Fall Festival at the Steinmühle – Encounters

On Saturday, September 27, 2014, at 3:00 p.m., the school and boarding school administration welcomed their guests under bright sunshine for the traditional fall festival at the Steinmühle.

Looking Back:
For days now, the grounds have been a hive of activity. Pavilions are being set up, performances are being rehearsed, and class booths are being prepared. The smell of fresh baked goods wafts through the dorms. Preparations for the 43rd Fall Festival are in full swing.
“The Autumn Festival tradition dates back to 1971, when we celebrated together for the first time,” says Edeltraud Buurman. “We wanted to create a suitable setting where alumni could reunite once a year at ‘their’ Steinmühle. That idea was the origin of the Fall Festival as we celebrate it today.”
This year, the alumni from the class of 1974 had planned to arrive at 11 a.m. They were warmly welcomed by Edeltraud Buurman in the festively decorated tea room. After the welcome, they set off on a tour of the grounds.
“It’s been 40 years since we graduated —I can’t believe it!” remarked one of the graduates. On the steps of the main building, Ms. Buurman asked the excited group to pose for the obligatory commemorative photo. As the tour continued, everyone reminisced: “My boarding school career began right here in the main building; I was in the Sexta back then, and now it feels like I’m coming home.” After an extensive tour of the impressive grounds, all the alumni agreed: “We’re moving back in! What do you think of a multigenerational boarding school?”
As the day went on, the Steinmühle filled up, and many old acquaintances were spotted.
Over culinary delights and a varied program, everyone enjoyed the reunion and had plenty of exciting stories to share. The day flew by, and the group laughed and celebrated together late into the night. A big thank you to everyone who once again made our celebration so special! See you next year!