Herrenhaus Padelügge

Hidden within Lübeck’s Buntekuh district stands the Herrenhaus Padelügge. It whispers tales of a bygone era. This isn’t just an old building. It’s the heart of the Parcham’sche Stiftung, a legacy woven from the life of Henning Parcham. He arrived in Lübeck in 1597, a newcomer from Treptow an der Rega. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a respected councilman. His sharp mind and entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to success. He established a thriving shipping company, trading goods across Europe. He even dabbled in horse trading, once selling a steed to the local stables. Herrenhaus Padelügge became his in 1596. It was a symbol of his prosperity, purchased for a hefty 20,000 Lübeck marks. The original Herrenhaus Padelügge met its end in 1734. City architect Joseph Wilhelm Petrini designed its replacement. Today, this 18th-century structure serves as the foundation’s headquarters. The Parcham family still uses it as a summer residence. Tragedy struck in 1880. A fire ravaged the estate’s tenant house. Luckily, the Lübeck fire brigade managed to save Herrenhaus Padelügge. The estate extends beyond the city limits, its lands stretching into Holstein. The foundation also owns the Hohenstiege inn. This charming spot on the Trave River was a popular destination in the 19th and 20th centuries. Known for its lush gardens and abundant fruit, it drew locals and visitors alike. Henning Parcham’s legacy lives on through the Parcham’sche Stiftung. Childless, he dedicated his fortune to supporting young men and women from his family. The foundation’s unique structure, based entirely on land ownership, allowed it to weather the economic storms of the 1920s. The value of the estate increased significantly with the development of a commercial area. The construction of the A1 and A20 motorways further boosted the foundation’s coffers. Now, the Parcham’sche Stiftung serves a broader purpose, supporting various community initiatives.