Can You Say Zaanse Schans?

Neither can we, but we had a lot of fun!

On Saturday we loaded a coach bus and headed north to Zaanse Schans. 

Zaanse Schans is a recreated 18th century village complete with working windmills! 

Each windmill had a specific purpose: creating pigment, cutting timber, crushing grain, and pressing linseed. We had a pass to go inside each windmill to see how the mechanisms were constructed. Of course, we went “upstairs” the windmill to see the view!  At the height of commerce in the 18th century, there were over 600 windmills that dotted the countryside.  It truly was a remarkable use of wind power! 

Also in the village were demonstrations that highlighted cheesemaking, baking, fiber arts, chocolate making, and wooden clog making. And, there were souvenir shops galore which the students enjoyed visiting! 

The beginning of week two started with a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market - the largest outdoor market in Amsterdam with over 260 stalls! We enjoyed handmade Stroopwafle while we explored the market. That evening we had a traditional Dutch dinner: Stamppot! However, we did not go to a restaurant - we went to Caro Kookt (Caro Cooks) - a local chef. We were invited into her home and the students had to peel and dice carrots, apples, and potatoes as well as make meatballs! And finally, the students needed to “stamp” the food with a potato masher. Finally, we were able to eat Stamppot! It was very good as evidenced by the empty plates. 

Even though we struggle to say Zaanse Schans, we enjoyed learning about 18th century Holland and equally enjoyed the student-prepared Dutch dinner.  

Our days are full of activity learning about Dutch culture!