In St. Peters burg, a defunct industrial complex
The history of St. Petersburg, Russia, is interwoven with remarkable industrial complexes that have shaped the city’s identity. Among them, ‘Krasny Treugolnik’ stands out as one of the oldest and most significant. Founded 1860 as the Russian-American Rubber Manufacture Association, this industrial powerhouse became renowned for producing rubber shoes and boots.
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
Krasny Treugolnik quickly became the most significant enterprise for rubber goods production in Russia and Europe. During World War I, the complex shifted its focus to support the war effort, manufacturing essential items such as automobile tire casings, gas masks, and artillery buffers.
#6
#7
#8
#9
In 1918, amidst the political changes brought by the Russian Revolution, the plant was nationalized and renamed the State Plant of Rubber Industry No. 1. Four years later, in 1922, it was rebranded as Krasny Treugolnik. The complex expanded its production capabilities to include technical devices for various industries and embraced the manufacturing of goods made from synthetic rubber in the 1930s.
The resilience of Krasny Treugolnik became evident during the Siege of Leningrad from 1941 to 1944. Despite the unimaginable challenges during this period, the plant persevered and produced crucial military equipment.
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
After the war, in 1944, Krasny Treugolnik underwent extensive reconstruction efforts. These efforts paved the way for further growth, enabling the complex to achieve a remarkable milestone—an annual production of 80 million pairs of rubber shoes by 1960.
However, as time passed, the once-thriving industrial complex faced significant challenges. Today, most buildings that once buzzed with activity now stand abandoned, bearing witness to the passage of time. Yet, amid this decline, several buildings within the complex have found new life through leasing arrangements.
#15
#16
#17
#18
#19
The historical significance of Krasny Treugolnik must be considered. This industrial complex played a pivotal role in shaping St. Petersburg’s industrial landscape and contributed to the economic growth of the city and the nation as a whole. Although many of its buildings may have fallen into disrepair, the memory of the enterprise’s achievements lives on.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this cultural heritage, efforts have been made to safeguard the remaining structures and their historical significance. These preservation initiatives aim to capture the spirit of Krasny Treugolnik and its contribution to the industrial history of St. Petersburg.
#20
#21
#22
#23
#24
#25
While most buildings remain inaccessible to the public due to their abandoned state, an undeniable intrigue surrounds these remnants of a bygone era. Their weathered facades and silent halls evoke a sense of nostalgia and offer a glimpse into the past. These dilapidated structures have piqued the interest of urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike.
The few buildings within the Krasny Treugolnik complex still being leased serve as beacons of hope for revitalizing this industrial heritage. These spaces have found new purposes through adaptive reuse, breathing life into the once-thriving complex.
#26
#27
#28
#29
#30
#31
#32
#33
The story of Krasny Treugolnik is a testament to the evolution of St. Petersburg’s industrial landscape. From its humble beginnings as a rubber goods manufacturer to its crucial role during times of war, this abandoned industrial complex holds immense historical value. While some buildings now stand in a state of abandonment, others have found a new lease on life through leasing arrangements. Preserving the legacy of Krasny Treugolnik ensures that the city’s rich industrial heritage continues to be honored and cherished for generations to come.
Note: We do not own any of the images here and all images are copyrighted to their original owners. Please contact us if you wish to remove anything
