Perhaps you’ve heard the echoes of history whispering from these very walls of the Alfred-Krupp-Schule. This school is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to Essen’s past and its enduring connection to the Krupp family.
The Alfred-Krupp-Schule stands proudly in Essen-Holsterhausen. It is a städtisches Gymnasium or municipal grammar school. Its story began long before its official naming. Back in 1813, a school building stood where the Alfred-Krupp-Schule’s gymnasium is today. This earlier building replaced a dilapidated school dating back to 1685. That original school was near the Bertha-Krupp-Realschule.
As the 19th century progressed, Essen boomed. The Krupp steel factory and coal mining drew people in. The population exploded. More schools were needed. So, in 1908, this building was inaugurated as a Realschule with a Vorschule or preparatory school.
On April 23, 1908, classes began under the first headmaster, Herr Swet. Two years later, the city council made a crucial decision. They named it Krupp-Oberrealschule. People often called it KO. It became the second Oberrealschule in Essen after the Humboldtschule.
The Krupp family connection was strong. Many sons of Krupp employees attended the school. The family approved the Krupp name. In 1937, on Alfred Krupp’s 125th birthday, the school was officially renamed Alfred-Krupp-Schule.
The 20th century brought challenges. World War II damaged the Alfred-Krupp-Schule. Air raids in 1942 left their mark. Children were evacuated. Sometimes, classes were held at the Humboldt-Gymnasium.
Alfred-Krupp-Schule evolved over time. In 1960, girls were admitted. Before that, it had been a boys-only school. Coeducation became official in 1976. In 2001, there were plans to close the school due to many gymnasiums and fewer students. But the school remained open.
Today, the Alfred-Krupp-Schule is a coeducational gymnasium. It proudly bears the title “School without Racism – School with Courage” since 2006. It also received awards for individual support and social learning.
Many notable people attended this school. Carl Hundhausen became a public relations expert. Werner Keyßner entered politics. Hermann Friedrich directed the Übersee Museum in Bremen. Heinz Drache became a famous actor. Dietrich Garstka, a former teacher, wrote “Das schweigende Klassenzimmer”.
The Alfred-Krupp-Schule stands as a reminder of Essen’s history. The school has grown and changed. It continues to educate young minds. The Alfred-Krupp-Schule remains a vital part of Essen’s community.