Have you ever wondered what it felt like to live in a time when wool was king? Right here, before you, stands a magnificent testament to that era: Villa Lahusen. Perched majestically near the former Nordwolle factory, this elegant villa was once the lavish home of Christian Lahusen, the factory owner. The Lahusen family’s story is interwoven with the fabric of Delmenhorst’s history.
Imagine the grandeur of this building in its younger days. Built in 1886, it was originally a modest country house. But as the Lahusen dynasty prospered, so did the villa, growing into the expansive, multi-faceted residence it is today. It was a testament to the family’s wealth and power, which was built on the back of the wool industry.
The Lahusens expanded the villa to accommodate their growing family. It housed nine children before the family moved out in 1910. But Villa Lahusen didn’t just house the Lahusens. It was also the center of their social life. Just imagine the grand parties, the whispered secrets, and the joyous laughter that echo through these walls.
The Lahusen family also sought relaxation amidst their wealth. They commissioned Wilhelm Benque, the renowned landscape architect behind the Bremer Bürgerpark, to create a stunning park surrounding the villa. This park, still partially preserved today, was called the Wollepark. The children of the Lahusen family played and swam in the park, and the family enjoyed fresh milk and butter from the park’s own dairy.
Today, Villa Lahusen has been divided into 14 apartments. The grand old villa, once a symbol of family and industry, now offers privacy for those who can appreciate its rich history. As you gaze at the villa, let your imagination transport you to a bygone era, when wool was king and the Lahusens ruled a bustling empire of industry.