Initiatives before the foundation

A memorial was erected in Dornstetten-Aach in 2019 to commemorate the children of Eastern European forced laborers who died in inhumane conditions in the so-called “Polish Children’s Home” during the Second World War. For many years, there were controversial discussions in the town about whether and how the fate of these children should be commemorated. It was finally decided to erect a stele in the old cemetery with the names of the 13 deceased infants and to dedicate it in a ceremony. The inauguration moved many of those present and sent a clear signal against forgetting. The realization of the project was made possible by the commitment and willingness to donate of the citizens, especially Wolfgang and Esther Schmalz. This and other initiatives are regarded as the forerunners of today’s activities of the Wolfgang and Esther Schmalz Foundation, which is committed to humanity not only in Germany.