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Zeerijp is unfortunately regularly in the news because of a pattern of earthquakes, such as on 8 January 2018 when Groningen was again rocked by a stronger quake. This one had a magnitude of 3.4 on the Richter scale. After this quake, the debate on gas extraction gained momentum again. In late March 2018, the cabinet decided that the gas tap should be turned off completely by 2030. When entering the village, you will see so-called 'exchange houses' on the left. These are temporary homes where residents can go when their houses are being reinforced or rebuilt.

Zeerijp's name probably comes from the word 'ripa', the Latin word for shore. The sea used to come as far as here! Only when prosperity increased in the Groningen countryside in the 19th century did Zeerijp also grow. Around 1900, the village was bustling with several grocers, barbers, inns, smithies, butchers, bakeries and pubs. Unfortunately, not much of this remains due to emptying out.

Zeerijp is linked in history to the 'Riepster light'. This was a permanent light that was sometimes seen in the night. Legend has it that this light was seen mainly on the Woldweg, the road immediately on the right as you enter the village. People were afraid of this light because it symbolised the devil trying to lure you. However, according to some, the lights could simply be explained by released swamp gas.