author

Petrus Hendrix

1723–1795

A Dutch Catholic priest and devoted beekeeper, he left behind one of the more unusual practical books of the 18th century: a lively guide to beekeeping shaped by years of firsthand experience. His writing opens a small window onto everyday rural life along the Maas, Peel, and Niers.

1 Audiobook

Het Geldersch Byenboek of pratyk der byen, langs den kant der Maes, Peel en Niers, in het overkwartier van Gelderland

Het Geldersch Byenboek of pratyk der byen, langs den kant der Maes, Peel en Niers, in het overkwartier van Gelderland

by Petrus Hendrix

About the author

Born in Meerlo on August 13, 1723, Petrus Hendrix was a Dutch clergyman who served as chaplain in Blitterswijck from 1747 to 1751 and then in Lottum from August 18, 1751, until his death on March 5, 1795. Sources describe him not only as a priest but also as an eager and experienced beekeeper.

Hendrix is known for Het Geldersch Byenboek, a practical work on beekeeping based on his own "experience and practice" in the region around the Maas, Peel, and Niers. Although he wrote it in the 18th century, the text was first printed in 1890, after circulating in manuscript form among beekeepers.

What makes him memorable today is the mix of local knowledge and hands-on observation in his work. Rather than writing as a distant scholar, he wrote as someone deeply involved in both parish life and the rhythms of the countryside.