As you cycle along the Diefdijk near Leerdam, you will see Werk aan het Spoor; an important defence work of the New Dutch Waterline. Built between 1880 and 1885, the fort was built to block access via the railway line and protect the dike at Rhenoy with cannons. The fort also protected the inundation sluices of the nearby pumping station De Oude Horn. Through these inlet sluices, the low polders east of the Diefdijk could be quickly flooded in case of an attack.
The oval fort island of almost six hectares is located on both sides of the railway and was completely surrounded by a moat. On the fort were a bombproof guardhouse and three gun depots. Everything was covered with thick earth so that only the front facades were visible.
Access to the fort was via three crane bridges, at the w...
As you cycle along the Diefdijk near Leerdam, you will see Werk aan het Spoor; an important defence work of the New Dutch Waterline. Built between 1880 and 1885, the fort was built to block access via the railway line and protect the dike at Rhenoy with cannons. The fort also protected the inundation sluices of the nearby pumping station De Oude Horn. Through these inlet sluices, the low polders east of the Diefdijk could be quickly flooded in case of an attack.
The oval fort island of almost six hectares is located on both sides of the railway and was completely surrounded by a moat. On the fort were a bombproof guardhouse and three gun depots. Everything was covered with thick earth so that only the front facades were visible.
Access to the fort was via three crane bridges, on the west and east sides, a clever invention by railway engineer F.C. Conrad. It is a variant of the well-known drawbridge, but these bridges turn sideways instead of upwards. So when the crane bridge is open, there are no upward-projecting parts. Ideal for military defensive use and a clear field of fire.
On the other side of the Diefdijk, you can see the former fort watchman's house. The ground floor was used as a warehouse for ammunition and cannons. Above it lived the fort watchman, who also had the function of bridge and level crossing keeper. Of the three crane bridges, one is still present today. Today, the fort and the fort watchman's house are privately owned and used as a residence.