Nordwolle residential houses

The Nordwolle residential houses, locally known as Wohnhäuser der Nordwolle, are a fascinating glimpse into the industrial history of Delmenhorst, Lower Saxony, Germany. These historic buildings, constructed from 1884 onwards, were originally built as a factory settlement for the workers of the Nordwolle company, a significant player in wool and worsted yarn processing. As you wander through this area, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time, surrounded by the charm of red-brick architecture and the stories of those who once lived here.

The History of Nordwolle Residential Houses

The Nordwolle company, established on a sprawling 25-hectare site, was a powerhouse in the textile industry. By 1887, it employed 900 people, and this number ballooned to 3,000 by 1911, eventually reaching up to 4,500 workers. Many employees hailed from Eastern Europe, and the local community fondly referred to the young women and girls from Silesia, Galicia, and Bohemia as Wollmäuse or wool mice. The factory operated until 1981, leaving behind a rich legacy embedded in the very fabric of Delmenhorst.

In response to the dire housing conditions and scarcity, the Nordwolle company began constructing the first workers' settlement in 1888. This initiative aimed to provide better living conditions and to strengthen the workers' ties to the company. The settlement evolved into a city within a city, complete with residential buildings, power facilities, a bathhouse, a dining hall, a hospital, a daycare, a library, a gas station, a factory fire brigade, and a consumer cooperative with a shop and bakery.

Architectural Highlights

The Nordwolle residential houses are a testament to the utilitarian yet aesthetically pleasing design of the late 19th century. The buildings were primarily designed by the Bremen architect Wilhelm Weyhe, with later contributions from Henrich Deetjen. The structures are characterized by their uniform brick facades, which create a harmonious aesthetic through the repetition and rhythm of simple stylistic elements, such as pilasters and decorative cornices.

Among the notable structures is the Villa Lahusen, built between 1886 and 1910, which stands apart as a plastered building amidst the brick constructions. The Beamtenhäuser or official houses, constructed from 1885 onwards, were intended for managers and engineers. These two- and three-story brick buildings feature a historicist style typical of the turn of the century, with gable and hipped roofs adding to their charm.

Exploring the Settlement

As you explore the Nordwolle residential houses, you'll encounter a variety of building types. The workers’ houses, located along streets like Kämmerei and Pappelstraße, remain largely unchanged, preserving the historical integrity of the area. The Heimstraße, once home to many Southern European guest workers in the 1960s, is vividly depicted in Selim Özdoğan's 2011 novel Heimstraße 52, offering a literary glimpse into life in the quarter.

Among the residential buildings, you’ll find the Mädchenwohnheim, originally a girls' dormitory built in 1884 and expanded in 1898 to accommodate 150 young women from Eastern Europe. Today, it serves as a senior residence, continuing its legacy of providing shelter and community. The Junggesellenheim, constructed in 1900, provided accommodation for young, unmarried male employees and commercial apprentices, complete with a large garden and tennis court.

A Journey Through Time

Walking through the Nordwolle residential area is akin to taking a journey through time. The architectural style, the layout of the settlement, and the stories of its former inhabitants come together to create a vivid tapestry of industrial history. The area is not just a collection of buildings; it is a living monument to the lives and labor of thousands of workers who contributed to the prosperity of the Nordwolle company and, by extension, Delmenhorst itself.

Preserving Heritage

Many of the residential houses and factory buildings are now protected as historical monuments, ensuring their preservation for future generations. This commitment to heritage conservation allows visitors and locals alike to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the Nordwolle residential houses.

In conclusion, the Nordwolle residential houses in Delmenhorst offer a unique glimpse into the past, where industrial ambition met architectural elegance. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, this historic settlement provides an enriching experience that highlights the enduring legacy of the Nordwolle company and its workers.