Orphanage

Historic monuments and sites

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The former orphanage donated by Electress Louise Henriette is today a two-storey, nine-axis brick building in the style of the early Dutch Baroque. The framed initials of Electress Louise Henriette appear on the front in a round-arched panel. The skylight portal, located on the broad central axis, is crowned by the Orange coat of arms held by lions. The initials of the founder are also to be found on the stair columns. The building was destroyed by the town fire in 1671: a new one was erected in 1675 to which a two-storey brick extension was added in 1912.

Foto: Stadt Oranienburg

The orphanage she founded is a remarkable testimony to the work of Brandenburg Electress Louise Henriette. She established the institution for 24 children out of sheer joy at the birth of the heir to the throne, Karl Emil, and to fulfil a vow.

On the courtyard side, farm buildings were erected (stables and also facilities for baking, slaughtering, washing and brewing). The Electress was particularly concerned with school and further education. The foundation deed reflects a pedagogical approach to the accommodation, care, education, training and support of orphans that was completely innovative at that time. After school and confirmation, the boys usually did an apprenticeship as a master craftsman. The girls typically received an education in domestic science after school and went on to take up employment at the age of 17 or 18. All trainees received bedding and clothing, and their teaching and study fees were paid for them. When the girls married they received a dowry of 20 thalers.