Women now dominate the landscape of Bergisch Gladbach
In the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Women's Places NRW project is now shining a light on overlooked historical women personalities, aiming to contribute to equality and bring these remarkable women back into public consciousness. One such group of trailblazers is the Zanders family, whose significant contributions to the paper industry and the city of Bergisch Gladbach are now being recognised.
The project, known as FrauenOrte NRW, has honoured 57 women personalities from over ten centuries and from all regions of North Rhine-Westphalia. The Zanders women – Julie, Maria, and Olga – are among these esteemed individuals.
Julie Zanders (1804 - 1869) led the company Zanders from 1831 to 1836, then again from 1857 until her death, with her son Carl Richard. She purchased the Gohrsmühle, which remained the company's main headquarters. Julie was a pioneer, maintaining the company's independence at a time when this was neither common nor encouraged for women. Her determination secured many people's jobs and livelihoods for many years.
Maria Zanders (1839 - 1904) took over the company's leadership following her husband's early death in 1870. She was responsible for the company's expansion through acquisitions and modernization. In 1873-1874, Maria initiated the construction of Villa Zanders, a place where art, music, and civic engagement came together. Maria was also a patron of the arts, maintaining contacts with artists and founding a choir. Her work at the paper factory has had a lasting significance, shaping the Kunstmuseum Villa Zanders today, with a collection focus on 'Art from Paper' and a mission to make contemporary art visible.
Olga Zanders (1872-1946) managed the company from 1915 to 1929, during which there were around 1500 employees. She ensured the survival of the company during World War I and the depression of the 1920s. Olga also founded a wedding grant in 1918, providing 200 marks to daughters and sons of Zanders employees upon marriage.
The Zanders women were pioneers who took responsibility for leading the company at a time when this was not common. Without them, there would be neither the Zanders area, which shapes the cityscape, nor the long tradition of the paper city of Bergisch Gladbach.
The project was proposed by Dr. Ulrich Soenius, director of the Rhineland-Westphalian Economic Archive Foundation in Cologne. The Women's Council NRW e.V. has funded the project, with Josefine Paul as the patron. The memorial plaque for the Zanders women was inaugurated at a reception in Villa Zanders on Friday, 12 September.
The Women's Places NRW project continues to honour these outstanding historical women personalities throughout the state, making their history and achievements visible through information panels at various locations. The project aims to inspire a new generation and promote a more equal society.
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