The Sweetness of a Thirteenth Birthday
On June 14, 1942, a birthday party was in full swing at the Frank family’s apartment. But this wasn’t just any party; it was Anne Frank’s thirteenth birthday, a landmark moment in any young girl’s life. The guest list was carefully curated by Anne herself, including friends from her new school and her close friend, Hanneli Goslar, from the neighborhood. Her new friend, Hello Silberberg, also came. It was, by all accounts, an exceptionally exciting and entertaining affair, a reputation that Anne’s parties had already earned.
From left to right: Lucie van Dijk, Anne Frank, Sanne Ledermann, Hannah Goslar, Juultje Ketellapper, Kitty Egyedi, Mary Bos, Ietje Swillens and Martha van den Berg
Inside, the home was filled with the simple, delicious joys of childhood. Edith served strawberry cake and milk, while Otto, a loving father, was right in the middle of it all, helping with the games. This was a family creating happy memories, cherishing a moment of normalcy.
The highlight of the day was a film screening. The main feature was the adventure film Rin Tin Tin – Lighthouse by the Sea, a classic story of a boy and his dog. Afterward, Otto proudly showed a film he himself had made: an advertising film for his business, Opekta. The party was a beautiful mix of what a young girl wanted and what her father loved—a perfect reflection of their bond.
In the end, this birthday wasn’t just about presents or cake. It was a celebration of a life on the cusp of a new chapter. Anne was turning thirteen, stepping from childhood into her teenage years. This birthday party, filled with friends, family, and the innocent joy of a movie, would be one of her last truly carefree moments. Just a few weeks later, the world she knew would change forever, and her home would no longer be a place for parties, but a hiding place. The sweetness of her thirteenth birthday serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the ordinary life that was so cruelly taken away.
