The Linnenbauer Monument, dedicated in 1909, stands at Linnenbauerplatz, commemorating the traditional linen production and trade that brought prosperity to Herford until the 17th century.
Deep below the current playground on the square is the site of the abbey's old watermill on the Bowerre, the "Mill Court." Until the 1960s, the Bowerre flowed through the center of Herford, separating the old and new towns. From the 13th century until secularization in 1802, the mill was owned by the abbey and subject to its jurisdiction – hence the name "Mill Court."
During the redesign and filling of the old Werre River, the abbey mill was demolished in 1972. This measure, already highly controversial at the time, was also driven by poor water quality. Today, with sewage treatment plants and improved sewage disposal systems, this would no longer be a problem. However, the filling of the river section in the middle of the city lowered the groundwater level and still threatens the foundations of many houses today. From today's perspective, this intervention in the waterway can be described as completely misguided – both in terms of urban development and ecology!
The Tourist Information Office, the central contact point for guests, visitors, and citizens, is located on Linnenbauerplatz in the City Library building.