The Secret Annex
On July 6, 1942, the Franks went into hiding in the attic of the Otto's family company building. They went directly into hiding because Anne's sister received a letter telling her to report to Nazi work camp in Germany. Before they left their house, they left behind a false trail that made it seem like they left for Switzerland.
Family & Friends
The People in the Annex
The people inside the Secret Annex included (starting from top left to right) Edith Frank, Margot Frank, Anne Frank, Otto Frank, Auguste Van Pels, Peter van Pels, Hermann van Pels, and Fritz Pfeffer. These people could not go outside, and they had to remain silent all day. They lived in constant fear of being discovered. They stayed inside of the Secret Annex for 25 months.
The Helpers
The helpers provided essential supplies and try to boost morale. They would provide the essentials that the 8 people needed inside the Secret Annex, while keeping their hiding a secret from everyone. Without them, hiding in the Secret Annex would have been impossible. Starting from the top left; Jo Kleiman, Victor Kugler, Miep Gies, Jan Gies, and Bep Voskuijl.
Inside the Secret Annex
Life in the Attic was almost unbearable, crammed with eight people hiding. With only a movable bookcase keeping them safe from the Nazis. During the day movement or speaking was allowed. Curtains were put in the windows to keep the outsiders from seeing in.