Kehl Water Tower

The Kehl Water Tower, known locally as Wasserturm Kehl, stands proudly in the southern part of Kehl, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, at the intersection of Schwimmbadstraße and Iringheimer Straße. This nearly 50-meter-high structure is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but a significant landmark that punctuates the skyline of the Rhine plain with its distinctive silhouette.

The Architecture of the Kehl Water Tower

Constructed in 1904, the Kehl Water Tower is a quintessential example of early 20th-century water tower architecture. Its design reflects the industrial optimism of its era, combining practicality with a certain architectural flair. The tower's base is circular, with a diameter of 11.90 meters, made entirely from robust brick masonry. The lower section is clad in sandstone, lending it a solid, grounded appearance, while the upper section is plastered and painted white, giving it a clean, striking look against the sky.

The tower's head, although not preserved in its original form, remains a captivating feature. It is polygonal and juts out in two stages, with the lower part housing the drip floor illuminated by a series of windows. Above this, the more pronounced overhang contains the water tank, a classic Intze 1 model with a capacity of 300 cubic meters. This tank is divided into two sections by a partition wall. A ring of windows just below the roof allows light to flood into the tank area, creating an intriguing interplay of light and shadows.

Historical Significance

The history of the Kehl Water Tower is intertwined with the industrial growth of Kehl itself. The town's development as an industrial hub began with its connection to the Baden railway network in 1844 and the construction of the railway bridge over the Rhine in 1861. By 1897, a permanent road bridge and the Kehl Rhine port were established, catalyzing industrial expansion and population growth, which necessitated a centralized water supply system.

In 1903, the city commissioned engineer Max Hessemer from Frankfurt am Main to design a comprehensive water supply system, including filter wells, a pumping station, a pipeline network, and the water tower. The local firm Azone undertook the construction, and by October 1905, the facility was operational. Initially, Hessemer financed the project himself, securing a temporary monopoly on the water supply, which later led to disputes over high water prices. Eventually, the city acquired the water supply from Hessemer for 285,000 marks.

Challenges and Renovations

The Kehl Water Tower withstood various challenges throughout its history. It survived World War I unscathed, and in 1922, it underwent expansion with an additional tower and well. However, World War II inflicted damage on the tower and the pipeline network. Post-war repairs in 1950 saw the tower's elaborate head replaced with a simpler design. Further renovations took place in 2003, ensuring the tower's continued presence as a historic monument.

Modern Water Supply

Today, the Kehl Water Tower is part of the city's emergency water supply network, although the original waterworks at the tower were decommissioned in 1980. The new Kehl waterworks, built on the Schutterwaldwiesen in Willstätt, along with five other facilities, now serve approximately 33,000 residents in Kehl and its neighboring communities.

Visiting the Kehl Water Tower

For visitors to Kehl, the water tower offers more than just a glimpse into the town's industrial past. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the early 20th century, reflecting the architectural trends and technological advancements of that time. The tower's striking contrast of white plaster and dark slate makes it a photogenic landmark, perfect for those interested in industrial heritage and architectural history.

While the interior may not be accessible to the public, the tower's exterior and its surrounding area provide a peaceful spot for contemplation and photography. The tower's location in the scenic Rhine plain offers a serene backdrop, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the region.

In conclusion, the Kehl Water Tower is more than just a functional structure; it is a symbol of the town's growth and evolution. It stands as a reminder of the past while continuing to serve the community, a beacon of history and progress in the heart of Baden-Württemberg.