Theo Budde

Who was Theo Budde?

Theo Cornelis Budde was a watchmaker, jeweler and antique dealer, as well as a poet who left a legacy in his hometown.

Theo Budde was instrumental in establishing tourism in the well preserved medieval town of Ootmarsum. This remains the largest form of income for the local economy. He recognised the value of the old buildings, the original layout of the streets, and the many traditions that had survived the changing times. He was an active member of the Twensen Schrieversboond. He loved "his" Ootmarsum and wrote many poems about it.

As a watchmaker, jeweler and antique dealer, his son Theo Budde and his wife Rie Veldboer continued the business. After her death, the business was sold to Ton Schulten and the 'Budde hous'e currently contains a luxury shoe shop. The garden is use for sculpture exhibition around the old water well that still exist.