Title:WELT IM FILM UNEDITED MATERIAL : 'Berlin power station opening' story [Allocated Title]
Film Number:WIF 470
Other titles:
Summary: Unused/unedited film by WELT IM FILM cameramen of the ceremonial reopening of the West Berlin power station.
Description: The powers station was rebuilt and re-equipped by the Western Allies after Russians dismantled and removed the machinery as part of reparations, much of the rebuilding being carried on during the blockade. The ceremony was performed on 1 December by Berlin's Mayor Reuter, the audience including the British High Commissioner Robertson and Commandant in Berlin, Major General Bourne. (Reel 1) Dignitaries tour the station; general views of the generating machinery. Reuter speaks, presses button (nothing happens, he tries again). Large gauges over platform record increasing level of (output?), then steady. Further speeches from officers/officials; more film of tour. (Reel 2) More material on speeches: long shots of speakers; listening audience of senior allied officers and officials, German notables (including Louise Schroeder) and ordinary workers. (close-up Reuter's hand pressing button). General film of the station, including shots of control room (dials/lights indicate output to Berlin districts), machinery (men "make adjustments" for camera) and good shots of power station exterior, unloading coal from canal etc.
