This page aims to provide an accurate and comprehensive account of the van Eeden family legacy, from the formation of our family name in the Netherlands to the present day. Known for our adventurous spirit and unwavering reliability, the van Eeden family has been defined by bold endeavors and a steadfast commitment to our values. Whether navigating new territories or maintaining trust through generations, our legacy reflects a deep connection to exploration, creativity, and responsibility. Today, Eeden Space embodies these enduring traits, honoring our family’s history while pioneering innovative paths in sustainability for the future.
The Netherlands
The van Eeden family name is thought to have originated from the town of Eeden, a settlement once located along the banks of the Waal River in the Netherlands. In Dutch, “van” means “from” in English. Known for its rich agricultural land and proximity to key trade routes, Eeden was a place where both commerce and community flourished. Over time, the town evolved and became known as Ede, though its historical roots remain significant to the van Eeden legacy. This connection to a place of growth, resilience, and natural beauty has deeply influenced the values passed down through generations of the family, now reflected in the mission and work of Eeden Space.
Deeply rooted in faith and a desire to serve, the van Eeden family has long been guided by a commitment to sharing their values with the world. From the quiet town of Eeden, many family members felt a calling to embark on journeys, offering not only their beliefs but also their hearts to communities far beyond the Netherlands. Their work was grounded in compassion, humility, and a steadfast dedication to making a difference. Meanwhile, those who remained in the Netherlands continued to serve faithfully within their local church, where they would soon become prominent figures in their communities, exemplified by Frederik Willem van Eeden. This balance of heart-led service—both abroad and at home—continues to shape the van Eeden legacy, now reflected in the mission of Eeden Space.
Sr. Frederik Willem van Eeden
Frederik Willem van Eeden is often hailed as the inventor of conservation, pioneering revolutionary ideas that laid the groundwork for modern environmental protection. Born in Amsterdam, he developed a profound love for nature early in life, leading him to dedicate his career to botany and environmental advocacy.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as industrialization began to threaten delicate ecosystems, van Eeden recognized the urgent need for a structured approach to preserving unique natural landscapes. In 1906, he introduced the concept of Natural Conservation, a formal designation intended to safeguard areas of exceptional ecological significance and beauty. This innovative idea was instrumental in shaping the conservation movement, emphasizing the importance of protecting biodiversity for future generations.
In addition to his contributions to conservation, van Eeden founded the Colonial Museum (now the Royal Tropical Institute) in Amsterdam. This institution aimed to promote research and education on colonial history and environmental sciences. By placing his work within this prominent institute, van Eeden solidified his status as a leading figure in society, influencing both scientific discourse and public policy related to environmental issues.
Through his relentless advocacy for the establishment of Natural Conservation and his role at the Colonial Museum, van Eeden inspired significant conservation efforts in the Netherlands and beyond. His work ignited a broader awareness of environmental challenges, encouraging future generations to embrace stewardship of the Earth.
Van Eeden’s contributions were driven by a deep sense of social responsibility and a belief in the interconnectedness of all living things. His legacy as a pioneer of conservation continues to resonate today, influencing environmental policies and inspiring advocates around the world to cherish and protect our natural heritage.
Jr. Frederik Willem van Eeden
Frederik van Eeden, son of Sr. Frederik Willem van Eeden, is often regarded as the Pioneer of Psychiatry, heralding a new era in the understanding and treatment of mental health. He transformed the industry of Psychiatry into being a natural healing experience with observatory support from being a cold harsh needle. Born in Haarlem, he demonstrated a profound interest in literature and philosophy early in life, which would later influence his approach to psychology and social reform.
One of van Eeden’s most notable achievements was coining the term “Lucid Dreaming,” introduced in his groundbreaking 1913 article, “A Study of Dreams.” In this work, he explored the phenomenon of becoming aware of one’s dream state while still dreaming, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the whimsical and imaginative aspects of our psyche. His love for fun and exploration allowed him to transform psychiatry, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the dreams and creativity of our inner child.
Frederik van Eeden was a founder of the Tachtigers, a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century and sought to modernize Dutch literature. As one of its founders, he played a crucial role in shaping its vision, which emphasized individual expression and artistic innovation. The Tachtigers founded the literary magazine De Nieuwe Gids, which became a platform for new and experimental literature, paving the way for independent publishing and elevating the status of Dutch writers in a society that was beginning to embrace modernity. This movement predates World War II and highlights the cultural shifts occurring in the Netherlands during that time.
In addition to his literary and psychological contributions, van Eeden invented alternative ways of living to treat mental illness by creating different communities in various parts of the world. His innovative vision transformed mental health treatment into a global initiative, promoting the idea that supportive environments could foster healing and well-being. These communities exemplified his belief in the transformative power of shared experiences and collective support, allowing individuals to thrive in nurturing settings.
Van Eeden’s approach extended to his close association with the emerging field of psychoanalysis. Studying under Sigmund Freud, he incorporated Freudian concepts into his work while advocating for a more playful and imaginative understanding of mental health that acknowledged the significance of our inner worlds. This integration helped elevate the status of psychiatry in the Netherlands and contributed to the development of new therapeutic practices that valued creativity and self-expression.
As a writer, van Eeden’s literary works often delved into themes of idealism, spirituality, and the human condition, providing valuable insights into the psychological experiences of his characters. His most famous novel, De Kleine Johannes (Little Johannes), published in 1916, garnered acclaim and established him as a significant figure in Dutch literature.
Additionally, he founded the colonial town of van Eeden in North Carolina, which served as a refuge for Jews fleeing the horrors of World War II. Although this town is now owned by a new family, its origins reflect van Eeden’s commitment to social activism and his belief in the transformative power of community and support for those in need.
Frederik van Eeden’s legacy as a pioneer of psychiatry and a social reformer continues to resonate, reminding us that the path to healing is often illuminated by creativity, compassion, and the embrace of our inner worlds.
South Africa
Our founder, Forest van Eeden, was born into the branch of the van Eeden family that embarked on a significant journey from Europe to South Africa. This bold move mirrored the adventurous spirit of the van Eeden lineage, carrying their legacy of exploration, resilience, and faithfulness into new lands. The South African chapter of the family’s story became an important part of Forest’s heritage, inspiring her leadership and vision for Eeden Space.
Jan Janse van Eeden
At some point during the 17th century, members of the van Eeden family relocated from the Netherlands to Germany. This shift marked a chapter of change for the family, one that would soon lead them even further afield. In 1662, the next significant journey began, as Jan Janse van Eeden, born in 1637 in Oldenburg, Germany, prepared to set sail for South Africa. His decision to leave behind Europe was a testament to the adventurous spirit that has long defined the van Eeden family.
Jan Janse van Eeden was a Lance Corporal on the ship traveling to South Africa, playing an essential role in the expedition. After reaching his destination, he settled in Stellenbosch in 1688. Embracing his new life in the Cape Colony, Jan became a skilled smith, contributing to the growth of this burgeoning settlement. His hands-on work as a craftsman was the beginning of the van Eedens’ integration into South African society, establishing the family’s roots in this new land.
Jan’s commitment to his community extended beyond his trade. He became the Deacon of the Kaapse Kerk, the Cape Church, demonstrating both his faith and his leadership. His contributions to Stellenbosch and the Cape laid the foundation for the van Eeden family’s long-standing legacy in South Africa, where the values of hard work, faithfulness, and service have been passed down through the generations.
As the van Eeden family established themselves in South Africa, their reach expanded from Cape Town to regions further north, including the Northern Cape, Free State, and Northern Transvaal. Over time, the family diversified their contributions to these communities, with a strong presence in farming, accounting, education, and technical and electrical engineering. This blend of practical skills and innovation continued to define the van Eeden legacy as they adapted to new opportunities and challenges in these growing regions.
The van Eeden family, along with other European settlers, played a crucial role in the early development of South Africa. As members and leaders of the Dutch Reformed Church, they approached their work with a sense of faith-driven purpose, committed to advancing the infrastructure and society of a new land. The Dutch Reformed Church, which originated in the Netherlands during the Protestant Reformation, was a guiding force in the lives of many European settlers. It provided a moral and spiritual framework that informed not only their personal lives but also their approach to work, leadership, and community-building.
The reason for much of the European immigration to South Africa in those days was to transform a third-world country into a thriving colony. Early settlers like the van Eeden family sought to pioneer and develop the land, contributing to agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. Unlike those who later participated in exploitative practices like the slave trade, the van Eedens followed their faith and the principles of the Dutch Reformed Church, striving to uplift and build rather than oppress. The church’s influence was strong, guiding its members to engage in ethical leadership and service in their efforts to establish a new society.
Beyond economic and industrial development, many of these settlers, including the van Eeden family, were deeply interested in contributing to the preservation and study of history, particularly in relation to the origins of mankind. South Africa, with its rich archaeological heritage, offered a unique opportunity to explore and connect with early human history. The van Eedens, driven by both faith and curiosity, were committed to being a part of this broader effort, which combined spiritual beliefs with the desire to better understand the world’s ancient past.
As the van Eedens spread across South Africa, they carried with them this strong tradition of faith and leadership. Their involvement in farming, accounting, education, and engineering was not only about economic progress but also about contributing to the development of a society guided by moral values. The Dutch Reformed Church continued to be a central force in shaping their vision of what it meant to be pioneers—both spiritually and practically—within this growing nation.
Afrikaans, a language that originated from Dutch, was created as part of a broader effort to form an alliance with all people in Africa. The name itself directly translates to “Africa’s chance,” symbolizing a vision for unity and shared opportunity among the continent’s diverse populations. The van Eeden family was involved in the founding of this alliance, contributing to the early development of this language and the relationships it sought to build. However, the exact extent of the family’s influence in shaping Afrikaans remains uncertain, as the language grew from a collective effort to bridge cultural divides in South Africa.
The van Eeden family, as part of their pioneering efforts, integrated and shared their land with the original native inhabitants of South Africa. Rather than seeking to dominate or exploit the land and its people, they believed in fostering respectful relationships and working in harmony with those who had long called the region home. This spirit of collaboration and coexistence was a core value of the van Eeden family and aligned with their faith-driven approach to life and community.
In the late 19th century, significant changes began to reshape South Africa. The discovery of diamonds in 1867 and gold in 1884 set off a wave of new immigration and economic upheaval. These discoveries led to increased tensions between the governing authorities, foreign interests, and local pioneers. The mounting conflicts, particularly between the British Empire and the Boers (Dutch-speaking settlers), eventually culminated in the Second Boer War (1899–1902). The war was a direct result of struggles over control of the region’s newly discovered wealth, leading to intense battles over land and resources.
During this turbulent period, the van Eeden family, being primarily farmers, did not involve themselves in the diamond and gold rushes that were fueling the conflict. Their focus remained on their agricultural work and on the well-being of the local communities they had long been connected with. While others rushed to stake claims and compete for the newly discovered riches, the van Eedens prioritized the safety and stability of the people around them, showing their commitment to the land and its inhabitants rather than the fleeting allure of wealth.
Jan Janse van Eeden is our esteemed ancestor, whose journey from Germany to South Africa in the 17th century established the foundation for the van Eeden family’s enduring legacy. His commitment to community and faith set a precedent that influenced generations, including his descendant, Petrus Sarel van Eeden.
Petrus Sarel van Eeden
Petrus Sarel van Eeden, born in the early 1900s, carried on the family’s strong tradition of farming in South Africa. He established and operated a successful farm in the Free State, where he primarily raised cattle and cultivated grain and corn. The Free State, known for its rich agricultural land, became the backdrop of Petrus Sarel’s work, as he contributed to the region’s farming industry during a period of great change in South Africa.
As a farmer, Petrus Sarel exemplified the van Eeden family’s dedication to the land and its stewardship, ensuring that his farm prospered through hard work and careful management. His farm not only supported his own livelihood but also played a role in the broader agricultural community, providing essential resources to the area.
As farmers in the Free State, the van Eeden family faced the challenges of protecting their livestock from predators in the wild. To ensure the survival of their cattle and other animals, they had to develop innovative methods and skills. These could have included building stronger enclosures, using guard animals, or adopting strategies for tracking and deterring predators. The harsh environment required resilience and resourcefulness, and the family’s ability to adapt helped them maintain their farm and protect their livestock from the dangers of the South African wilderness.
Around the time of World War II, Petrus Sarel made the significant decision to sell his farm. This marked the end of an era for his branch of the van Eeden family’s farming legacy. Although the reasons for selling may have been influenced by the global uncertainty of the war, Petrus Sarel’s contributions to South African agriculture remained a testament to the van Eeden family’s enduring connection to the land.
Johannes Christiaan van Eeden
Johannes Christiaan van Eeden was the son of Petrus Sarel van Eeden, continuing the family legacy of dedication and service. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, Johannes was influenced by his father’s commitment to farming and community engagement. This foundational background instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for education, which would later drive him to make a significant impact in South Africa as a leader and educator.
In 1967, J.C. van Eeden arrived in the small town of Alice in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, accompanied by his wife and newborn son. He had accepted the role of Head of the Finance and Accounting Faculty at the University of Fort Hare—a historically black university that was a focal point of resistance against the apartheid regime.
At a time when black South Africans faced severe discrimination and were systematically barred from professions like auditing and accounting, van Eeden was resolute in his mission to empower his students. He believed fervently in education as the key to social mobility and worked tirelessly to equip his students with the skills and qualifications necessary to succeed.
Confronted with institutionalized racism and numerous obstacles, van Eeden dedicated himself to preparing his students for the Chartered Accountants exams, essential for entering the finance and accounting industry in South Africa. His commitment extended beyond the conventional classroom.
During the 1972 riots at Fort Hare, when attending university was life-threatening, his students pleaded with him to continue teaching. Aware that missing the upcoming exams could derail their futures, he agreed. Every night, they gathered in secrecy, conducting classes by candlelight in a darkened storage room.
Despite personal risk and professional isolation—facing ridicule from colleagues who accused him of overstepping boundaries and neglecting institutional norms—Van Eeden’s efforts bore remarkable fruit. His students became some of the first black South Africans to be accredited as Chartered Accountants, ascending to influential positions in the new South Africa. While his dedication was often overlooked by the institution, the profound gratitude of his students stood as a testament to his impact.
Beyond his academic endeavors, van Eeden held significant financial management roles in various prominent organizations. He served as Chief Financial Officer at the South African Oil and Seed Corporation and the South African Broadcasting Corporation. He also managed financial operations for a U.S.-owned vanadium mine in South Africa, showcasing his expertise in both national and international contexts. For the last 20 years of his life, he ran his own accounting and tax consulting firm, providing expert advice and services to a diverse clientele.
Undeterred by a lack of recognition and promotion, J.C. van Eeden continued his unwavering fight for justice and equality, driven by an unshakable belief in the transformative power of education. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made to challenge systemic racism and discrimination. As chronicled in his son’s memoir, A Candle in the Dark, van Eeden’s story illuminates the enduring difference one individual can make in fostering a more just and equitable world
Jacobus Sarel Stephanus van Eeden
Johannes van Eeden was the father of Jacobus van Eeden. This familial connection highlights the continuation of the Van Eeden legacy through generations, with Jacobus playing a significant role in the family’s history as Johannes’s eldest child.
Jacobus Sarel Stephanus van Eeden was born in Pretoria in 1965, beginning his early life in the capital before moving with his family to Alice in the Eastern Cape. There, he attended Alice Elementary School, growing up in the historically rich and diverse environment shaped by his family’s legacy in education. After spending his formative years in Alice, Jacobus and his family returned to Pretoria, where he continued his education at Die Poort Elementary School and later at State President C.R. Swart High School, from which he graduated in 1983.
Following his high school graduation, Jacobus was required to fulfill mandatory enlistment in the South African Air Force. Thanks to his advanced training in computer science and accounting, he was allocated to the prestigious Chief of Finance Unit within the South African Defence Force. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing budgets, finances, and payments for all branches of the military, operating out of Pretoria. He served with dedication for four years, bringing both technical expertise and financial acumen to the unit.
During his enlistment, Jacobus pursued higher education part-time at the University of Pretoria, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree with dual majors in Accounting and Informatica. His commitment to his studies and military duties earned him honors in 1992. He went on to begin a Master’s degree in Informatics at the same university, but before he could complete his thesis, Jacobus made the pivotal decision to immigrate to the United States in 1996, where new opportunities awaited him.
After immigrating to the United States in 1996, Jacobus Sarel Stephanus van Eeden embarked on an exceptional career in digital transformation, becoming a global leader in technology consulting and business innovation. His background in Accounting and Informatica, combined with his early career in the South African Air Force, equipped him with the analytical skills and technical expertise to thrive in his new professional landscape.
As a founder of EDCO (Emprise Consulting), Jacobus played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s approach to technology consulting. He led significant transformation projects for global clients across various industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and financial services. His leadership and expertise in SAP implementation positioned him as a key player in the early days of digital business transformation.
At BearingPoint, Jacobus further distinguished himself as the Director of Enterprise Revenue Management Solutions, where he led the successful outsourcing of revenue collections for the Province of British Columbia—a groundbreaking $800 million deal. His work there transformed customer service, billing, and collections systems using cutting-edge SAP solutions, demonstrating his ability to drive large-scale change.
His journey continued at Deloitte Digital, where Jacobus played a critical role in building and scaling the enterprise engagement business unit. Over five years, he helped grow the unit from $10 million to $1.2 billion, focusing on digital transformation strategies that integrated ERP, CRM, and user experience platforms. Working with major clients such as ExxonMobil, Intel, and OfficeMax, Jacobus was at the forefront of developing persona-based SAP solutions, making business systems more intuitive and user-friendly.
Jaco’s next leadership role was at HCL Technologies, where he served as EVP and led the Digital Consulting and SAP Digital business. He incubated and built a new digital practice, growing a team of over 200 members in just 18 months. His innovative vision and ability to integrate emerging technologies like cloud computing, AI, and data science into business solutions transformed the way clients such as Cummins, Esteé Lauder, and Merck operated.
In 2019, Jacobus joined Cognizant as the Digital Customer Experience Practice Leader, where he continued to expand digital consulting offerings for major global brands, including Pepsi, Honeywell, and Levi’s. He scaled a global delivery team of over 850 members, driving business outcomes through customer engagement optimization, cloud solutions, and process automation. His commitment to human-centered design and digital innovation solidified his reputation as a trusted advisor to C-level executives.
Alongside his professional pursuits, Jacobus remained deeply committed to his faith and the community. He was a constant member of several non-denominational churches, where he performed various leadership duties. His involvement in church activities allowed him to contribute to the spiritual well-being of those around him, reflecting his belief in the importance of service and community engagement.
Currently leading Digital Profit Group, Jacobus focuses on driving digital transformation through intelligent automation, customer experience optimization, and tailored consulting solutions. His career has spanned over two decades, marked by a proven track record of success in building digital capabilities, leading large-scale technology initiatives, and delivering measurable results for global clients.
Forest van Eeden
Forest van Eeden, the youngest child of Jacobus van Eeden, was born in Pretoria, South Africa, in 1994 with the Afrikaans name Chanel Mignon van Eeden (translated to Forest Evergreen van Eeden in English). In 1996, at the age of two, she moved with her family to New Jersey, United States, where she attended elementary and middle school. In 2005, the family relocated to Texas, allowing Forest to complete middle school and graduate from Grapevine Faith Christian School in 2012. While at Grapevine Faith Christian School, she studied Biblical studies, apologetics, and religious philosophy and had the opportunity to travel to India for missionary work after performing in Carnegie Hall in New York City as a part of her school’s choir. She was also leading roles in several musicals at Grapevine Faith as well as the worship leader for the chapel services held for High School. She was also a cheerleader during middle and high school.
Forest began her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University as a Bachelor of Science student in Visualization, driven by her love for storytelling and a desire to pursue a career as an animator at Pixar. During her time at Texas A&M University, Forest was actively involved in various extracurricular activities that showcased her diverse interests and talents. She was a member of the Aggie Speleological Society, demonstrating her passion for cave exploration and geological studies. Forest also participated in a nationally competing a cappella group, honing her musical skills and representing Texas A&M in vocal performances across the country. Her theatrical abilities were highlighted when she took on the lead role in a charity musical performance, combining her love for the arts with her commitment to giving back to the community. These experiences at Texas A&M not only enriched Forest’s college life but also contributed to her multifaceted skill set, blending scientific curiosity, musical talent, and theatrical performance with her academic pursuits.
She then transferred to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), initially majoring in Illustration after receiving guidance from a professor at CalArts. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development from SCAD in June 2017.
During her time at SCAD, Forest took on a leadership role in teaching Poverty Alleviation, demonstrating her commitment to social issues alongside her academic pursuits. Following her undergraduate studies, she began her graduate studies as a dually enrolled student at the Imperial College London and Royal College of Art in the MA/MS in Global Innovation Design program. This program was planned to also include partial attendance at Tsinghua University in Beijing and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Her love and dedication to designing a better and more humane future for animals on a global scale was the work she aimed to pursue at graduate school. However, after a disagreement about animal travel and welfare going into Asia, Forest decided to transfer into the Information Experience Design program. Forest had the foresight to study Information Experience Design, giving her the world’s best education for designing data quantification technology for the environment.
Unfortunately, Forest had to leave her MA program early due to contracting Lyme Disease, which took years to diagnose correctly. As a result of her completed work and time at the institution, she was awarded an MA Postgraduate Diploma in Information Experience Design and Experimental Design from the Royal College of Art in London for her studies from September 2017 to February 2020.
In 2013, Forest began transitioning to a vegetarian diet, reflecting her growing concern for animal welfare. In 2020, she progressed to a Vegan diet; however, as part of her treatment for Lyme disease, extensive testing revealed malnourishments that necessitated the reincorporation of meat into her diet for cannabidiods. With the progressing legalisation of Marijuana in the United States, she has been able to maintain a Kosher Vegan diet and lifestyle. She has been able to successfully treat her Lyme disease bacteria with Manganese, treating their Radioactive Poisoning (Solution: Nabacterosis) with Manganese supplements, as needed.
Her experience includes roles such as User Experience Designer at Chante Digital & Interactive in Dallas, Texas, where she worked with various companies and institutions. She also completed internships in User Experience Design at BeyondDigital at HCL Technologies and in Graphic Design and Illustration at Dedo Interactive Inc.
Beginning in November 2020, Forest officially began her own studio, Chanel Mignon Studios, taking on projects across Texas, California, and London. Her work involved meeting client needs through iterative design processes while managing resources efficiently.
Later on, Chanel Mignon Studios became Copyright Eden. After a year or so of discovery work as Copyright Eden, Forest finalised her business as Eeden Space, a company born out of her desire to create an organized effort to solve environmental problems. This initiative is deeply rooted in the heritage and legacy of the van Eeden family, particularly their significant contribution to the invention of Conservationism. As the founder of Eeden Space, Forest has been working on innovative projects that blend technology with environmental conservation.
Forest’s professional journey has been diverse and innovative. She is currently dedicating her week at Eeden Space, based in Florida, where she focuses on Conservationist Crossbreeding.
Throughout her career, Forest has demonstrated a commitment to innovative design and technology while applying her skills across various projects and initiatives with a particular focus on improving the lives of animals through her work. Her involvement in church activities has been constant; during her time at the Royal College of Art, she became experimental in finding environmental answers and humane obligations toward animals. Now she is taking all of her research into her newest development in conservation: Organic Preservation—a focus solely dedicated to preserving organic life itself—representing a cutting-edge approach to environmental protection and species preservation.