It was at Sterkenburg Castle in 1971 that Dutch Denturists first started their education and training for professional status. The Dutch Denturist pioneers started courses that were, initially, run over two years with attendance once a week. Very soon, Denturists were attending the courses for entire weekends. Sterkenburg Castle became their weekend school and home! Because of their comprehensive training, Denturists retained their right to educate themselves and pressure government for legal status. After official recognition, they decided to form a brotherhood of Denturists from those original pioneers, to honour those who were committed to Denturism and education.

The Sterkenburger philosophy is to help and support the education of Denturists and honour those who have shown an unyielding commitment to the Denturist profession worldwide.

Candidates for induction are nominated by the Brotherhood of Sterkenburgers through the Executive of the IFD, and the Abt, who is appointed for life. This prestigious position was held by Pieter Brouwer until his death in 2005. The International Federation of Denturists has agreed that no one person would ever be able to take Mr. Brouwer's place. The administration of the Brotherhood of Sterkenburgers is now with the Executive of the IFD.

The Sterkenburger has been bestowed on:

Pieter Brouwer, Abt of the Brotherhood of Sterkenburgers,
inducts Paul Levasseur (r)

Pieter Brouwer, Gerry Hansen and Mario Wojcicki,
all of the Brotherhood of Sterkenburgers

Pieter Brouwer and Mario Wojcicki, the newest member
of the Brotherhood of Sterkenburgers

The group at Sterkenburg Castle, September 2003

Sterkenburg Castle, Utrecht