Schleiper Hammer
Former hammer mill in the Schleipetal valley near Kierspe, now an industrial museum with working machinery from the forge, locksmith's workshop, and Bakelite pressing shop.
About the museum
The Schleiper Hammer lies in the valley of the Schleipe near Kierspe, an area where iron has been extracted and processed since the Middle Ages. The site is documented in writing since 1815, when it passed into the ownership of the Schriever brothers; remnants of walls from earlier times suggest that iron was already being worked at this spot before then.
In the 19th century, the business switched to so-called flat goods such as spades and shovels. A turbine later replaced the water wheel, and with transmissions and a portable steam engine, all work steps could be brought together under one roof, turning the hammer mill into a small factory. From the 1930s on, parts were also pressed from Bakelite here.
The Heimatverein Kierspe (local heritage association) acquired the property in 1989 and opened it as an industrial museum in 1995. On display are a forge department, a locksmith's workshop, and a Bakelite department with drop hammers, shears, presses, and lathes from the 19th and 20th centuries, which are still in working order. The machines are demonstrated during forging demonstrations and event days.
Highlights
- Working machinery from the 19th and 20th centuries
- Forge, locksmith's workshop, and Bakelite pressing shop
- Turbine and pond system in the Schleipetal valley
- Forging demonstrations on Whit Monday and in September
- Free admission
Permanent exhibitions
- Hammerwerk mit Schmiede, Schlosserei und Bakelitabteilung – Machines in working order such as drop hammers, presses, shears, and lathes show the development from water-powered hammer to small factory.
- Founded
- 1995
- Operated by
- Heimatverein Kierspe e.V.
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Free admission; donations are welcome.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.
Getting there & parking
By car via the B 54 between Kierspe and Brügge; in the district of Grünenbaum, turn right into the Schleipetal valley.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Groups of up to about 30–40 people can arrange tours outside opening hours. Warm clothing is recommended in spring and fall. |
