Since the 17th century, more than 1000 windmills were constructed in the area around the Zaanse Region, creating the first industrial zone in Europe. The windmills were used to grind spices, produce paint, saw wood, and make oil. To make mills work, millers are needed and their training is extensive. Since 2017 the miller’s craft is included on UNESCO’s list of “the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” The goal of these images, taken at the Zaansche Schans, is to spur interest in the new generation to conserve, learn, and work with these historical wind factories.
