Discover 150 years of DEME!

In 2026, DEME celebrates 150 years of marine and environmental engineering. From our early roots in 1876, we have grown from our origins in dredging and marine works into a leading, diversified group - shaped by expertise, innovation, resilience and a constant drive to push boundaries. 

Throughout this anniversary year, we’ll take you on a journey through our history, sharing stories and moments that show how challenges were approached, solutions were developed and ambitions kept moving forward. Across our channels and on this dedicated anniversary website, you can discover the people, projects and breakthroughs that made DEME what it is today. This website will be updated weekly with new stories. Throughout the year, we will use #DEME150 to share and connect these stories. 

As we reflect on 150 years, we continue to look ahead with the same spirit that defines us: We Care. We Dare. We Deliver.

1912

The origins from Sint-Anneke Plage in Antwerp

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When strolling along the legendary Sint-Anneke Plage in Antwerp, few people realize that this much loved riverside beach originated from dredging works on the Scheldt. In the early 20th century, locals discovered fine, white sand along the riverbank, perfect for sunbathing or a picknick, and offering a real holiday feeling close to home.

That sand came from dredging works carried out by the DEME founders and was deposited on the Borgerweert polder, in a bend of the Scheldt between Sint-Anna, Zwijndrecht and Burcht. Over time, this sandy stretch grew into what became known as Sint-Anneke Plage.

In 1912, the DEME founders were commissioned to build a jetty and pontoon bridge at Sint-Anna, executing dam walls and piles, partly in reinforced concrete. What started as a practical solution for the dredged material evolved into one of Antwerp’s most iconic leisure spots, making our company part of Sint-Anneke’s very origin story, where marine engineering and everyday life came together along the river.

Disclaimer

With 150 years of history, there are countless moments to tell. In this anniversary year, we share a non-exhaustive selection of stories that illustrate how DEME became the company it is today. These stories are drawn from a variety of historical sources, including books by authors such as Dirk Podevijn and Mon Vanderosteyne, company publications and the input of colleagues across the organization. As this website looks back on 150 years of heritage, it features archival material from different eras. Safety standards and working practices have evolved significantly over time and should be understood in their historical context.