Stepping into the picturesque town of Hoogeveen in the Netherlands, one cannot miss the imposing and elegant presence of De Zwaluw. This historic smock mill, with its charming thatched cap and stately brick base, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dutch windmills. Built in 1834, De Zwaluw is not just a relic of the past but a living, breathing entity that continues to work commercially, weaving the story of its resilience and the craftsmanship of its builders into the fabric of Hoogeveen’s rich history.
The tale of De Zwaluw is one marked by resilience and rebirth. The first mill on this site dates back to around 1714, but it succumbed to a devastating fire in 1787. Rising from the ashes, a new mill was erected by Roelof Steenbergen, only to face a similar fate in 1833. The current mill, constructed in 1834 by Lucas Quirinus Robaard and Karsjen Meeuwes Steenbergen, stands proudly on the remnants of its predecessors.
Ownership of the mill has passed through several hands, each leaving their mark on its storied walls. From the Steenbergen family to the Robaards, and later to the Thomases, De Zwaluw has witnessed generations of millers who have kept its sails turning. The mill faced another significant challenge in 1956 when it was damaged by fire. However, extensive restoration efforts began in 1960 and were completed in 1961, ensuring that De Zwaluw would continue to be a beacon of Dutch heritage.
De Zwaluw is an exemplar of the achtkante stellingmolen, a type of smock mill characterized by its octagonal shape and elevated stage. The stage, located at a height of 9.10 meters (29 feet 10 inches) above the ground, provides a vantage point for adjusting the sails. The mill’s cap and smock are elegantly thatched, adding to its rustic charm. The four common sails, with an impressive span of 24.60 meters (80 feet 9 inches), are mounted on a cast-iron windshaft forged by Fabrikaat Prins van Oranje in The Hague in 1867.
The intricate machinery within De Zwaluw is a marvel of engineering. The windshaft drives the brake wheel, which in turn powers the wallower at the top of the upright shaft. The great spur wheel at the bottom of the upright shaft drives two pairs of millstones, each with its unique history and purpose. The French Burr stones, with a diameter of 1.40 meters (4 feet 7 inches), and the larger Cullen stones, measuring 1.50 meters (4 feet 11 inches), have ground countless grains over the decades. A third pair of millstones, no longer in use, and a fourth pair driven by an electric motor, add to the mill’s versatility.
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For those eager to delve into the world of Dutch milling, De Zwaluw offers a captivating experience. The mill is open to the public on Thursdays from 10:00 to 12:30, Fridays from 10:00 to 17:00, and Saturdays from 09:30 to 12:30. Visitors can explore the mill’s intricate workings, learn about its history, and witness the timeless process of grain milling. When the mill is in operation, the sight of its sails turning against the backdrop of the Dutch sky is nothing short of mesmerizing.
The legacy of De Zwaluw is intertwined with the lives of its millers. From Roelof Steenbergen, who rebuilt the mill in the late 18th century, to the current miller, H. Valkenhoff, each has played a crucial role in preserving this historic landmark. The mill has seen many hands at its helm, including Bert van Uffelen, J. N. J. Vondeling, and A. Mulder, each contributing to its upkeep and operation.
De Zwaluw is more than just a mill; it is a living monument that embodies the spirit of Dutch ingenuity and perseverance. Its survival through fires, restorations, and centuries of change is a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving their heritage. As visitors walk through its storied halls and marvel at its towering sails, they are transported back in time, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and resilience that have kept De Zwaluw standing tall.
In conclusion, a visit to De Zwaluw in Hoogeveen is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich history and enduring legacy of Dutch windmills. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, De Zwaluw promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the past while embracing the present.
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