Remembering the hardships of a bygone era, the Rationierungsbrunnen stands as a testament to resilience. This fountain is located at Trottenstrasse 8 in Zurich-Wipkingen. It offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by Zurich’s citizens during World War I.
The Rationierungsbrunnen was built in 1919. Its purpose was to serve as a reminder of the rationing measures during the First World War. The fountain initially provided drinking water until 2010. Since then, it has been a source of spring water.
Back then in 1918, the architects Pfleghard & Haefeli from Zurich planned it. They also designed the Schindelhäuser settlement. The sculptor Hans Gisler created the model. The stonemasonry company Gebrüder Schenker from Zurich carried out the work. In 1986, the sculptor Josef von Wyl renovated the fountain. The city of Zurich documents the fountain under the number 451 in its fountain guide.
Crafted from artificial stone, the Rationierungsbrunnen features a round trough. Inscriptions adorn the fountain stock. They serve as a stark reminder of the housing shortage, rising prices, and rationing measures. These hardships occurred between 1914 and 1918. The inscriptions detail the prices of essential foods and the ration sizes allocated to citizens. One inscription commemorates the construction of 126 apartments in just six months.
Imagine the long lines of people queuing here. They needed water and a symbol of hope. The Rationierungsbrunnen was more than just a water source. It was a place of reflection. People remembered the war’s impact on their daily lives.
Today, the Rationierungsbrunnen continues to flow. It serves as a reminder of Zurich’s past. It reminds us of the city’s ability to overcome adversity. Take a moment to reflect on the fountain’s message. Consider the challenges faced by those who lived through the First World War.