Background information:
Although the appearance of freestanding chimneys is linked to the Industrial Revolution (c. 1770-1840), most examples were built at a time when steam engines powered almost everything. Especially older models and those that didn't need to be exceptionally tall were built of brick. In the post-war decades, most examples disappeared, often after long periods of inactivity because demolition in built-up areas was often complicated. However, the main reason was the replacement of steam power by combustion engines and electric propulsion. Even in 2025, there are still approximately 75 brick chimneys in active use in the Netherlands, mostly in glass and brick factories. Another 500 or so have been preserved as monuments, including the monumental example that served as a model for Markenburg, built around 1905 on the west side of Kerkstraat in Waalwijk.
Architectural details:
At approximately 12 meters high, this brick chimney still towers well above the second floor. However, this chimney is a relatively small example, while some others have reached over 50 meters in height. Concrete examples were often considerably taller. The masonry of the shaft in this example is made of so-called "klooster bricks" (large-format bricks). The cube-shaped base is built with standard Waal-sized bricks in a cross bond. Characteristic are the dark-colored metal tension straps, which are visible as horizontal lines on the shaft. This chimney initially served as the steam drive (specifically the flue gas exhaust) for a shoe factory. Later, the shoe factory was converted into the now better-known hosiery factory. However, that function was also replaced decades ago, and the chimney is no longer in active service.
Note: Precision and experience are required when assembling this model. This is especially true for the 1:160 scale.
