In the heart of Hamelin, nestled alongside the serene flow of the Weser River, lies a site that whispers tales of industrial prowess and historical resilience: the Wesermühlen. These mills, dating back to the 13th century, stand as a testament to the evolution of industry and architecture in Lower Saxony. Today, they invite visitors to explore their storied past and marvel at their enduring presence.
The origins of the Wesermühlen trace back to the late 13th century, with the Pfortmühle leading the charge. Originally known as the Weser- or Fischpfortenmühle, this watermill was first documented in 1345. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous transformations, each marking a new chapter in its storied existence. In 1745, a devastating flood partially destroyed the mill, yet from the ruins arose a grander structure, thanks to the support of the Hanoverian king—an event commemorated by a memorial stone placed in 1746.
The Pfortmühle faced further trials, including a fire in 1872 that left it in ruins. By 1878, it was reborn as a five-story industrial marvel, boasting 12 grinding passages and ranking among Germany's largest mills. However, fate struck again in 1893 when another fire led to its reconstruction in the historicist style, a structure that still stands today as an industrial monument of note.
On the river's Werder island, the Werdermühle emerged in 1635 as a grain mill, later expanding to include an oil mill and a sawmill. By the 19th century, it had grown into a prominent enterprise, its timber-framed buildings replaced by a modern brick construction in 1864. This transformation earned it the title of the most advanced watermill in the Kingdom of Hanover.
Yet, the Werdermühle's story is not without tragedy. In 1887, a dust explosion—a rare and catastrophic event at the time—claimed 11 lives and destroyed part of the mill. Despite the setback, the mill was rebuilt by the Luther-Werke and resumed operations in 1888. The mill's saga ended during the final days of World War II when it was destroyed in April 1945. A hydroelectric power plant later occupied the site until its demolition in 2017.
Friedrich Wilhelm Meyer, a visionary entrepreneur, played a pivotal role in the Wesermühlen's history. In 1872, he acquired the Pfortmühle site and rebuilt it, later expanding the Werdermühle. Despite setbacks from fires and explosions, Meyer and his son Heinrich founded the Wesermühlen Aktiengesellschaft in 1898, steering the family business through turbulent times.
The mid-20th century saw the Wesermühlen evolve into a major industrial player under the Kampffmeyer Mühlen group. The facility at Hamelin harbor expanded significantly, incorporating cutting-edge technology and logistics solutions, including pneumatic passage transportation—a first for German mills. By the time operations ceased in 2013, the mill processed vast quantities of wheat, rye, and maize for markets far and wide.
Today, the Pfortmühle stands as a vibrant cultural hub, repurposed to house a library and restaurant. Its historical façade belies a modern interior, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Hamelin's industrial heritage. The preserved hydroelectric plant, with its turbine and generator, offers a glimpse into the technological advancements of the early 20th century.
As you wander through the Pfortmühle, take a moment to reflect on the resilience and innovation that have defined its journey. From medieval watermill to modern monument, the Wesermühlen encapsulate the spirit of Hamelin—a city that has continually adapted and thrived through the ages.
The Wesermühlen of Hamelin are more than mere relics of the past; they are living chronicles of a region's industrial evolution and architectural ingenuity. Their walls echo with the stories of those who toiled and triumphed here, shaping the course of history in Lower Saxony. As you explore this remarkable site, let your imagination wander through time, and discover the enduring legacy of the Wesermühlen—a cornerstone of Hamelin's rich and diverse heritage.
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