Lifting Wheel Of The Former Drawbridge

The lifting wheel of the former drawbridge in Heumen is a special remnant of a disappeared but historically important bridge over the Maas-Waal Canal. The wheel is a reminder of a time when technology, infrastructure and history came together at this location.

What is a lifting wheel?:
A lifting wheel (also called a pulley wheel) is a large, round metal wheel that is part of the hoisting mechanism of a drawbridge or lifting bridge. In the case of Heumen, this wheel was part of the technical installation with which the bridge deck was lifted up to allow passage for shipping on the canal. The wheel guided the steel cables that were connected to counterweights, so that the bridge could be operated efficiently.

The former drawbridge in Heumen:
The drawbridge stood right next to the lock in Heumen and was an important part of the infrastructure in the region. The bridge connected the village of Heumen with the other side of the canal and was essential for local traffic. The bridge was built in the 1920s, at the same time as the Maas-Waal Canal itself.

During the Second World War, the bridge played a strategic role:
- In 1940, the bridge was quickly captured by the German army during the invasion of the Netherlands.
- In 1944, during Operation Market Garden, the bridge was finally captured by American paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division. This was an important step in the liberation of the region.

The lifting wheel as a reminder:
Although the bridge itself was later demolished or replaced, the lifting wheel has been preserved and is now considered a historical object. It is a tangible reminder of the original bridge and its role in the history of Heumen.

The wheel can now be seen near the lock, at the Protestant Community of Heumen (Joriskerk). It symbolizes both the technical ingenuity of the bridge construction and the events that took place here during the war.

Do you have more information about this location? Inform us!

Source

• Text: RJArmy.nl
• Photos: RJ Army

< >