Fortification on the Albert-Cuypsingel

The corner of the Albert-Cuypsingel and the Spuiweg in May 1940. Dutch soldiers take up positions behind the erected barricades in the Singel. A few Dutch soldiers are seen chatting on the street corner. Given the seemingly relaxed atmosphere, there were likely no fighting in the area yet, indicating that the photo was taken before May 12, 1940. The photo is a very rare capture of the events of May 1940 in Dordrecht. It is one of the few photos from the Dutch side during May 1940. The soldiers in the photo are most likely Army Maritime Engineers. On May 13, they were forced to clear this barricades as German tanks approached from the direction of the station toward the Spuibrug. A clash occurred at the Spuibrug with the Dutch Anti-Tank Gun unit that was positioned there. The anti-tank gun was destroyed in the process. This section of the Singel has changed very little since May 1940, as can be clearly seen in the photo.