Born: December 27, 1903 (Haarlem, Netherlands)
Biography:
Caecilia Antonia Maria Cilia Loots, also known as Tante Ciel, was a Dutch teacher and antifascist resistance member, who gained recognition for her heroic efforts in saving Jewish children during World War II. Born on December 27, 1903, in Haarlem, Caecilia dedicated her life to education and fighting against the injustices of the Nazi regime.
Caecilia Loots ran a private school in Amersfoort, Province of Utrecht, catering to children with severe learning disabilities. In 1942, she made a courageous decision that would forever change the lives of numerous Jewish children. At the request of a friend, Caecilia agreed to hide Jewish children in her school, providing them with sanctuary from the horrors of the Holocaust.
As time went on, Caecilia continued to conceal more Jewish children, defying the oppressive Nazi regime. She collaborated with Dina van Heiningen, later known as Dina van der Geld, who not only aided in the housework but also actively supported the resistance by undertaking tasks like courier services and distributing illegal newspapers.
The location of Caecilia’s school, near the Amersfoort internment camp, added another layer of peril to her brave efforts. Despite the risks involved, a hidden emergency hiding place was established in the attic to provide additional protection for the children, although it was rarely utilized.
Caecilia Loots extended her shelter beyond children, also taking in adults who had managed to escape from the Amersfoort internment camp. Additionally, her home served as a meeting place for members of the resistance, highlighting her commitment to the cause and her willingness to support the fight against Nazi oppression.
In recognition of her extraordinary bravery and selflessness, in 1969, Caecilia Loots was honored as one of the Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem, an esteemed recognition of non-Jewish individuals who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. Her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts contributed to the preservation of countless lives during a dark chapter in history.
Caecilia Loots passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a lasting legacy of compassion, bravery, and resistance. She was laid to rest in Leusden, forever remembered as a remarkable woman who played a crucial role in saving Jewish lives and making a significant impact during World War II.
Awards:
– Righteous Among the Nations (1969)