Keijersmolen, Molenbeersel

Keijersmolen is a historic stone windmill of the belt-mill type (a "beltmolen," built on an artificial mound) located in Molenbeersel, a village within the municipality of Kinrooi in the Belgian province of Limburg. It stands at coordinates 51.172433, 5.740889, with the raised earthen base being a typical feature of windmills built on the flat terrain of this part of Limburg.

When was Keijersmolen built?

The mill was constructed in 1869 by Joannes Keijers, who gave the mill its name and became its first owner. Unlike the wooden post mills found elsewhere in the region, Keijersmolen is built from stone, giving it a solid, permanent character.

Who has owned the mill over the years?

The history of Keijersmolen is inseparable from the Keijers family, who have owned the mill without interruption since it was built — an unusual continuity compared to many other Belgian windmills, which often changed hands or passed into municipal or foundation ownership. Following the founder's death, the mill passed in 1881 to his widow and children, and in 1894 to the children alone. In 1895 ownership transferred to Jan Keijers-Truyen, then to Joannes Stultjens-Keijers, and in 1936 to Peter Keijers-Royens. In 1962 Theo Keijers-Creemers became sole owner. After his death in 2018, the mill passed to his two sons, Jean-Pierre Keijers and Herbert Keijers, who still manage it today.

What technical changes has the mill undergone?

Around 1930, Keijersmolen was fitted with sail covering as one of the first mills in Belgium to receive this modification. In 1934 the sail covering was renewed. In 1969 new welded sail arms with Van Bussel tips were installed, a common upgrade for Belgian windmills of that era. In 1999, braking flaps were added to give better control over sail speed in strong winds.

Is the mill still operational?

Yes — Keijersmolen is one of the few mills in the region that still grinds grain using wind power rather than relying solely on electric or diesel backup drives. This makes it a living piece of technical heritage rather than a static museum piece. Because of its historical value, the mill has been a protected monument under a royal decree since December 7, 1959.

Why is Keijersmolen worth visiting?

For visitors, Keijersmolen offers the chance to see a working windmill whose history and construction have remained in the hands of a single family for more than 150 years — a rarity even in Belgium, a country with a rich milling tradition. Its stone construction on an artificial mound, its preserved grinding mechanism, and the unbroken continuity of family ownership make it a point of interest for both industrial-heritage enthusiasts and travelers looking for quiet, rural corners of Limburg.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Keijersmolen located? In the village of Molenbeersel, within the municipality of Kinrooi, in the Belgian province of Limburg.

Who built the mill? Joannes Keijers, in 1869.

Is the mill still working? Yes, it still grinds grain using wind power, one of the few mills in the region to do so.

Is the mill legally protected? Yes, it has been protected since December 7, 1959, under a royal decree.