Historic factory complex Maste-Barendorf

In the 1820s, Johannes Dunker and Franz Maste established a brass rolling mill in Iserlohn, which was driven by the water power of the Baarbach stream. Casting houses and other production facilities were built around the rolling mill, which produced a wide range of brass goods, from household appliances to tools, and sold them worldwide in the 19th century. After being used as a metal washing and metal goods factory in the 20th century, the city of Iserlohn took over the plant in 1980 to ensure its preservation and revitalization as a listed ensemble.

Today, the historic Maste-Barendorf factory complex is a vibrant center of industrial culture, an artists' and museum village. The needle museum, which opened in 2025, sheds light on historical needle production, while an industrial culture playground makes it possible to experience the production of eye needles in a playful way. The area is enriched by modern art, a hands-on garden and an apiary as well as cultural events such as the DrahtSaitenAkt music festival and the Christmas Barendorf.

This unique site represents an important industrial cultural monument in Südwestfalen. It is also an integral part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage (ERIH) and the WasserEisenLand - Industrial Heritage in Südwestfalen network.