Visitor Centre 'What Man Is Capable Of' May 1940 Vinkt

The reflection space commemorates the events of the May Days of 1940. It makes us reflect on the universal phenomenon of violence as a human possibility: 'What man is capable of'.

In Vinkt and Meigem a few incidents took place during the 18-Day Campaign. In 4 days, no fewer than 140 civilians were killed in Vinkt and Meigem. Of these, 86 civilians were executed by the Germans. 27 others died in the church of Meigem from an explosion. Different sources contradict each other about who actually killed the civilians in the church of Meigem. But the most likely is that Belgian artillery hit the church and 27 civilians were killed. About 30 others died during enemy and Belgian bombardments.

The reflection room highlights the 3 parties. There are also excavations (buttons, helmet,...) of Belgian soldiers who fell during the Battle of Vinkt. The display case also contains the watch of Adiel De Vlieger who saved his life; his watch stopped a piece of grenade. On the walls are some texts that impress:

"I was afraid that what my father had written about the murder of civilians was true." - W. Gedusch, son of a German officer

"I heard a cuckoo and thought: how is it possible that there are such terrible things here and the animals are not affected by it." - H. Schollaert

"I shot to save the civilians. I couldn't imagine what was happening at that moment." - A. Philippe, Ardense Jager

It is also possible to look up information on interactive computers. It is also possible to consult the timeline and a map of the execution sites. A film is also shown on 3 walls that highlights the mass murder with moving stories from eyewitnesses and original images from that time.

If you wish, you can make an appointment by e-mail to make an appointment.

For current visiting hours, please visit the website of the museum.

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Source

• Text: Jente de Roust
• Photos: Jente de Roust
• TAGHON, P., Mei 1940, Lannoo, Tielt, 1990.