De Boezemvriend

The De Boezemvriend is a historic windmill located in De Groeve, Netherlands. This polder mill has been an integral part of the region's agricultural heritage for centuries.

History

• The construction year of the De Boezemvriend is not explicitly stated, but it is believed to date from the 18th century. As a post mill, it features a single tower that supports the machinery and grinding stones.
• The original purpose of the mill was grain milling, with the windmill's presence in the polder indicating its importance as a source of food for local farmers.

Architecture

• The De Boezemvriend is an example of traditional Dutch post mills. Its tower stands approximately 25 meters tall and features a distinctive curved roof.
• The mill's architecture is characteristic of the region, with a focus on functionality and simplicity.
• The construction materials used in its build are typical of the period, including wood and thatch.

Location

The De Boezemvriend is situated along Hunzeweg 2 in De Groeve, Netherlands. The surrounding landscape is characterized by polder land, which was reclaimed from the sea centuries ago.

Current Status and Use

The De Boezemvriend is currently a working mill, although its use has been limited in recent years due to changes in agricultural practices.

• However, efforts have been made to preserve the mill's historic significance, with regular maintenance and restoration work undertaken by local authorities.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The De Boezemvriend is recognized as a national monument in the Netherlands, reflecting its importance as an example of traditional windmill architecture.

• Preservation efforts have been ongoing since the 1990s, with a focus on restoring the mill to its original condition.

Visiting Information

The De Boezemvriend is open to visitors during certain periods throughout the year. Interested parties can contact local authorities for more information on visiting hours and access arrangements.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

• While there is limited information available on notable historical events associated with the De Boezemvriend, it is worth noting that the mill has been featured in various films and documentaries over the years.
• One notable example is the 1982 Dutch film "De Boezemvriend," directed by Dimitri Frenkel Frank.

Technical Details

The De Boezemvriend features a single sail, which powers its grinding stones. The mill's machinery has been modified over the years to accommodate changing agricultural practices, but its basic design remains faithful to traditional Dutch windmill architecture.