Lying high and dry on an island, Weert had no fresh water. Water had to be brought from elsewhere. Eventually an artificial branch of the Abeek was dug. The local lord, Willem II of Horne and Altena drew up a charter [1296] with his cousin Gosen van Borne, lord of Bocholt. Weerterbeek, also known as Bocholterbeek, supplied water for the canals around the town of Weert and the moat around De Aldenborgh castle. Weerterbeek provided a life-line for the people of Weert. They needed fresh water to make beer, to irrigate their fields, to keep intruders out and to dowse fires.
The canal was also crucial for the cloth industry. A good supply of water was needed to clean, full and dye the textiles.
The water in Weerterbeek was set at the amount that can pass through a biecaer. A biecaer is a beehive, which enabled an accurate calculation of the quantity. This was regulated by a lock. Later, in 1481 the quota was tripled. Weert was not the only beneficiary of this fresh-water supply. Indeed, Weerterbeek became the subject of a long-running conflict between the people of Bocholt and Weert. This revolved around refuse obstructing the water and illicit tapping of water from the canal.
It was only after the Zuid-Willemsvaart was dug in the 1820s that sufficient fresh water could reach the town. A period of economic growth followed, in which Weert developed into an industrial city.
Download the app
NOTE: The location is opposite the house with number 146. Next to the cycle path in the forest plot towards Natuur- en MilieuCentrum.
TIP: This location is part of the Weert archaeological experience route.
Visit other Archeo route Limburg locations