Industriesalon Schöneweide: From industrial relic to cultural highlight.

The Sturgeon Bay Historical Society hosts a presentation by co-founder Susanne Reumschüssel of the “Industriesalon Schöneweide” in Berlin, Germany, with a historic perspective and a strategy for a successful revival of a former derelict industrial area into a vibrant center for the arts and community.

Free and open to the public at the Door County Granary, 72 E. Locust Ct.

Wednesday, October 1, 5:30 PM

Sponsored by STUDIO 330

As an independent filmmaker and graduate of the Berlin Filmacademy, Susanne Reumschüssel rediscovered the forgotten industrial center in the former East Berlin neighborhood of Oberschöneweide (Treptow-Köpenick) and founded the Industriesalon as a museum and cultural center. 

Reumschüssel’s research into the history of the area revealed the historic importance of the industrial buildings that were in various states of decay. By connecting with retired workers  that still reside in the neighborhood she was able to reconstruct the important parts that these buildings played as Germany developed its industrial base starting in the late 19th century.

The area was the cradle for many leading developments in the areas of electrical components, appliances, electric cars, turbines, and many other technologies. After the end of WW II Oberschöneweide’s Transformer factory and Television factory were the largest of its kind in East Germany with its own schools, medical facilities, and housing. After the reunification in 1989 the companies slowly succumbed to more modern facilities elsewhere and eventually were shut down.

The Industriesalon documents the rise and fall of this industrial area, and also touches upon the importance that Jewish Germans played in building Germany’s role as an industrial leader. Its complex history is further presented by various tours and events that are offered to the public.

In 2019 Susanne received one of the highest civilian honors, the ‘Bundesverdienstkreuz’ to recognize her efforts to rediscover the rich industrial history of Oberschöneweide and Treptow-Köpenick. During a presentation at the Granary Susanne can share some of her ideas and strategies to keep the public engaged with tours, events, festivals and exhibitions.

More information: www.industriesalon.de/en/industriesalon-2/

Contact: Hans Christian, 920-256-5457, hans.christian@charter.net