Polsterberg Pumphouse

As part of the Upper Harz Water Regale it was built in the 18th century and was used to lift the water needed in Clausthal for the mining industry from the Dyke Ditch (Dammgraben) to the level of the highest pond, the Hirschler Pond.

The motive force for the wooden piston pumps was won in the Polster valley below by two water wheels.

These wheels transferred their output power over 260 and 560 m long flat rods made of wood to the pumping station on the Polsterberg hill.

The Polsterberg Pumphouse also acted as living accommodation for the master pumper and the ditch keepers, as well as a bar (Schankstube).

At the beginning of the 20th century the wooden structures were replaced by electrically-drive pumps; the original can still be seen in the pumphouse by the ditch.