Industrial history you can touch: special exhibition in Hattersheim!

Industrial history you can touch: special exhibition in Hattersheim!

In Hattersheim, the city museum is dedicated to a very special chapter in the region's industrial history: the production of corrugated cardboard. The exhibition entitled “From Babbedeggel to Kaddong” shows not only historical products, but also factory photographs of Rhein-Main Wellpappe, which has been a defining part of the city's economy for 40 years. The idea for this special exhibition comes from the historical association, which has made it its mission to preserve and tell the stories of former employees. A storytelling meeting with these contemporary witnesses has already taken place in order to collect and document personal memories.

But why is Rhein-Main corrugated cardboard so important? This factory was founded in 1957 as a branch of the Holfelder Works and made a significant contribution to the development of Hattersheim into an important industrial location during the economic miracle. The need for corrugated cardboard to replace wooden crates grew rapidly, and the company produced packaging for renowned customers such as Sarotti as well as wineries and the Bundeswehr. At its peak, the factory had up to 200 employees and was at times the second largest employer in the city. A remarkable achievement that also drove trade tax revenues past the one million mark mark annually. As a result, the population experienced continuous growth and the number of apartments also increased.

Past and future of corrugated cardboard

The striking corner building and the factory hall with its characteristic shed roofs can hardly be seen today because production had to close in 1997 after the factory was sold to a Dutch packaging company, which quickly decided not to continue operating the facility. The last 140 employees were affected by this closure, which was of course a big blow for many. The machines ran until the end, and the proceeds from the sale of the inventory went into the Titanic fund that bears the company's name.

The current exhibition highlights the core themes of the city's history and the importance of corrugated cardboard for everyday needs. Historical products and employees' reports are a lively part of the presentation and invite you to reflect on your own history of industrial development. Even if the Rhein-Main corrugated cardboard is not part of the permanent exhibition, a valuable piece of Hattersheim's identity is kept alive here.

Visit and opening times

The exhibition “From Babbedeggel to Kaddong” can be seen in the city museum until December 18th. The doors are open to those interested on Thursdays and Sundays between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. In addition, public tours take place on the first Sunday in December at 11 a.m., which provide a deep insight into the eventful history of corrugated cardboard and its influence on life in Hattersheim.

The location of the city itself is also exciting. On the banks of the Rhine, one of the most important rivers in Europe, Hattersheim has always benefited from industrial development. The Rhine, which stretches for 1,232 kilometers, has historically been not only an important trade route, but also a cultural symbol that has had a significant influence on the region since Roman times, such as the Wikipedia describes.

Come by, be inspired and discover Hattersheim's industrial roots - there's something happening there and the stories are waiting to be told!