Ever wondered how a former mining area transforms into a vibrant community? That’s Schönebeck in Essen for you. This western district borders Mülheim an der Ruhr. It is marked by its mining history and green spaces.
Schönebeck’s story is rooted in coal mining. The district’s evolution is quite interesting. It has shaped its identity over the years. In 1795, Schönebeck was officially recognized as a rural community. Back then, only 259 people called it home. By 1808, it fell under the administration of Borbeck. Borbeck was later integrated into Essen in 1915.
Like other industrial areas, Schönebeck suffered during World War II. However, it rebuilt itself. Evidence of Schönebeck’s mining past is visible everywhere. Franz Haniel first broke through the marl layer in the 1830s. This event marked the start of modern mining in the Ruhr area.
Several mines once operated here. The Franz and Kronprinz mines were significant. Wolfsbank mine was north of the Terrassenfriedhof. It closed in 1896. In the early 1900s, the Kronprinz mine reopened as Rosendelle Schacht 3. It facilitated coal transport. A cable railway transported coal to Heissen II train station.
The Kronprinz mine connected to the Rosenblumendelle mine. It became a ventilation shaft. However, the mining crisis in the late 1950s led to its closure in 1961. The area then transitioned into a mixed residential and commercial zone.
During the Nazi era, foreign forced laborers worked at the mine. They lived in a camp on Heissener Straße. Today, worker settlements recall Schönebeck’s industrial past. These settlements are found along Altendorfer Straße and Aktienstraße. The Bergbaukolonie Schönebeck association preserves the mining culture. It was founded in 1993.
Schönebeck is known for its Siepentäler or valley. These unique northern Ruhr area landscapes are valuable. The Winkhauser Tal nature reserve is protected. It has resisted highway construction and industrial projects. The Schönebecker Schlucht, Kamptal, and Winkhauser Tal became nature reserves in 1984. They span about 33 hectares.
Schönebeck’s unofficial coat of arms reflects its name. It features a shining sun and a wavy bar. These represent the “beautiful brook”. The brook flows through the Schluchttal nature reserve.
Today, Schönebeck has a relaxed residential character. Many houses were once mining settlements. Green spaces are abundant. As of December 2023, Schönebeck had 9,708 residents. The suburb is well connected. Tram lines and bus services provide access to Essen and Mülheim. The Essen Borbeck-Süd S-Bahn station also serves the district.
The Terrassenfriedhof is another notable place. It holds the remains of over 1,600 war prisoners and forced laborers. These victims perished in Essen during World War II.
Schönebeck also offers social activities. SG Essen-Schönebeck 19/68 e. V. is the largest sports club. Its women’s soccer team plays in the Bundesliga. The Schönebecker Jugendblasorchester has been making music since 1959.
Schönebeck has evolved. It has transformed from a coal-mining area. Today, Schönebeck offers residential living, green spaces, and a strong community spirit.