De Bataaf, standing tall and proud on the Bataafseweg in Winterswijk, Netherlands, is a testament to the rich heritage and industrious spirit of the Dutch people. This iconic windmill, originally constructed in 1801, has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, serving as a vital part of the community for over two centuries.
De Bataaf was built during a time of great change, named after the Batavian Republic, a period in Dutch history marked by the establishment of a revolutionary government. The windmill was commissioned by the Dutch Reformed Church, with its primary purpose being to generate revenue to pay the salaries of the clergy. From 1854 onwards, the mill was operated by the te Lintum family, who played a significant role in its history.
As a traditional Dutch windmill, De Bataaf is a beltmolen (hollow post mill) with an octagonal wooden structure. Its wings, originally covered with oak planks and roofing felt, were equipped with Ten Have shutters, a type of sail that allowed for more efficient milling. The mill had two pairs of millstones, which were used to grind grain into flour, serving the local agricultural community.
Despite its initial success, De Bataaf ceased operations as a grain mill in 1958. By 1964, the mill's wings were removed, and its internal machinery was dismantled. The structure was repurposed as a storage facility for the te Lintum family's feed business, which had grown around the mill. Surrounded by silos, the once-majestic windmill seemed destined to fade into obscurity.
However, the story of De Bataaf was far from over. In October 2008, a comprehensive restoration project was initiated to return the windmill to its former glory. The restoration aimed to preserve the historical integrity of the mill while incorporating modern materials and techniques to ensure its longevity.
By November 2009, the restored mill tower was placed back on its base, now clad in galvanized steel plates instead of the original roofing felt. The restoration included the construction of two arched exhibition spaces within the base, providing a new function for the historic structure.
In early 2010, the mill's cap was reinstalled, along with two 25-meter-long welded iron rods. The inner rod, numbered 194, retained its Ten Have shutters, while the outer rod, numbered 193, was fitted with traditional sails. These rods were crafted by the renowned millwright company Vaags in 2008. The mill's new iron upper shaft, cast by the Geraedts foundry in 2009, measures 5.35 meters in length and bears the number 13.
The cap is rotated using a system of glued elmwood rollers, which replaced the original wooden rollers that frequently broke. The mill's brake system, known as a stutvang, is operated with a brake drum, ensuring the mill can be safely stopped when necessary.
Today, De Bataaf stands as a symbol of resilience and heritage. The mill is once again equipped with two pairs of millstones, one of which is fitted with a governor driven by the main shaft. The millstones, one set made of blue stone and the other of artificial stone, each measure 140 cm in diameter. The mill also features a traditional sack hoist, known as a sleepluiwerk, complete with a hook for lifting sacks of grain.
On May 17, 2010, the restored De Bataaf was officially reopened with a festive ceremony, marking a new chapter in its storied history. The mill now serves as a cultural and educational landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Dutch milling technology.
A visit to De Bataaf is a journey through time, where history comes alive through the creaking of wooden gears and the sweeping motion of the mill's sails. As you explore the mill's interior, you'll discover the intricate mechanisms that powered this vital piece of agricultural equipment. The exhibition spaces within the mill's base offer fascinating insights into the history of milling and the role of windmills in Dutch society.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an engineering aficionado, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, De Bataaf in Winterswijk promises to be an unforgettable destination. Its towering presence and rich history make it a must-visit landmark in the heart of the Netherlands.
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