De Berk Windmill

The De Berk windmill is a historic tower mill located in Barger-Compascuum, Netherlands.

History

• The exact date of its construction is not certain, but it is believed to have been built in the late 17th or early 18th century.

The De Berk windmill is a tower mill with a single sail, standing at approximately 30 meters tall. Its architecture is typical of Dutch windmills from this period, featuring a stone base and a wooden superstructure. The mill's construction materials are primarily wood and thatch.

Original Purpose

• The primary purpose of De Berk was for grain milling, utilizing the power of the wind to grind grains into flour.

De Berk is no longer in use as a functional mill. It has been converted into a museum, offering visitors an insight into the history and operation of traditional Dutch windmills.

Location and Setting

• The De Berk windmill is situated on Zuiderdiep, a canal that runs through Barger-Compascuum.
• The surrounding landscape features typical Dutch countryside, with rolling hills and farmland.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• De Berk has been recognized as a national monument in the Netherlands, acknowledging its historical significance.
• Efforts have been made to preserve the mill's original structure and maintain its integrity for future generations.

Visiting Information

• The De Berk windmill is open to visitors, offering guided tours of the mill and its surrounding grounds.
• Visitors can gain insight into the history and operation of traditional Dutch windmills, as well as learn about the Lucia de Berk case, which was closely tied to the mill's location.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

• The De Berk windmill has been associated with the infamous Lucia de Berk case, in which a Dutch licensed paediatric nurse was wrongfully convicted of murder.
• The case drew significant attention and controversy in the Netherlands, ultimately leading to de Berk's exoneration in 2010.

Technical Details

Unfortunately, no technical details are available for De Berk windmill.