Bergisch Gladbach now predominantly caters to females
In a historic move, three trailblazing women from the Zanders family have been recognised for their significant contributions to the paper manufacturing industry in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Women's Places NRW project, funded by the Ministry for Children, Youth, Families, Equality, Flight and Integration, is honoring these women and 57 others across the state by the end of 2025.
Julie Zanders, Olga Zanders, and Maria Zanders took the reins of Zanders at a time when it was uncommon for women to lead companies. Julie Zanders resumed leadership in 1857 and continued until her death, purchasing the Gohrsmühle, the main headquarters of Zanders, during her tenure. Olga Zanders managed the company from 1915 to 1929, ensuring its survival during World War I and the depression of the 1920s. Maria Zanders led the company alone from 1870, responsible for its expansion through acquisitions and modernization.
Maria Zanders is also known for initiating the construction of Villa Zanders in 1873-1874. A patron of the arts, she created a space where art, music, and civic engagement could thrive. The Kunstmuseum Villa Zanders, now a museum of modern and contemporary art, stands as a testament to her vision.
The Zanders women's legacy extends beyond their business acumen. Olga Zanders established a wedding grant in 1918 for the children of Zanders employees upon marriage. This gesture of support continues to be remembered and appreciated by the Zanders family and employees.
Judith Klaßen, the equal opportunities officer of the city of Bergisch Gladbach, collaborated on the placement of the project under the umbrella of the Women's Council NRW. She emphasised that the Zanders women were pioneers, paving the way for future generations of women in business.
Dr. Ulrich Soénius, the director of the Rhineland-Westphalian Economic Archive Foundation in Cologne, placed the project under the umbrella of the Women's Council NRW. He proposed the Women's Places NRW project, which aims to correct the distorted perception that women have not made significant contributions to history.
Tatjana Countess von Spee, born Zanders, as a representative of the family in the foundation council of the Zanders - Paper Historical Collection, paid tribute to the immense and extraordinary merits of the three entrepreneurs. She noted that their actions secured many jobs and livelihoods for many years.
The culmination of this recognition came with the inauguration of a memorial plaque at a reception in Villa Zanders on September 12. Mayor Frank Stein paid tribute to the life's work of the three women, stating that their actions secured many jobs and livelihoods for many years.
Jihane Qotit Zerhouni, board member of Women's Council NRW e.V., aims to contribute to equality with the project. She believes that this recognition will help correct the distorted perception that women have not made significant contributions to history.
The Zanders women's story serves as a reminder of the impact that women can have in traditionally male-dominated industries. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence, paving the way for future generations of women in business.
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