Leeghwater: water BN-er par excellence

Leeghwater in 1643. Etching and engraving by S. Savrij after a drawing by T. Keiser. Alkmaar Regional Archives.

Leeghwater is definitely a 'water celebrity'. In our country, 61 streets, avenues, roads, and squares bear his name. He also plays the leading role in a whole series of novels and children's books. But who is really behind all that fame and honour? And does Leeghwater really deserve the fame he has been given?