Abspoel

Abspoel, also known as Abtspoel, is an intriguing historical site in the charming village of Oegstgeest in the South Holland province of the Netherlands. This erstwhile manor and outpost boasts a rich tapestry of history, from its origins as a monastic estate in the 15th century to its transformation into a grand country house, and ultimately, its decline and repurposing in the modern era.

The Origins of Abspoel

The story of Abspoel begins in the first half of the 15th century when Willem van Mathenes, the abbot of Egmond Abbey, decided to construct a house on the estate. This house served as a monastic outpost, complete with a chapel consecrated in 1457. The serene surroundings and religious significance made Abspoel a sanctuary for the monks of Egmond Abbey.

During the turbulent times of 1516, when the plague ravaged the region, the abbot of Egmond sought refuge at Abspoel. This highlights the estate's importance as a safe haven in times of crisis. However, the chapel's fate took a turn in 1555 when it was dismantled, marking the end of its religious function.

A Bishop's Retreat

In 1561, Nicolaas van Nieuwland was appointed Bishop of Haarlem and chose Abspoel as his country retreat. Despite being forced to relinquish his bishopric by Duke Alva in 1568, Nicolaas retained Abspoel and decided to retire there permanently in the spring of 1571. Unfortunately, the war circumstances forced him to flee to Utrecht just a year later. The States of Holland conducted an inventory of Abspoel's grounds and possessions at the end of that year, indicating the estate's significance and value.

The Flames of War

The year 1574 brought devastation to Abspoel when the city of Leiden set the house ablaze to prevent Spanish troops from using it as a stronghold. The once grand estate was reduced to ruins, and the States of Holland seized the property. In 1591, it was sold to Foy van Brouchoven, a resident of Leiden, who undertook the ambitious task of rebuilding Abspoel into a castle-like country house.

Rebirth and Expansion

Foy van Brouchoven's vision for Abspoel included the reconstruction of the old house's remaining walls, resulting in an irregular layout with five wings and a service building surrounding a central stair tower. The estate featured saddle roofs between stepped gables, a courtyard with a gatehouse, and a moat encircling the house. The grandeur of Abspoel was further enhanced by a decorative garden and tree-lined avenues, with the central lane offering a view of the Groene Kerkje in Oegstgeest.

After Foy van Brouchoven's death in 1610, the estate passed to his son Jacob, who continued to maintain and expand it. However, Jacob's lack of heirs led to the sale of Abspoel in 1642 to Mayor Willem Paedts. The Paedts family retained ownership of Abspoel until the 18th century, with Willem's grandson further improving and expanding the house between 1712 and 1732.

Abspoel's Changing Fortunes

In 1762, Abspoel was inherited by Adriana Barbara van Cruyskercken, who bequeathed it to Pieter Cornelis Baron van Leyden. The estate then passed to his daughter Françoise Johanna, who married Johan Gael. Their son Diederik van Leyden Gael inherited Abspoel, and after his death in 1846, his widow Johanna van der Hoop continued to use it as a country house.

Johanna's death in 1862 marked the end of an era for Abspoel. The house and its grounds were auctioned, and the new owner demolished the house in 1863. The former castle grounds were transformed into agricultural land, marking the end of Abspoel's grandeur.

Modern-Day Abspoel

In the 20th century, the area underwent significant changes, with residential developments replacing the once grand estate. In 2017, the opening of Sportpark Overveer brought new life to the area. During archaeological investigations for the new sports park, possible remnants of Abspoel's outbuildings and a moat were discovered, connecting the present to the past.

Legacy and Remnants

While the physical structure of Abspoel no longer stands, its legacy endures. The estate's 18th-century obelisk now resides at Kasteel Endegeest, the weathervane adorns Huis Holmare, and two garden vases have found a new home at Groenoord. These remnants serve as poignant reminders of Abspoel's storied past.

In conclusion, Abspoel is a captivating historical site that weaves together tales of monastic life, noble retreats, wartime devastation, and eventual transformation. Its story is a testament to the enduring spirit of Oegstgeest and a fascinating chapter in the rich tapestry of Dutch history.