Dike Mill - Maasland

If you follow Molenweg (Mill Road) in Maasland, you’re literally cycling through a landscape shaped by windmills. The name is no coincidence: along this road once stood three mills, each serving its own purpose. Two of them remain: the grain mill De Drie Lelies (The Three Lilies) and the impressive Dike Mill, recognisable by its octagonal shape and enormous sails. This mill, built in 1718, was constructed to keep the Dike Polder dry, and still fulfils that role in emergencies.

The Dike Mill didn’t work alone. Together with the now-lost Commandeursmolen and the nearby grain mill De Drie Lelies, it formed an essential trio. While the Dike Mill and Commandeursmolen focused on water management, De Drie Lelies milled grain for the village. Each played a vital role in the life of Maasland.

Although a steam pumping station was later built, the Dike Mill remained in use well into the 20th century, even serving as an emergency solution during fuel shortages. Today, the mill functions as backup drainage and is owned by the Delfland Water Board.