Ever wonder where Essen got its start? Today, we are exploring Stadtbezirk IV in Essen. This district holds many clues to the city’s past. It comprises several boroughs. These include Borbeck-Mitte, Bedingrade, and Frintrop. Each has its own unique story to tell.
Stadtbezirk IV was formed from areas around Borbeck. Borbeck’s history stretches back to 869. At that time, it was a rural commune liable to tax. The princess-abbesses later acquired parts of the region. By the 14th century, Schloss Borbeck became their favorite residence. This boosted the area’s prestige.
Borbeck’s importance grew. After Essen Abbey’s dissolution in 1803, Borbeck became a French municipality in 1808. By 1815, Borbeck came under Prussian rule. It became the center of a Buergermeisterei. This included surrounding townships.
Industrialization reached Borbeck in the 1840s. Coal mines opened. This attracted many unemployed people to Stadtbezirk IV.
Borbeck remained the largest administrative district. This was in Prussia without town privileges. It became known as a “city within a city”. Borbeck officially became Borbeck-Mitte. This was after incorporation into Essen in 1915.
Frintrop is another borough with its own story. It first appeared in the 13th century. Frintrop lay on the Hellweg. That was a major trade route. It was part of the Buergermeisterei Borbeck until 1915.
Dellwig also has early roots. Around 1220, Dellwig was first mentioned. It was initially tied to the Oberhof Ehrenzell. Later, farmers were obligated to the Oberhof Borbeck starting in 1668.
Gerschede once belonged to Essen Abbey. The Pausmuehle was crucial. It ground grain for the abbesses. Like other boroughs, Gerschede joined Essen in 1915.
Bedingrade’s old names include “Bedingroth” and “Bettingrath.” It was first mentioned in the 11th century. It also joined Essen from the Buergermeisterei Borbeck in 1915.
Bochold is an old Bauerschaft near Borbeck. It never developed its own town center. Since 1808, it belonged to the Buergermeisterei Borbeck.
Bergeborbeck was originally part of Vogelheim. The knight’s seat “op dem Berge,” first mentioned in 1467, was a key feature. In 1977, Vogelheim became a separate district. This also made Bergeborbeck a distinct borough.
Today, Stadtbezirk IV is a vibrant part of Essen. It blends its historical roots with modern life. Its diverse boroughs each contribute to its unique character. As we leave Stadtbezirk IV, remember its journey. From rural beginnings to industrial growth, it has shaped Essen’s identity.