# Bovenkarspel

Bovenkarspel is a town in the municipality of Stede Broec in the Dutch province of North Holland. Situated in the West Friesland region, Bovenkarspel is known for its agricultural heritage, particularly its historical ties to horticulture and flower cultivation.

## History
### Bronze Age

The area around Bovenkarspel was settled by early human communities during the Bronze Age (around 2000 to 800 BCE). Archaeological evidence, including tools and burial mounds, suggests that the inhabitants practiced farming and engaged in basic metalworking. The region's fertile land and proximity to waterways made it a suitable location for early settlers.

### Golden Age

Due to its strategic location between the cities of Enkhuizen and Hoorn, both vital ports in the Dutch maritime economy in the Dutch Golden Age, Bovenkarspel, and neighbouring villages, were situated along a key road which facilitated the movement of trading goods. The town remained a predominantly agricultural area.

### 20th Century

In the 20th Century, Bovenkarspel, like the rest of the Netherlands, was affected by the German occupation during World War II. On May 10th, Bovenkarspel and the other neighbouring villages were liberated. Canadian troops marched through the village and celebrations were held the same day.
The post-war era saw a shift towards suburban development as industrialization spread, and the population grew. The late 20th century also saw the growth of the city of Hoorn, which influenced Bovenkarspel's development. The town, which had resembled a linear settlement up until that point, underwent residential development both to the North and South of the railway and the Streekhof shopping mall was built.
The Saint Martin's Parish was demolished in the 1960s and replaced with a modern, contemporary church with a sleek, minimalist design and a new bell tower. It was not the only prominent building to be demolished around the time, the reformed church, the station building, and other buildings such as a hotel and farmhouses were demolished during this era.
Bovenkarspel became part of the larger municipality of Stede Broec, which was formed on January 1, 1979, in which the towns of Bovenkarspel, Grootebroek, and Lutjebroek form a larger residential area together. The town hall is located in Bovenkarspel next to the shopping mall.

### 21st Century

In the 21st century, the town has transitioned into a more residential and commuter town, with many of its residents working in nearby cities. While agriculture, particularly flower cultivation, still plays a role in the local economy, the area has seen growth in housing and services to accommodate its expanding population.
On New Year's Eve 2019-2020, the town's "Ceres" windmill was severely damaged by a fire. The fire, which had been sparked by fireworks, destroyed the windmill's upper structure, prompting widespread restoration efforts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the town gained national attention following an explosion outside a local COVID-19 test centre. The attack, believed to be linked to rising unrest over pandemic restrictions, caused property damage but no injuries.
On March 18, 2022, the restored windmill was opened by Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands who revealed a commemorative plaque at the site.

## 1999 Legionellosis outbreak

In March 1999 an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease occurred during a flower exhibition in Bovenkarspel. Many people were hospitalized in Hoorn. 318 people became ill and at least 32 died. Probably more victims died and were buried before the legionellosis infection was recognized. The source of the bacteria was a hot tub in the exhibition area.

## Transportation

Bovenkarspel is well-connected by road to nearby towns and cities in North Holland. The village is primarily served by the N302 and N506 highways, providing easy access to neighbouring places such as Hoorn and Enkhuizen.
Public transportation is available through regional bus services, which connect Bovenkarspel to other localities in the municipality and beyond. For longer-distance travel, residents can make use of one of the two railway stations in Bovenkarspel - Bovenkarspel-Grootebroek and Bovenkarspel Flora - with half-hourly connections to cities such as Hoorn, Amsterdam and Heerlen/Maastricht.