Hans Schmid, now 93, looks back on more than four decades of dedicated service at the Frienisberg care home in Bern Canton. His journey began in 1956, a time when the institution, then known as an 'Anstalt,' operated as a self-sufficient farm and care facility. Schmid's recollections offer a unique glimpse into a bygone era of Swiss social care and agricultural life.
Key Takeaways
- Hans Schmid started at Frienisberg in 1956, working on its farm and within the care home.
- The facility was a largely self-sufficient operation with extensive agriculture.
- Workdays were long, from 4:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with minimal time off.
- Schmid advanced from farmhand to deputy home director, overseeing significant developments.
- His wife, Margrit, also contributed to the Frienisberg community for many years.
A Harsh Winter Start in 1956
Hans Schmid arrived at Frienisberg on February 1, 1956. He was 24 years old. The winter that year was exceptionally severe. Temperatures plummeted below minus 25 degrees Celsius for several weeks. The road over Frienisberg became impassable due to heavy snow and strong winds.
Schmid, who had served as a field sergeant in the military, secured his position because of his military rank. This detail highlights the strict hierarchies and societal expectations of the time. The institution, now called «Frienisberg, üses Dorf» (Frienisberg, Our Village), was then officially known as an old age and care home.
Frienisberg in 1956
- 90 dairy cows
- 16 Freiberger horses
- 4 draft oxen
- Over 400 residents (then called 'Pfleglinge')
Daily Life and Demanding Work
Life at Frienisberg in the mid-1950s was characterized by relentless work. Schmid's day began at 4:30 AM and concluded at 7:00 PM. He worked every day, with only one Sunday off per month. His monthly salary was 150 Swiss francs, which included board and lodging.
The facility’s agricultural operations were extensive and labor-intensive. Much of the work was done by hand. The residents, referred to as 'Pfleglinge' at the time, were also expected to contribute daily. Their tasks included work in the stables, fields, smithy, kitchen, laundry, or plant cultivation areas.
"In the stable, in the field, in the smithy, in the kitchen, in the laundry, or in the planting – all hands were needed," Hans Schmid recalls, reflecting on the past.
The Agricultural Workforce
The farm employed a significant number of people. It included a foreman, two carters, three milkers, a pig keeper, a young cattle keeper, several young agricultural employees, and up to 80 residents. Schmid himself was employee number 36.
Part-time work was not permitted; all positions were 100% roles, mandated by the administration. This policy reflected the prevailing work culture and the self-sufficiency model of the institution.
Historical Context
In the mid-20th century, many care homes in Switzerland operated with a strong emphasis on self-sufficiency. They often included large agricultural components, where residents and staff contributed to food production and daily operations. This model provided both sustenance and a structured environment for residents.
Challenges and Strict Rules
Schmid remembers strict rules and what he describes as some "chicanery" from the management. Despite the home owning an old tractor, the 16 Freiberger horses had to be harnessed and exercised every morning, regardless of whether they were needed. Only after this was completed could the tractor be used.
The Frienisberg home bred its own robust Freiberger horses, with a new foal born each year. The four draft oxen were primarily used for bringing grass in from the fields. Schmid noted that driving the oxen was not always easy.
A Lifetime of Service and Leadership
Hans Schmid and his wife, Margrit, remained at Frienisberg until their retirement. Schmid's career trajectory at the institution was remarkable. He completed his master craftsman's examination, became the operations manager of the agricultural enterprise, and eventually rose to the position of deputy home director.
During his tenure, Schmid oversaw numerous new construction projects at the home. He also served as a field inspection expert for seed breeding. Outside his work at Frienisberg, he spent ten years as the municipal president of Seedorf BE.
Margrit Schmid's Contributions
Margrit Schmid, Hans's wife, was a beloved figure among the residents. She was known for her kind nature. For many years, she led exercise classes for the elderly in the community of Seedorf. She also established and managed a kiosk at the Klosterhof, further integrating into the Frienisberg community.
The Schmids spent over 40 years at Frienisberg. Their time there was filled with both positive and challenging experiences. Despite the hardships, the memories of those early days remain vivid for Hans Schmid. The couple now resides in Aarberg BE.
- Hans Schmid was born on July 21, 1932, on a farm in Frauenkappelen BE.
- He started at Frienisberg at 24 years old.
- His career spanned over four decades at the institution.
- He became deputy home director.
- His wife, Margrit, was active in the community and at the home.