The history of fragrances and flavours from Holzminden
From Vanillin
to an Experience
Museum
Holzminden has been a centre for the fragrance and flavour industry for over 150 years. The beginning of this success story dates back to 1874, when Dr. Wilhelm Haarmann and his colleagues successfully synthesised the aromatic compound vanillin for the first time. This led to the founding of the company Haarmann & Reimer. Independent of this, Carl Wilhelm Gerberding wrote another chapter in the history of the industry from 1919 onwards: with his company Dragoco, he celebrated early successes – including the production of hair tonic. Follow the journey from the beginnings of an industrial sector to the opening of a unique experiential museum dedicated to fragrances and flavours.
1874
In 1874, Dr Wilhelm Haarmann founded the “Vanillinfabrik Dr. Wilhelm Haarmann” (Dr Wilhelm Haarmann Vanillin Factory) in Holzminden, with his fellow researcher Prof Ferdinand Tiemann initially involved. Over the following decades, the company, which was later renamed ‘Haarmann & Reimer’, celebrated numerous successful products in the field of fragrances and flavours.
1919
In 1919, Carl Wilhelm Gerberding, son of a master hairdresser, and August Bellmer founded the company ‘Drago’, which was later renamed ‘Dragoco’, in Holzminden. Their first products were hair tonics, perfumes, and soaps. Over time, they expanded their range to include flavourings as well.
2003
In 2003, ‘Haarmann & Reimer’ merged with ‘Dragoco’ to form ‘Symrise GmbH & Co. KG’. Three years later, the company went public. To this day, Symrise remains a global player in the fragrance and flavour industry, headquartered in Holzminden.
2014
Holzminden officially becomes known as ‘The Town of Fragrances and Flavours”.
2018
In 2018, the Holzminden Citizens’ Foundation decided to commission a feasibility study for an interactive fragrance and aroma exhibition.
2022
In 2022, the final decision to build ‘Sensoria – House of Fragrances and Flavours’ was made by Holzminden Town Council. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in July 2022.
2024 September
On 28th September 2024, Sensoria – House of Fragrances and Flavours celebrated its grand opening.
Tip!
Are you interested in the industrial history of Holzminden? Then take a look at our shop or visit the website of the local publisher.
