Women now dominate Bergisch Gladbach
In the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, a project is underway to recognise the significant contributions made by three remarkable women in the region's history. The FrauenOrte NRW project, funded by the Ministry for Children, Youth, Families, Equality, Refugees and Integration of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, aims to correct the skewed perception that women have not made substantial contributions to history.
Dr. Ulrich Soénius, director of the Rheinisch-Westfälisches Wirtschaftsarchiv zu Köln foundation, initiated the proposal for this honour. The three women in question are Julie Zanders, Maria Zanders, and Olga Zanders, who played a crucial role in the history of the Rhine's economy, particularly in the paper industry.
Maria Zanders, who initiated the construction of Villa Zanders in 1873-1874, was not only an entrepreneur but also a cultural pioneer. She created a place where art, music, and civic engagement came together, a legacy that continues to shape the Kunstmuseum Villa Zanders today. Maria led the company from 1870 until 1902, primarily known for its expansion through acquisitions and modernisation.
Julie Zanders, who led the company from 1831 to 1869, was one of the earliest women to lead a company independently. She acquired the Gohrsmühle, which remained the main headquarters of Zanders until the end of the company.
Olga Zanders managed the company from 1915 to 1929, surviving both World War I and the 1920s depression. She established a wedding grant in 1918, whereby daughters and sons of Zanders employees received 200 marks upon marriage.
The decisive action of these women secured jobs and livelihoods for many people for many years. Without them, there would be neither the Zanders area, which shapes the cityscape, nor the long tradition of the paper city of Bergisch Gladbach.
The project, which aims to install information boards and pillars in the public space, is being undertaken by the Foundation for the Rhineland-Westphalian Economic Archive in Cologne, Judith Klaßen, and the Zanders Paper Historical Collection Foundation. The initiative was started based on a proposal by Dr. Ulrich Soénius.
The three women have been honoured with a memorial plaque by the Women's Council NRW e.V. for their significant contributions to the paper manufacturer Zanders. They are now part of the FrauenOrte NRW project, which aims to recognise outstanding historical female personalities throughout the state.
The Women's Council NRW project seeks to bring attention to women who have made significant contributions to history, particularly those who have been overlooked in the past. By the end of 2025, the project aims to honour 57 women personalities from various fields across North Rhine-Westphalia. Maria Zanders, Julie Zanders, and Olga Zanders stand as shining examples of the impact women can have in shaping the future.
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