Stoomgemaal Vier Noorder Koggen onder stoom tijdens Molen- en Gemalendagen

• 9 May 2026
  • 10:00 – 16:30
• 10 May 2026
  • 10:00 – 16:30

Steam pumping station Vier Noorder Koggen under steam during Mill and Pumping Station Days

During the Mill and Pumping Station Days on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, not only will the sails of traditional windmills turn, but pumping stations will also open their doors, giving visitors an impression of water management in our country. Water drainage is of vital importance, and pumping and pumping stations are indispensable in this process. Come and look into the history of our water and discover how we have been battling against water for centuries. You will learn about waterworks that played a role in water management in the past, but sometimes still do today.

Land of Water and Steam

In the former Vier Noorder Koggen steam pumping station, which has housed the Netherlands Steam Engine Museum since 1985, the pumping station’s main steam engine is brought under steam several times during the Pumping Station Days, allowing you to see the fascinating technology of the past in action.

Steam Pumping Station Vier Noorder Koggen

A new exhibition has been set up in the museum’s visitor centre about the pumping station and water management over the past 500 years. From the 16th century onwards, reservoir and polder windmills were used to regulate the polder water level. The windmills were effective until they were superseded by steam pumping stations in the 19th century. Through the ‘eyes’ of the Vier Noorder Koggen steam pumping station, dating from 1869, you discover how the West Frisians have been striving to keep their feet dry for centuries and what steam power has meant in this regard. Unique objects, such as the beautiful coat of arms plaque from 1720 and the silver hensbekers, support this story.

Welcome aboard dredger ‘Vooruit’

In the museum harbor, the coal-fired bucket dredger lies under steam, ready to start dredging. Step aboard and discover how the crew used to work and live, and the important role dredgers played in the water management of the Netherlands.

Netherlands Steam Engine Museum | Oosterdijk 4, 1671 HJ Medemblik | T 0227 544732

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Mothers visiting the museum on Mother’s Day accompanied by their children receive free admission. If you have a museum card, please have it scanned at the ticket counter.