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The story of one building
History
From Gieschewald to Nikiszowiec
- the history of a unique settlement
The history of Nikiszowiec dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, when a mining estate associated with the expansion of the “Giesche” mine was established. In 1907, the mine’s owner, Georg von Giesche’s Erben concern, began construction of an estate called Gieschewald. After the Silesian uprisings, the Polish name Nikiszowiec was adopted. Director Anton Uthemann wanted to create model workers’ colonies, hiring architects from Berlin, which resulted in aesthetically pleasing and functional buildings.
Nikiszowiec resembled a walled town with nine large blocks of flats that had interior courtyards and a variety of architectural details. The estate was self-sufficient, with public facilities and service establishments.
Mining canteen
- once a workers' hotel, now a restaurant
The only three-story building in Nikiszowiec is the former canteen, which was a dormitory for miners. It aimed to limit contact between permanent residents and newcomers. Nikiszowiec was settled gradually, and the first resident was Karol Knosalla, manager of the cantina. Between the wars, the canteen room became a meeting place for various organizations, and in 1919 it witnessed events related to the First Silesian Uprising.
Although the workers’ hotel no longer exists, the restaurant hall remained open to residents and visitors of Nikiszowiec.
