Johannes Mattheus van Kempen

He was the first in the Netherlands to install a steam engine, which made production more efficient. The factory expanded rapidly and in 1858 Van Kempen moved it to Voorschoten, where he established the largest silver factory in the country. He boosted his company’s international reputation by submitting work to world’s fairs, winning many awards. As director, Van Kempen rigorously maintained the authenticity of the historicising styles he used. He also took care of the welfare his workers by setting up a health insurance fund, a widows’ fund and a pension fund.