Have you ever felt the wind’s power shaping history? Right here before you stands Korenmolen De Zandhaas. This imposing windmill has dominated the Santpoort-Noord landscape since 1779. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Lordship of Brederode. In the early 13th century Count William I of Holland granted this Lordship to Dirk the First. The Lordship controlled several areas including Tetterode Overveen Aalbertsberg Vogelenzang and Velsen. A significant part of their power was the wind right. This gave them the absolute right to build and operate a mill like Korenmolen De Zandhaas. They leased it to millers for payment or goods. Amazingly Korenmolen De Zandhaas also held the right of mill compulsion. This meant villagers from a specific area had to bring their grain here to be ground.
Korenmolen De Zandhaas isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a working mill. It’s a post mill with a substantial working space. Currently it is expertly maintained by the skilled miller Jos Kors. Part of the old mill barn is now a visitor’s center. It’s a wonderful place to learn about milling techniques. There is even a shop selling products from the mill. Imagine the scent of freshly ground grain filling the air.
This isn’t the first mill on this spot. An earlier mill existed. Korenmolen De Zandhaas underwent a major restoration between 1992 and 1998. Milling enthusiasts saved this piece of Dutch heritage. They added Fokwieken and bored through the upper shaft to improve the brake mechanism. One of the mill’s sails now boasts Ten Have valves a modern improvement. Today you can witness a blend of old and new at Korenmolen De Zandhaas.
The mill’s history and operations are deeply intertwined with the local community. The mill is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of heritage a functioning business and a reminder of the area’s rich past. As you stand here admiring Korenmolen De Zandhaas remember the generations of millers who kept its sails turning. The wind whispers their stories.