“A castle in the countryside?” you might wonder, looking at Haus Ruhr. It’s true, though. This grand manor wasn’t always nestled in this tranquil countryside. Haus Ruhr has seen it all, from the 16th century to today. The original structure dates back to that tumultuous time, but it was in 1742 that it took on its current, elegant form. This was thanks to the renowned Westphalian Baroque architect Johann Conrad Schlaun, known for his thoughtful designs and exquisite taste. The graceful side wing we see today was a later addition, crafted between 1905 and 1907, showcasing how history leaves its mark in layers on places like Haus Ruhr. But the story of Haus Ruhr goes beyond bricks and mortar. It’s a tapestry woven with the threads of families who called this place home.
The von Offerhues family held it first as a fiefdom from the Lords of Lüdinghausen in 1295. It passed through several noble hands – the von Hamme family, the von Voß and von Belholt families from Münster, and finally, the Lords of Tilbeck. Then came a twist of fate. In 1585, Gertrud von Tilbeck, the heiress of Haus Ruhr, married Burkhard von der Ruhr. This union marked the beginning of the von der Ruhr dynasty’s reign over the estate, a reign that continues to this day. In 1703, the von und zur Mühlen family, through a savvy purchase, added Haus Ruhr to their holdings. Their descendants keep the legacy alive, tending to the estate with the same care as their ancestors.
Today, Haus Ruhr isn’t just a residence; it’s a guardian of history. Within its walls rests a vast archive crammed with centuries-old documents and writings. One of its treasures is a priceless book collection meticulously assembled by Jodocus Hermann Nünning, a canon from Vreden. And standing near the manor is a neo-Gothic chapel, its spire piercing the sky, a testament to faith and architectural finesse. Haus Ruhr whispers tales of bygone eras, inviting you to step back in time and experience the grandeur and intrigue of a bygone era.