Looking for Info on HJ Gebietsführerschule 1 in Marienwerder

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I am researching my grandfather's time during WWII with help from ChatGPT, since I don't know where to look and he is unfortunately no longer with us to ask. I have been advised to ask here about HJ Gebietsführerschule 1 in Marienwerder.

My grandfather was born in Grossweide, Marienwerder, West Prussia in1927 and spoke of being in the Hitler Youth from childhood until he was conscripted at the end of the war (despite being underage). He was responsible for teaching young boys to play soccer and other sports, and this apparently took place at a castle.

That's all I have to go on! Hopefully it is enough to get some information or photos.

 

[Garry]

Hi there and welcome to the forum. Yes, there was a HJ-Gebietsführerschule in Marienwerder and also an Ostlandführerschule der HJ. Marienwerder was located in HJ-Gebiet 1 Ostland until late-1939 when it became part of HJ-Gebiet 37 Danzig-Westpreußen.

The Ostlandführerschule der HJ was located in Ordensschloß Marienwerder (Kwidzyn Castle - you'll find more info and photos by searching online for that). Your grandfather remembers being assigned to to Gebietsführerschule I (also the castle) late-war so either the Gebietsführerschule was renamed to Ostlandführerschule or... there were two different schools within the castle. I will try to find out more.

Here is a postcard showing the Ostlandführerschule during the period:

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and a modern photo:

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