Krenzer Hamm
This is a complete facility including a pond and weir. Free forging is still carried out here today. A press was purchased in the 1980s so that drop forging is also possible. The pond system is now used to generate electricity. The water is also used to cool the furnaces and harden the tools.
In 1754, the name of the Peddenöder Hamm is documented for the first time, presumably the forerunner of today's Krenzer tool factory. The first reference to Wilhelm Krenzer can be found in Gevelsberg, where he founded a tool factory in 1878. In 1914, he built an open-die forge in Peddenöde. The newly erected brick building had the most modern production facilities of its time. The drive for the Hammes was a minor sensation. Instead of a water wheel, a water turbine was used, which remained in service until 1974. In addition, the usual transmission of the time was attached to the ceiling, which drove the various machines via flat belts. It is still in operation today. The original machines are also still working: two drop hammers, two air hammers and five forging presses used to produce tools that were still laboriously made by hand in the 19th century. Water power is still used for operations today. Following the renovation of the weir in 2013, the turbine can once again generate energy for the factory.
Krenzer tool factory
Today's production, which can be described as a mixture of manufacturing and industrial production, also largely consists of the original production program. The product range comprised over 200 tools for various trades and crafts, such as Hammes, axes, hoes and crowbars. In addition to the standard product range, special designs and individual one-off items are increasingly being produced according to specifications. (Text: Route of Industrial Heritage)
Förderverein Krenzer Hamm
The >Förderverein Krenzer Hamm has joined forces to preserve this historical cultural asset and open it up to the outside world. For several years now, the Krenzer tool factory has regularly opened its doors to schools and forging enthusiasts to introduce them to the old craft in an exciting way. Visits and guided tours are possible, and children can make their own small forged piece under supervision.
Forging for children
On request and as part of forging days, children can "swing the Hammme" themselves and make small forged parts.
The Krenzer Hamm is an adventure site on the >South Westphalia Iron Route and an attraction at >WasserEisenLand - Industriekultur Südwestfalen.