Haus Wagner

Haus Wagner, nestled in the heart of Langenfeld (Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany), is a historic gem that beckons both history enthusiasts and culinary aficionados. This two-story brick building, adorned with a distinctive hipped roof and a charming round stair tower, has stood the test of time since its construction around 1790. Today, it serves as a sophisticated restaurant, but its walls resonate with tales from its illustrious past.

The Historical Significance of Haus Wagner

Originally built as a two-story brick structure with a hipped roof, Haus Wagner's architectural elegance is accentuated by a round stair tower with a helmeted top at its southwestern corner. A triangular, flat dormer graces the northern side, adding to its quaint charm. The building's left side and courtyard-facing extensions house a gastronomic establishment, while the right side and upper floor serve residential purposes.

Haus Wagner's strategic location at the intersection of the historic Via Publica (now B8) and the important trade route Elberfeld-Hitdorf (now B229) made it a bustling hub for travelers and traders. The main road, leading from Hitdorf in the southwest to Richrath and Hilden in the northeast, further underscores its significance. This prime location ensured that Haus Wagner was always at the heart of the action, witnessing the ebb and flow of commerce and culture.

A Journey Through Time

In 1793, Haus Wagner began its journey as an inn for travelers and postilions of the Hochfürstlich Thurn und Taxis’schen Posthalterei. The first innkeepers, Hermann Braches and his brother-in-law Johann Peter Lungstraß, played pivotal roles in its early history. Johann Peter Lungstraß, who later became an imperial postmaster and mayor, left an indelible mark on the establishment.

The building's proximity to a barrier, known as a Barriere, led to its mid-19th-century moniker, Wirtshaus zur Barriere. Contrary to popular belief, the actual post station was located across the street at Haus Löwenberg on the present-day Berliner Platz. The post station was a bustling hub, with up to 24 postilions and 96 horses serving four postal routes. Each postilion managed a team of four uniformly colored horses, ensuring efficient and organized postal services.

From Town Hall to Medical Practice

From 1806 to 1885, Haus Wagner also served as the town hall, first for the Munizipalität Richrath and later for the Gesamtgemeinde Richrath-Monheim. During this period, Johann Hubert Rosellen served as mayor from 1821 to 1849, overseeing the administration from this historic building.

In 1879, Dr. med. Meunier from Hitdorf established the first medical practice for the poor in Langenfeld within Haus Wagner. This initiative marked a significant milestone for the community, which had been striving since 1849 to attract a resident physician. The establishment of this practice was a testament to the community's commitment to improving healthcare for its residents.

Political and Social Milestones

Haus Wagner also played a role in the political landscape of Langenfeld. On November 9, 1918, a workers' and soldiers' council was briefly established at the inn, only to be dissolved by British occupation forces on December 15, 1918. This brief chapter in its history reflects the turbulent times during the aftermath of World War I.

In mid-August 1946, Haus Wagner witnessed the founding of the local branch of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), further cementing its place in the political history of the region.

The Volksgarten: A Legacy of Leisure

The Volksgarten, once part of the post station's grounds, spans approximately 5000 square meters and offered a respite for travelers while their horses were changed. The garden remained in the Lungstraß family for three generations until 1870, after which it changed hands several times. In 1927, Friedrich Kreusch, the mayor of Richrath-Reusrath, acquired the entire property for the municipality, fulfilling his vision of creating a central hub for the community. The park was replanted in 1928 and opened to the public as a recreational space. Since 2008, the garden has housed a glass exhibition hall featuring the reconstructed cottage of shell cutter Wilhelm Jacobs, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's artisanal heritage.

Today, Haus Wagner stands as a testament to Langenfeld's rich history and vibrant culture. Its transformation from a bustling inn and town hall to a modern restaurant with upscale cuisine reflects the town's evolution while preserving its historical essence. Visitors to Haus Wagner can savor exquisite culinary delights while soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era, making it a must-visit destination in Langenfeld.