Stolperstein Dedicated to Paul Cantor

Introduction

The Stolperstein dedicated to Paul Cantor in Mainz is a deeply moving memorial that connects visitors to the individual stories behind the Holocaust. Stolpersteine (German for “stumbling stones”) are small brass plaques embedded in sidewalks, each marking the last freely chosen residence or workplace of a person persecuted by the Nazi regime. Initiated in 1992 by artist Gunter Demnig, the Stolpersteine project has grown into the world’s largest decentralized memorial, with over 100,000 stones laid across Europe, transforming urban spaces into sites of remembrance and reflection (Wikipedia - Stolperstein; Stolpersteine Berlin).

Mainz, a city with a rich Jewish heritage spanning more than a millennium, plays an active role in this memorial culture. Visitors to Mainz can encounter these subtle markers throughout the old town, creating moments of reflection amidst the city’s vibrant life (Stolpersteine Berlin; thecrazytourist.com). The Stolperstein for Paul Cantor, located at Breidenbacher Straße 19, commemorates both his personal story and the broader tragedy experienced by the Jewish community in Mainz during the Nazi era (Mainz Stolperstein List, PDF; Haus des Erinnerns – Stolpersteine).

This comprehensive guide covers the history and significance of the Paul Cantor Stolperstein, practical visitor information (including hours, accessibility, and tours), and suggestions for integrating your visit with other cultural sites in Mainz. Whether you are a history enthusiast, educator, or traveler, this memorial offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the past and engage with living memory (Stolpersteine Mainz; Travel Savvy Gal).

Historical Background: The Cantor Family in Mainz

The Cantor family was among many Jewish households that contributed to Mainz’s vibrant community life before the Holocaust. By the early 20th century, they were established residents at Breidenbacher Straße 19. Tragically, this address became the last freely chosen home for several members of the family before their persecution and deportation under Nazi rule (Mainz Stolperstein List, PDF).

Paul Cantor and His Relatives

• Paul Cantor (b. 1876): Deported to the Theresienstadt ghetto on September 27, 1942, and died there less than a month later on October 23, 1942.
• Anna Cantor (b. 1872): Deported with Paul to Theresienstadt, died there on May 11, 1944.
• Ernst Cantor (b. 1877): Deported to Piaski/Lublin on March 25, 1942, and murdered.
• Ludwig Max Cantor (b. 1870): Fled to Berlin and died by suicide in the Jewish Hospital on February 17, 1944 (Mainz Stolperstein List, PDF).

These Stolpersteine were installed on November 6, 2007, as part of Mainz’s ongoing initiative to memorialize those persecuted during the Nazi era.

Other relatives, such as Alfred and Emilie Cantor, faced similar fates: Alfred was murdered in Buchenwald, and Emilie was killed in Auschwitz (Mainz Stolperstein List, PDF).

The Stolpersteine Project: Origins and Significance

Founded by Gunter Demnig, the Stolpersteine project is a decentralized memorial that commemorates victims of Nazi persecution at their last chosen address. Each 10 x 10 cm brass plaque is inscribed with the individual’s name, date of birth, deportation, and fate (Wikipedia - Stolperstein; Stolpersteine Berlin). Unlike traditional monuments, Stolpersteine are embedded directly into daily life, inviting passersby to “stumble” across history and reflect on the lives lost (pragueviews.com).

Mainz began participating in the project in the late 1990s. Today, the city’s Stolpersteine are coordinated by the Haus des Erinnerns – für Demokratie und Akzeptanz and the Verein für Sozialgeschichte Mainz e. V., with ongoing research and new biographies continually added (Haus des Erinnerns – Stolperstein Homepage).

Visiting the Paul Cantor Stolperstein in Mainz

Location and Accessibility

• Address: Breidenbacher Straße 19, 55116 Mainz, Germany (Stolpersteine Mainz)
• Getting There: The site is easily accessible by foot from the city center and is close to the Mainz Römisches Theater S-Bahn station (Travel Savvy Gal). Mainz’s efficient public transportation (trams, buses, and even day passes valid from Frankfurt) makes it convenient to reach the Old Town.
• Accessibility: The Stolperstein is flush with the pavement. While the area is generally flat and pedestrian-friendly, some streets in the Old Town are cobblestoned. Visitors with mobility aids should find the route manageable but may want to check accessibility resources for extra guidance.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

• Hours: The Stolperstein is embedded in the public sidewalk and is accessible 24/7.
• Admission: No tickets or fees are required.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

• Guided Tours: The Haus des Erinnerns and other local organizations offer guided tours exploring Mainz’s Stolpersteine and Jewish history (Haus des Erinnerns – Contact). Tours are available in English on request, and group bookings are recommended.
• Special Events: Annual remembrance events, especially around Holocaust Remembrance Day, often include ceremonies such as cleaning the Stolpersteine, readings, and public gatherings. For current information, consult the Haus des Erinnerns website or the Mainz city website.

Etiquette and Customs

• Respectful Behavior: Pause to read the inscriptions and reflect. Placing a small stone or flower is a traditional sign of remembrance, though optional.
• Photography: Allowed but should be discreet and not interfere with residents or foot traffic.
• Quiet Reflection: Reading inscriptions aloud or observing a moment of silence can be meaningful ways to honor the victims (Germany.info).

Combining Your Visit with Other Mainz Historical Sites

The Stolperstein’s central location allows for easy integration into broader explorations of Mainz’s Jewish and cultural heritage. Consider visiting:

• Mainz Synagogue and Synagogenplatz: Site of the former synagogue, now marked by a commemorative plaque (Travel Savvy Gal).
• St. Stephan’s Church: Featuring famous Marc Chagall stained glass windows, symbols of reconciliation.
• Gutenberg Museum: Dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and the history of printing.
• Mainz Cathedral and Market Square: A thousand-year-old cathedral and lively public plaza.

Official self-guided walking tours and maps are available through the Mainz tourism website.

Further Learning and Engagement

• Research and Archives: The Haus des Erinnerns – Für Demokratie und Akzeptanz maintains a database of Mainz Stolpersteine with biographies and photos.
• Educational Materials: The Verein für Sozialgeschichte Mainz e. V. offers historical resources for further study.
• Support and Participation: Learn about sponsoring Stolpersteine or joining remembrance events via the Mainz city website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need tickets to visit the Paul Cantor Stolperstein?
No, the Stolperstein is a public memorial and can be visited free of charge at any time.

What are the visiting hours?
The site is accessible 24/7; daylight hours offer the best visibility.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Stolperstein is set in a public sidewalk that is generally flat and accessible. Some adjacent cobblestone areas may be uneven.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours focusing on Stolpersteine and Mainz’s Jewish history are offered by local organizations. Check the Haus des Erinnerns website for schedules.

How can I learn more about the Cantor family?
Background information and biographies are available through the Mainz Stolperstein List, PDF and Waymarking.

Tips for a Meaningful Visit

• Bring a small stone or flower to leave as a token of remembrance.
• Take time for quiet reflection.
• Read about the Cantor family before visiting for greater context (Waymarking).
• Respect the privacy of current residents at Breidenbacher Straße 19.
• Explore nearby Jewish heritage sites for a fuller historical perspective.

Visuals

Alt text: Close-up of the Paul Cantor Stolperstein brass plaque embedded in the sidewalk at Breidenbacher Straße 19, Mainz.

Alt text: Interactive map highlighting Stolpersteine locations across Mainz, including the Paul Cantor site.