Isn’t it remarkable that Refrath, now a part of Bergisch Gladbach, boasts a history stretching back centuries? Refrath is more than just a suburb. It holds stories of settlements, struggles and growth.
Let’s step back in time. The name Refrath comes from “Ref” meaning “Ufer” or shore and “rath” meaning “Rodung” or clearing. This suggests its origins lie in a settlement near a cleared riverbank.
While some believed Refrath’s history began in 855 with a land grant, newer research points to the 12th century for the first confirmed written records. Imagine Refrath in 1586. Only 140 to 150 people lived here. By the mid-17th century, there were just 29 recorded estates. Life was simple.
Around 1700, things began to change. Stone quarrying started to provide materials for Bensberg Castle. In 1715, Refrath was officially recognized as a Kirchdorf or church village. By 1789, it was known as Raefrath, part of the Honschaft Refrath within the parish of Bensberg.
Under French administration in the early 19th century, Refrath became part of the Mairie Bensberg. Later, the Prussians turned the Mairie into the Bürgermeisterei Bensberg.
Refrath’s population grew steadily. In 1822, it had 181 residents. By 1871, it had grown to 931. Refrath became its own Catholic parish in 1846. Its first priest was named Dolman. The St. Johann Baptist church began construction in 1864 at Siebenmorgen.
However, disaster struck in 1865. The tower collapsed due to construction flaws. Yet, the church was completed between 1864 and 1872. By 1892, the Kirchdorf Refrath had 1,693 inhabitants. The volunteer fire brigade was founded in 1899. A tram line connected Brück and Bensberg in 1913. Electricity arrived after World War I, in 1921.
After 1947, Refrath became a district of Bensberg, which itself became a city. In 1955, Refrath split into Refrath and Frankenforst. The Parksiedlung Kippekausen started construction in 1959. In 1975, Bergisch Gladbach and Bensberg merged to form the new city of Bergisch Gladbach. Refrath became part of Bergisch Gladbach.
Since 2015, Refrath has been divided into Refrath, Alt Refrath, Kippekausen and Lustheide. Together with Frankenforst, they form the statistical district 6. In 2017, Refrath had 9,131 residents, making it the most populous part of Bergisch Gladbach.
Today, Refrath boasts excellent infrastructure. Its location near the A4 motorway provides easy access. The Cologne tram line 1 offers quick connections to Bensberg and Cologne. Buses connect Refrath to Bergisch Gladbach’s city center. A fast bus links Refrath to Cologne’s main station via the Autobahn.
Refrath also has a vibrant sports scene. The Turn-Verein Refrath is known for its badminton. The Sport-Verein Refrath/Frankenforst focuses on football, tennis and sailing. The Radsportverein Staubwolke Refrath organizes an annual cycling race.
From its early clearings to its modern amenities, Refrath has continuously evolved. Its story is one of resilience, growth and community. As we stand here, we are surrounded by layers of history. Each building and street whispers tales of the people who shaped Refrath into what it is today.