Koekelberg/Koekelberg

   Koekelberg is the most recent of the communes within the Brussels Capital Region, having been created by being detached from Berchem-Sainte-Agathe in April 1841. It had been a hamlet of the latter. Koekelberg's proximity to the Willebroeck Canal, the chaussée de Jette, and the Brussels-Charleroi Canal led to its industrialization in the course of the 19th century. Iron foundries, bakeries, printing works, and plants for processing textiles and the manufacture of starch were established. Breweries were founded, including, in 1890, the Brasserie allemande, later the Brasserie de Koekelberg, which produced the famous "Double Bock" beer brewed only for Pentecost, and the De Boeck brewery.

   Municipal authorities in Berchem-Sainte-Agathe had feared incurring budget deficits in outlays for assistance benefits to Koekelberg's workers. They sought to incorporate the community within Molen-beek-Saint-Jean, but the latter refused. Koekelberg was established as an independent commune by a decree of 5 April 1841.

   See also Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Coeur.