Hahndorf Academy

Built in 1839, the Hahndorf Academy was one of the first permanent buildings in Hahndorf. It's central location is indicative of the importance attached to the cultural, scholastic, artistic and religious pursuit of the early German settlers.

The Academy was established as a school by the first headmaster, Mr Boehm. At one stage, over 200 students attended and as it's reputation as an educational institute of excellence flourished, it became a boarding school in 1863. Boehm left in 1886 and Douglas Byard became headmaster. He was educated at Eton and had a great love of music. The Elder Conservatorium of Music at the University of Adelaide was founded by former Academy pupils. This early commitment to the arts and education attracted students throughout Australia extending to the Gulf country in Queensland and south to Tasmania.

In total, over 700 students passed through the Academy. Among the students were sons of several Premiers and many boys from prominent Adelaide political, commercial, financial and farming families. Many names are still recognised in the local, state and national arenas.

After Byard sold the Academy in 1912, the building passed through a period of diverse and changing uses. Roles include a maternity hospital, Council Chambers, betting shop, dental surgery and rented flats for dwelling.

In 1960, locals worked to protect the building from falling into disrepair. Walter Wotzke ran the Academy as an art gallery and German Folk Museum. Through Mr Wotzke's efforts, the Academy was the beginning of cultural tourism in the Adelaide Hills. At his pending retirement, the Academy was sold in 1987. The Hahndorf Academy Foundation Incorporated has since maintained the running and preservation of the building. Today, the Academy is the prime cultural tourist destination within the township.

The Hahndorf Academy is the largest regional art gallery in South Australia attracting over 100,000 visitors each year. Regular changing exhibitions of local and national artists are held, a variety of artists in residence interact with the public in their studios, works by Sir Hans Heysen on permanent display, a German Migration Museums attracts students from around Australia and a large, vibrant retail outlet are all features of the Academy.

Through the efforts of a dedicated band of volunteers and the manager, the Academy is open 7 days a week. The Hahndorf Academy is a cultural asset for the local community, the state and the nation.

For more information you can email info@postcards.sa.com.au