Friesland's stinzen have nearly all disappeared or been encapsulated by other structures, but a few remain – including the Schierstins in Veenwouden, built around 1300.

A stins is a residential tower of thick bricks, where distinguished families sought refuge in times of danger. The stone tower stood out clearly among the simple houses of wood, mud, thatch and sod. The word stins is therefore a contraction of 'stone house'.

The first mention of the Schierstins dates back to 1439, and luckily it's stood the test of time. However, at the end of the 19th century, the ivy-covered tower was so dilapidated that demolition seems the only way out. Luckily, the Frisian Society saved the unique building and it was restored in 1906.

The building then served as a post office until around 1960 until a second restoration. Thereafter, it became a space for public functions: first as a museum with council and wedding hall and later as a cultural center for art and historical exhibitions, lectures and symposia.

In 1999, the upper floor was renovated and made accessible to accommodate a permanent exhibition.