De Koe

A Historic Windmill in Ermelo, Netherlands

History

• De Koe is a historic windmill located on Molenaarsplein 26 in Ermelo, Netherlands. The mill's history dates back to the 18th century, with its construction reportedly taking place around 1770.
• The mill's design and construction were optimized for grinding grain into flour for local bakeries.

Architecture

• De Koe is a smock mill, characterized by its distinctive tower and single sail.
• The mill's architecture is typical of Dutch windmills from this period, featuring a wooden frame and a sloping roof.
• The mill's body is constructed from brick and mortar, with a characteristic "smokestack" on the rear.

Original Purpose

De Koe was originally built to grind grain into flour for local bakeries. The mill's design and construction were optimized for this purpose, with a large grinding stone and a robust frame capable of handling heavy loads.

Current Status and Use

De Koe is currently a museum and working windmill, open to the public for tours and demonstrations. Visitors can learn about the history and operation of the mill, as well as its significance in Dutch industrial heritage.

Architectural Features and Construction Materials

• The mill's tower stands at approximately 25 meters tall, with a diameter of around 3 meters.
• The grinding stone is made from local limestone, while the frame and roof are constructed from brick and mortar.
• The windmill's sails are made from traditional Dutch materials, including oak wood and linen.

Location and Setting

De Koe is situated in the heart of Ermelo, a small town in the eastern Netherlands. The mill stands near a small stream, which provided power for its grinding stones. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, with the mill itself standing as a prominent landmark.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

De Koe has been recognized as a national monument in the Netherlands, with efforts made to preserve and restore the mill to its original condition. The mill's current owners have worked tirelessly to maintain its historic integrity, while also ensuring its continued operation and accessibility to the public.

Visiting Information

De Koe is open to visitors during the summer months (April-October), with guided tours available in multiple languages. Visitors can explore the windmill's interior, learn about its history, and watch demonstrations of traditional milling techniques.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

While no specific notable historical events are recorded for De Koe, it is believed to have played a significant role in the local economy during the 18th century. Unfortunately, information on famous millers associated with the windmill is not available.

Technical Details

• De Koe features a single sail and a grinding stone made from local limestone.
• The windmill's frame and roof are constructed from brick and mortar, while its tower stands at approximately 25 meters tall.