Beneath the skyline, a robust cylinder of brick rises. This is the Wasserturm Frillendorf. It is more than just a tower. It’s a testament to Essen’s industrial past and Frillendorf’s communal resilience.
Let’s journey back to the late 19th century. Frillendorf was a small village of about 90 people. The industrial revolution dramatically changed Frillendorf. Coal mines like Zeche Königin Elisabeth spurred rapid growth. The population boomed as miners arrived.
However, this growth came with a challenge. Mining operations lowered the groundwater level. Wells dried up. The community needed a reliable water source.
In 1907, Frillendorf built its first water tower. It was an iron water tank. This tank sat atop a two-story stone tower. But this first tower proved insufficient. A larger, more reliable solution was needed.
Enter the Wasserturm Frillendorf II. Architect Arndts designed it in 1925. His work was influenced by Edmund Körner. This new tower was more than just functional. It was a statement of architectural style.
The Wasserturm Frillendorf showcases Brick Expressionism. It was a popular style of the 1920s. The tower’s cylindrical form features a brick facade. Darker stones and ornaments decorate the upper section.
Inside, the structure is equally impressive. Radial, pointed ribs provide essential support. These ribs are visible in the facade as triangular “buttresses”. This design highlights the tower’s structural ingenuity.
The Wasserturm Frillendorf serves several vital functions. It equalizes water pressure. It meets peak water demands. The tower’s tank holds 2,000 cubic meters of water.
Standing here, notice the tower’s height. It reaches approximately 13 meters. The Wasserturm Frillendorf was last renovated in 2006. Even today, it remains in use.
Consider the historical context. The Zeche Königin Elisabeth was a “marl mine”. It required constant pumping of groundwater. This pumping further depleted local wells. The Wasserturm Frillendorf counteracted this effect. It secured Frillendorf’s water supply.
The Wasserturm Frillendorf is a protected monument since 1985. It is a landmark on the Route of Industrial Culture. It symbolizes Frillendorf’s transformation from a small village to an industrial hub.
Take a moment to appreciate the architectural details. The interplay of brickwork and ornamentation. The functional design. They reflect the spirit of the 1920s. The Wasserturm Frillendorf stands as a reminder of the past. It also provides for the present. It is a symbol of resilience. It is a symbol of community.