The historic Texas town in Spandau faces imminent destruction, marking a milestone of 75 years.
Revamped Rodeo: The Fate of Cowboy Club Old Texas Berlin 1950↑
Every first Saturday of the month, Berliners can saunter through Old Texas Town, taking a swig of whiskey in the saloon. Set in a Western atmosphere, this enclave captivates wedding parties, families, and business events in the easternmost district of Spandau. But, the Old Western vibe might soon be dusting off for good.
Since 1968, Cowboy Club Old Texas Berlin 1950 (CCOT) has been nestled at Paulsternstraße 18 in Siemensstadt. However, the club's tenure might be running out, as the lease wasn't renewed, explains Ralf Keber, the club's chairman, to the Berliner Zeitung. With only until August 31 to vacate, Mary's Saloon, the Courthouse, the church, the palisade fence, and the large entrance gate could all become relics of the past.
The contract was inked in 2008 with the Berlin-based company Dr. Aldinger & Fischer Grundbesitz, towards a 15-year lease with the option to extend by an additional year each time. Regrettably, that extension wasn't granted this time. Rumors circulate that a data center might take the CCOT's place, Keber implies. As his legal team reviews the documents to decipher potential loopholes, plans for a last ride are in the works.
Western Town under a Looming cloud: Chairman Seeks Political Resolution
If the proceedings materialize, the Western town will beckon its final visitors on the first weekend of July – mere weeks following its 75th anniversary. During summer weekends, the club accommodates up to 500 guests, shared Keber. His optimism remains pinned on political resolutions: "The city council and Mayor Kai Wegner are informed," he proclaims, hinting at widespread support. Word of the closing has made ripples among friends in Bavaria and the Rhineland, and petitions are underway. Berlin-based band The BossHoss, also a CCOT member, stands behind its preservation, Keber adds.
The Spandau CDU faction responded first to the imminent closure, expressing on Instagram: "This piece of living history, volunteer work, and community must not simply disappear! The Spandau CDU faction is committed to the preservation of the Western town and stands by its side."
Western Town in Siemensstadt: "A Relocation Is Unfeasible"
Keber voices that a relocation seems improbable. Relocating would mean finding a new property, which poses difficulties given the age of many members, often 50-60+ years old. In addition, the Western town enjoys perks that other clubs aren't as fortunate to have, such as easy access through the Paulsternstraße U-Bahn station and minimal opening hours, due to the industrial area location.
CCOT, originally christened the "Berliner Cowboy Club" in 1939, saw tumultuous times. Circumstances forced it underground and its dissolution post-WWII. However, it resurfaced in the US sector of Berlin, remaining operational as a club. The club moved properties in the mid-1950s and settled into Paulsternstraße in 1968.
That said, the specifics of the impending closure and potential plans for the CCOT site remain elusive, as a search for relevant news or real estate announcements did not yield any clear answers concerning this issue. Nonetheless, the charm and legacy of the Cowboy Club Old Texas Berlin 1950 continue to resonate with Berlin enthusiasts, leaving hope that this Western respite will live on.
The Cowboy Club Old Texas Berlin 1950, a historical attraction with a Western theme, may be facing relocation due to the non-renewal of its lease. Members of the club are optimistic that political resolutions could prevent this, given the widespread support for its preservation. Furthermore, the loss of the club as a home-and-garden, lifestyle, general-news, and entertainment destination would have a significant impact on Berlin's diverse offerings, potentially adding a layer to the city's rich history.
