The story.

1888 - the Industrial Revolution is in full swing. Chemnitz, the so-called Manchester of Saxony, quickly develops into one of the most important hubs in Europe for the textile industry and mechanical engineering. The exchange of ideas brings about numerous innovations and start-ups. It was precisely at this time that Karl Robert Wagner, a trained locksmith, founded his Rowac hardware factory. With foresight, he succeeds in taking a bold step with the world's first riveted furniture made of lightweight steel. It became an icon among the Rowac products and made its way into the workshops and classrooms of the Bauhaus in Weimar, Dessau and Berlin.

A group of Bauhaus students and teachers sitting on Rowac schemel - 1923, Weimar Germany

The beginning.

Born into poverty, Karl Robert Wagner must earn his own living at an early age. As a trained locksmith, he travels through Europe and is able to greatly expand his knowledge and skills. Returning to Chemnitz, he is fortunate to receive attractive job offers. But he wants more and eventually decides to start his own business, purchasing the necessary tools and a lathe with the 400 marks he has saved up. He quickly makes a name for himself with his products, such as window latches and openers.

Karl Robert Wagner in 1913

A new path.

The demand for functional yet durable industrial furniture is growing, and sitting at work is becoming increasingly important. With the Model I, Rowac launched the world's first riveted seating furniture made of lightweight steel strip in 1909. Years of experiments, calculations and observations went into the development of optimal seat and backrest shapes; Rowac becomes a pioneer of ergonomics. A wide range of products for workshops and offices are developed, including chairs, tables, toolboxes and cabinets.

Rowac advertisement in the Bauhaus Dessau brochure - around 1927

War and what is lost.

World War II brought significant restrictions for Rowac in the production and supply of customers across Europe. Despite a manufacturing ban on steel furniture, Rowac was initially able to continue operating. This was made possible by redesigning its products to rely primarily on wood instead of steel and by complying with the government's strict regulations while carrying out contracts for various state institutions. These were mainly furnishings, e.g., for air-raid shelters, but also ammunition boxes.

The Second World War brings Rowac considerable restrictions in the production and supply of customers across Europe. Despite a ban on the production of steel furniture, Rowac is initially able to continue. This is made possible by redesigning its products to rely primarily on wood instead of steel and by complying with the government's strict regulations while carrying out contracts for various state institutions. These are mainly furnishings, e.g. for air raid shelters, but also ammunition boxes as well.

The Rowac factory grounds - Annaberger Straße 282 a, Chemnitz Germany

What remains.

Despite the forced shutdown of production due to expropriation in the Soviet occupation zone in 1946, Rowac products continue to be used for decades in existing factories. Only later when many factories are closed down or modernised do many pieces sadly end up in scrap yards. The few pieces that are saved or rediscovered are often lovingly repaired or restored, collected and traded. Nowadays, they are exhibited in museums and have their place in both private and public spaces.