Sehnde can trace its roots back to the 7th century, when the invading Franks brought Christianity to the area. Agriculture dominated life here until salt and potash mines were opened in the late 19th century.
The mines contributed greatly to the local economy, along with brick making and sugar refining, for about 100 years. But the town you see today has gone through yet another transformation, now serving primarily as a bedroom community for Hanover to the northwest.
The old potash mine at Hohenfels in Wehmingen has since been converted into a national museum. It is dedicated to the history of tramways, trolleys and streetcars.
Known formally as the Hannover Straßenbahn Museum, it houses an unrivaled collection of trams from all over the country. You will find it open for visits and tours every Sunday and on holidays from April through October. Admission is free.
Other interesting sights for you in the vicinity include a windmill constructed in the Dutch fashion. There is also the Protestant Church with its bronze spire and a regional history museum, well worth visiting.
Also, be sure to stop by the modern Town Hall for a special musical treat. A large clock with a fully functioning Glockenspiel was mounted on the face of the government building in 1998.
Electronically programmed for a repertoire of 15 songs, the carillon features 16 chimes, which weigh from 14 to 58 kilograms apiece. The sounds it is capable of are absolutely magical.
Sehnde’s local cultural association is very active, too, offering events from different genres throughout the year. In August the town’s annual concert season kicks off, followed by a series of stage plays and cabaret acts that you are sure to enjoy.
Christmas and New Year’s represent the high points here. Church choirs and bands playing music from around the world take the lead in the holiday festivities.
For recreation, you will find three large green zones close at hand: Ladeholz, Papenholz and the Friedhof Sehnde. Cycling and nature walks are easily arranged, as is boating on the waters of nearby Midland Canal.
Or you may prefer to stop by the town’s huge outdoor pool, if you visit in summer. It is open from mid-May through mid-September. And for off-season bathing, the local indoor pool facility, Hallenbad Höver, offers swimming lessons and water safety instruction from October till April.
