Dok van Perry

Vlissingen, a charming coastal town in the Netherlands, is home to one of the country's most fascinating historical landmarks: the Dok van Perry (known locally as Dokje van Perry). This dry dock, the oldest in the Netherlands, is not only a testament to the ingenuity of 17th-century engineering but also a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The Origins of the Dok van Perry

The story of the Dok van Perry begins in the late 17th century, during a time when the Dutch navy was organized into five admiralties, each requiring a suitable location to store its ships. The Admiralty of Zeeland, responsible for the fleet in the region, already had a small wet dock and port in Vlissingen since 1614. However, this facility was insufficient, especially during the harsh winter months when many warships would stand at the bottom of the port, risking severe damage.

In 1687, Stadtholder William III recognized the dire need for a larger wet dock to prevent the decay of the admiralty's warships. After some negotiations and a bit of arm-twisting, the Vlissingen city government agreed to the construction of a new, much larger wet dock. This project, started in 1687 and completed in 1693, laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the Dok van Perry.

The Construction of the Dry Dock

The dry dock, designed by the English engineer Captain John Perry in 1697, was a marvel of its time. Perry, who would later gain fame for his book The State of Russia under the Present Czar and other works, created a ship-shaped dry dock to minimize the amount of water that needed to be pumped out. This was crucial because the pumps were driven by a horse-mill, making efficiency a top priority.

Construction of the dry dock began in 1704 and was completed in 1705. The dock, with a maximum length of 180 feet, was capable of accommodating any Dutch warship of the era. The closure of the dry dock was achieved using regular lock doors, and commercial ships could use the facility for a fee of 10 stuivers per foot for eight days.

Challenges and Rebuilds

Despite its innovative design, the Dok van Perry faced numerous challenges. Engineers struggled to keep water from the wet dock out of the dry dock, resulting in a perpetually wet floor. By 1737, significant water ingress issues and damage from naval shipworms led to the dock's gradual disrepair. By 1745, the dry dock was effectively out of service.

The dry dock remained in disrepair for nearly a century, with various plans for its restoration repeatedly falling through. It wasn’t until the 1830s that serious efforts were made to rebuild the dock. Engineer A.E. Tromp conducted a thorough investigation and designed a rebuild that included a ship caisson and steam power. This ambitious project, approved in 1835, aimed to modernize the dock to accommodate the larger ships of the line that had become standard.

The reconstruction, carried out in three phases between 1836 and 1838, involved significant improvements. New foundations were laid, brickwork was reinforced, and a steam engine was installed to power the pumps. By the summer of 1837, the dry dock was nearly complete, with only the finishing touches on the steam engine remaining.

The Dok van Perry Today

Today, the Dok van Perry stands as a remarkable piece of maritime history. Visitors can explore the dock and imagine the bustling activity that once took place here, with ships being meticulously maintained and repaired. The dry dock’s ship-shaped design, a clever solution to the engineering challenges of the time, remains a highlight for those interested in historical engineering and naval architecture.

Walking through the dock, you can almost hear the echoes of the past – the clanging of hammers, the creaking of wooden ships, and the murmur of sailors and shipwrights going about their work. The Dok van Perry is more than just a dry dock; it’s a window into a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the rich maritime heritage of Vlissingen and the Netherlands.

Visiting the Dok van Perry

For those planning a visit, the Dok van Perry is conveniently located in the heart of Vlissingen. The town itself is a delightful destination, with its picturesque waterfront, charming streets, and a variety of attractions. After exploring the dry dock, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boulevard, take in the views of the North Sea, or visit one of the many local cafes and restaurants for a taste of Dutch cuisine.

The Dok van Perry is a must-see for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the remarkable achievements of 17th and 18th-century engineering. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering a unique and engaging experience for all who visit.

In conclusion, the Dok van Perry is not just a historical monument; it’s a symbol of the enduring spirit of innovation and resilience that has defined the Netherlands for centuries. Its walls and foundations tell stories of a time when the sea was both a source of livelihood and a formidable challenge, and its continued preservation ensures that these stories will be told for generations to come.