Dorpssingel 2, Beuningen

Located in the charming village of Beuningen in the Dutch province of Gelderland, Dorpssingel 2, known locally as the Pastorie van de Corneliuskerk, is a splendid example of neoclassical architecture that has stood the test of time. This stately building, constructed in 1839 and expanded in 1885, continues to serve its original purpose, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich historical tapestry of the region.

The Historical Journey of Dorpssingel 2

The history of Dorpssingel 2 is deeply intertwined with the religious and social upheavals of its time. Following the Reformation in 1637, Beuningen's Catholics lost their church and rectory to the Protestants, forcing them to practice their faith in secrecy. It wasn't until 1795 that a Catholic pastor returned to the village, re-establishing the parish. Initially, services were held in a house known as De Roskam, which temporarily served as the rectory.

In 1799, the Catholic villagers repurchased the dilapidated church building, which then consisted only of the choir and tower, along with the cemetery and rectory from the Protestants. Between 1801 and 1803, the parishioners, at their own expense, constructed a new nave, and the church was dedicated to St. Cornelius. It was in 1839 that the current rectory, Dorpssingel 2, was built, marking a new chapter in the village's ecclesiastical history.

Architectural Splendor

Dorpssingel 2 is a striking block-shaped house built in the neoclassical style, characterized by its two-story structure capped with a hipped roof. One of the most notable features of this building is its significant depth compared to the width of its facade, giving it a unique and imposing presence. The design bears a resemblance to the rectory in the neighboring village of Ewijk, although the latter was constructed at a later date.

In 1838, the construction of Dorpssingel 2 was subsidized by the government to the tune of 3200 guilders. The building underwent significant expansion in 1885 under the guidance of architect Appel from Den Bosch. The rear section, known as the 'deel,' was replaced with a garden room and kitchen, complete with an upper floor that was higher than the original structure. Consequently, the rest of the house was raised by approximately 75 centimeters. Additionally, a coach house with a storage area was constructed in the garden during this period.

The Coach House and Garden

The coach house, built in 1885, is situated behind the rectory and has also been designated as a national monument. It features plastered facades and a gabled roof adorned with old Dutch tiles. In 2011, the coach house was rebuilt and connected to the main building via a small hall. It now serves as a conference room, adding a modern utility to this historical structure.

The rectory is surrounded by a beautifully maintained garden. At the northeastern corner stands a tuff stone statue of the Sacred Heart from 1920, which also holds the status of a national monument. The garden is enclosed on the south side by a brick wall with masonry posts, while the north and east sides are bordered by a wrought iron garden fence with a gate, from which a gravel path leads to the main entrance. Both the wall and the fence are recognized as national monuments, adding to the historical significance of the property.

A Living Monument

Today, Dorpssingel 2 stands as a well-preserved example of an early 19th-century rectory in classical empire style. The 1885 expansion seamlessly blends with the original structure, maintaining the building's architectural integrity. Situated on the Dorpssingel and at a prominent point on the Van Heemstraweg, the rectory, along with the church and cemetery, forms an integral part of the village's historic core, which has been remarkably well-preserved.

The property on which Dorpssingel 2 stands is likely of archaeological value, as this part of the village has been inhabited since early times. The building's monumental symmetrical entrance, with its flat wooden pilasters with cornice capitals, a hard stone staircase with three steps, and large six-pane sliding windows in the surrounding facades, are particularly eye-catching and add to its grandeur.

In conclusion, Dorpssingel 2 is not just a building; it is a testament to the resilience and faith of the Beuningen community. Its walls have witnessed centuries of history, from religious turmoil to architectural evolution. For visitors, it offers a serene and picturesque escape into the past, making it a must-visit landmark in the heart of Gelderland.