A Birthday in Hiding
On September 30, 1942, the Secret Annex was filled with a rare sense of celebration. It was Auguste van Pels-Röttgen’s birthday, and despite their confinement, the residents of the Annex were determined to make the day special. Anne Frank, ever the meticulous observer, recorded the day’s events in her diary.
Her entry is a beautiful contrast to the fear and uncertainty of their lives. She notes the gifts given: chrysanthemums from the staff, roses from the Frank family, and “very pretty” red carnations from her husband, Mr. van Pels. These small gestures of love and remembrance speak volumes about their attempt to hold on to a sense of normalcy.
The highlight of the day was the food, which Anne describes with the detail of a girl who cherishes every meal. Lunch was a small feast: “cauliflower with tongue and potatoes, with tomato soup as a delicious gravy.” The afternoon brought a true moment of community, with the whole office staff, including Mr. Voskuijl, coming upstairs. They had “apple tarts and coffee,” while Anne, who preferred it, had tea.
This diary entry is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit finds a way to celebrate. The birthday of Mrs. van Pels was not just a passing day; it was an act of defiance, a quiet declaration that they would not let their captors take away their humanity. They would still give gifts, share meals, and find joy in each other’s company.
