Have you ever seen a twelve-sided windmill? Right here stands Lijkermolen No 2 a unique marvel. This isn’t just any windmill. It’s one of only two twelve-sided windmills in all of the Netherlands. Built in 1780 alongside its twin Lijkermolen No 1 it served a vital purpose. Lijkermolen No 2 diligently drained the Veender and Lijkerpolder. This was no easy task. The polder covered a vast 540 hectares. The mill had to lift the water 4.2 meters.
The story of Lijkermolen No 2 isn’t merely one of engineering. It’s a tale of skilled craftsmanship. Tymen Paddenburg and Pieter Obdam were the master carpenters. Hendrik Maart expertly laid the bricks. Their decision to create a twelve-sided structure was unconventional. They believed a twelve-sided mill offered superior stability compared to a round one. This unique design made Lijkermolen No 2 a distinctive landmark.
In 1926 an electric motor was added. This allowed the mill to operate even without wind. However by 1960 a new electric pumping station was built nearby. This gradually led to Lijkermolen No 2’s decline. The mill fell into disrepair.
Fortunately the Rijnlandse Molenstichting stepped in. They acquired the mill in 1976. Restoration began in the 1980s. The sails and cap were renewed. The mill could once again turn. However it took until the 2000s to fully restore its functionality with a new screw.
A fascinating detail. During the 1976 restoration the sails were shortened by 50 to 60 centimeters. This prevented accidents with passing farm vehicles. Today Lijkermolen No 2 stands as a testament to human ingenuity. It stands as a symbol of preservation. It also serves as a reminder of a unique chapter in Dutch history. The simple green beard with white trim and the inscription 1780 proudly proclaims its age. Below a yellow background in red the number 2 indicates this mill’s identity. Lijkermolen No 2 continues to pump water though now on a voluntary basis. It remains a remarkable sight a unique twelve-sided icon.