In 1640, the States constructed the Kruisdijkschans to secure the road from Aardenburg to Sluis. This redoubt (a small, fully walled fortification) fell into decline after the Eighty Years’ War. In 1701, it was restored to guard the Eede, a small river whose course was strategically moved by military engineer Menno van Coehoorn. In 1762, the wealthy Huguenot family Hennequin bought the redoubt and turned it into a lovely country estate. The square house still exists and was probably built on the foundations of a watchtower which stood in the middle of the redoubt. The central courtyard, inner and outer moat are clearly recognisable. And the legend of ‘Hennequin’s chest’ still circulates today: somewhere on the Kruisdijkschans, a chest full of gold and jewels is hidden. So far, it hasn’t been found …
Stichting Het Zeeuwse Landschap, owner and manager of the redoubt, restored the house in 2012 and is working to transform the dilapidated redoubt back into a natural historic treasure.
