A historic milestone celebrating Farnham’s first formal international link has been celebrated. In April 1950, just five years after the Second World War, citizens from Haren in the Netherlands visited Farnham. The visit was a symbol of a commitment to peace, understanding, friendship and cooperation by two allies. To this day, Haren and Farnham remain kindred towns with both building on their pasts, valuing their communities and representing what is best about local life in the modern world.
Speaking at the anniversary event in Haren Garden in South Street, the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Brodie Mauluka gave a warm welcome to Brian Daniels who was involved in the first visit and who generously shared memorabilia from that time. Special thanks were also given to Neil Peerman, representing the Farnham Scouts, whose father was involved in the original gathering which included both scouts and guides. Souvenirs from the original gathering represented a connection between past and present generations of young people.
The original civic welcome on 11 April 1950 included notable figures such as the Lord Lieutenant, the Bishop of Guildford, a representative of the Dutch Ambassador, and Lord and Lady Baden-Powell.
The memorable weekend was packed with activity including a 3-3 football match between Farnham and District and Haren, a tennis tournament, a swimming gala, and a series of social gatherings that laid the foundation for long-lasting friendships. The bonds were strengthened by a return visit to Haren just months later, in September 1950.
Councillor Mauluka said: “While the formal ties between the two towns may have lessened over time, the spirit of friendship continues. Each year, Farnham plants tulips – a quiet and simple tribute, supported by a donation from local resident Hans du Moulins. It is a small act but one that symbolises a connection that has stood the test of time.
“Today, both Farnham and Haren are towns proud of their heritage and hopeful for their future. In times of change, the values that brought our communities together – goodwill, openness, and mutual respect – are as vital now as they were then.”
The ceremony concluded with the Mayor reading from Robert Browning’s poem “Oh, to be in England”, which was included in the official programme of the original 1950 visit.
