Mill & Gift Shop De Hoop - Klarenbeek

In Klarenbeek stands a windmill with a remarkable story. As early as 1850, a smaller tower mill built by the Borgonjen brothers stood here. Over time, however, it caught less and less wind due to growing trees and nearby buildings. That is why in 1905 the current mill was built: a taller smock mill that can capture enough wind.

Since the early twentieth century, the mill has been owned by the Pijnappel family. For generations they milled grain here for farmers from the surrounding area. Since 1992, the mill has been managed by George (Sjors) Pijnappel and his wife, who continue the family tradition. This makes De Hoop one of the few mills in the Netherlands still in private ownership, and even the only one in the municipality of Voorst.

The mill has also seen difficult times. In 1975, a heavy storm caused significant damage, bringing the mill to a standstill. Only after a major restoration in the early 1980s was it able to operate again. Keeping the mill turning is important, as a mill needs movement to remain in good condition. That is why volunteers still regularly ensure the sails are turning.

The mill is still in operation and, to this day, grain is milled here in a traditional way. In the former storage area, a cosy gift shop has been created, where you can visit every Saturday for authentic mill products.

Amidst these historical and practical stories, you will also find something personal inside the mill. On one of the beams there is a handwritten prayer, once written by the second miller sometime between 1929 and 1967. In it, the miller asks God to bless the mill.