1933. A chilling wind swept across the newly unveiled 117er Ehrenhof. This wasn’t just any memorial. It stood as a testament to the Infanterie-Leib-Regiment Grossherzogin the 117th regiment. For over two centuries this regiment had marched across battlefields. From the Turkish wars of the 17th century to the horrors of World War I. The 117er Ehrenhof commemorated their sacrifice.
The 117th regiment a proud part of the Grand Duchy of Hesse’s army. Its history was a long and often bloody one. It fought in countless conflicts. These included the Palatinate War of Succession and the Napoleonic Wars. They even played a role in the sieges of Landau. They also fought in the battles of Aspern Wagram Krasny and the Beresina. The regiment’s involvement in the liberation wars of 1813 is also remembered. Their battles at Grossgörschen and Leipzig were pivotal moments.
Originally founded in 1697 the regiment comprised three core companies. They fought bravely against the Turks and the French. Their resilience was legendary. In 1806 Grand Duke Ludwig I bestowed upon them the prestigious title of “Leibregiment” or Life Regiment. The 117th also played a crucial role during the devastating floods of 1882. This proved their dedication to Mainz their garrison city.
In 1897 to commemorate their bicentennial anniversary. They were renamed in honour of Grand Duchess Victoria Melita. However it was short-lived. The name reflected a complicated relationship. The dedication to the Grand Duchess Alice came in 1902 shortly after the Grand Duke’s separation. The regiment earned the nickname “die Blauen” or “the Blues” because of the colour of their insignia. Another nickname “Hackelbube” or “fir cone” referred to the soldiers originating from the Odenwald forest. They were known for selling fir cones as kindling in Mainz.
The 117er Ehrenhof is built from red sandstone. It features a bronze Hessian lion a powerful symbol of strength. Engraved on the stone are the dates of the regiment’s battles. The memorial was inaugurated on July 1 1933. This was part of a broader effort by the Nazis. They attempted to instrumentalize military traditions to further their propaganda. The 117er Ehrenhof stands today. It serves as a sober reminder of a complex past. It reflects not only the bravery of the 117th regiment but also the political manipulation of history during the Nazi era. The 117er Ehrenhof it is a place of quiet reflection a testament to courage sacrifice and a difficult legacy.