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Jannes Gerrits van Wijk

Jannes Gerrits van Wijk

Male 1789 - 1872  (82 years)

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  • Name Jannes Gerrits van Wijk  [1, 2] 
    Born 2 Nov 1789  Zwolle, Zwolle, Overijssel, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    1817 Extract of 1789 Baptism Register of Birth of Jannes van Wijk    		 1817 Extract of 1789 Baptism Register of Birth of Jannes van Wijk
    Burgerlijke Stand {Depot} / EXTRACT / Uit het {Doop} Register van {de Hervormden} is geextraheerd: dat {Jannes, Zoon van Gerrit van Wijk en Gesina Leenders} op den {tweeden der Maand November} des Jaars {Zeventien honderd Negen en tachtig is Gegooren} / Het bovenstaande Extract verklare ik ondergeteekende Burgermeester der Staad Zwolle, belast met de functien van Officier van den Burgerlijke Stand, overeenkomstig aan het voormeld Register te zijn. / Zwolle den {27 Juny} 1800 {en Zeventien} / [signature]
    Gender Male 
    _MILT Between 1805 and 1815 
    Closeup of Jannes van Wijk medals & lanyard    		 Closeup of Jannes van Wijk medals & lanyard
    For his military service, initially for and later against Napoleon, Jannes van Wijk received three medals. In this closeup, the Military Order of William (MWO in Dutch) medal is at the left, an 1813 Dutch Silver Cross medal in the middle, and the Ste. Helene Medal on the right, partially covered by the MWO lanyard. Note that these three medals are also shown on his grave stone.
    HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 1 of 2    		 HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 1 of 2
    [NOTE: This is a formal letter typed in English on the stationery of the Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten. The text of the form is in round brackets ({}).] Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten Sectie Krugsgeschiedenis Kanaalweg 2 Telefoon 512551 {(uw brief van)} Your letter of October 28th, 1973 {ons nummer} 476/73 {'s Gravenhage,} 6 December 1973 {bijlagen} 2 {onderwerp} Sergeant J. van Wijk M.W.O. {Aan} Mr. Thomas J. Rittenbrug Post Office Box 107 LEXINGTON, Virginia 24450 United States of America In reply to your abovementioned letter, I can inform you as follows. 1. From the records of the 3rd Battalion National Militia it is known that Johannes van Wijk was born at Zwolle (in Overijssel) November 29, 1789, Son of Gerrit van Wijk and Gesina Leenders. August 26, 1805 he joined the 2nd Regiment of Infantry of the Army of King Louis of Holland (Napoleon's brother). The 1st battalion of this regiment was sent to Spain to help Joseph Napoleon, then King of Spain. October 25, 1808 the Dutch Brigade, commanded by Major-General David Hendrik Baron Chassé (later the defender of the citadel of Antwerp) crossed the Spanish border near Bayonne. In July 1810 our country was annexed by the French Empire and our Army incorporated in the French Army. The 2nd Regiment of Infantry then became 123ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne. April 12, 1811 the two battalions of this regiment, serving in Spain, joined the 130ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne, that was disbanded May 12, 1814 after Napoleon's abdication. Van Wijk, who became a corporal March 29, 1812 deserted the French Army and March 19, 1814 joined the 3rd Battalion National Militia of our new army. He was promoted a corporal April 25, 1814 and a sergeant May 6, 1814. On June 18, 1815 his battalion took part in the battle of Waterloo and by Order in Council of August 17, 1815 Nr 77 he was appointed Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William. He was honourably discharged from the Army on May 31, 1817. From 1805 till his desertion from the French Army he was a regular soldier. In our army he was a conscript, who voluntary substituted for Markus de Leeuw from Steenwijk. It can be accepted that he thereafter recieved a certain amount from de Leeuw. 2. In Spain he took part in the following actions: Battle of Durango (October 31, 1808) Storming of Mesa de Ibor (March 17, 1809) Defence of Merida (May 15/June 13, 1809) Battle of alavera de la Reina (July 28, 1809) Battle of Almonacid (August 11, 1809) Battle of Ocana (November 19, 1809) From November 29 till December 23 his unit escorted Spanish prisoners of war from Madrid to Bayonne. In 1810 the war in Spain developed in a way of warfare that from then on was called "guerilla". In Spain sergeant van Wijk received a grazing shot on his head. 3. The Military Order of William, in which van Wijk became a Knight 4th Class, has four classes, viz: Grandcross, Commander, Knight 3rd Class en [sic = "and"] Knight 4th Class and is granted to sovereigns and to soldiers of all ranks of the Netherlands forces and the forces of allies. The Order can be given to units as well and with two Regiments of the Royal Netherlands Army this honour is shared by four regiments of the United States Army (325th, 504th, 505th and 508th Infantry). Four other regiments (327th, 501st, 502nd and 506th Infantry) only have the right of wearing a lanyard in the colours of the Orders Ribbon (blue and orange). 4. The Dutch names of the abovementioned units of our Army were: Battalion National Militia from January 9, 1814 till April 15, 1815 Bataljon Landmilitie, from April 15, 1815 till December 31, 1819 Bataljon Nationale Militie, thereafter the battalion was 3rd battalion of the 8th Infantry Regiment. 2nd Regiment of Infantry from June 11, 1805 till September 17, 1806 1ste Regiment Infanterie van Ligne, from September 17,1806 till August 18, 1810 2de Regiment Infanterie van Linie. Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William reads in Dutch: Ridder Vierde Klasse in de (or "der") Militaire Willems Orde. 5. In our collection we have pictures as well of the 2nd Infantry in Spain as of the Prince of Orange, leading the National Militia at Waterloo. I herewith send you fotocopies of those pictures. THE CHIEF OF THE HISTORICAL SECTION (signed) G. J. VAN OJEN Jr. Lieutenant-Colonel
    Dutch Silver Cross (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis) 1813-15    		 Dutch Silver Cross (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis) 1813-15
    Here is an online vendor's note about the medal: Awarded to those who contributed to the independence of the Kingdom of The Netherlands. The medal was first issued 1865, more than 50 years after the war. Probably only 5000 of the 30000 who fought recieved the medal. On the obverse 1813 on the reverse 1815." ------------------- Here is another:"Silver Cross 1813-1815 (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis 1813-1815). Such crosses were awarded to veterans of the Napoleonic Wars, period when Netherlands were being re-shaped again. Crosses are of exceptional rarity on the market, especially in North America. Silver 5-armed cross. All original issues were well hallmarked by maker 'P.Z' and Dutch silver 1814 purity mark for .833 silver. In addition to these two marks, there is another one - French import mark for the 'undetermined' origin silver. This mark is in form of a standing swan within oval frame and was used since 1893 (for items coming into France). Beautiful old cotton/silk moire ribbon is arranged in 'Austrian' tri-fold style. Majority of original silver frosting remains. Cross showing light wear and age. Overall condition is very good and better. Exact number of crosses awarded is not known but is believed to be less then 5000, far cry from over 30 000 Dutch troops fighting during Napoleonic Wars."
    Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone    		 Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone
    Left - Military Order of William (Dutch) ----- Center: Dutch 1813/1815 Silver Cross ----- Right: Ste. Helene Medal (French)
    Medal - Militaire Willems Orde    		 Medal - Militaire Willems Orde
    Jannes van Wijk was awarded the Rdder (Knight) 4th Class of the MWO (Military Order of William) by the Dutch King since Jannes fought as a member of the Dutch militia in the Battle of Waterloo against Napoleon. This is not Jannes' medal but is one exactly like it. The award also include the lanyard that is visible in the full photograph of Jannes van Wijk.
    HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 2 of 2    		 HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 2 of 2
    [NOTE: This is a formal letter typed in English on the stationery of the Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten. The text of the form is in round brackets ({}).] Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten Sectie Krugsgeschiedenis Kanaalweg 2 Telefoon 512551 {(uw brief van)} Your letter of October 28th, 1973 {ons nummer} 476/73 {'s Gravenhage,} 6 December 1973 {bijlagen} 2 {onderwerp} Sergeant J. van Wijk M.W.O. {Aan} Mr. Thomas J. Rittenbrug Post Office Box 107 LEXINGTON, Virginia 24450 United States of America In reply to your abovementioned letter, I can inform you as follows. 1. From the records of the 3rd Battalion National Militia it is known that Johannes van Wijk was born at Zwolle (in Overijssel) November 29, 1789, Son of Gerrit van Wijk and Gesina Leenders. August 26, 1805 he joined the 2nd Regiment of Infantry of the Army of King Louis of Holland (Napoleon's brother). The 1st battalion of this regiment was sent to Spain to help Joseph Napoleon, then King of Spain. October 25, 1808 the Dutch Brigade, commanded by Major-General David Hendrik Baron Chassé (later the defender of the citadel of Antwerp) crossed the Spanish border near Bayonne. In July 1810 our country was annexed by the French Empire and our Army incorporated in the French Army. The 2nd Regiment of Infantry then became 123ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne. April 12, 1811 the two battalions of this regiment, serving in Spain, joined the 130ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne, that was disbanded May 12, 1814 after Napoleon's abdication. Van Wijk, who became a corporal March 29, 1812 deserted the French Army and March 19, 1814 joined the 3rd Battalion National Militia of our new army. He was promoted a corporal April 25, 1814 and a sergeant May 6, 1814. On June 18, 1815 his battalion took part in the battle of Waterloo and by Order in Council of August 17, 1815 Nr 77 he was appointed Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William. He was honourably discharged from the Army on May 31, 1817. From 1805 till his desertion from the French Army he was a regular soldier. In our army he was a conscript, who voluntary substituted for Markus de Leeuw from Steenwijk. It can be accepted that he thereafter recieved a certain amount from de Leeuw. 2. In Spain he took part in the following actions: Battle of Durango (October 31, 1808) Storming of Mesa de Ibor (March 17, 1809) Defence of Merida (May 15/June 13, 1809) Battle of alavera de la Reina (July 28, 1809) Battle of Almonacid (August 11, 1809) Battle of Ocana (November 19, 1809) From November 29 till December 23 his unit escorted Spanish prisoners of war from Madrid to Bayonne. In 1810 the war in Spain developed in a way of warfare that from then on was called "guerilla". In Spain sergeant van Wijk received a grazing shot on his head. 3. The Military Order of William, in which van Wijk became a Knight 4th Class, has four classes, viz: Grandcross, Commander, Knight 3rd Class en [sic = "and"] Knight 4th Class and is granted to sovereigns and to soldiers of all ranks of the Netherlands forces and the forces of allies. The Order can be given to units as well and with two Regiments of the Royal Netherlands Army this honour is shared by four regiments of the United States Army (325th, 504th, 505th and 508th Infantry). Four other regiments (327th, 501st, 502nd and 506th Infantry) only have the right of wearing a lanyard in the colours of the Orders Ribbon (blue and orange). 4. The Dutch names of the abovementioned units of our Army were: Battalion National Militia from January 9, 1814 till April 15, 1815 Bataljon Landmilitie, from April 15, 1815 till December 31, 1819 Bataljon Nationale Militie, thereafter the battalion was 3rd battalion of the 8th Infantry Regiment. 2nd Regiment of Infantry from June 11, 1805 till September 17, 1806 1ste Regiment Infanterie van Ligne, from September 17,1806 till August 18, 1810 2de Regiment Infanterie van Linie. Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William reads in Dutch: Ridder Vierde Klasse in de (or "der") Militaire Willems Orde. 5. In our collection we have pictures as well of the 2nd Infantry in Spain as of the Prince of Orange, leading the National Militia at Waterloo. I herewith send you fotocopies of those pictures. THE CHIEF OF THE HISTORICAL SECTION (signed) G. J. VAN OJEN Jr. Lieutenant-Colonel
    Médaille de Saint-Hélène    		 Médaille de Saint-Hélène
    Napoleon III awarded the Médaille de Saint-Hélène (St. Helene Medal) to all the surviving soldiers of Napoleon's army who were still alive in the mid-1800's. This is not Jannes' medal but one like it. (Thanks to Tom Rittenburg for this photo.)
    Died 24 Jun 1872  Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • Overlijdensakte Haskerland, 1872 Aangiftedatum 25 juni 1872, akte nr. 82 Jannes van Wijk, overleden 24 juni 1872, 82 jaar, man Weduwnaar
    Jannes van Wijk Death - Full Page    		 Jannes van Wijk Death - Full Page
    Jannes van Wijk Death    		 Jannes van Wijk Death
    Buried Joure, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • Westermeer Begraafplaats (Cemetery) at Koningin Julianalaan 9
    Grave of Jannes van Wijk & Janke Tjittes Smit in Joure    		 Grave of Jannes van Wijk & Janke Tjittes Smit in Joure
    The stone is about 6 feet long. There are no other family graves nearby. They are buried at the Westermeer Begraafplaats (Cemetery) at Koningin Julianalaan 9 in Joure. The three medals that Jannes was awarded are shown at the very top of the stone. From left to right they Military Order of William (Dutch), Dutch 1813 Silver Cross, and the Ste. Helene Medal (French).
    Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone    		 Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone
    Left - Military Order of William (Dutch) ----- Center: Dutch 1813/1815 Silver Cross ----- Right: Ste. Helene Medal (French)
    Person ID I430  Terug in de Tijd
    Last Modified 30 May 2023 

    Father Gerrit van Wijk,   b. Abt 1763, Culemborg, Gelderland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 4 Dec 1828, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 65 years) 
    Relationship natural 
    Mother Gesina Leenderts,   b. 30 Dec 1764, Zwolle, Overijssel, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 23 Oct 1820, Zwolle, Overijssel, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 55 years) 
    Relationship natural 
    Married 1 Dec 1793  Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Family ID F178  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

    Family 1 Geertje Christoffels Ramkema,   b. 25 Nov 1791, Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 1 Mar 1825, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 33 years) 
    Married 20 Jul 1817  Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • Huwelijksakte Leeuwarden, 1817 Man : Johannes van Wijk Vrouw : Geertje Christoffels Ramkema Datum : 20 juli 1817, akte nr. 66
    Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Geertje Christoffels Ramkema    		 Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Geertje Christoffels Ramkema
    Children 
     1. Johannes van Wijk,   b. 18 Feb 1815, Bergen op Zoom, Bergen Op Zoom, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 18 Mar 1815, Bergen op Zoom, Bergen Op Zoom, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 0 years)  [natural]
     2. Christiaan van Wijk,   b. 18 Jul 1818, Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 20 Mar 1837, Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 18 years)  [natural]
     3. Gesina van Wijk,   b. 2 Nov 1820, Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 9 Feb 1842, Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 21 years)  [natural]
     4. Tjaltje Anthonetta van Wijk,   b. 4 Feb 1824, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 15 Apr 1855, Buitengasthuis, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 31 years)  [natural]
    Last Modified 30 May 2023 
    Family ID F149  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

    Family 2 Janke Tjittes Smit,   b. 2 Feb 1800, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 12 Aug 1878, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 78 years) 
    Married 8 Dec 1825  Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location 
    • Jannes van Wijk, oud 36 jaar, geboren te Zwolle, provincie Overijssel - Gerrit van Wijk en Gesina Leenderts - Janke Tjittes Smit, oud 25 jaar, geboren te Joure - Tjitte Heerkes Smit en Geertje Bonnes - 8 december 1825, akte nr. 30
    Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Janke Tjittes Smit    		 Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Janke Tjittes Smit
    Jannes van Wijk, born at Zwolle in Overijssel, widower of Geertje Christoffels (died at Joure), son of Gerrit van Wijk (no occupation, living at Amsterdam) and Gesina Leenderts (deceased at Zwolle) +++ Janke Tjittes Smit, daughter of Tjitte Heerkes Smit (occupation ?Scheijftimmerman? [ship carpenter?] and Geertje Bonnes [Note that the bride signed SMIT but her father signed SMID]
    Gerrit van Wijk's Consent for his son Jannes van Wijk second marriage to Janke Tjittes Smit    		 Gerrit van Wijk's Consent for his son Jannes van Wijk second marriage to Janke Tjittes Smit
    Consent ... De Heer Gerrit van Wyk ... woonenede ... hoogte van de kadyk, No. 99 ... -- Zynen Zoon Jannes van Wyk ... wonende op de Joure in Friesland ... Gezina Leendert ... is aantegaan met Janke Tjittes Smidt ... dogter van Tjitt Herkes Smidt ... en Geertje Bonnes.... ---------- Translation ---------- Mr. Gerrit van Wijk ... living ... at Hoogte Kadijk #99 ... -- His Son Jannes van Wijk ... living at Joure in Friesland ... Geezina Leendert ... is [aantegaan] with Janke Tjittes Smidt ... daughter of Tjitte Heerkes Smidt ... and Geertje Bonnes [Note that the spellings are variants of usual spellings -- e.g. Wyk and Kadyk for Wijk and Kadijk; dogter for dochter -- the different spellings are spoken the same way and mean the same things.]
    Children 
    +1. Gerrit Jannes van Wijk,   b. 23 Jan 1826, Joure, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 6 May 1906, Michigan, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 80 years)  [natural]
    +2. Tjitte Jannes van Wijk,   b. 30 Jan 1828, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 31 May 1899, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 71 years)  [natural]
     3. Willem van Wijk,   b. 18 Oct 1831, Joure, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 11 Jul 1854, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 22 years)  [natural]
    +4. Gerritje Jannes van Wijk,   b. 22 Aug 1833, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location,   d. 27 Jan 1907, Grand Rapids, Kent, Michigan, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  (Age 73 years)  [natural]
    +5. Maria Jannes van Wijk,   b. 30 Jan 1836, Joure, Haskerland, Friesland, Netherlands Find all individuals with events at this location  [natural]
    Last Modified 30 May 2023 
    Family ID F150  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

  • Event Map
    Link to Google MapsBorn - 2 Nov 1789 - Zwolle, Zwolle, Overijssel, Netherlands Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsMarried - 20 Jul 1817 - Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Friesland, Netherlands Link to Google Earth
     = Link to Google Earth 

  • Photos
    Birth of Tjaltje Anthonetta van Wijk    		Birth of Tjaltje Anthonetta van Wijk
    Closeup of Jannes van Wijk medals & lanyard    		Closeup of Jannes van Wijk medals & lanyard
    For his military service, initially for and later against Napoleon, Jannes van Wijk received three medals. In this closeup, the Military Order of William (MWO in Dutch) medal is at the left, an 1813 Dutch Silver Cross medal in the middle, and the Ste. Helene Medal on the right, partially covered by the MWO lanyard. Note that these three medals are also shown on his grave stone.
    Death of Johannes van Wijk (1815-1815)    		Death of Johannes van Wijk (1815-1815)
    Note that both the birth and death records of Johannes identify his parents as being married, although their marriage record in Leeuwarden was not until 1817.
    Grave of Jannes van Wijk & Janke Tjittes Smit in Joure    		Grave of Jannes van Wijk & Janke Tjittes Smit in Joure
    The stone is about 6 feet long. There are no other family graves nearby. They are buried at the Westermeer Begraafplaats (Cemetery) at Koningin Julianalaan 9 in Joure. The three medals that Jannes was awarded are shown at the very top of the stone. From left to right they Military Order of William (Dutch), Dutch 1813 Silver Cross, and the Ste. Helene Medal (French).
    HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 1 of 2    		HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 1 of 2
    [NOTE: This is a formal letter typed in English on the stationery of the Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten. The text of the form is in round brackets ({}).] Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten Sectie Krugsgeschiedenis Kanaalweg 2 Telefoon 512551 {(uw brief van)} Your letter of October 28th, 1973 {ons nummer} 476/73 {'s Gravenhage,} 6 December 1973 {bijlagen} 2 {onderwerp} Sergeant J. van Wijk M.W.O. {Aan} Mr. Thomas J. Rittenbrug Post Office Box 107 LEXINGTON, Virginia 24450 United States of America In reply to your abovementioned letter, I can inform you as follows. 1. From the records of the 3rd Battalion National Militia it is known that Johannes van Wijk was born at Zwolle (in Overijssel) November 29, 1789, Son of Gerrit van Wijk and Gesina Leenders. August 26, 1805 he joined the 2nd Regiment of Infantry of the Army of King Louis of Holland (Napoleon's brother). The 1st battalion of this regiment was sent to Spain to help Joseph Napoleon, then King of Spain. October 25, 1808 the Dutch Brigade, commanded by Major-General David Hendrik Baron Chassé (later the defender of the citadel of Antwerp) crossed the Spanish border near Bayonne. In July 1810 our country was annexed by the French Empire and our Army incorporated in the French Army. The 2nd Regiment of Infantry then became 123ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne. April 12, 1811 the two battalions of this regiment, serving in Spain, joined the 130ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne, that was disbanded May 12, 1814 after Napoleon's abdication. Van Wijk, who became a corporal March 29, 1812 deserted the French Army and March 19, 1814 joined the 3rd Battalion National Militia of our new army. He was promoted a corporal April 25, 1814 and a sergeant May 6, 1814. On June 18, 1815 his battalion took part in the battle of Waterloo and by Order in Council of August 17, 1815 Nr 77 he was appointed Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William. He was honourably discharged from the Army on May 31, 1817. From 1805 till his desertion from the French Army he was a regular soldier. In our army he was a conscript, who voluntary substituted for Markus de Leeuw from Steenwijk. It can be accepted that he thereafter recieved a certain amount from de Leeuw. 2. In Spain he took part in the following actions: Battle of Durango (October 31, 1808) Storming of Mesa de Ibor (March 17, 1809) Defence of Merida (May 15/June 13, 1809) Battle of alavera de la Reina (July 28, 1809) Battle of Almonacid (August 11, 1809) Battle of Ocana (November 19, 1809) From November 29 till December 23 his unit escorted Spanish prisoners of war from Madrid to Bayonne. In 1810 the war in Spain developed in a way of warfare that from then on was called "guerilla". In Spain sergeant van Wijk received a grazing shot on his head. 3. The Military Order of William, in which van Wijk became a Knight 4th Class, has four classes, viz: Grandcross, Commander, Knight 3rd Class en [sic = "and"] Knight 4th Class and is granted to sovereigns and to soldiers of all ranks of the Netherlands forces and the forces of allies. The Order can be given to units as well and with two Regiments of the Royal Netherlands Army this honour is shared by four regiments of the United States Army (325th, 504th, 505th and 508th Infantry). Four other regiments (327th, 501st, 502nd and 506th Infantry) only have the right of wearing a lanyard in the colours of the Orders Ribbon (blue and orange). 4. The Dutch names of the abovementioned units of our Army were: Battalion National Militia from January 9, 1814 till April 15, 1815 Bataljon Landmilitie, from April 15, 1815 till December 31, 1819 Bataljon Nationale Militie, thereafter the battalion was 3rd battalion of the 8th Infantry Regiment. 2nd Regiment of Infantry from June 11, 1805 till September 17, 1806 1ste Regiment Infanterie van Ligne, from September 17,1806 till August 18, 1810 2de Regiment Infanterie van Linie. Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William reads in Dutch: Ridder Vierde Klasse in de (or "der") Militaire Willems Orde. 5. In our collection we have pictures as well of the 2nd Infantry in Spain as of the Prince of Orange, leading the National Militia at Waterloo. I herewith send you fotocopies of those pictures. THE CHIEF OF THE HISTORICAL SECTION (signed) G. J. VAN OJEN Jr. Lieutenant-Colonel
    Gerritje Jannes van Wijk - Birth    		Gerritje Jannes van Wijk - Birth
    Dutch Silver Cross (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis) 1813-15    		Dutch Silver Cross (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis) 1813-15
    Here is an online vendor's note about the medal: Awarded to those who contributed to the independence of the Kingdom of The Netherlands. The medal was first issued 1865, more than 50 years after the war. Probably only 5000 of the 30000 who fought recieved the medal. On the obverse 1813 on the reverse 1815." ------------------- Here is another:"Silver Cross 1813-1815 (Zilveren Herdenkingskruis 1813-1815). Such crosses were awarded to veterans of the Napoleonic Wars, period when Netherlands were being re-shaped again. Crosses are of exceptional rarity on the market, especially in North America. Silver 5-armed cross. All original issues were well hallmarked by maker 'P.Z' and Dutch silver 1814 purity mark for .833 silver. In addition to these two marks, there is another one - French import mark for the 'undetermined' origin silver. This mark is in form of a standing swan within oval frame and was used since 1893 (for items coming into France). Beautiful old cotton/silk moire ribbon is arranged in 'Austrian' tri-fold style. Majority of original silver frosting remains. Cross showing light wear and age. Overall condition is very good and better. Exact number of crosses awarded is not known but is believed to be less then 5000, far cry from over 30 000 Dutch troops fighting during Napoleonic Wars."
    Janke Tjittes & Jannes van Wijk    		Janke Tjittes & Jannes van Wijk
    van Wijk, Jannes (1789-1872)    		van Wijk, Jannes (1789-1872)
    Knight 4th class of the Militaire Willems Order
    Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone    		Closeup of Medals on Jannes van Wijk grave stone
    Left - Military Order of William (Dutch) ----- Center: Dutch 1813/1815 Silver Cross ----- Right: Ste. Helene Medal (French)
    Medal - Militaire Willems Orde    		Medal - Militaire Willems Orde
    Jannes van Wijk was awarded the Rdder (Knight) 4th Class of the MWO (Military Order of William) by the Dutch King since Jannes fought as a member of the Dutch militia in the Battle of Waterloo against Napoleon. This is not Jannes' medal but is one exactly like it. The award also include the lanyard that is visible in the full photograph of Jannes van Wijk.
    Willem van Wijk - Birth-1831-10-18-detail    		Willem van Wijk - Birth-1831-10-18-detail
    Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Geertje Christoffels Ramkema    		Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Geertje Christoffels Ramkema
    Gerrit Jannes van Wijk Birth    		Gerrit Jannes van Wijk Birth
    Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Janke Tjittes Smit    		Marriage of Jannes van Wijk and Janke Tjittes Smit
    Jannes van Wijk, born at Zwolle in Overijssel, widower of Geertje Christoffels (died at Joure), son of Gerrit van Wijk (no occupation, living at Amsterdam) and Gesina Leenderts (deceased at Zwolle) +++ Janke Tjittes Smit, daughter of Tjitte Heerkes Smit (occupation ?Scheijftimmerman? [ship carpenter?] and Geertje Bonnes [Note that the bride signed SMIT but her father signed SMID]
    Maria Jannes van Wijk - Birth    		Maria Jannes van Wijk - Birth
    Janke Tjittes & Jannes van Wijk - Reverse    		Janke Tjittes & Jannes van Wijk - Reverse
    Grootvader Jannes van Wijk Geboren Nov 2 1789 Overleden June 27 1872 / Grootmoeder Janke Geboren Feb 23 1800 Overleden Aug 12 1878 / Gerrit Van Wijk born Jan 23 1826 Died May 6 1906 / wife Martha Veenstra Born died / Willemke Wierda nee Van Wijk born July 5 1854 died April 27 1938 / Jacob Wierda born died / Cornelius Wierda born 1830 died 1916 / wife Maria Huisinga died Nov 13 1864
    Van Wijk, Tjitte Jannes van Wijk - Birth    		Van Wijk, Tjitte Jannes van Wijk - Birth
    Gerrit van Wijk's Consent for his son Jannes van Wijk second marriage to Janke Tjittes Smit    		Gerrit van Wijk's Consent for his son Jannes van Wijk second marriage to Janke Tjittes Smit
    Consent ... De Heer Gerrit van Wyk ... woonenede ... hoogte van de kadyk, No. 99 ... -- Zynen Zoon Jannes van Wyk ... wonende op de Joure in Friesland ... Gezina Leendert ... is aantegaan met Janke Tjittes Smidt ... dogter van Tjitt Herkes Smidt ... en Geertje Bonnes.... ---------- Translation ---------- Mr. Gerrit van Wijk ... living ... at Hoogte Kadijk #99 ... -- His Son Jannes van Wijk ... living at Joure in Friesland ... Geezina Leendert ... is [aantegaan] with Janke Tjittes Smidt ... daughter of Tjitte Heerkes Smidt ... and Geertje Bonnes [Note that the spellings are variants of usual spellings -- e.g. Wyk and Kadyk for Wijk and Kadijk; dogter for dochter -- the different spellings are spoken the same way and mean the same things.]
    Jannes van Wijk Death - Full Page    		Jannes van Wijk Death - Full Page
    HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 2 of 2    		HOL-XX-A-00001 Military Record of Jannes van Wijk - p 2 of 2
    [NOTE: This is a formal letter typed in English on the stationery of the Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten. The text of the form is in round brackets ({}).] Staf van de Bevelhebber der Landstrijdkrachten Sectie Krugsgeschiedenis Kanaalweg 2 Telefoon 512551 {(uw brief van)} Your letter of October 28th, 1973 {ons nummer} 476/73 {'s Gravenhage,} 6 December 1973 {bijlagen} 2 {onderwerp} Sergeant J. van Wijk M.W.O. {Aan} Mr. Thomas J. Rittenbrug Post Office Box 107 LEXINGTON, Virginia 24450 United States of America In reply to your abovementioned letter, I can inform you as follows. 1. From the records of the 3rd Battalion National Militia it is known that Johannes van Wijk was born at Zwolle (in Overijssel) November 29, 1789, Son of Gerrit van Wijk and Gesina Leenders. August 26, 1805 he joined the 2nd Regiment of Infantry of the Army of King Louis of Holland (Napoleon's brother). The 1st battalion of this regiment was sent to Spain to help Joseph Napoleon, then King of Spain. October 25, 1808 the Dutch Brigade, commanded by Major-General David Hendrik Baron Chassé (later the defender of the citadel of Antwerp) crossed the Spanish border near Bayonne. In July 1810 our country was annexed by the French Empire and our Army incorporated in the French Army. The 2nd Regiment of Infantry then became 123ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne. April 12, 1811 the two battalions of this regiment, serving in Spain, joined the 130ième régiment d'infanterie de ligne, that was disbanded May 12, 1814 after Napoleon's abdication. Van Wijk, who became a corporal March 29, 1812 deserted the French Army and March 19, 1814 joined the 3rd Battalion National Militia of our new army. He was promoted a corporal April 25, 1814 and a sergeant May 6, 1814. On June 18, 1815 his battalion took part in the battle of Waterloo and by Order in Council of August 17, 1815 Nr 77 he was appointed Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William. He was honourably discharged from the Army on May 31, 1817. From 1805 till his desertion from the French Army he was a regular soldier. In our army he was a conscript, who voluntary substituted for Markus de Leeuw from Steenwijk. It can be accepted that he thereafter recieved a certain amount from de Leeuw. 2. In Spain he took part in the following actions: Battle of Durango (October 31, 1808) Storming of Mesa de Ibor (March 17, 1809) Defence of Merida (May 15/June 13, 1809) Battle of alavera de la Reina (July 28, 1809) Battle of Almonacid (August 11, 1809) Battle of Ocana (November 19, 1809) From November 29 till December 23 his unit escorted Spanish prisoners of war from Madrid to Bayonne. In 1810 the war in Spain developed in a way of warfare that from then on was called "guerilla". In Spain sergeant van Wijk received a grazing shot on his head. 3. The Military Order of William, in which van Wijk became a Knight 4th Class, has four classes, viz: Grandcross, Commander, Knight 3rd Class en [sic = "and"] Knight 4th Class and is granted to sovereigns and to soldiers of all ranks of the Netherlands forces and the forces of allies. The Order can be given to units as well and with two Regiments of the Royal Netherlands Army this honour is shared by four regiments of the United States Army (325th, 504th, 505th and 508th Infantry). Four other regiments (327th, 501st, 502nd and 506th Infantry) only have the right of wearing a lanyard in the colours of the Orders Ribbon (blue and orange). 4. The Dutch names of the abovementioned units of our Army were: Battalion National Militia from January 9, 1814 till April 15, 1815 Bataljon Landmilitie, from April 15, 1815 till December 31, 1819 Bataljon Nationale Militie, thereafter the battalion was 3rd battalion of the 8th Infantry Regiment. 2nd Regiment of Infantry from June 11, 1805 till September 17, 1806 1ste Regiment Infanterie van Ligne, from September 17,1806 till August 18, 1810 2de Regiment Infanterie van Linie. Knight 4th Class in the Military Order of William reads in Dutch: Ridder Vierde Klasse in de (or "der") Militaire Willems Orde. 5. In our collection we have pictures as well of the 2nd Infantry in Spain as of the Prince of Orange, leading the National Militia at Waterloo. I herewith send you fotocopies of those pictures. THE CHIEF OF THE HISTORICAL SECTION (signed) G. J. VAN OJEN Jr. Lieutenant-Colonel
    Jannes van Wijk Death    		Jannes van Wijk Death
    1817 Extract of 1789 Baptism Register of Birth of Jannes van Wijk    		1817 Extract of 1789 Baptism Register of Birth of Jannes van Wijk
    Burgerlijke Stand {Depot} / EXTRACT / Uit het {Doop} Register van {de Hervormden} is geextraheerd: dat {Jannes, Zoon van Gerrit van Wijk en Gesina Leenders} op den {tweeden der Maand November} des Jaars {Zeventien honderd Negen en tachtig is Gegooren} / Het bovenstaande Extract verklare ik ondergeteekende Burgermeester der Staad Zwolle, belast met de functien van Officier van den Burgerlijke Stand, overeenkomstig aan het voormeld Register te zijn. / Zwolle den {27 Juny} 1800 {en Zeventien} / [signature]
    In Earsten Dragonder - Book Cover    		In Earsten Dragonder - Book Cover
    "A First Dragoon" is Jacbous Knol's award-winning historical fiction book about our ancestors Jannes van Wijk and Janke Tjittes Smit. The book is written in the Frysk / Frisian language. (Jannes' son Tjitte's daughter Marie married Klaas Jacobus Knol: they were the grandparents of Jacobus Knol, the author of the book.)
    Christiaan van Wijk - Birth    		Christiaan van Wijk - Birth
    Médaille de Saint-Hélène    		Médaille de Saint-Hélène
    Napoleon III awarded the Médaille de Saint-Hélène (St. Helene Medal) to all the surviving soldiers of Napoleon's army who were still alive in the mid-1800's. This is not Jannes' medal but one like it. (Thanks to Tom Rittenburg for this photo.)

    Histories
    Birth and Death of Johannes van Wijk at Bergen op Zoom 18 Feb 1815-18 Mar 1815    		Birth and Death of Johannes van Wijk at Bergen op Zoom 18 Feb 1815-18 Mar 1815

  • Sources 
    1. [S19] Michigan, Death Records, 1867-1950, Ancestry.com, (Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.; Location: Provo, UT, USA; Date: 2015;).
      Michigan, Death Records, 1867-1950      		 Michigan, Death Records, 1867-1950


    2. [S27] Netherlands, Birth Index, 1784-1917, Ancestry.com, (Name: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc.; Location: Lehi, UT, USA; Date: 2016;), AlleFriezen; Den Haag, Nederland; BS Birth.