Amsterdam honors one of its most cherished humanitarians, Majoor Bosshardt, with a life-like statue that captures her spirit of kindness and dedication. The Majoor Bosshardt Monument stands as a tribute to her decades of selfless service through the Salvation Army, where she worked tirelessly to help the marginalized and destitute.

Located near the Oudezijds Voorburgwal in Amsterdam, the statue is set in the very area where Majoor Bosshardt performed much of her outreach. Created by sculptor Kees Verkade, it was unveiled in 2008, two years after her death, to commemorate her enduring legacy.

The bronze statue depicts Majoor Bosshardt in mid-stride, suggesting her constant movement and action in the service of others. She is shown as the approachable and warm figure she was known to be, with a friendly smile and open posture that invites engagement. In her hands, she carries the tools of her trade: a Bible and a tambourine, symbolizing her faith and her role in the Salvation Army.

Majoor Bosshardt’s likeness is rendered with precision and care, from the details of her uniform to the texture of her hair. The choice of bronze as the medium ensures that the monument will endure, much like the memory of the Major’s contributions to the city.

The statue is not just a representation of a person; it is a symbol of the virtues that Majoor Bosshardt stood for: charity, empathy, and action. It serves as an inspiration to passersby, reminding them of the impact one individual can have on the lives of many.

For visitors and residents alike, the monument is a place of reflection. It encourages people to consider their role in their community and the difference they can make through acts of kindness. The Majoor Bosshardt Monument is a fitting honor to a woman who gave so much of herself to help others, embodying the best values of Amsterdam and humanity as a whole.