Author: Jens U. Schmidt, Andreas Rudolph, Matthias Röthke and Jens Jeschke

In his book series “Water Towers in Germany,” our member Jens U. Schmidt, together with Andreas Rudolph, Matthias Röthke, and Jens Jeschke, has now published the book “Water Towers in Saxony.” Water towers of various designs and functions are presented on 352 pages.

Even before the emergence of modern water supplies towards the end of the 19th century, there were water features as precursors to the water towers that were built later, of which there are and have been more than 340 in Saxony.

Around 1900, Saxony was one of the most progressive and economically powerful regions in Germany, characterized by a solid industrial base and innovative strength. During this period, modern water supplies emerged, characterized by magnificently designed water towers of remarkable variety. These striking structures were also built for slaughterhouses, the military, hospitals, indoor swimming pools, gasworks, parks, and agriculture. Industry was a particular focus in this kingdom, which was just beginning to flourish at the end of the 19th century. Large companies in the textile and metalworking industries required high-altitude water reservoirs to supply process water and, above all, firefighting water. The railway system also played a significant role. The first long-distance line in Germany was built between Leipzig and Dresden – and without water stations and towers, progress would not have been possible.

An overview of the volumes published so far on water towers in Germany can be found on the website https://wassertuerme.com/.