“Forest of people who live along the (Oude) Rijn” that is the meaning of Rijnsaterwoude. It is the name of this village. We are now in Rijnsaterwoude.
Rijnsaterwoude is a village in the Dutch province of South Holland. It sits about 6 km north of Alphen aan den Rijn. The municipality of Rijnsaterwoude is Kaag en Braassem.
The village’s history stretches back centuries. Rijnsaterwoude was first mentioned in the 11th century. It was known as Rinsaterwalt then.
Rijnsaterwoude evolved as a peat excavation settlement. This happened in the Middle Ages along the Braassemermeer. Imagine the early settlers. They worked hard to cultivate this land.
The Dutch Reformed church stands as a testament to the past. Locals call it the Woudse Dom. It is a single aisled church with a built-in tower. The choir dates back to around 1500. The nave and tower were rebuilt after storm damage in 1552. The church was restored between 1956 and 1958.
De Geestmolen is another historical highlight in Rijnsaterwoude. This polder mill was built in 1707. The windmill sail broke in 1960. An electro motor was installed then. It was restored in 1964. The windmill is occasionally in service even today.
In 1840, Rijnsaterwoude was home to 561 people. Rijnsaterwoude was a separate municipality until 1991. Then it became part of Jacobswoude. Since 2009, it has been part of Kaag en Braassem.
Today, Rijnsaterwoude has about 1,200 residents. The area spans 8.78 square kilometers. This village retains its charm. It offers a glimpse into Dutch history.
Rijnsaterwoude may be small but it is significant. It reflects the historical landscape of the Netherlands. It is a land shaped by water and wind. The village and its landmarks remind us of the ingenuity. It also embodies the resilience of its people.