The village was first mentioned in 1437 as Ossenzyle, and refers to a sluice which was owned by the Osse family.

Ossenzijl developed into a harbour village for peat export.

[6][7] Ossenzijl serves as one of the entry points to the Weerribben, a large bog, and the Frisian Lakes.

Many of the houses were rebuilt as a holiday homes,[4] and a marina was added to the village.

In 2009, De Wieden was added forming a 105 square kilometres (41 sq mi) nature area.