Abstract
Background
Two decades before his groundbreaking discovery of X-rays in 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen worked from 1872–1879 as an assistant, private lecturer, and finally associate professor at the University of Strasbourg, which was then part of the German Empire. This period was briefly interrupted in 1875/76 by Röntgen’s first professorship at the Agricultural Academy in Hohenheim.
Method
Based on publications about W. C. Röntgen and research in a total of seven archives (Strasbourg, Hohenheim, Remscheid-Lennep, Würzburg), this work describes his professional career and private life during this period.
Results
In addition to his workplaces, a total of seven places of residence were identified for this period, four of which are described for the first time. A GPX track leading past the Strasbourg addresses is available for download. Archival material documenting his career during this period has been compiled. All of Röntgen’s publications from this period are also listed. A detailed exchange of letters between Bertha Röntgen and a friend provides an insight into the Röntgen couple’s private life.
Conclusion
This early period in W. C. Röntgen’s career forms the basis for his successful career with three subsequent full professorships, including his discovery of X-rays in 1895.
Key Points
After the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71, the University of Strasbourg was newly founded.
The University of Strasbourg was heavily subsidized for reasons of power and cultural policy.
Röntgen worked from 1872–1879 under the direction of the Chair of Physics, Professor August Kundt.
Röntgen received his first professorship at the Hohenheim Agricultural Academy in 1875.
In Strasbourg, Röntgen worked as an assistant, private lecturer, and finally as an associate professor.
Citation Format
Rabe J, Busch U, Michels M et al. Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen’s Strasbourg Years (1872–1879): W.C. Röntgen – Two Decades before the Discovery of X-rays (with GPX Track “Röntgen in Strasbourg”). Rofo 2025; DOI 10.1055/a-2510-9243
Keywords history - Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen - Strasbourg - Hohenheim - Straßburg
