De Olifant, Burdaard, Polder windmill in Burdaard, Netherlands
De Olifant is a polder windmill built of brick with wooden boarding and two stories, equipped with four sails. The mill operates three wooden Archimedes screws that pump and regulate water throughout the surrounding landscape.
The mill was originally built in Oostwold and later moved to its current location to take on drainage duties. The relocation allowed it to play a key role in managing the Olifantpolder.
The mill shows how Dutch people traditionally managed water in their polder landscapes using mechanical systems. Visitors can observe how wooden Archimedes screws moved water to keep the land dry and habitable.
Visitors can book appointments to see the mill and learn about its inner workings firsthand. The location on Wiereweg makes it accessible for people interested in exploring the mechanics.
The mill has an unusual feature: while two of the screws drain water from the polder, the third one pumps water in. This system allowed operators to control water levels based on seasonal needs.
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