Why does a frog adorn a weather vane? This is the Lockwitzer Frosch in Dresden. He sits proudly atop a weather vane next to the Lockwitz River. For over a century this little frog has been a landmark. He’s a symbol of Lockwitz a southern Dresden neighborhood.
The Lockwitzer Frosch’s story began in 1913. Paul Blischke a steam mill owner gifted the weather vane to Lockwitz. At that time Lockwitz wasn’t part of Dresden. The pretty structure was built the same year. The frog’s presence remains a mystery.
On July 5 1913 at 7 pm local dignitaries celebrated its unveiling. The Lockwitz Heimatverein (Home Association) held a commemorative celebration in 2013. They displayed information about the weather vane’s history. They toasted the frog wishing him many peaceful years.
The weather vane faced its greatest challenge during the 2002 flood. The Lockwitz River’s high water undermined its foundation. The Lockwitz landmark was threatened. Brave volunteers and firefighters saved the frog. After the flood subsided almost all the stone elements were recovered. The weather vane was rebuilt and returned in 2004.
A piece of a lead roll was given to the Heimatverein in 2013. This was found in the Lockwitz Riverbed. It had been inside the weather vane. The workers from 1913 had signed it. The Heimatverein was very grateful for this gift. The Lockwitzer Frosch a small frog a big symbol of resilience. He stands as a testament to the spirit of Lockwitz.