„Hilfe! Armut in der Vorstadt“: A Vienna Exhibition on Early 20th-Century Poverty and Social Aid

This exhibition explored two key initiatives aimed at alleviating the most pressing needs in an era without social systems: the charitable association 'Wiener Settlement' founded in 1901 and a barrack settlement known as 'Negerdörfel' established in 1911. It sheds light on efforts to combat poverty in the suburbs.

The exhibition '„Hilfe! Armut in der Vorstadt“' (Help! Poverty in the Suburbs) focused on critical social initiatives from a period preceding formal social welfare systems. It highlighted the work of the 'Wiener Settlement' charitable association, established in 1901, which sought to provide aid and support to those in need. Additionally, the exhibition examined the 'Negerdörfel,' a settlement of barracks erected in 1911 on Gablenzgasse, illustrating concrete responses to the pressing issue of poverty in Vienna's outlying districts. This display was a collaboration with the Kreisky Archive and the Maroltingergasse Realgymnasium, bringing together historical perspectives on social challenges and community efforts. The exhibition aimed to provide insight into the urgent measures taken to mitigate hardship and support vulnerable populations in the early 20th century.