Oostvogel fashion shop shut after 219 years

Fashion boutique Oostvogel in Almelo, established in 1795, shuts its doors after 219 years. Owner Frederique Oostvogel does not have anyone to leave the boutique with, and the economic times have been too hard. Oostvogel threw in the towel because she needed to sign a new lease for the next five years on the shop. "After weighing it up for a long time I decided to stop", she tells RTV Oost. "It is under these circumstances that you have to do your best. I don't have the energy for that anymore." Oostvogel began in 1795 when Johannes Oostvogel left his birthplace and went to do business in Hengelo. In 1804, Johannes wanted to try his hand at something new. He chose hats. With six silk hats packed in boxes, he went on his way. This was around Easter when many Dutch reformed municipality members did a profession of faith. Oostvogel believed this needed a good hat. Oostvogel walked to Haaksbergen and sold all his hats, making a profit of 34 guilders, minus the 27 cents that he ate. Oostvogel moved from hats on to furs and fur collars, and with the economic growth in the area, his hats and other gentlemen's fashions grew into a booming business. The shop will see its last day on 31 October. "And then I have the doubtful honor to be the Oostvogel who shuts the door behind them for the last time" the woman laments.