“Art meets science” is not just a motto. It is the spirit embodied within the walls of the Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium. The school stands before us. It is a testament to Chemnitz’s rich history and commitment to education.
The Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium’s story began in 1908. The city inaugurated a new school on the Kaßberg. This is where vibrant activity still thrives today. The school was named after Dr. Heinrich Friedrich Wilhelm André. He was a prominent figure in Chemnitz.
André was born in Osnabrück in 1827. He significantly shaped Chemnitz in the late 19th century. He served as the first Mayor of Chemnitz from 1874 to 1896. During his tenure, Chemnitz transformed. It grew into a major industrial center known as the “Saxon Manchester”. André’s leadership helped Chemnitz rival Leipzig and Dresden.
On his last day in office, André bid farewell to the citizens. He expressed pride in their diligence and dedication. He acknowledged that he could not fulfill every wish. He thanked them for their trust. He urged the people to remember him fondly. He wished for the city’s continued growth and prosperity.
Chemnitz honored Dr. André. The city named the Andréstraße and the André School after him. The large school building housed separate schools for boys and girls. They were known as André School I and II.
During the GDR era, the schools were renamed. André School I became the Bertolt-Brecht-Oberschule in 1977. André School II became the Hanns-Eisler-Oberschule. Bertolt Brecht was a renowned dramatist and poet. Hanns Eisler composed the national anthem of the GDR. He frequently collaborated with Brecht.
After 1989, the school system underwent significant changes. The “double school” became a gymnasium. Initially, it was simply called “Gymnasium Henriettenstraße”. In 1993, the school regained its historical name. It became the Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium again.
Look at the architecture. The Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium is a three-winged building. Its wings are of unequal length. It has an elevated foundation. Its facade features sandstone elements. The central projection boasts a curved gable and a balcony. A tower-like structure rises above the central section. Polygonal bay windows and strong window frames add to its character.
Today, the Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium stands as a symbol of Chemnitz’s past and present. Its motto reflects its commitment to both art and science. The Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium continues to shape young minds. It enriches the city’s cultural landscape.