The cold bronze of the sword gleamed. It’s held by the statue atop the Reichenbach-Denkmal.
Right here before you stands the Reichenbach-Denkmal a testament to Luneburg’s rich history. This isn’t just any fountain. It’s a tribute to Johannes Reichenbach a cooper and senator who shaped this city. He wasn’t just a businessman. He was a driving force behind Luneburg’s progress. A key player in the construction of the Luneburg water tower in 1904 he earned the city’s highest honor. He became an honorary citizen.
The Denkmal itself is quite remarkable. Sculpted from limestone from near Cologne it showcases a figure reminiscent of a cooper. This isn’t a random choice. It honors Gotthard Henneberg the protagonist of Julius Wolff’s novel Der Sclfmeister. The statue also subtly represents Reichenbach himself and his contribution to his craft. Note the cooper’s tools. The barrel hoops in his left hand the apron around his waist. These are subtle nods to his profession.
But the story doesn’t end there. The original location of the Reichenbach-Denkmal was quite different. It initially graced the prominent space before the Chamber of Industry and Commerce Am Sande. But during World War II it was dismantled. The pieces were stored. The Denkmal’s journey was far from over. Eventually it found a new home at its current location. Its relocation highlights the Denkmal’s resilience and Luneburg’s dedication to preserving its heritage.
The bronze details are fascinating. One relief even showcases a profile of Senator Reichenbach himself. Surrounding the base are bollards. These were originally designed to protect the fountain from carriage wheels. A small detail. It reflects the bustling life of the place it once occupied.
Johannes Reichenbach’s legacy extends beyond this fountain. His family’s cooperage business was a Luneburg institution. The business was destroyed by fire in 1889. Reichenbach rebuilt it on a larger scale on the outskirts of the city. His success and civic contributions cemented his place in Luneburg’s memory. The Reichenbach-Denkmal stands as a lasting reminder of a man who contributed significantly to his city. It’s a symbol of Luneburg’s rich heritage and enduring spirit. A symbol that speaks volumes about its history and its people.