De Wilde Windmill

The De Wilde windmill was constructed in 1896 and has been a prominent feature of the Dutch landscape ever since.

History

• The mill is one of the oldest types of windmills still in operation today as a korenmolen.
• It is one of the oldest types of windmills still in operation today.

The De Wilde was originally built to grind grain into flour, a vital task in rural Netherlands during the late 19th century.

Architecture

• The mill stands at approximately 20 meters tall and features a traditional Dutch design with three wooden sails.
• The building itself is constructed from local stone and brick, with a distinctive curved roofline that provides additional storage space for grain.

Its primary function has remained unchanged over the years, with the mill continuing to operate as a functional windmill.

Original Purpose

• De Wilde was originally built to grind grain into flour, a vital task in rural Netherlands during the late 19th century.
• Its primary function has remained unchanged over the years, with the mill continuing to operate as a functional windmill.

Current Status and Use

• The De Wilde windmill remains an active working mill, still grinding grain for local farmers and bakeries.
• Visitors can observe the mill in operation and learn about its history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

The De Wilde windmill is open to visitors during regular operating hours. Guided tours are available upon request, and visitors can also participate in interactive exhibits and demonstrations of traditional milling techniques.

Location and Setting

• Located on Nieuwe Rielseweg 39 in Goirle, Netherlands, De Wilde is situated in a picturesque rural landscape surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.
• The nearby River Aa provides a scenic backdrop to the mill's operation.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• As a protected historic site, De Wilde has been designated as a national monument in the Netherlands.
• Ongoing preservation efforts have ensured the mill remains in good condition for future generations to enjoy.

Visiting Information

• The De Wilde windmill is open to visitors during regular operating hours.
• Guided tours are available upon request, and visitors can also participate in interactive exhibits and demonstrations of traditional milling techniques.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

• While De Wilde has no direct connection to notable historical events or famous millers, its continued operation as a functional windmill is a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of Dutch windmill builders throughout history.

Technical Details

• De Wilde features three wooden sails and one grinding stone, with an average annual production capacity of 1,500 tons of flour.