Moppemolen

Lost in time, yet standing proud, the Moppemolen beckons us closer. This isn’t just any windmill. The Moppemolen holds a unique story, whispering secrets of resilience and community spirit. Built in 1752, the Moppemolen replaced a wipmolen that tragically burned down a year earlier. Its peculiar name, “Moppemolen,” remains a mystery to this day. The Moppemolen stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Dutch people. Imagine the scene in the 18th century, as the community rallied to build this sturdy groundzeiler, their livelihoods depending on its ability to drain the Veender- en Lijkerpolder. Its massive scoop wheel, with a diameter of 5.30 meters, diligently worked to keep the land dry. The Moppemolen boasts a unique feature: a 4km long canal feeding water to the windmill. This canal, threatened by the construction of a high-speed railway line, was saved thanks to a specially constructed culvert. This allowed the Moppemolen to continue its vital work, a testament to its enduring importance. Even with the advent of modern technology, the Moppemolen continues to serve the community as a backup pump in times of extreme flooding. It’s a working museum, a reminder of the past, and a symbol of the ongoing relationship between humans and their environment. The Moppemolen has faced challenges, including technical issues that led to its temporary retirement in 1951. However, thanks to the foresight of preservationists and government support, the Moppemolen was restored and even made habitable for a volunteer miller. The Moppemolen holds another, more unusual secret. Look closely above the cellar window. There you’ll find a black cross on a white background, known locally as the “Devil’s Cross.” This symbol reflects an old folk belief about protecting the cellar’s contents from the devil’s influence, a charming reminder of the superstitions and traditions that intertwined with daily life. The Moppemolen is more than just a windmill. It’s a time capsule, a symbol of perseverance, and a testament to the enduring power of community.