Over the centuries, craftsmanship and ingenuity have created a variety of wooden shoes, which can be used for household purposes or as souvenirs. Therefore, this line of development should continue to be logical. The large number of overseas sales proves that Dutch wood logs have become so popular. Fantasy, changing fashion and sensitivity to current trends all bring new ideas. The Fryske or Friesian clog decorated with the Friesian flag caused quite a stir when it was first produced.
There are many different versions today such as: “Planet Hollywood clogs”, “Harley Davidson” clogs and even “Nike” clogs. These “clogoriginals” have massive public appeal and whether they have become collectors’ items or used as sports symbols or just as souvenirs they have found their way all over the world. Wooden shoes have many additional functions, which have nothing to do with foot protection…In many smaller waterways in the Netherlands, it is customary for bridge maintainers to throw away the wooden logs attached to the poles so that the owner can pay the dues without stopping. On farms clogs filled with house- leeks can be seen (these plants are believed to have the power to prevent lightening from striking). Many people in the Netherlands planted geraniums somewhere on the wall. The wooden clog is already in tatters. Wooden shoes can be used as nesting boxes, cash boxes and bottle holders, and even as soundboards for violin. Wooden clogs as toys – how many sailing ships have been built with them over the years? Wooden clogs are mentioned in many rhymes and stories.. In the Dutch version of Tom Thumb: “so the story goes his mother was able to rock him in a clog for a cradle“. And then just a few of the numerous sayings that mention the wooden shoe:
– Now my clog is breaking “I really wasn’t expecting that”
– Hang the clogs in the willow tree “I’m quitting”
– To feel something on your clogs “That goes without saying”
The attached image is the mill called “Twiskemolen” and this mill is build in the year 1974. It’s location is in the nature reserve “het Twiske” at Oostzaan, a place above Amsterdam.