsterdam and National Archives Suriname received support from the International Heritage Cooperation Matching Fund.