Kruiskalsijdemolen

Kruiskalsijdemolen is the remains of a historic windmill in the village of Leke, part of the municipality of Diksmuide in Belgium's West Flanders province. The site is notable both for its centuries-long milling history and for the dramatic events of the First World War that permanently altered its structure.

Where does the name come from?

The first mill on this spot was built in the first half of the 17th century by the Willaert family. It was a wooden grain and wind mill, known at the time as the "Kruisvaartmolen." The name familiar today emerged later: by 1790, locals were calling it "Kruiscalchiedemolen," after an important crossroads in Leke where the mill stood. Over time this name evolved into the modern spelling, Kruiskalsijdemolen.

How did ownership of the mill change over time?

The mill's history is closely tied to the families who ran it. In 1861 it was sold at public auction to Isidore De Backer of Staden. The new owner had the old wooden structure demolished and, in 1871, built a brick "stellingmolen" on the same site — a type of mill with an external gallery allowing millers to reach the sails from outside. Alongside grinding grain, the building also housed an oil press, known locally as a "stampkot." In 1888, the grain and oil mill was purchased by Bernard Vandenberghe, giving rise to the popular local nickname "Berghens Meulen," still used by residents of the area.

What happened during the First World War?

The most dramatic chapter in the mill's history unfolded on 17 October 1914, during the Battle of the Yser. As Belgian troops withdrew, the 25-metre-tall mill was largely destroyed with dynamite. The decision was made to prevent German forces from using its considerable height as an observation post — from that elevation, the mill offered a commanding view over the surrounding lowland terrain, making it a valuable strategic target for both sides of the conflict.

What happened to the mill after it was destroyed?

Rather than rebuilding the sails or the upper structure, a mechanism was installed in the lower part of the building that allowed grinding to continue. This mechanism remained in operation until 1970. Despite the wartime damage, the mill therefore continued to function as a working industrial site for decades afterward, a testament to the local community's determination to keep the milling tradition alive even after losing its most visible feature.

Why is it worth a visit?

In 1995, the mill and its surrounding landscape were officially protected as a monument and as a "dorpsgezicht," a designation recognizing it as part of a characteristic village view. Today, Kruiskalsijdemolen bears witness to three distinct eras: pre-industrial milling craftsmanship, the industrial modernization of the late 19th century, and the devastating impact of the Great War, which swept through this part of West Flanders with particular intensity. The site sits in the quiet countryside near Diksmuide, close to landmarks associated with the Yser Front, making it a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in First World War history and traditional Flemish windmill architecture.

Frequently asked questions

Is the mill still operating? Not in its original form — the sails were destroyed in 1914 and never rebuilt, although a grinding mechanism installed in the lower section of the building remained in use until 1970.

Why was the mill blown up? Retreating Belgian forces destroyed it in 1914 to prevent German troops from using its height as an observation post over the surrounding area.

Where does the name Kruiskalsijdemolen come from? From an important crossroads in Leke near which the mill stood; the name evolved from "Kruisvaartmolen" through "Kruiscalchiedemolen" to its current form.

Is the site legally protected? Yes, since 1995 the mill and its surroundings have been protected as a heritage monument and village landscape.