Windmill d'Admiraal at frozen North Holland Canal by Jeroen de Jongh Photography

About "Windmill d'Admiraal at frozen North Holland Canal"

by Jeroen de Jongh Photography

About the artwork

On the North Holland Canal near the former village of Buiksloot in Amsterdam North stands Krijtmolen d'Admiraal. A unique national monument, built in 1792 by order of Elizabeth Admiraal. The Krijtmolen is the last wind-driven grinding and chalk mill in the world. A beautiful example of industrial heritage, which has occupied an important place in the history of Amsterdam for over 225 years, and which still proves to be a familiar beacon in the rapidly changing green heart of Amsterdam-Noord.

Initially, the mill was used to make tras. This involved grinding tuff that came from the Eifel mountains. The trass was mixed with lime to make mortar. In 1896 a steam engine was added; later a diesel engine and later still an electric motor. Around 1900, people started grinding chalk for the paint industry. The mill was restored in 1966/1967 (thanks to a pin campaign that saved the chalk mill from destruction), and restored again in 1999, and is operable.

The North Holland Canal is an important canal in the Netherlands that runs through the province of North Holland. Construction of the North Holland Canal began in 1819 and was completed in 1824. Although the canal was originally built for freight transport, today it is also used for recreational purposes, as its scenic surroundings make it an attractive area for locals and tourists alike.

The North Holland Canal passes through landscapes of historical importance, charming villages and picturesque scenery, making it not only a practical waterway, but also a route with cultural and aesthetic value.