De Zoeker (The Seeker Windmill), Zaandam

Nestled within the picturesque Zaanse Schans stands a unique testament to Dutch ingenuity and heritage -The Seeker windmill. This historic windmill serves a remarkable purpose, as it has been pressing seeds, such as linseed and rapeseed, into vegetable oil for centuries. Among the windmills that once dotted the landscape of the region, The Seeker stands as the last operational oil mill and is a cherished relic of the past.

The story of The Seeker dates back to its construction in 1672 in the charming village of Zaandijk. For centuries, this venerable windmill faithfully carried out its task, pressing seeds to extract precious vegetable oil. The mill's history is one of resilience and adaptability, as it continued its operations with only a few interruptions until 1968 when it underwent a significant change – relocation to the Zaanse Schans.

Today, The Seeker is a beloved part of the Zaanse Schans, where visitors can witness the magic of this centuries-old oil mill in action. Its iconic sails gracefully turn, driven by the wind, as it continues to perform the age-old craft of oil extraction. The sight and sounds of The Seeker are a vivid reminder of a time when windmills were the heartbeat of Dutch industry and innovation.