Founded in 1790 the Wilhelm-Raabe-Schule in Hanover boasts a rich history. Originally established as a Hofschule for the children of royal servants it later became a Higher Bürgerschule for boys and a Higher Töchterschule for girls. Imagine the young students attending lessons in the same building yet separated by gender. This unique arrangement continued until 1853 when the city of Hanover took over both schools.
The Wilhelm-Raabe-Schule moved several times. Its first location was at the corner of Burgstraße and Marstallstraße. It later relocated due to inadequate space to a new building near the Aegidientor. The school’s growth led to further moves and expansions. By 1865 a new neo-Romanesque style building was constructed at Am Graben 9. This too required expansion by 1872. Overcrowding led to the creation of a second higher Töchterschule in 1879.
In 1908 a significant change occurred. The Prussian girls’ school reform brought equality with boys’ schools. The Wilhelm-Raabe-Schule moved to its current location on Langensalzastraße. This beautiful Art Nouveau building still stands today. A significant detail is the cloverleaf symbol above the teachers’ entrance. This symbolizes the city’s ownership of the building. The school’s interior including the entrance halls and staircases maintain their original design.
World War II drastically altered the school’s course. The building was severely damaged in 1943. The upper floors burned completely. The beautiful auditorium and its organ were lost. Post-war recovery began after the Allied occupation. The school reopened but faced challenges including reduced class hours and shift-based lessons.
After the war the school was renamed Wilhelm-Raabe-Schule. It took its name from the writer Wilhelm Raabe. The decision to do so was made by the school’s director Hans Roeder. He was a dedicated Raabe researcher and enthusiast. Gradually the school rebuilt and expanded. A nursery school was added. Its current appearance reflects the renovations of 1966.
Initially the school remained single sex for girls. However in 1985 it became coeducational finally admitting boys. The school’s contemporary profile includes bilingual classes. These allow students to study certain subjects in German and English. Partnerships with the City Library and Leibniz University Hannover enrich the students’ experience. Today the Wilhelm-Raabe-Schule remains a thriving institution a testament to its long and fascinating history. It continues its mission of providing excellent education to students in Hanover.