Siemens History

From a small workshop in a back courtyard in Berlin to a global corporation: Few industrial companies can look back on such a long, successful history as Siemens can.

Siemens history – a narrative

Siemens has played an impressive role in shaping the technological evolution of Germany, Europe and the rest of the world. Come join us on a trip through Siemens history! Here you can find information on how our company has developed over the years and how Siemens’ innovative technologies have revolutionized a broad range of industries. Inform yourself about the people who made our history. Discover our country profiles and History News and get an overview of our work at the Siemens Historical Institute.

London calling – William Siemens opens Siemens & Halske's first international office

More than 170 years ago, a hitherto unknown young man left Germany for England to market his elder brother’s patents. This was Wilhelm Siemens, a freshly minted engineer not quite 20 years old, setting off to seek his fortune in the capital of the British Empire. And thus it was under his leadership that on March 16, 1850, the Telegraphen-Bauanstalt von Siemens & Halske, founded in Berlin only three years before, got its first international sales agency. Wilhelm now became “William” in England; his involvement in science and technology, along with his entrepreneurial efforts, would ultimately get him established in British high society. And the London branch he founded would become a pillar of the company’s success.

Increasingly influential – Notes on the history of women at Siemens

Women have played a key role at Siemens since the company’s early days. Just as society has changed, the importance of women workers at the company has steadily grown. From the first women workers in incandescent lamp production to power at the top levels of management: here are some historical notes on how women have contributed to the company’s success.

Present right from the start – Siemens and German Reunification

The Beginnings of Siemensstadt – Building for the Future

At the end of the 19th century, Siemens & Halske chose a patch of wilderness for its new production site. It also built up research installations, residential settlements and social and cultural facilities, thus creating a new urban district: Siemensstadt.

The Company

Anyone who deals with Siemens' history becomes a witness to exciting developments. Come with us on a thrilling trip through time.

Technology

For more than 170 years now, pioneering technologies have been the foundation of Siemens. Find out more.

The People

The determination to shape the future has been a key trait of Siemens managers and researchers. Get to know the people behind the story.

Countries and Regions

From Berlin into the wide world – Siemens was an international company from early on and is now present in over 200 countries.

History News

Key moments, important decisions, major anniversaries. Discover major stories from our history.

History Specials

Find out more about our company’s eventful, exciting history. Our History Specials provide an absorbing portrayal of the characteristics that have set Siemens apart for more than 170 years now.

Siemens Historical Institute

The Siemens Historical Institute has the task of documenting the diverse history of our technology company, founded in Berlin in 1847, as well as researching that history and making it accessible to a broad target audience. We work with well-known partners from academia and practical research to present the company’s economic, technical, and social development. By bridging the gap between the past, the present and the future we help heightening the company’s profile.

Get to know the SHI