Women have taken control in Bergisch Gladbach
In the historic town of Bergisch Gladbach, a significant event took place on September 12, 2020, marking the inauguration of the 'FrauenOrte NRW' project. This project, a joint initiative by Dr. Ulrich Soenius, Judith Klaßen, the Women's Council NRW e.V., and the Zanders Paper Historical Collection Foundation, aims to correct the distorted perception that women have not made significant contributions to history and to contribute to equality.
At the heart of this project is the story of the Zanders women—Julie Zanders, Maria Zanders, and Olga Zanders—who played remarkable roles in the paper manufacturing industry and the social and cultural life of the region.
Julie Zanders (1804 - 1869) led the company Zanders from 1831 to 1836 and again from 1857 until her death. She purchased the Gohrsmühle, which remained the company's main headquarters. Her leadership was followed by her daughter, Maria Zanders (1839 - 1904), who led the company alone from 1870. Known for her expansive vision, Maria Zanders modernised the company through acquisitions and is also remembered for her patronage of the arts, initiating the construction of Villa Zanders.
Olga Zanders (1872-1946) took over the reins of the company from 1915 to 1929. She ensured the survival of Zanders during World War I and the depression of the 1920s. Notably, she established a wedding grant for employees' children.
The Zanders women were pioneers who took responsibility for leading the company Zanders at a time when this was not common for women. They were also involved in social work and made significant contributions to the social and cultural life of the region.
In recognition of their significant contributions, the women were honoured with a memorial plaque by the Women's Council NRW e.V. The plaque was inaugurated at a reception in Villa Zanders, the very building initiated by Maria Zanders.
Mayor Frank Stein paid tribute to the life's work of the three women, stating that their actions secured many people's jobs and livelihoods for many years. Jihane Qotit Zerhouni, board member of the Women's Council NRW e.V., explained that the goal of the project is to contribute to equality by correcting the distorted perception that women have not made significant contributions to history.
The 'FrauenOrte NRW' project aims to honour 57 women personalities across North Rhine-Westphalia by the end of 2025 at 52 locations. The project is funded by the Ministry for Children, Youth, Families, Equality, Flight and Integration of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Tatjana Countess von Spee, a direct descendant of the Zanders family, praised the enormous and extraordinary merits of the three entrepreneurs for the paper factory and the social and cultural life of the region. Dr. Ina Dinter, the director of the Kunstmuseum Villa Zanders, emphasised the lasting significance of Maria Zanders' work, stating that she created a place where art, music, and civic engagement came together and that this heritage continues to shape the museum today.
The Zanders women, with their remarkable achievements, are a testament to the potential of women in leadership roles and their significant contributions to society. The 'FrauenOrte NRW' project in Bergisch Gladbach serves as a reminder of their legacy and continues to inspire future generations.
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