De Kolonie (The Colony)
Preparing for the Journey

       Saying goodbye to friends and relatives was a difficult experience for emigrants. They realized they would never again see many of the people who had been so close to them in The Netherlands. Mareah's father objected strenuously to her departure. This added to the strain and stress the Scholtes experienced in preparing to leave. The Dominie was enthusiastic about the new adventures ahead.

       For the Scholtes, there was much to be done. They were among the "well-to-do" in their Dutch community. All real estate property was sold. Mareah felt sad about selling the house, but the Dominie had promised a lovely new home in America.

       Packing was a huge task. The books from the Dominie's library were catalogued and boxed up and his valuable oil paintings were crated. Mareah's treasured Delft dishes and the Dominie's antique collection were packed. Draperies, carpets, furniture and other household items were also prepared for the long journey to America where the promised "new home" would be as grand as the one Mareah left behind in The Netherlands.

       The blue-collar class people had other concerns. They needed to take equipment for making cheese and butter, farm tools, and cooking utensils. These things were packed in large chests that needed to be strong but not too large or heavy for handling. (Note: Many of these items and steamer trunks can be seen at the Pella Historical Village Museum.)

       Food for the long journey was a major concern. They were advised to take cured meats, rice, flour, potatoes, peas, dried breads, butter, sugar, and anything that could be eaten without cooking. Home remedies were included since only one doctor was along on the voyage.