“Ever wonder how land stays dry?” I ask. Let’s explore Gemaal Limmen 1879. This monumental structure played a vital role in keeping the Groot Limmer Polder dry. It served this purpose until 1989. Before the Gemaal Limmen 1879, the Zuidermolen stood here.
The original construction of Gemaal Limmen 1879 dates back to 1879. The builders cleverly incorporated existing elements of the mill. This included the vijzelkom, the wooden vijzel, and the water courses. The original wooden vijzel was soon replaced. In 1882, a steel vijzel from IJzergieterij “De Prins van Oranje” took its place. This new vijzel measured 2.55 meters in diameter. Its capacity was around 180 cubic meters per minute.
In 1919, a significant upgrade occurred. The original 40 hp steam engine was swapped out. It was replaced with a 60 kW Brown Boveri electric motor. This change required adapting the transmission. Two large pulley wheels and drive belts were used to manage the difference in speed. The vijzel’s drive system relies on bevel gears. Initially, these gears had azijnhouten teeth. By 1943, these were replaced with birch wood teeth.
To prevent backflow from the Lange Meer, a wachtdeur was installed. The Lange Meer is now known as Alkmaardermeer. This gate sits behind the vijzel. The Gemaal Limmen 1879 building boasts a neoclassical style. Its facade features ornamental brickwork. A brick chimney once stood beside the pumping station. It was removed in 1919 after the steam system was decommissioned. Today, the former boiler room functions as an exhibition space.
Since 1989, an automatically operated screw pump station stands next to Gemaal Limmen 1879. This modern station has a capacity of 90 cubic meters per minute. The building itself is quite striking. Its design is more like a house than a purely functional structure. This is especially true since the chimney was removed. The interior and exterior combine to make Gemaal Limmen 1879 a noteworthy site.
Stepping inside, the technical installations have been fully restored. The former boiler room now hosts diverse exhibitions. A high-voltage transformer installation occupies part of the space. The electrically driven vijzelpomp dates back to the previous century. The attic houses the Historical Society Oud Akersloot. Archeological finds from Akersloot are also displayed.
Gemaal Limmen 1879 is more than just a museum. It is a testament to Dutch ingenuity in water management. Its historical significance and architectural beauty make it a unique landmark. It is also a reminder of our ongoing relationship with water.