Can you feel the weight of history here at the Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck? This memorial stands as a stark reminder. It honors a family and their friends who bravely resisted the Nazi regime.
The Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck is located at Gehrenwaldstrasse 40. It serves as a place of remembrance and reflection. The monument was erected in 1949 to commemorate the Schlotterbeck family’s tragic fate.
Let’s delve into the story of the Schlotterbeck family. They lived in Stuttgart-Luginsland. Their house was located at Annastraße 6. The family became a center of resistance against the Nazi’s. Gotthilf Schlotterbeck, the father, was a metalworker and union member. He and his family stood firm in their conviction. They believed in resisting the Nazi barbarity.
The Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck reminds us of their unwavering courage. Maria Schlotterbeck, Gotthilf’s wife, was also a key figure. Their daughter, Gertrud Lutz, joined their fight. They were not alone. Else Himmelheber, Erich Heinser, Emil Gärttner, Sofie Klenk, Emmi Seitz, and Hermann Seitz were also part of the group.
In November 1944, tragedy struck. The Gestapo arrested and executed Gotthilf, Maria, and Gertrud in Dachau. They were accused of preparing for high treason. Others like Else Himmelheber, Erich Heinser and Emil Gärtner were murdered with them. Hermann Schlotterbeck was shot while trying to flee to Switzerland in 1945.
Friedrich Schlotterbeck survived. He escaped through flight and emigration. He was imprisoned in the Welzheim concentration camp. After the war, Friedrich dedicated his life to preserving his family’s memory. He wrote about their experiences. His book “Je dunkler die Nacht, desto heller die Sterne” captures their struggle.
The Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck features a large stone bearing the family name. Around it are ten smaller plaques. Each plaque bears the name of a victim. The inscription on the main stone reads: “Sie haben einen guten Kampf gekämpft. Sie haben den Lauf vollendet. Sie haben den Glauben gehalten.” It translates to: “They fought a good fight. They finished the race. They kept the faith.”
The Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck serves as a powerful symbol. It embodies resistance, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The story of the Schlotterbeck family is a reminder. We must never forget the horrors of the Nazi regime. We must always stand up for justice and freedom.
Take a moment to reflect on their courage. Consider the importance of remembering the past. This Mahnmal für die Familie Schlotterbeck stands as a testament to their bravery. It ensures that their story will continue to be told. Their fight for freedom will never be forgotten.