A simple stone yet a powerful testament. This is the Gedenkstein Gründungsanlass Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Stone. It marks a pivotal moment in Berlin’s history. A moment that resonates far beyond its modest size.
Imagine Berlin in 1888. Industrialization boomed. Construction sites were dangerous places. Workers faced horrific accidents daily. There was no proper first aid no safety regulations. Death or serious injury was commonplace.
Six Berlin carpenters changed all that. Led by Gustav Dietrich a Zimmerpolier they took a stand. On November 29 1888 against considerable opposition they started the first first-aid course. This groundbreaking event took place right here near where we stand. It was held at the Feuerstein inn Alte Jakobstraße 75. Over 100 workers attended eager to learn life-saving skills.
This humble stone commemorates this courageous act. It honors those six carpenters. Their initiative fundamentally altered emergency rescue in Germany. The Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund the ASB was born. From this small beginning a vast organization grew. Today the ASB boasts millions of members providing vital services nationwide.
Their work encompasses emergency medical services. They offer care for the elderly and disabled. The ASB even participates in international aid efforts. This all began here at this Gedenkstein Gründungsanlass Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Stone.
The ASB’s legacy is one of compassion service and resilience. It faced challenges. It survived the suppression under Nazi rule. It rebuilt after World War II. The ASB continues to thrive demonstrating the enduring impact of that first first-aid course. A course that started at this very spot. A course that saved countless lives. A course memorialized by this unassuming yet significant stone. This Gedenkstein Gründungsanlass Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Stone stands as a testament to human courage. It shows the power of a small group to make a world of difference. Remember this when you look at this stone. Remember the bravery of six Berlin carpenters. Remember the birth of the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund.