Ever wondered about the secrets held within Heidelberg’s old Pumpenhaus? Picture this. A charming little building nestled in a Schrebergartenanlage. A quiet haven overlooking a bustling city. This seemingly unassuming structure however has a rich and fascinating past.
The Pumpenhaus is more than just a pretty face. It’s a historical landmark. It was built in 1914. Initially it served a vital purpose. It provided water for the steam locomotives at Heidelberg’s new goods and marshalling yard. Imagine the powerful steam engines chugging away. Their thirst quenched by the Pumpenhaus’s efficient system. This impressive industrial monument housed a powerful electrically powered pump. It drew water from a well over seven meters deep and four meters wide.
For years the Pumpenhaus hummed with activity. It tirelessly provided water. It fulfilled a crucial role. The lifeline of the railway. Then came 1965. The pump’s vital role declined. The railway yard changed. The Pumpenhaus fell silent. It stood empty. It slowly fell into disrepair. It became a forgotten relic. A lost place in Heidelberg’s history.
Then came Sita and Tobias. In 2011 they saw potential. They purchased the derelict Pumpenhaus for 80000 Euro from the city. Their journey began. It was a labor of love. A testament to their vision and determination. Four years they toiled. They meticulously restored the building. They breathed new life into the decaying structure.
The exterior’s unique brick and timber frame was preserved. The damaged timber framework and roof were carefully rebuilt. The turquoise well shaft was sandblasted. The iron spiral staircase gleaming once more. The couple also removed harmful substances from the walls and floors. The interior was transformed. New services were installed. Electricity water and sewage systems were added. New floors were constructed. The Pumpenhaus was brought up to modern standards. It became a comfortable home.
Today the Pumpenhaus stands as a symbol of preservation. It’s a reminder of Heidelberg’s industrial past. It shows the beauty of thoughtful restoration. The couple even incorporated railway artifacts into the interior design. Old lights old transformers an old signal mast and historical signs. A unique blend of old and new. A place of remarkable transformation. Their work was even featured in a building preservation report. The Pumpenhaus a success story. A testament to the power of vision and hard work.