“Da wo die sieben Berge am Rheinesstrande stehn” That’s what the inscription on this very stele says. This is the Willi Ostermann Stele in Königswinter. It commemorates the Cologne composer and lyricist. Willi Ostermann was incredibly popular. His songs celebrated Rhineland humor. He often performed them himself.
The stele stands as a testament to his legacy. It marks a spot dear to his heart. This is where he found inspiration. He often met with Hermann Weiser here. Weiser was a tenor in a local men’s singing club. They would sit on a stone bench in Nachtigallental. They collaborated on many of Ostermann’s iconic songs. One of his most famous songs is “Wenn ich su an ming Heimat denke”. This heartfelt homage to Cologne continues to move people today.
The idea for a memorial emerged soon after Ostermann’s death in 1936. The Second World War delayed the project. It wasn’t until 1947 that Hermann Weiser found support. He teamed up with Fritz Bastin. Bastin was president of the Großen Königswinterer Karnevalsgesellschaft. Together they pushed the project forward.
The unveiling was a massive event. It was held on July 3 1949. Around 80000 people attended. They came from all over the Rhineland. They came to celebrate the man and his music. The festivities included a parade through Königswinter. Apparently it was so big there was no food or drink left in the entire town. The celebration extended even to the day before. There were “Rhine evenings” in several local hotels.
The Willi Ostermann Stele itself is quite simple. It’s a large stone block. A bronze relief of Ostermann’s head adorns it. It’s surrounded by bronze oak leaves. This understated elegance perfectly complements the beauty of Nachtigallental. It’s a fitting tribute to a man whose music brings joy to generations. Even today the stele remains a gathering point for those who love his work. Recent efforts are focused on adding a QR code. This will make it easier to learn about the man and his place in the history of Königswinter. So take a moment to appreciate this piece of local history. Reflect on the life and music of Willi Ostermann. His songs continue to echo through the Nachtigallental. They will for generations to come.