In the mountainous region of the Bergische Wupper-Land, in the north of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, lies the industrial complex of this former paper mill. The factory—originally a textile mill, later converted into a paper mill—is a prime example of industrial development in the Bergisches Land during the 19th and 20th centuries, and of the subsequent dismantling and repurposing of industrial heritage.

The site – situated on the Wupper River – was part of the former industrial belt in the Bergisches Land region, where water power, textile production, and later the paper and packaging industries played a significant role. Around 1855, the Hilger Brothers built a large weaving mill/textile factory in Wilhelmstal. In 1897, the industrial building of the former textile factory was converted into a paper factory by the Bergisches Architect Albert Schmidt, under the name "Cäsar." The factory thus reflects the typical development: from artisanal or early industrial textile production, through a larger factory, to a shift to a different industry (paper) in a region with a relatively strong industrial dynamism.

Around 1927, the factory ran into financial difficulties and was taken over by Ernst & Luh. The focus then shifted to cement bag production – fitting for the reconstruction and recovery period after World War II. In the 1950s and 60s, the factory still employed approximately 200 people.

Like many industrial companies in the 20th century, this factory also experienced the pressures of internationalization, economies of scale, and changing markets. In 1970, production was completely halted by the Swedish company (Korsnäs) that took over. Since its closure, the main building has fallen into disrepair, with several sections now collapsed. The site was partially used by other smaller companies, but the central factory building remained largely empty and dilapidated...