Intrigued by how Amsterdam keeps its feet dry? Then listen to the story of Gemaal Stadwijck. This polder pumping station stands proudly on the Amsteldijk in Amsterdam-Zuid. It is a vital piece of the city’s water management system.
Gemaal Stadwijck isn’t just a functional building. It’s a testament to Amsterdam’s ongoing battle against the water. Built in 1921, Gemaal Stadwijck replaced an older steam pumping station. The old station became unusable when the Rivierenbuurt area was raised with sand.
The Gemaal Stadwijck was designed by A.J. Westerman from the Department of Public Works. The machinists’ house, the Zorgvliedbrug and the Zorgvliedsluis were also constructed around the same time. The architectural style is Amsterdam School. It is a unique building style characterized by the use of brickwork and sculptural forms.
Gemaal Stadwijck drains the Binnendijkse Buitenvelderse polder. This polder comprises the southern part of Amsterdam-Zuid. Today, the pumping station is owned by the Water Authority Amstel, Gooi and Vecht. Waternet manages its operations.
Inside Gemaal Stadwijck, two electric centrifugal pumps work tirelessly. These pumps have a capacity of 126 cubic meters per minute. The water level in the Binnendijkse Buitenvelderse Polder is -2.00 meters NAP. The Amstel River is at -0.40 meters NAP. Gemaal Stadwijck lifts the water approximately 1.6 meters. It discharges it from the polder into the Amstelland Boezem.
The Zorgvliedsluis is located behind Gemaal Stadwijck. Constructed in 1921, this small lock features two pointed doors on each side. The Zorgvliedsluis helps refresh the water in the polder. This process is infrequent because the Amstel water is saltier. The Zorgvliedsluis is no longer used for navigation.
In 2006, Gemaal Stadwijck and the machinists’ house were listed as municipal monuments. The pumping station underwent renovations in 2016.
Before Gemaal Stadwijck, three scoop wheel mills kept the area dry around 1630. In 1877, a steam pumping station with two Archimedes’ screw pumps was built near one of the mills. This steam pumping station operated until Gemaal Stadwijck replaced it in 1921.
Berlage’s 1915 plan for the expansion of Amsterdam-Zuid included Gemaal Stadwijck and the Zorgvliedsluis.
The polder lies two meters below sea level. The pumping station and lock still regulate the water levels in the polder.
The pumping station building is constructed with brown bricks. A row of small windows surrounds almost the entire structure. Dark green woodwork adorns the sides and the extension on the pumping station side. A sturdy green double door with iron ornaments graces the street side of the building.
The machinists’ house is directly north of Gemaal Stadwijck. The lock keeper’s house is across the Zorgvliedsluis. The two houses are identical. They share the same architectural features and details as Gemaal Stadwijck.
Gemaal Stadwijck continues its crucial work, ensuring the Buitenveldert polder remains dry. Next to the pumping station is the machinists’ house. Near the Zorgvliedsluis stands a lock keeper’s house. These structures are identical and reflect the Amsterdam School style. They are well-preserved. The original nature and waterways surrounding them add to their charm. So, next time you’re in the area, take a moment to appreciate this vital piece of Amsterdam’s water management history.