The mill functions as a 'paint factory' using traditional stone-grinding technology dating back to the 18th century.
It originally functioned as an oil mill before being converted into a chalk mill and subsequently a pigment mill.
The windmill is technically a 'stellingmolen' or stage mill, requiring a raised platform to reach the sails.
The ground floor serves as a workshop where visitors can see the mechanical transmission of wind energy to the grinding stones.
Pigments ground at De Kat are used for authentic historical restoration projects of Dutch heritage sites.
The mill’s position on the riverbank was strategically chosen to utilize the consistent wind flow across the Zaan landscape.
De Kat is the world's only remaining paint-making windmill still in operation. Located in the Zaanse Schans open-air museum area, it functions as a working industrial mill that grinds pigments such as chalk, umber, and iron oxides using wind power. The original mill on this site burned down in 1782 and was replaced by an octagonal stage mill transported from another location in 1784. The structure operates as a raw material production facility for artists, supplying pigments and oils used for traditional painting and restoration. Visitors can climb the steep, narrow wooden stairs to the mill's gallery and internal platforms to observe the stone runners in action. The mill produces materials for paints and stains that are sold globally. It is situated on the Zaan River, which historically powered hundreds of industrial mills in the region.
From the river path looking up at the sails when they are positioned in a 'working' alignment.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the wooden stairs inside the mill are extremely steep and narrow.
Visit on a windy day to ensure the sails are turning and the grinding machinery is actively operating.
Check the top of the mill, where the gallery provides an unobstructed view of the surrounding Zaanse Schans.
Do not attempt the interior climb if you have significant mobility limitations or fear of enclosed, steep spaces.
Open daily, but operating status is weather-dependent; the mill may be closed during periods of extreme high winds or complete calm.
Visitors must exercise caution on narrow staircases; refrain from touching heavy moving machinery or grinding stones.
