Women dominate the landscape of Bergisch Gladbach
Article: The Remarkable Legacy of the Zanders Women
In the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, the story of the Zanders women is a testament to resilience, innovation, and trailblazing spirit. These women, who led the paper manufacturing company Zanders, have been honoured for their significant contributions to the region's economic history and cultural landscape.
Maria Zanders (1839 - 1904), the matriarch of the family, took charge of the company after her husband's early demise in 1870. She was not only a successful businesswoman but also a patron of the arts, initiating the construction of Villa Zanders and maintaining contacts with artists. The villa, now a museum, stands as a symbol of her enduring significance, as it was a place where art, music, and civic engagement came together.
Maria's daughter, Julie Zanders (1804 - 1869), led the company from 1831, initially alone and later with her son Carl Richard until her death. Julie purchased the Gohrsmühle, which remained the company's main headquarters until its end. Her leadership was followed by her daughter, Olga Zanders (1872-1946), who managed the company from 1915 to 1929, overseeing around 1500 employees. Olga also founded a wedding grant for Zanders employees' children.
The Zanders women faced numerous restrictions, including being allowed to study at universities from 1900 and vote from 1918, and needing the consent of their father or husband to pursue a profession. Despite these challenges, they led the company at a time when women were not equal to men and were not encouraged to lead companies.
Their achievements have not gone unnoticed. The Altenberger Dom-Verein, a church restoration organization in the Bergisches Land, was founded by Maria Zanders. Tatjana Countess von Spee, born Zanders, represents the family in the board of trustees of the Zanders - Paper Historical Collection foundation and is the chairwoman of the Altenberger Dom-Verein.
The Zanders women are being honoured with a memorial plaque for their contributions to the paper manufacturer Zanders. They are also part of the 'FrauenOrte NRW' project, which honours outstanding historical women personalities throughout the state. The project, funded by the Ministry for Children, Youth, Families, Equality, Refugees and Integration of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, aims to bring attention to women who played significant roles in the economic history of the Rhineland and correct the distorted perception that women have not made significant contributions to history.
Dr. Ulrich Soenius, director of the Rheinisch-Westfälisches Wirtschaftsarchiv zu Köln foundation, played a key role in placing the Zanders women under the umbrella of the project 'FrauenOrte NRW'. Jihane Qotit Zerhouni, board member of Women's Council NRW e.V., and Judith Klaßen, the equal opportunities officer of the city of Bergisch Gladbach, have also emphasized the importance of recognising the Zanders women's pioneering roles.
Mayor Frank Stein paid tribute to the life's work of the three Zanders women, stating that their actions secured many people's jobs and livelihoods for many years. Dr. Ina Dinter, the director of the Kunstmuseum Villa Zanders, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the enduring significance of Maria Zanders' work.
The Zanders women's story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that women can have in business and society, despite facing numerous obstacles. Their legacy continues to inspire, as they are honoured for their contributions to the paper manufacturer Zanders and the broader cultural and economic landscape of North Rhine-Westphalia.
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