Simson fans mourn: GDR treasures in Nauen lost at Brand!

Simson fans mourn: GDR treasures in Nauen lost at Brand!

In the night of February 17, 2025, the inconceivable happened: a fire destroyed a warehouse and workshop in Nauen in the Havelland, which was an extremely important place for many Simson fans. The fire devil raged at around 11:30 p.m. and left a trace of devastation: irreplaceable vehicles such as four S51, two swallows, a Simson scooter and a quad went up in the flames. A spare parts warehouse and a straw press also fell victim to the fire, which was difficult for the affected members of the Simson community "Luchskolben Hanffabrik". Loud [MAZ-ONLINE.de] (https://www.maz-online.de/lokales/havelland/nauen/simson-fans-schocktrestaured 51-and-Schwalben-GDR-Schaetze-Be-Brand-Zerstoert-izX7w3cvjayhpxe5mocyy34m4.html? Outputtype = valid_amp) If the estimated damage amounts to around 9,000 euros for the people concerned.

The local defense management under Pascal Chemnitz indicated that numerous firefighters were deployed to extinguish the flames. This was not an easy task, because the freezing temperatures led to frozen water in the hoses. The fire not only ignited the warehouse, but also the photovoltaic system on the roof. Residents were also affected and were asked to keep windows and doors closed, since potentially poisonous flue gases were released. The extinguishing work dragged on until the morning, with an expert intervene at the fire location to determine the exact course. The entire facility is classified as totally burned down, and the damage is estimated in the millions, reports rbb24.de.

solidarity and support

The tragic losses shaken the Simson community in Nauen and many have expressed their concern. Chemnitz, who has also lost an unrestored moped as a barn find, and other members have launched a crowdfunding campaign with the aim of collecting 15,000 euros for the friends affected and especially for Marvin and Laura. Support can either be made directly via Gofundme or by contacting Daniela Chemnitz on 0173/2065982 or by email to daflna@aol.com.

A positive development in the middle of the tragedy is that at least a few vehicles such as a AWO (a four-stroke motorcycle) and an MZ motorcycle from Zschopau could be saved. With all mourning there is also a ray of hope: The Simson-Treff in Hertefeld is planned for September 13, 2025, where the community wants to come together to keep the spirit of Simson and keep tradition alive.

The story of Simson

Simson, a brand with a long and eventful history, originated in 1740, when the first basis was built as a cutting mill at the location. The company originally produced weapons and has gained special awareness of the production of motorcycles over the years, especially small crafts that became extremely popular from the 1960s. The production of these cult vehicles has stopped until the 90s, as on [Wikipedia] (https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/simson_ (company)).

The tragedy of Nauen not only shows the fragility of material assets, but also the strength and cohesion of a community that stands for its passion and history. In these difficult times, it is important that we hold together and support those affected where we can. The fate of these Simson fans touches and reminds us of how quickly everything can be lost.