First Recorded mention 1468
The name Arkelse Hoeve appears in a loan letter, marking the earliest known reference to the estate. What began as a feudal property under the Van Arkel family would evolve into one of the region’s most enduring farms
Leasehold Beginnings 1600s
As the Van Arkel family line faded through the centuries, the estate shifted ownership through marriage and inheritance. The Arkelse Hoeve entered a period of leasehold agreements, overseen by appointed stewards due to absentee landlords.
The Flood Mark 1820
A basalt stone once marked the great flood of 1820, commemorated with the engraving: FLOOD 1820. Though the stone was stolen in 1973, its legacy lives on in Arkelshoef’s flood barn and embankments — a symbol of resilience.
New Farmhouse Built 1889
Daan van den Berg constructs the current stately farmhouse that still stands today, complete with ornamental gardens and the name Arkelshoef proudly displayed on its facade. Though newer in appearance, it sits atop the foundations of much older buildings.
Ruighaver Era Begins
Mr. Jacobus Ruighaver, from Haarlemmermeer, acquires the estate and surrounding lands. This marks the beginning of a legacy that would span 100 years of stewardship by the Ruighaver family — and continues to this day
Flood Barn in Action 1995
During rising flood threats, Arkelshoef’s historic flood barn — elevated above the main house — was once again used as a refuge for cattle and horses, just as it was originally intended. This rare structure remains one of the best-preserved flood barns in the Netherlands
100 years of Ruighaver residency 2024
A full century of Ruighaver family care, tradition, and innovation on the farm. From dairying and land stewardship to welcoming visitors from all over the world, 2024 is not only a celebration of a family — but of a living heritage.
Journey of the milk
from field to the cheese
every drop begin with a happy cows ands end with
testy you can trust
On the farm
On the Farm
Hand-off
At the dairy
At the Dairy
At the Dairy