City in Spandau slated for demolition - petition initiated
A Churn for Cowboys and Cowgirls in Old Texas Town
By Victor Reichardt
Since 1950, Old Texas Town has been a coveted hotspot for Western enthusiasts in the capital region. But all of a sudden, the Spandau cowboys and cowgirls find themselves confronted with an uncertainty over their cherished Western haven. The estate owner, it appears, harbors ideas that don't align with the Western charm of the town.
On May 28th, a surprising message knocked the Cowboy Club Old Texas Berlin 1950 e.V. (CCOT) for a loop. By August 31st, the lease termination by the property owner was imminent. Where the rustic courthouse, the vast saloon, and Fort Steuben with the Alamo memorial now stand, there are plans for brand-new structures to rise. Club Chairman Ralf Keber (67) shared this news with B.Z., stating, "We are expected to leave the area in pristine condition by the deadline."
This implies that the club members are left with no choice but to demolish their beloved Western town by their own hands.
Establishment in 1968
In 1968, the club took root on the then Siemens-donated plot (15,000 square meters) on Paulsternstraße and gradually constructed the Western town. After a devastating fire in 2002 and renovation to Siemensstadt Park, the Western town was eventually rebuilt.
2008 saw the eventual sale of the property, which, apparently, included an agreement that presumably encompassed the preservation of the Western town. This is now being contested.
"Once our lease expired after 15 years, we've been receiving only annual contracts since then," said Keber. "We do everything out of the goodness of our hearts, and all the earnings only go toward the Western town."
Fight for Preservation
Now the club is rallying to save Germany's oldest Western town. "The termination still feels fresh, and of course we will fight for our town," said Keber. The club is currently gathering supporters through an online petition and hopes for a fair resolution with the property owner or the city of Berlin to protect the future of the Western town and recognize it as a cultural and social project.
In politics, the club already has backing. The Spandau CDU faction is urging the owner to negotiate. "Old Texas Town is a rare gem - built by devoted volunteers, steeped in history, and cherished by generations," said faction leader Arndt Meißner (53). "It's completely baffling why this treasure should suddenly vanish."
Notably, both the district mayor Frank Bewig (49) and Berlin's governing mayor Kai Wegner (52, CDU), who resides in Spandau, are reportedly already acquainted with the situation.
Here's to hoping that the final showdown won't take place just yet! On Saturday, the club plans to shed light on the current situation during a press conference.
Background Insights
Preservation efforts in Texas involve local governments, historical societies, and communities working together to restore historic buildings, protect cultural heritage, and educate the public. Communities often rally around causes and organize events to gather support and funds for preservation projects.
Future plans include continued restoration, educational programs, and efforts to secure funding for ongoing preservation work. Partnerships between local governments, historical societies, and private organizations are vital for envisioning long-term preservation goals.
The club members are determined to save Germany's oldest Western town and have launched an online petition in the hopes of securing its future.In the absence of a favorable resolution with the property owner or the city of Berlin, the Western town may face demolition, a dramatic departure from its home-and-garden roots in Old Texas Town.
