Born here. That’s what the Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge Plaque proclaims. Right here on Billwerder Billdeich 140. This unassuming metal plaque marks the birthplace of a giant. A giant in the world of chemistry. A man whose discoveries shaped modern industry.
The plaque itself is simple. Yet it speaks volumes. It tells the story of Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge. Born February 8 1794. This unassuming building was his first home. He went on to become a pioneering chemist. His discoveries were revolutionary. He discovered caffeine. He also identified quinine. Most remarkably he discovered aniline. This discovery led to the first coal tar dye aniline blue. His work laid the foundation for Germany’s chemical industry.
Imagine the young Friedlieb. Playing in the streets of Billwerder. Little did he know his discoveries would change the world. He made a groundbreaking discovery in 1834. He published his findings on dyeing clothes with coal tar dyes. It was a pivotal moment in chemical history. Yet there was no German patent office at that time. His inventions were never patented.
Despite this Runge’s work had a lasting impact. His legacy lives on. Not only in the chemical industry but also in other areas. A street in Leverkusen bears his name. The rungia family of plants honors his memory. A prize for unconventional art education commemorates his contributions. This small plaque is a powerful reminder. It reminds us of the importance of scientific discovery. It also reminds us of the enduring legacy of Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge. A man born in this very spot. A man who changed the world. A man whose name we remember today.