Winkhaus in the 21st century The 1990s The 1980s The 1970s The 1960s The 1950s 1939 to 1945 The 1930s The 1920s 1900 to 1920 Starting out

The history of Winkhaus 1900-1920 Rudolf Winkhaus ventures into the fields of innovation and automation. At this time, the Aug. Winkhaus ironworks already has its own cold rolling mill for steel profiling. As there are no qualified locksmiths in the Münster region, women and girls take over production sequences under the management of Rudolf Winkhaus. The operation employs more than 200 people and more than 70% of its products are destined for the export market. Shortly after Rudolf's son August Winkhaus joins the company's managing board, the First World War breaks out. Initially, production is brought to a halt, although later a small number of the company's employees are set to work producing military equipment. After the war, civilian production continues with a workforce of 50. Due to the strain on relationships with contacts abroad, Winkhaus concentrates initially on business in Germany.

1900
Exports account for more than 50% of turnover.

1903
Winkhaus expands its building hardware product range and takes up production of window and door hinge plates. Special hinge plates for the export market are a further addition to the range.

1905
Modern iron bending machines and pin charging machines enable padlocks to be produced efficiently.

1908
The company continues to experience steady growth, exporting an increasing number of its products to China and India as well as to various countries in Africa.

1914
Having completed his studies at the commercial college in Cologne and spent some time in England, August Winkhaus joins the company. The company exports more than 70% of its products and has 200 employees.

1914-1918
The First World War puts the company's growth on hold. The company ceases operations completely. Later, a small number of employees are set to work producing military equipment.

1918
After the war, Rudolf and August Winkhaus resume production with 50 employees. They find it hard to restore relationships they had previously with contacts overseas. Business in Germany is slow.