Oostendorper Watermolen, Haaksbergen, Double watermill at Buursebeek, Netherlands
The Oostendorper Watermolen is a double mill on the Buursebeek stream in the Netherlands, featuring three undershot water wheels in total. Two wheels are used for grain milling while the third powers oil pressing operations.
The mill traces its origins to 1548, but was established at its current location in 1633 when Willem Ripperda received official permission for reconstruction. This relocation marked the beginning of its long operation as a significant processing facility.
The mill demonstrates traditional Dutch milling techniques, where water from the Buursebeek stream powers the wheels to process grain and oil. Visitors can observe how these craft methods are still practiced today.
The site is open for visits at specific times, mainly on weekday afternoons when guided tours explain the milling processes. It is advisable to check exact opening hours beforehand, as availability varies by season.
Between the two mill buildings stands a wooden eel trap that allowed smaller eels to escape while retaining larger ones. This practical device shows the close connection between the mill and the river ecosystem.
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