Isn’t it remarkable how structures can move to accommodate progress? The Lageveensemolen stands as a testament to such adaptability. This poldermolen in Lisse has a fascinating history of relocations. It ensures the Lageveense polder stays dry.
The Lageveensemolen we see today isn’t the original. The first mill was built here to manage the water levels of the Lageveense polder. This polder was founded in 1654. It was part of the larger Laege Veenen area. The area is now known for its bulb cultivation. But the Lageveense Polder has always been used as a meadow.
In 1657, the Leidse Vaart canal was dug. The Lageveensemolen had to move eastwards. This was to make way for the new waterway. Then in 1842, progress called again. The Haarlem to Den Haag railway was built. This meant another relocation for the mill. It was moved because of the new railway line. A berm ditch was created along the railway. The mill drained into this ditch. A culvert carried the water under the tracks. Finally the water flowed into the Leidsevaart.
Tragedy struck the Lageveensemolen on July 25, 1890. A fire destroyed the mill. It is believed a spark from a passing train caused the blaze. But the community was determined. The Lageveensemolen was rebuilt that same year. Melman, a Warmond mill maker, did the work.
Around 1950, a screw pump was installed in the Keukenhof forest. It served as an emergency measure. By 1990, the screw pump was replaced with a modern pump. This meant the Lageveensemolen was no longer the main drainage system. Ownership of the mill transferred from the Rijnland district to the Rijnlandse Molenstichting.
For many years, the Cozijn family managed the Lageveensemolen. Both father and son were millers. They also oversaw the Hogeveense Molen across the Leidsevaart. The miller had a unique commute. He rowed across the Leidsevaart. Then he crossed the railway tracks on foot. Finally he used a second rowboat to cross the berm ditch. Leo Cozijn was the miller during this time. His son Bart usually did the actual milling at the Lageveensemolen.
In 1990, the Lageveensemolen lost its primary drainage status. The Dutch railway immediately revoked the miller’s permission to cross the tracks. The Lageveensemolen stands as a Rijksmonument. It is a testament to Dutch ingenuity and perseverance.
Today, the Lageveensemolen is operated by a volunteer miller. It acts as an auxiliary pumping station. It is used during extreme water overloads or when the main pumping station fails. The Lageveense polder covers 190 hectares. The pumping height is 0.50 meters. You can visit the Lageveensemolen by appointment. It is a bit difficult to reach for those unfamiliar with the area. A significant walk through the polder is required. Yet, the journey is worth it. It offers a glimpse into the history and beauty of the Dutch landscape.