Beeld De Scheepsjoagers
Peat exploitation began along the small river Pekel A around 1600, after which the excavated peat lands were made suitable for agriculture. The small river was canalised and quarters were dug.
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These quarters served as drainage canals for peat and agricultural products, the supply of a variety of other products and the regulation of water management. Because of the many bridges and buildings, there was not enough wind to sail under sail. Therefore, ship hunters were employed to manually pull the ships and prams. Hans Mes's bronze sculpture 'De Scheepsjoagers' has stood in Oude Pekela since 1987, in memory of the men, women and children who did this heavy work.