From time to time we get asked about certain names, phrases, stories, titles – and sometimes we gotta prove or bust some myths!

THE NAME. The source of some the most longstanding misconceptions and confusions out there! Peep the slide below for what HP is NOT named after (there are others floating around, but those are the most consistent rumors.)

The real deal is Holland is named in homage to two really incredible all-ages projects – one in Groningen, Holland called VERA (named after a Latin etching – Veri Et Recti Amici – above the door in the medieval basement of their venue – from when the space was used as a fraternity for reformed and progressive students in the 1800s!). Vera in Groningen was founded in the 70s and one of the very first all-ages clubs based in DIY/independent organizing and ethics and has an incredible music history – and is still a cultural powerhouse today! The other – The Vera Project in Seattle – which was modeled after the original Vera and started in 2001 as a response to a draconian ordinance called the Teen Dance Ordinance, which effectively prohibited young people from gathering for shows, events, music or dancing of any kind. In addition to the venue, it houses a gallery, silkscreen studio, recording studio and more.

In the beginning stages of Holland, we called it “Vera Reno” for a long time – until we all tossed some names on a list and voted at one of our very first collective meetings. We recommend googling some history on both Veras – it’s fascinating stuff and a reason we’re super proud to pay tribute to both these rad orgs in our name!