In 1824 the Dutch lifeboatbrigade of the island of Ameland was founded. Over the centuries they have saved hundreds of sailors of many nationalities, who got into trouble at the Northsea. Many of those brave men died in these hazardous rescues. As late as today the boats would be pulled into the water by 8 horses. In 1979 an accident happened while launching the boat for a rescue of a yacht. The hooks that attach the horses to the buggy carrying the boat did not detach and the buggy slipped into a deep pit pulling the 8 animals with it into the depths of the sea. All of them drowned, while the lifeboat detached and succeeded in bringing home yacht and crew. Sinse then horses are only used in tourist attractions.
This inspired me to this image. Click here to see a render with this model!
"Luctor et emergo" is the national emblem of Holland. It means "I struggle but will emerge!" symbolizing the dutch centuries-old struggle with the water and the sea.
