De Hiemerter Mole, Spider-head polder windmill in Burgwerd, Netherlands.
De Hiemerter Mole is a spider-head polder mill with a square base covered in vertical wooden planks in Burgwerd. The structure combines historical engineering with modern systems for water drainage.
The mill was built in 1811 to drain the Hiemerterpolder and initially relied on wind power alone. In 1957, a diesel engine was added to strengthen the drainage system.
The spider-head design shows traditional Dutch methods for managing water in farming regions. You can see how this layout reflects the specific needs of the local landscape.
The mill is only accessible by appointment at Hemert 6 in Burgwerd. Volunteers maintain the site and are happy to show visitors how the drainage system works.
In 2018 the mill received a new wooden drive shaft that preserved its original function. The Fauël system from 1950 is an interesting technical detail showing how drainage technology evolved.
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