A statue for 'The Mulder'

The statue is a tribute by the association De Hollandsche Molen (The Dutch Mill Association) to all voluntary millers in the Netherlands. Prince Claus was patron of this association. The statue was placed in Lieshout at the intercession of Mayor van Hout. It represents a 'mulder' operating the catch rope. His gaze is fixed on the sails. The catch is the 'brake' of the mill. Willem Verbruggen, miller of De Korenaar mill in Oirschot, was the model for the work of art, which was designed by artist Charles Vergouwen.

The opening was performed by Prince Claus, patron of the association "De Hollandse Molen" (The Dutch Mill).

On 10 May, the windmill was in perfect condition. Thoroughly restored, the sails decorated with the Dutch tricolour, the rubbish cleared away, the grass mown. A large tent had been erected next to the windmill, so that guests and HRH Prince Claus could enjoy a drink after the unveiling. The Molenstraat was also beautifully decorated. Long before the unveiling, the spectators were already lined up. The brass band played the suite 'Lieshout en zijn molens'. The guild was on hand for a flag salute. The weather was beautiful and there was enough wind. At last the black limousine with the well-known AA license plate turned into the Molenstraat.

It was the usual speeches, after-briefs lasted longer. Prince Claus was well versed in all sorts of mill terms. When the Prince saw the gigantic Bavaria complex from the mill, he said: "That one, miller, has got to go, it's catching too much of your wind! "Then the people laughed, because they knew that was not possible.