Collections and objects
Water management throughout the centuries has been a human endeavor. Our predecessors had all kinds of objects for carrying out their work, for administrative meetings, and for elections. Even back then, people wrote documents about the work that was being done. Some of these objects and archival documents have survived the test of time. Below is an overview of what has been handed down to us.
Collections
Due to its long history, the water board has an extensive and old archive. The oldest archive document dates from before 1634. The archives contain minutes, maps, images, and more. For insight into the archives, please contact the Groninger Archives (www.groningerarchieven.nl).
Tickets
In the past, many maps were made of the constructed waterworks. Maps from the late 19th century show how water management developed.
Seal
The archives of the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority contain a wax seal, a seal that was used to seal letters, which was in use until 1634. The sealed document therefore dates from before that time.
Minutes
Minutes are taken at water board meetings to record what has been decided. This was done in the past, and it is still done today.
Objects
The Noorderzijlvest Water Authority also has objects related to the water authority.
Ballot boxes
These former milk cans were used to allow voters to cast their votes. The print on the cans varies depending on the former water board.
Postal boxes
These messenger bags were used by messengers to deliver mail. Only government agencies used messenger bags, which featured the coat of arms of the agency in question. The oldest messenger bag dates from Noorderzijlvest in 1840.
Tools
The real work of the water board takes place outdoors. This requires tools, both now and in the past. The water board has a whole collection of tools that were used to keep everyone's feet dry.
Kraantjespot
These pots were used to brew coffee and then serve it. The brewing process was as follows: the coffee beans were placed at the bottom, topped with water, which was then heated with an oil burner. The mixture was then left to settle, after which the coffee could be drained off.
