Kruisdijkschans

In 1640, the States built the Kruisdijkschans to secure the road from Aardenburg to Sluis. This redoubt (a small, fully moated fortification) fell into disrepair after the Eighty Years' War. In 1701, it was restored to guard the Eede, a small river whose course was strategically redirected by line builder Menno van Coehoorn. In 1762, the wealthy Huguenot family Hennequin purchased the redoubt to convert it into a beautiful country estate. The square residence still stands, and was likely built on the foundations of a watchtower that was located in the middle of the redoubt. The central square, inner, and outer moat are clearly recognizable. And still, the legend of 'the suitcase of Hennequin' circulates: somewhere on the Kruisdijkschans, a suitcase full of gold and jewels is said to be hidden. Until now, it has not been found...

The Stichting Het Zeeuwse Landschap, owner and manager of the redoubt, restored the residence in 2012 and is making efforts to turn the dilapidated redoubt back into a nature-rich, historical gem.

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