Ir. D.F. Woudagemaal
Fryslân
Ir. D.F. Woudagemaal, located near Tacozijl in Lemmer, Friesland, is the largest steam-powered pumping station ever built and remains fully operational since its opening in 1920. Designed by chief engineer D.F. Wouda in a traditional style with rationalist influences, it was constructed to manage water levels in Friesland, especially when other pumping stations like the J.L. Hooglandgemaal are insufficient. The facility includes four tandem-compound steam engines and eight centrifugal pumps, originally coal-fired but later converted to heavy fuel oil. Its 60-meter chimney not only expels smoke but also creates the necessary draft for combustion. Although it was used regularly until 1966, it now operates about once a year during high water periods and is maintained through biannual steam runs. Visitors can witness the impressive steam machines in action during these times. The station is part of the top 100 Dutch national monuments and educates the public on climate change and water management challenges.
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Tip: Visit between Tuesday and Sunday during opening hours (10:00–17:00 Tuesday to Saturday, 13:00–17:00 Sunday). Tickets are available at the entrance since online sales are currently unavailable. For groups larger than 15, email reservations are recommended. Check the official website for scheduled steam operation days to experience the machinery in action. The site also offers educational programs and special events.
Interesting facts
- •It is the largest operational steam-powered pumping station in the world.
- •The chimney had to be rebuilt after being struck by lightning during construction.
- •The pumping station was named after its designer, engineer D.F. Wouda, in 1947.
- •It is listed as one of the top 100 Dutch national monuments.
- •The station is still used occasionally to manage water levels during extreme weather.
- •A commemorative five euro coin was issued for its 100th anniversary featuring King Willem-Alexander.
History
The Ir.
D.F.
Woudagemaal was designed in 1917-1918 by engineer D.F.
Wouda and officially opened by Queen Wilhelmina on October 7, 1920.
During construction, the chimney was struck by lightning and had to be rebuilt.
Initially coal-fired, the boilers were replaced in 1955 and converted to heavy fuel oil in 1967.
The pumping station served to regulate Friesland's water levels until 1966, when the J.L.
Hooglandgemaal was commissioned.
Since then, it operates mainly during exceptional high water events and is maintained through regular test runs.
It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998, recognizing its engineering significance and cultural value.
Place Guide
Main Engine Hall1920
Houses four tandem-compound steam engines coupled to eight centrifugal pumps, showcasing early 20th-century steam engineering.
Chimney and Boiler Room1920
The 60-meter chimney creates the draft necessary for combustion in the boilers, which were originally coal-fired and later converted to heavy fuel oil.
Stroomkanaal (Flow Channel)1920
An artificially widened canal that supplies water to the pumping station, designed to handle large volumes during high water periods.
Visitor Centre
Offers educational exhibits on water management and climate change, plus guided tours and live demonstrations when the station is active.
Contact
Phone: 0514 561 814
