Husum Water Tower

The Husum Water Tower, known locally as the Wasserturm Husum, stands as a charming and historical landmark in the heart of Husum, a picturesque town in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. This elegant structure, completed in 1892, has long since ceased to serve its original purpose but continues to captivate visitors with its architectural beauty and historical significance.

The Architecture of Husum Water Tower

Constructed from 1891 to 1892, the Husum Water Tower is an exquisite example of late 19th-century industrial architecture. Designed by the architect Von Gerlach with the assistance of K. Mühlke, the tower is a round brick structure, meticulously faced with red Rathenower hand-molded bricks. It stands on an octagonal granite base, which provides a sturdy foundation for the conically tapering shaft above. The shaft is divided into three levels, each adorned with plastered panels that add to the tower's aesthetic appeal.

The crowning glory of the tower is its overhanging tank level, which is clad in slate and topped with a pointed, twelve-sided spire, also covered in slate. This spire adds a touch of fairy-tale charm to the otherwise utilitarian structure. Above the entrance to the tower, visitors can admire a sculptural work from the Berlin workshop of Boswau & Knauer. This artwork, created according to the architect's specifications, features the coat of arms of the town of Husum and a mural crown set against a golden leaf ornament.

Technical Marvels

The Husum Water Tower was not just a pretty face; it was a technical marvel of its time. The iron water tank it housed had a diameter of nine meters and was an Intze-1 tank with a capacity of 350 cubic meters. This tank also served as a support element for the roof structure. The bottom of the water tank was situated approximately 33 meters above sea level and about 22 meters above the ground, ensuring a reliable water supply to the town below.

The History of Husum's Water Supply

In the latter half of the 19th century, Husum experienced rapid population growth, driven in part by its connection to the railway network and its emergence as a hub for cattle trading in northern Germany. This growth necessitated the establishment of a centralized water supply system. Until then, water had been sourced from decentralized wells located near individual homes.

In June 1901, the construction of a waterworks began in the neighboring community of Rosendahl (now a part of Mildstedt) by the company Windschild & Langelott. Water was drawn from a depth of 50 meters using gas-operated pumps. By 1903, the facility was completed, including the Husum Water Tower, which played a crucial role in maintaining water pressure. The tower's construction cost 63,000 marks, a significant investment at the time.

From Utility to Novelty

In 1961, the tower was decommissioned as advancements in water supply technology rendered it obsolete. A hydrophore system was introduced to maintain constant water pressure, eliminating the need for a water tower. For many years, the tower stood unused, awaiting a new purpose.

In 1983, a local businessman leased the tower from the town for 99 years and transformed it into an office for an insurance company. The water tank area was converted into a viewing platform, with a floor installed that could be accessed via a central opening and a staircase. Large windows were cut into the tank walls to provide panoramic views of the surrounding area.

A New Chapter

In 2018, the Husum Water Tower was sold to a local entrepreneur. Since then, it has been converted into a unique accommodation experience. The tower's shaft now houses two holiday apartments, which have been available for rent since early 2021. The octagonal base of the tower features a spacious apartment spread over two floors, offering 115 square meters of living space and accommodating up to four guests. The upper cylindrical section of the tower contains a second apartment, with 69 square meters of living space over two floors, suitable for up to three guests.

While the viewing platform and the tower itself are no longer open to the general public, the Husum Water Tower remains a beloved landmark. It stands as a testament to the town's history and ingenuity, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while providing a unique and memorable place to stay.

In conclusion, the Husum Water Tower is not just an old water tower; it is a symbol of the town's heritage and a beacon of architectural beauty. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a unique place to stay, the Husum Water Tower is a must-visit when exploring this charming corner of Germany.