Dutch Princess Beatrix Reopens De Wachter Mill in Zuidlaren

On Saturday afternoon, April 11, 2026, Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands reopened De Wachter mill in Zuidlaren. The grain and oil mill has been made accessible to the public again following renovation work. The mill is part of Museum De Wachter, where traditional crafts and steam-powered machines are displayed and brought to life.

Following the opening ceremony, Princess Beatrix was given a tour of the bakery and hospitality area. In the “engine room,” the Princess received an explanation about the steam engines on display. This year marks the 175th anniversary of De Wachter mill. Princess Beatrix is patron of De Hollandsche Molen, the association dedicated to the preservation of mills in the Netherlands.