Jan Blankenweg, Jan Blankenbridge and the Jan Blanken funerary monument at the general cemetery on Sparrendreef: the name of Jan Blanken can be found everywhere in Vianen.
Jan Blanken Janszn, who was born on 15 November 1755 in Bergambacht and died on 17 July 1838 in Vianen, is known for his work as a hydraulic engineer and Inspector-General of Public Works. Jan Blanken worked at the Waterstaat (the Water Authority) and hydraulic engineering knowledge ran in the family. His father built and designed windmills, locks and dikes in Krimpenerwaard. Jan Blanken’s brother, Arie Blanken, just like his uncle and cousin, worked at the Waterstaat, while his brother Willem Jansz Blanken was employed by the Delftland Higher Water Board as a surveyor.
Jan Blanken’s first ma…
Jan Blankenweg, Jan Blankenbridge and the Jan Blanken funerary monument at the general cemetery on Sparrendreef: the name of Jan Blanken can be found everywhere in Vianen.
Jan Blanken Janszn, who was born on 15 November 1755 in Bergambacht and died on 17 July 1838 in Vianen, is known for his work as a hydraulic engineer and Inspector-General of Public Works. Jan Blanken worked at the Waterstaat (the Water Authority) and hydraulic engineering knowledge ran in the family. His father built and designed windmills, locks and dikes in Krimpenerwaard. Jan Blanken’s brother, Arie Blanken, just like his uncle and cousin, worked at the Waterstaat, while his brother Willem Jansz Blanken was employed by the Delftland Higher Water Board as a surveyor.
Jan Blanken’s first major project was the construction of the dry dock in Hellevoetsluis in the year 1798. The early steam engine is a special feature of the design. In the year 1808, Jan Blanken designed a new type of lock gate – the fan-shaped lock. In addition to his design work, Jan Blanken also advised Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte on the organisation of maritime military matters and was responsible for the installation of the beach posts system along the Dutch coastline. However, he’s best known for constructing the North Holland Canal between Amsterdam and Den Helder. He also built the former Wilhelmina Lock in Vianen. Jan Blanken resided at “Vijverlust” in Helsdingen until his death in the year 1838.
Further reading: Sparrendreef General Cemetery, The Lekbridge, Jan Blankenweg lock complex, De Biezen pumping station, Helsdingen district.
