KZ Watchtowers

[CARL]

KL-Flossenbürg:

From another study visit, these images were taken from the Appellplatz (roll call / muster area), with the evening mist descending on the camp grounds. The structure seen to the left is one of few remaining original buildings at the site, namely the Häftlingsküche (prisoners kitchen block). To the rear, the remains of the former tool shop.

[CARL]

Two comparison views of the Haupteingang/Lagertor (main entrance/camp gate) and Blockführerstube (SS guardhouse and office), located at Auschwitz-I, Stammlager (main camp).

[CARL]

Another example of a Wachturm, this time shown in an image taken at Theresienstadt.

[JMM]

Excelent thread. Thanks a lot for starting it and for the pics

[sandgroper]

Two comparison views of the Haupteingang/Lagertor (main entrance/camp gate) and Blockführerstube (SS guardhouse and office), located at Auschwitz-I, Stammlager (main camp).

Terrific photos Carl, the one with the snow in particular conjures up images of the poor inmates wearing rags, trudging through the freezing cold in appalling conditions, barely enough food to survive, suffering at the hands of cruel guards etc.......very thought provoking photographs. One question, I'm guessing that the wooden sign with the skull and crossbones is a replacement or at least has been repainted, the original paint would have deteriorated over time would it not?

[CARL]

Thanks again gents, I appreciate your kind words.

In answer to your question Dave, yes, I would agree.

Regards,

Carl

[CARL]

KL-Natzweiler-Struthof:

Two examples of the eight watchtowers that were constructed at Konzentrationslager Natweiler-Struthof. Located southwest of Strasbourg, it was the only major concentration camp in France. The first image was taken at the far end of the camp, near the crematorium. The second photograph shows one of the towers that stand near the Haupteingang (main entrance) to the camp - note the large memorial structure in the background.

[porta]

Interesting, so these are original structures?

[CARL]

Interesting, so these are original structures?

Thank you. The towers have been replaced or at least in part, reconstructed - mainly due to the harsh weather, which often brings heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures during winter. A post war image of the camp taken during its function as a penitentiary for nearly 2,500 German civilians, shows the entrance area with all structures (including the watchtower) intact and similar to their modern appearance. The camp barracks were mostly destroyed due to deterioration after the war, although four structures were preserved as a lasting reminder - an accommodation barrack, the Küche, Krematorium and Zellenbarrack (cell barrack). On March 29th 1954, barrack 12 was ceremoniously incinerated to mark the beginning of the construction work at the memorial site. The site was also damaged by arsonists in 1976 and later, in 1979. Approximately 95% of the collection was lost in the fire that destroyed the museum barrack (formerly barrack-I). The building was rebuilt to replicate the original. Modern museum structures were opened several years ago.

Regards,

Carl

[porta]

Thanks for the additional information, quite sad that 95% of the collection was lost at the hands of arsonists. Valuable history went up in flames.

It makes sense that the towers have been rebuild or partly rebuild due to the harsh weather. However it does still show how it used to look and gives an clear idea.