Remember Shepard Stone when you gaze upon this Shepard Stone Plaque. Shepard Stone, born in 1908, was a remarkable man. He significantly impacted Berlin’s cultural and intellectual landscape.
This Shepard Stone Plaque commemorates his work. It specifically marks his time as director of the Aspen Institute Berlin. Stone directed the institute from 1974 to 1988.
Stone’s early life was deeply connected to Germany. He studied in Heidelberg and Berlin. He earned his doctorate from the University of Berlin. His studies focused on political science and history. Stone’s doctoral advisor was Hermann Oncken. Oncken faced forced retirement in 1935. This was during the rise of Nazi Germany. Stone himself left Germany in 1933.
During World War II, Shepard Stone served in the U.S. Army. He was part of an advance party that landed in Normandy in June 1944. Stone also participated in the liberation of Buchenwald concentration camp in 1945. After the war, Stone played a crucial role in rebuilding Germany’s democratic press. He advised the American occupation authorities. Stone helped journalists and publishers secure funding. He also promoted exchange programs.
From 1954 to 1968, Shepard Stone worked for the Ford Foundation. He directed its international affairs department. Stone facilitated substantial donations to West Berlin. These donations supported institutions like the Free University of Berlin. They also aided the Deutsche Oper and the John F. Kennedy Institute.
Shepard Stone’s connection to Berlin deepened. He became the first director of Aspen in Berlin in 1974. The Aspen Institute focused on international exchange. It also promoted research projects. Stone organized over 270 international conferences during his tenure.
Shepard Stone received many honors. The Free University of Berlin awarded him an honorary doctorate in 1954. In 1983, he became an honorary citizen of Berlin. The Free University further honored him with an honorary membership in 1988.
Berlin fascinated Shepard Stone. He experienced the city during the Weimar Republic. He also lived there during the rise of the Third Reich. His connection continued after the war and until the fall of the Berlin Wall. Stone interacted with prominent figures. These included Theodor Heuss, Edward Teller, and Albert Einstein.
Shepard Stone’s efforts fostered German-American friendship. His work in promoting Berlin earned him the honorary citizenship. He shares this honor with figures like Alexander von Humboldt and Marlene Dietrich.
The Shepard-Stone-Stiftung continues his work. It supports the German Aspen Institute. The foundation promotes cultural and political relations between West Berlin and the USA. Shepard Stone died in 1990. He left behind a legacy of international understanding. He also left a commitment to democratic values. This Shepard Stone Plaque stands as a testament to his enduring impact. It reminds us of his dedication to Berlin and its people.