Memorial at Wenzelnberg: Langenfeld Remembers 71 Victims of the NS Regime

The city of Langenfeld invites residents and those from the surrounding area to a significant memorial event at Wenzelnberg. This gathering honors the 71 victims of National Socialism executed at this site during World War II. In 2026, Langenfeld is shaping the program's content, rotating with neighboring cities like Remscheid, Solingen, Wuppertal, Leverkusen, and Leichlingen. The ceremony upholds tradition and aids in processing local history.

Historical Background of Wenzelnberg

Wenzelnberg in Langenfeld's Richrath district was a place of horror during the Nazi era. Between 1944 and 1945, the Nazis established an execution site here. Victims included forced laborers, resistance fighters, deserters, and political dissidents. A total of 71 people were killed, from various nations and backgrounds. Names and biographies are documented in local archives and featured at memorials.

Post-war efforts led to a monument's erection. Annual commemorations have preserved the memory for decades, serving as a warning for future generations. Sources like RP-Online provide detailed reports(öffnet in neuem Tab).

Details on the Victims

Among the 71 victims were:

• Forced laborers from Eastern Europe employed in the area.
• Political opponents of the Nazi dictatorship, including communists and social democrats.
• Army deserters.
• Jews and other persecuted groups.

Many names are engraved on the monument. The city of Langenfeld offers further information and archive links on mein-langenfeld.de(öffnet in neuem Tab). Historians note Wenzelnberg as one of several execution sites in the Rhineland, highlighting its regional importance.

Event Schedule for 2026

The memorial is open to the public and typically lasts two hours. Planned elements include:

• Welcome by city representatives.
• Speech by Mayor Gerold Wenzens on historical responsibility.
• Guest speech by Alexandra Mehdi from the Solingen branch of VVN/BdA (Association of Those Persecuted by the Nazi Regime – Federation of Anti-Fascists).
• Musical contributions and wreath-laying.
• Closing remarks calling for tolerance and democracy.

Exact date announced via city website and local media. In April 2026, shortly after Easter, it fits as a collective remembrance. Travel tips: Parking near Wenzelnberg, accessible by car or public transport (line X11 to Richrath).

Relevance Today – 81 Years After the War

2026 marks 81 years since WWII's end in Europe. With eyewitnesses fading, these events gain urgency for educating youth and upholding human rights awareness. In Langenfeld, city administration, clubs, and schools collaborate. Similar initiatives regionally:

The rotation ensures variety and exchange. Per RP-Online(öffnet in neuem Tab), Mayor Wenzens stresses ongoing commemoration needs.

Practical Information for Attendees

• Weather-independent: Outdoor event; bring rain protection.
• Accessibility: Mostly barrier-free; check with city.
• Contact: City of Langenfeld, Culture and Education Dept., Tel. +49 2173 123-0 or langenfeld.de(öffnet in neuem Tab).

Residents can subscribe to newsletters for local events.

Regional Context

Langenfeld, part of Mettmann district, was shaped by forced labor. Factories in Richrath employed thousands. The memorial ties into projects like the Foundation "Remembrance, Responsibility, Future." Stats: Over 100 known NS victim sites in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The event fosters intergenerational dialogue and club engagement. VVN/BdA has committed to anti-fascism for decades.

Call to Participate

Langenfeld urges using this chance for personal reflection. It's a contribution to democratic culture in our region.

Sources: City of Langenfeld, RP-Online (Link 1(öffnet in neuem Tab), Link 2(öffnet in neuem Tab)). As of April 5, 2026.

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