Drained in 1635, the Schermer polder tells a story of Dutch ingenuity. This is a tale of transformation. It is the story of how a vast inland lake became fertile land.
Around the year 800, the area of Schermer was a peat bog. A small river flowed through it. Peat digging and storm floods expanded the river. By 1250, it grew into an inland lake. This lake had an open connection to the Zuyderzee.
Private investors saw an opportunity in the 17th century. They began draining the lake’s largest part. The southern section, Alkmaardermeer, remained untouched. In 1635, the Schermer polder was drained. It encompassed 47.7 square kilometers. The land was then divided among the shareholders.
The name “Schermer” comes from “skir mere”. It means “bright lake”. This name reflects the area’s watery origins. The Schermer municipality included more than just the polder. It also included the polders of Oterleek, Mijzenpolder, and Eilandspolder.
Many windmills were used for this huge project. The bottom of the Schermer lies more than 4 meters below sea level. Windmills conveyed water in steps. They lifted it from one canal to the next. In 1850, paddle wheels were replaced by screw pumps. These pumps continued working later.
The mills in Schermer worked so well that electric pumping stations came later. The switch did not happen until 1928. Eleven windmills still stand in the Schermer. Three are near Schermerhorn along the Noordervaart. They are part of a triple mill drainage system.
Ondermolen D is now a museum. Inside, you can see how a polder mill worked. You can also glimpse how people used to live there. The museum provides insight into the lives of those who shaped the Schermer.
Schermer included several small towns. These were Driehuizen, Grootschermer, Oterleek, Schermerhorn, Stompetoren and Zuidschermer. Stompetoren and Zuidschermer are in the Schermer polder.
Schermer was once an independent municipality. However, in 2015, it merged with Alkmaar. The municipal council had eleven seats. Elections in 2010 determined their division. A new election occurred in November 2014 for the merged Alkmaar council.
The story of Schermer also involves the Schermerhorn family. Jacob Janse Schermerhorn, an early resident of New York, had roots in this region. A document refers to him as “formerly a citizen of Waterland, Holland.” Waterland included the town of Schermerhorn.
The family’s history intertwines with the area. The name “Schermerhorn” likely originated from the village. This indicates a close connection to the locality. The Schermerhorn family of America has been well-known. They have been closely identified with New York State’s history.
So, as we stand here, remember the Schermer’s transformation. Think of the visionaries who saw land where there was water. Consider the windmills that tirelessly pumped day and night. This reclaimed land stands as a testament to Dutch resilience.