Point 17 - Changes in the townscape since the 19th century

Changes in the townscape since the 19th century

In the 19th century, Schirgiswalde experienced an economic boom, which was also reflected in the townscape:

In 1839, the Cathedral Chapter built an impressive courthouse. It later became the district court, which existed until 1951.

The Cathedral Chapter also built a brewery on the banks of the Spree on the site of the former Niederhof. It was privatised in 1903 as the "Spreeschloßbrauerei".

In 1877, the railway line between Sohland and Wilthen and the Schirgiswalde station were opened. Since then, a large railway viaduct has traversed the town.

In 1883, the only large industrial enterprise was established: Hermann Wünsche's mechanical weaving company (later known as the Buntweberei).

In 1866/68, the Catholic church was given its two dominating towers and the protestant community built a red brick church in 1896.

A new school was built in 1903. It was extended in 1922 and a sports hall was added. Schirgiswalde was largely spared destruction during the Second World War. Only the railway viaduct and the bridge across the Spree river were blown up unnecessarily in the last days of the war.

In 1969, the cooperative "Berglandobst" was founded. This planted large orchards around Schirgiswalde. Aronia berries were cultivated here for the first time in the GDR.

On the Melzerberg with its chapel on the edge of the forest, a ski lift was built to promote winter sports.

A local recreation area was developed at the gondola pond, which was also popular with the many holidaymakers of the time.

During the GDR era and afterwards, Schirgiswalde was an officially recognized resort.