Poekemolen-II

Poekemolen-II is a small, fully working 1:3 scale windmill standing at the corner of Poekestraat and Grensstraat in Ruiselede, in the province of West Flanders, Belgium. It's a scale model of a standard-type windmill — the kind that once dotted the Belgian countryside — with a wingspan of 8 metres, an impressive size for something classified as a "model".

Where does the name come from?

The name references the nearby village of Poeke, even though the mill itself has stood within the boundaries of Ruiselede for decades. Locally it's also known as "Molentje van Poucke" ("Van Poucke's little mill"), a nickname tied to the family associated with its history.

Who built it, and when?

Poekemolen-II was built in 1960 by Michel Allaert. It originally stood in Oostrozebeke, several kilometres from its current spot. Despite being a 1:3 scale model, it was designed from the outset to actually grind — not a decorative replica, but a functioning, if miniature, milling machine.

How did it end up in Ruiselede?

The mill's history is essentially a string of relocations. In 1971 it was moved to the property of André van Poucke on Parkstraat — the source of its popular nickname. It wasn't until 1982 that the mill was moved to its present location, at the junction of Poekestraat and Grensstraat in Ruiselede, where it still stands today.

What has this windmill survived?

Poekemolen-II has had a rough history. In 1990 it was blown over by strong winds and needed a thorough rebuild. Another blow came in 2000, when a speeding driver crashed into it, seriously damaging the structure. Each time, though, it was restored — a sign of how attached the local community is to this small piece of technical heritage.

Is the mill still operational?

Yes. Poekemolen-II is currently maintained and operated by a volunteer miller, who keeps it in working order. Visitors can therefore see not just the structure itself but the actual grinding mechanism in motion — a rare thing to find on such a small scale.

Why is it worth a visit?

Poekemolen-II is an unusual stop for anyone interested in milling history and local industrial heritage. It shows how a piece of traditional windmill technology can survive in miniature, through repeated moves, storm damage and a traffic accident, while still performing its original function. It's also a good example of a small community rallying around a modest but symbolic piece of the local landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Is Poekemolen-II a real, working mill? Yes — despite its 1:3 scale, it's a fully functional structure, operated by a volunteer miller.

Where exactly does the windmill stand? At the junction of Poekestraat and Grensstraat in Ruiselede, West Flanders.

Where does the nickname "Molentje van Poucke" come from? From André van Poucke, on whose property on Parkstraat the mill stood during the 1970s, before it was moved to its current location in 1982.