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Höllhammer Ironworks: A Legacy in the Spessart
The Höllhammer ironworks in the Spessart mountains, founded in 1794, were instrumental in the development of Bosch Rexroth. Remnants of the ironworks and surrounding area are still accessible to visitors today.
German
Germany
LifestyleTourismGerman HistoryIndustrial RevolutionIronworksSpessart Mountains
Bosch RexrothAschaffenburg City
Johann Ludwig RexrothGeorg Ludwig RexrothJohann Heinrich Seekatz
- What is the historical significance of the Höllhammer ironworks?
- The Höllhammer ironworks, founded in the Elsavatal valley in the Spessart, laid the foundation for the global rise of Bosch Rexroth. Some noteworthy buildings still stand at the foot of magnificent mountain forests.
- How did the Rexroth family build their company into a global enterprise?
- Johann Ludwig Rexroth, in 1794, established the ironworks, which his son Georg Ludwig expanded to become a global company. The company eventually relocated to Lohr and became Bosch Rexroth, employing about 34,000 people.
- What role did the Mainzer archbishops play in the development of the Spessart region?
- The Mainzer archbishops were responsible for both the isolation and the opening up of the Spessart for handcrafted industrial production. They maintained large hunting grounds while also pursuing mercantile interests in timber and glass production.
- Describe the living and working conditions of the workers at the Höllhammer ironworks.
- The Höllhammer ironworks used an ingenious system of mill wheels and shafts to process scrap metal into various products. This led to the creation of a self-sufficient village for workers and their families, complete with housing, a bakery, a school, and a cemetery.
- What remains of the Höllhammer and Neuhammer ironworks today, and how can visitors explore the area?
- Several well-preserved buildings remain from the Höllhammer and Neuhammer ironworks, including the former Herrenhaus (manor house), which now serves as a school camp. A walking path allows visitors to explore the area and see these historical sites.