Discover Katwijk's Hidden Industrial Past at Heritage Evening
Explore the forgotten lime and salt industries that shaped Katwijk’s economy at a free Heritage Evening on April 8. Learn how shells and salt once drove regional trade and see archaeological finds from the Oude Rijn’s industrial heyday.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 |
| Time | 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:00 PM) |
| Location | Molen de Geregtigheid, Katwijk aan den Rijn |
| Focus | Lime and salt industries along the Oude Rijn |
| Speakers | Miller Jack Bouma, Archaeologist Tim de Ridder |
| Highlights | Shell burning, salt extraction techniques, archaeological discoveries |
| Registration | Email erfgoed@katwijk.nl (limited space) |
| Organizer | Municipality of Katwijk, Heritage Platform |
The Municipality of Katwijk oversees local heritage preservation and public engagement initiatives, ensuring the region’s industrial history is accessible to residents. This event is part of their efforts to highlight Katwijk’s cultural and economic legacy along the Oude Rijn.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Salt and Shells Bring the Past of the Oude Rijn to Life
The Municipality of Katwijk cordially invites everyone to the Heritage Evening on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Molen de Geregtigheid in Katwijk aan den Rijn. This gathering organized by the Heritage Platform focuses on the rich industrial history along the Oude Rijn, with special attention to the lime and salt industries that long played a defining role in the development of our region.
Along the banks of the Oude Rijn, there once thrived impressive coastal-based industries. Although little of this remains visible today, these industries were of great importance to the regional economy at the time. During the Heritage Evening, this past will be brought to life: how these industries operated, what significance they held, and what traces they have left behind.
Programme
Miller Jack Bouma will demonstrate how shells harvested along the coast grew into an important raw material for lime production. He will highlight the role of shell burners, the local infrastructure, and the logistics around the Oude Rijn. In the second part of the evening, the historical salt extraction and processing along the Oude Rijn will take center stage. He will discuss the techniques used, the organization of the work, and the economic significance of this form of coastal industry. He will also show how this raw material had a lasting impact on trade and development in the region.
Archaeologist Tim de Ridder will briefly discuss the excavation practices at ’t Valkentij, located right along the Oude Rijn. During the research, a tile kiln and several lime kilns were uncovered, among other findings. These discoveries provide a unique glimpse into early industrial activities in the area. Afterward, there will be an opportunity to visit the mini-museum in the mill and engage in further discussion over a drink.
Practical Information
Residents, press, and interested parties are welcome on Wednesday, April 8, at 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:00 PM) at Molen de Geregtigheid in Katwijk aan den Rijn. The event will last until approximately 9:30 PM. Space is limited, so please register in advance by emailing erfgoed@katwijk.nl.