The windmill, through its major development and widespread employment between 1200-1600, became a national symbol just before the windmill cup was created. Therefore, players of this game celebrated Netherlandish culture and national pride by consuming the commodity (local beer), the production of which was made possible by the national icon (Dutch windmills), in the spirit of community and social connection (regional drinking games). Through the innovative use of windmill technology, the windmill brought about land reclamation which led to both national pride and product, and the consumption and celebration of that product led to cultural customs. It is the history of the windmill, the national narrative that runs through the centuries, that laid the foundation for the production and function of this particular artifact. The cup embodies a history of Netherlandish hydrology, topography, economy, trade commerce, society, and culture. So much more than a frivolous pastime, this cup tells an entire national history.