Wasserturm Berghausen

Standing tall and proud in the charming locale of Langenfeld, Nordrhein-Westfalen, the Wasserturm Berghausen is a striking historical monument that narrates a tale of industrial ingenuity and architectural elegance. This water tower, a testament to the region's industrious past, has been a designated heritage site since May 2005 and continues to captivate visitors with its unique structure and historical significance.

The Historical Context

In the early 20th century, Langenfeld was predominantly an agrarian society. Agriculture was the lifeblood of the local economy, with the majority of the population relying on farming for their livelihood. Industrialization had not yet made its mark, and the landscape was dotted with farms rather than factories. It wasn't until the mid-19th century that the winds of change began to blow, bringing with them new opportunities for economic growth and diversification.

The shift from an agricultural to an industrial economy was gradual but steady. By 1882, 92% of households in Langenfeld were still engaged in farming. However, the advent of industrialization brought about significant changes. The local clergy, such as the evangelical pastor Johannes Löh, played a crucial role in this transformation by promoting systematic horticulture and seed cultivation, which helped improve agricultural yields and supported the burgeoning population.

The Genesis of the Wasserturm

The story of the Wasserturm Berghausen begins in 1934, when the Gebrüder Jacobi, inspired by the success of earlier agricultural pioneers like Lambert Nix, decided to establish a water tower to support their large-scale horticultural enterprise. The Jacobi brothers had relocated from Wuppertal to Langenfeld, following in the footsteps of Nix, who had moved to Reusrath in the 1870s and revolutionized local agriculture by introducing commercial vegetable farming.

The construction of the water tower was entrusted to the renowned construction company Heinrich Rotterdam, which had already made a name for itself with notable projects such as the St. Paulus church. The initial design featured an external iron staircase, but this plan was met with resistance from the approval authorities. A revised design, incorporating an internal staircase from a height of 8 meters, was eventually approved, enhancing the tower's aesthetic appeal and aligning it with the principles of modernist architecture.

Architectural Marvel

The Wasserturm Berghausen stands as a six-story, over 20-meter-high structure with a nearly square footprint. Contrary to the original freestanding design, the tower was built adjacent to an existing L-shaped building. Its brick walls are plain and unadorned, with reinforced concrete floor slabs that are not visible from the outside. The only external indication of the water tank's presence is a pair of small triangular windows on the north and south sides of the tower.

The tower's exterior is enlivened by the varied arrangement of windows, which adds a dynamic quality to its otherwise austere facade. The external staircase, initially exposed, was enclosed in the 1950s, winding up the west side to the second floor and then turning southward to the third floor. Inside, the original layout has been preserved, despite the tower's current residential use. The flat roof, with its minimal overhang, is capped by a skylight that adds a touch of modern elegance to the structure.

A Testament to Modernist Design

The Wasserturm Berghausen is celebrated as a fine example of utilitarian architecture in the style of Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity). The tower's design and balanced composition reflect a high level of craftsmanship, especially considering it was the work of a local construction firm. The innovative window arrangement is reminiscent of the Hans-Sachs-Haus in Gelsenkirchen, designed by the renowned architect Alfred Fischer.

The tower's significance extends beyond its architectural merits. It stands as a historical marker of the economic growth of a horticultural business that necessitated the construction of such a substantial water tower. Its size and prominence would typically be associated with municipal water supply systems, highlighting the scale and success of the Jacobi brothers' enterprise.

A Landmark of Langenfeld

Strategically located between the B8 highway and the Cologne-Düsseldorf railway line, the Wasserturm Berghausen serves as a vertical landmark for travelers passing through the region. Its imposing presence and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in industrial heritage and architectural history.

In conclusion, the Wasserturm Berghausen is not just a water tower; it is a symbol of Langenfeld's transition from an agrarian society to an industrialized community. Its walls tell a story of innovation, resilience, and progress, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. So, when you find yourself in Langenfeld, take a moment to marvel at this architectural gem and reflect on the rich history it represents.