With its opening in 1891, this pioneer work of hydraulic engineering was a milestone in the economic development of the city of Remscheid.

This impressive work of water commerce saw many diverse imitations worldwide and was a popular tourist destination from the beginning.

Two years later, Emperor Wilhelm II visited the dam and praised it as a great work of construction technology and water commerce.

In 1977, in order to make the dam more attractive to visitors, a road was built around the reservoir that led to a nature trail.

A good view of the remodeled retaining wall and the water of the reservoir encircled by trees can be seen from the terrace of the A 1's Remscheid motorway services.