Haulerwijk (West Frisian: Haulerwyk) is a village in the municipality of Ooststellingwerf in the east of the province of Friesland, the Netherlands. It is situated near the border with the provinces of Groningen and Drenthe.
History
The village originated in 1756 when the Haulerwijkstervaart (Haulerwiekster Vaort) was dug from the Mandewijk as part of the peat colony operations of the Drachtster Company. The name "Haulerwijk" was first recorded in 1844 and means "canal of Haule" (referring to the nearby village of Haule). The settlement developed as a linear peat colony village (veenkoloniaal dorp). Historically, Haulerwijk was also referred to as Boven-Haulerwijk (Upper Haulerwijk) after a second settlement core emerged called Beneden-Haulerwijk (Lower Haulerwijk), which became an independent village in 1954.
Demographics
As of 2021, Haulerwijk had a population of approximately 3,220. In 1840, the village was home to only 69 people. The village covers an area of 10.38 km² (4.01 sq mi).
Geography and Infrastructure
Haulerwijk lies at an elevation of about 7 meters (23 feet) above sea level. The village is centered along the Haulerwijkstervaart canal. Its postal code is 8433, and its dialing code is 0516.
Notable Landmarks
- Dutch Reformed Church: Built in 1852.
- Mennonite Church: Another religious building in the village.
Culture and Tourism
Haulerwijk is known for its rural character and serves as a gateway to the Fryske Wâlden, a region popular for cycling and hiking. The village hosts an annual flower parade that attracts visitors. It is centrally located on the border of Friesland, Groningen, and Drenthe, offering access to lakes, forests, and heathlands.
