What if these walls could talk? The Alte Schule in Kassel stands before us a silent witness to generations of learning and community.
This is not just another old building. The Alte Schule holds stories within its walls. It has been a cornerstone of the Waldau district.
Originally, the Alte Schule was opened in 1906. The building quickly became a central point for the Waldau community. As Waldau grew, so did the school. The construction of the Fieseler-Siedlung brought many families to Waldau. This led to an increase in student numbers. In response, four more classrooms were added in 1936 and 1938.
The Second World War cast a long shadow. Many families, displaced by bombing, sought refuge in Waldau. Student numbers surged. By 1943, the school had to close due to bomb damage. Kassel schools were relocated to the countryside. Waldau students found themselves at Gut Elim and Gasthaus Schneider. The Alte Schule was repurposed to house forced laborers.
After the war, the Alte Schule was revived. Classes resumed in January 1946. A staggering 700 students were crammed into just eight classrooms. With only 426 seats available, classes were held in shifts. The construction of the Togo-Schule helped reduce the student load.
As the town expanded, new schools were needed. The Grundschule in der Görtlitzer Str. 30 and the Offene Schule Waldau were built. These new schools helped the Alte Schule.
Since 1979, the Alte Schule has served as a community center. Today, it is known as the Bürgerhaus Waldau. The Jugendzentrum “Alte Schule Waldau” is located here. It provides educational and recreational programs. Children and teens aged 11 to 21 can enjoy the facilities.
Look up at the gable of the building. You can still see the inscription from 1905: “LEHRE BRINGT EHRE”. “Learning Brings Honor.” This motto encapsulates the spirit of the Alte Schule. It stands as a reminder of the value of education. The Alte Schule embodies community spirit.
So, as we stand before the Alte Schule remember its past. Think about all those students. This building is not just bricks and mortar. It is a repository of memories. It continues to serve the community. It is a place where learning and community go hand in hand.