“Hard work and pride forged in stone.” That’s the silent motto embodied by the Arster Steinsetzer Sculpture. Right here in Bremen-Arsten. This sculpture stands as a tribute to generations of dedicated pavers.
The Arster Steinsetzer Sculpture was created by Eberhard Szejstecki. It immortalizes the Arster pavers in stone. The sculpture is located in the heart of the village. It is a lasting reminder of the community’s heritage.
These aren’t just any figures. They represent entire dynasties of Arsten paving families. Grandfather, father, son, uncle and brother, all pavers. This was not an unusual family history. In some years, almost all school leavers became pavers. Even today, they are proud of their work.
The Arster Steinsetzer Sculpture consists of two sandstone figures. They are about life size. They capture the essence of this demanding profession. Imagine the backbreaking labor. The constant bending and kneeling. The precise placement of each stone. Paving was tough work. Many suffered from back pain.
The profession Straßenmacher emerged. Farmers hired them for road paving. They specialized and perfected their skills. Eventually, farmers only used them for paving work. In 1884, the Bremen directory listed 67 pavers in Arsten. It also listed four paving masters. Other Arsters worked in road construction as earth and auxiliary workers.
The city preferred to work with companies. This provided greater security for road construction projects. The first road construction company was founded in 1860 by Master Bätjer. His successor, Hermann Cassens GmbH, remains active in road construction today.
The men of Arsten were practically born into the paving trade. After confirmation and school, boys began apprenticeships as pavers. They usually stayed with one of the Arsten companies.
The Arster Steinsetzer Sculpture is more than art. It is a symbol of Arsten’s identity. It represents hard work and family tradition.
In 2022, the paving trade was declared an intangible cultural heritage. The German UNESCO Commission recognized the importance of preserving this knowledge. The application was supported by the Arster Geschichte(n) working group.
As you stand before the Arster Steinsetzer Sculpture, remember the generations of pavers. They shaped the streets we walk on today. They did it with skill and pride. This monument ensures that their legacy lives on in Bremen.