Rokus van Blokland
Corry van Blokland Mobach

Sio Vroomshoop Toy Factory
The company NV Sio (Toy Industry Overijssel) was founded in 1938. It was established by Messrs. Mertens, de Groot, van Riggelen, and Uilenreef. The money that became available from the cessation of peat bogs was invested in the new company. The wood was supplied by the lumber wholesaler of co-founder de Groot.

Mr. Mertens said about the founding of Sio in an article in Tubantia in 1969: "When, just before the war, one peat bog after another in Vroomshoop was forced to close, both the municipal and provincial authorities were looking for ways to establish new industries in the municipality."

1939 Production hall Sio Vroomshoop
1939 Opening Sio Vroomshoop

The opening of the factory on June 12, 1939, was performed by the Commissioner of the Queen, Baron van Voorst tot Voorst. From left to right: Baroness van Voorst tot Voorst, Baron (Eppo) van Voorst tot Voorst, Mayor Bramer, Mr. de Groot, Mrs. de Groot-Westra, (probably) Sigmund.

1939 Opening Sio Vroomshoop

The ceremonial act of the opening, pressing a button.

1939 Opening of Sio Vroomshoop

Tour through the factory hall. As a demonstration, a rabbit was sawn out of wood (see below).


1939 Opening of Sio Vroomshoop

Guided tour through the factory hall. From left to right: [Unknown], director Mertens, Commissioner of the Queen Baron van Voorst tot Voorst, Mayor Bramer, Sigmund, Uilenreef, [Unknown].


1939 The Opening Rabbit

During the exhibition "Designs for Sio," (2016, Vroomshoop) there was a rabbit displayed in one of the showcases with the inscription: Sawn at the opening ... demonstration June 12, 1939.
We hereby appeal to anyone who possesses this rabbit to contact us.