Boom

Geschiedenis

Boom is a Belgian town, located in both the arrondissement and province of Antwerp. On 1 January 2006 Boom had a total population of 16,096. The total area is 7.37 km² which gives a population density of 2,185 inhabitants per km². Residents are known as "Boomenaars".HistoryRecorded history of this community started in the late 1300s. The population increase in Boom occurred some time during the 19th century. In Boom, people venerate a miraculous statue of our lady of Boom.GeographyBoom is located between three big cities, and is situated along the Rupel river.EconomyBecause of the presence of clay around Boom, the region is well known for and has many clay pits and brick factories.Notable peoplePeter Dens (1690), Catholic theologian. Egidius Aerts (1822 - 1853), flautist and composer Bobbejaan Schoepen (1925), singer-songwriter, guitarist and art whistler. He was also an actor, fantasist and founder of the Bobbejaanland amusement park in Belgium.Herbert Flack, actor. Luc Van der Kelen (1948), journalist at Het Laatste Nieuws. Roland Van Campenhout, musician. Bavo Claes (1949), former news anchor. Glen De Boeck (1971), football player and coach. Bjorn Vleminckx (1986), football player. Kevin Seeldraeyers (1986), cyclist.