Was Watergang really named for its abundance of waterways? Watergang is one of Waterland’s smallest villages. It has only a few hundred residents. The village is known for its many little waterways.
Watergang began as a reclamation settlement along a large canal. These waterways once served a vital purpose. They were used for small milk boats. This was back when Waterland was Amsterdam’s dairy farm. All the waterways lead into Waterland’s old meadows and beautiful nature. This makes Watergang an excellent starting point for a canoe or boat trip.
The village is surrounded by water. There is very little dry land to live on. Houses and streets in Watergang are very small and narrow. Watergang even boasts the narrowest village street in Holland.
The waterways of Watergang are all around. They shaped the village’s character. They dictated the size of homes and streets.
Despite their small size, the people of Watergang were ambitious. In the seventeenth century they built a large church. This period is referred to as the Dutch Golden Age. The church still forms the heart of Watergang.
Look closely at the church’s roof. What appears to be a toy ship hangs there. This ship has an interesting story. It was made by Pieter Vroom. He was a sailor from the seventeenth century. Pirates kidnapped him. He was sold into slavery. His fellow villagers collected ransom money. They bought his freedom. As a thank you, he carved them this little ship. Ever since, it has been a tradition. The inhabitants of Watergang carve a small ship as a present.
This tradition reflects the village’s maritime connections. The small ship is a symbol of gratitude and community spirit. It shows the importance of the water to Watergang’s identity. The story of Pieter Vroom is a testament.
Watergang offers a glimpse into a traditional Dutch village. The narrow streets and waterways create a unique atmosphere. They are perfect for exploring by boat or canoe. The church and its toy ship remind us of the village’s history. Watergang’s story is a microcosm of Waterland’s relationship with water.