Among the many books in Redeemer University’s Peter Turkstra Library, one stands out—a Dutch Bible published in 1637. The Bible is a first edition Statenbijbel (or States Bible), the official translation commissioned by the Dutch Republic in 1618. It was the standard translation in churches for more than three centuries and is still used in some Reformed congregations, particularly in the Netherlands. 

Library archivist, Brandon Swartzentruber, recognized the value of the Bible when he discovered it tucked away in an uncategorized section of the library’s archives. According to a letter written at the time of its donation to the library in 1992, the book was owned by a man from Ontario who was born in the Netherlands. He had inherited it from his father, who purchased it at an auction in 1958 in Leerbroek, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands. 

This historic artifact has been appraised and carefully preserved to honour not just its physical significance but also its strong connection to the university’s Reformed heritage.

The Bible’s History and Original Condition

The Statenbijbel was authorized by the Synod of Dort in 1618 and published in 1637, becoming the definitive Dutch translation of the Scriptures. The copy in Redeemer’s collection showed clear signs of extensive use. Its binding was worn and its title page frayed; yet its text remained remarkably intact. Despite centuries of handling, the Bible’s high-quality linen and cotton rag paper remains flexible and mostly undamaged. However, signs of past repairs, including a 19th-century leather re-backing, hinted at the careful efforts of previous owners to preserve this treasured volume.

The Restoration Process

Understanding the importance of preservation, Swartzentruber enlisted Jennifer Robertson, a professional art conservator specializing in books and paper. In her private studio, Robertson works with fine art, photographs, maps and other documents, along with rare books such as medieval manuscripts.

Rather than opting for a full restoration of Redeemer’s Dutch Bible to make it look new, Robertson took a conservation approach to maintain the artifact’s historical integrity. “The goal is to stabilize the materials and ensure they’re not going to degrade any further,” Robertson explained. “We want to keep the materials stable and preserved for future use.” 

She reattached the original wooden boards, preserved the 19th-century leather spine and carefully cleaned the pages while repairing minor tears. She also gave special attention to the engraved title page, which had suffered a lot of wear. “There’s something really special about original historical materials. They hold so much meaning, and you can feel the history in them,” she added.

According to Robertson, best practices for long-term preservation include storage where stable humidity and temperature can be maintained. Contrary to popular belief, she recommends handling rare books with clean, dry hands rather than gloves, which can reduce dexterity and increase the risk of damage.

Determining the Value of a Rare Book

To properly assess the Bible’s historical and monetary value, Swartzentruber engaged Philip Prins, a veteran bookseller specializing in theological works. Prins examined various factors, including the Bible’s rarity, history and state of preservation. “To have a book in its original state and well preserved enhances its value a great deal. On the other hand, to have it responsibly and properly restored as this Bible was, is also important,” Prins noted. In his appraisal, Prins emphasized the unique features of this copy, specifically its historical relevance and official authentication. “What makes this Bible significant is its relation to Redeemer’s theological tradition and heritage—and that an official of the Dutch Republic had signed it.” Beyond its physical characteristics, this edition holds scholarly significance, with a half-page reference in the Cambridge History of the Bible, a valuable resource for researchers.

The Bible’s Place in Redeemer’s Tradition

More than just a valuable artifact, this Statenbijbel is a meaningful piece of Redeemer University’s story. Rooted in the Dutch Reformed tradition, the university emphasizes the transformative power of grace and God’s sovereignty over all creation. This Bible represents a foundation that has influenced institutions like Redeemer for generations. 

This Bible, with its ties to the Dutch Reformed heritage of Redeemer, is significant, historically and culturally.

Swartzentruber sees the Bible’s rediscovery as a reminder of the importance of preserving these connections. “As an archivist, my job is to think about what future generations will find meaningful. This Bible, with its ties to the Dutch Reformed heritage of Redeemer, is significant, historically and culturally.”

The library’s collection extends beyond the Statenbijbel, featuring several other Dutch Bibles from the 1600s, rare 17th-century books, writings by Italian Reformer Francis Turretin and limited-edition prints. Notably, it holds four books from the Nonesuch Press, reflecting the Fine Press movement’s dedication to craftsmanship and intentional design in response to the Industrial Revolution’s impact on publishing.

The Peter Turkstra Library would like to extend an open invitation to visit and see this remarkable Bible or any other items in our collections. Drop-ins are always welcome, but booking an appointment will ensure that library staff are available to provide insight and answer questions.