OFFENBACH

in full Offenbach Am Main, city, Hesse Land (state), west-central Germany, a river port (coal and oil) on the left bank of the canalized Main. First mentioned in 977, it was part of the imperial forest of Dreieich, and a mint was established there in 1407. Acquired by Count (later prince) von Isenburg-Birstein in 1486, it began its prosperity with an influx of Huguenot craftsmen in 16981703. Annexed to Hesse in 1816, it grew steadily until the proximity (downstream to the west) of metropolitan Frankfurt am Main checked further development after World War I. The city was rebuilt after heavy damage in World War II. New buildings include the city hall and several federal offices, including those for meteorological services and customs. Notable landmarks include the Isenburg Castle (156478); the alkaline Kaiser-Friedrich-Spring, feeding a well of 787 ft (240 m); and the Klingspor Museum of modern calligraphy and book printing. Offenbach has a noted tanning and leather goods industry and is the site of a leather museum and of leather-trade exhibitions. Other important industries include the manufacture of machinery and electrical products, chemicals, and textiles. Pop. (1989 est.) 112,450.