The Guld
In every village in the Kempen, they have at least one (or sometimes two) guild(s): the Guld. Many Kempenaeren remember from their childhood the sound of the drum when the Guld arrived in the distance and sang "der hedde de Guld, der heddde de Guld, der hedde verdomme de Guld". The latter was more to keep the beat of the drum than disrespectful behaviour against church authority....
Brotherhood!
Many Guilds have only been founded in the last few centuries, but the St Catherine & St Barbara guild in Eersel has been active since the 15th century. First as a marksmen's guild to defend the village against attacks by robber gangs and slightly too eager nations, later as a 'schlep banker' for the poorer farmers and workmen and as a forerunner of the now wealthy funeral parlours. But for centuries the Guld has primarily stood for 'brotherhood': people from all walks of life meet to socialise over a cup of coffee, or 'nen goeien borrel' or pilske and share 'ups and downs'.
79th Kringgildedag
On Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 June next, guild brothers and sisters from over 50 guilds will gather in Eersel at the guild grounds on the Rosheuvel for the 79th Kringgildedag Kempenland. Two days with a full programme for young and old, with competitive shooting competitions, an impressive parade of all guilds and a unique exhibition on the history of the Guld. Entrance is free and everyone is welcome! Fitting to the motto: "Old traditions keep our guild young".
