Statafels

Statafels are traditional vertical waterwheels used for draining or pumping water in the Netherlands. They originated in the Netherlands during the Middle Ages, with the first recorded use dating back to the 14th century. Statafels typically consist of a vertical axis, with a series of interconnected buckets attached to a rotating rod.

As the axis turns, the buckets scoop up water from a lower reservoir and carry it up to a higher reservoir or river. This water-lifting process was crucial for draining water from agricultural lands, as well as for pumping water into canals and rivers to facilitate transportation and irrigation. Statafels were often powered by human or animal effort, with the turning axis being turned by a team of people or animals.

The term "statafel" is an Old English word, derived from "staeten," which means "to raise" or "to lift." This name reflects the device's primary function of raising water from a lower level to a higher one. Statafels were widely used throughout the Netherlands and became a characteristic feature of the country's landscape. Many of the older devices have been preserved and restored, providing a glimpse into the country's engineering and water management heritage.

Today, statafels are largely a relic of the past, replaced by more modern and efficient water management systems. However, they remain an important part of the Netherlands' cultural and historical identity, with many museums and historical sites showcasing preserved examples of these traditional vertical waterwheels.