Picture the Berlin-Hermsdorf Wasserturm. A striking brick structure it stands proudly. Its silhouette against the Berlin sky is unforgettable. Built between 1908 and 1909 this water tower is a testament to a bygone era. It was a vital part of Hermsdorf’s water system. This charming village was developing into a desirable residential area. The construction of a waterworks became essential.
The Berlin-Hermsdorf Wasserturm was crucial for the 4000 residents. It served Hermsdorf Frohnau Waidmannslust and Lübars. Located on high ground it resembled a medieval fortification. The Bremer firm Carl Francke oversaw construction. They had previously built a gasworks in Hermsdorf. The Hermsdorf cemetery was later established around the tower in 1912.
The tower’s significance extends beyond its function. The renowned artist Max Beckmann painted it twice. He lived nearby in 1907. His paintings capture the tower’s construction and completion. Art historians see influences of French Impressionism. They also perceive a threatening atmosphere. Beckmann may have viewed the large-scale project as a destructive intrusion.
After Hermsdorf became part of Berlin the waterworks expanded. It served 14000 people. Berlin’s waterworks took over. They used the tower as a pumping station until 1928. Then both the tower and waterworks were decommissioned. The area experienced uncertainty about its use for nearly 68 years.
Various proposals surfaced. One suggested using the tower as a viewing tower with a cafe. Another suggested it as an urn hall for the cemetery. However these plans were never realized. In 1938 the upper platform was deemed unsafe. This seemed to seal its fate but war prevented demolition. It became an observation post for the military and police.
Following World War II the tower’s ownership was unclear. In 1966 the city claimed ownership. The Red Cross and the BVG used it as a communications facility. The garden office showed no interest in its preservation. The tower was in deplorable condition. Water leaked through the ceiling. Debris blocked access to the water tank.
A heated debate arose in 1969. A local official opposed removing graves for tower access. This led to a controversy and a party resignation. However the plan was never approved though plans for a viewing tower with a home existed.
Monument preservationists advocated for its preservation. In 1976 they lacked funds for renovations. The Red Cross and BVG use ended in 1973. The district office sought a new user in 1978. Numerous proposals came in. Some suggested converting the tower into apartments. One even suggested using the water tank as a swimming pool. Others proposed making it an energy-efficient guesthouse. There was even a plan for a gallery a theater and a library. However none secured funding.
The tower’s future remained unclear. In 1987 an architect’s thesis proposed integrating exhibition spaces a photo studio and a residence. This never happened. The tower found a peaceful solution in 1996. E-Plus and Mannesmann signed a contract with the district office. They would use it for broadcasting for 30 years. In return the tower was renovated while complying with monument protection guidelines. The Berlin-Hermsdorf Wasserturm stands as a silent witness to Hermsdorf’s history.