“Who was Arnim?” a curious voice asks. It stands as a stoic reminder of a life lived with courage. This is the Arnim-Denkmal. Let’s explore its story.
The Arnim-Denkmal honors Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig von Arnim-Suckow. He was a Prussian officer. Arnim led the Hanseatic Legion. He fought against Napoleon’s forces. He died in battle in 1813 near Wesloe.
Born in 1780, Arnim came from the noble Arnim family. He chose a military career. In 1806, he was a lieutenant. He served in the Prittwitz-Husaren regiment. During a battle in 1806, Arnim showed bravery. He was wounded in the eye. He lost the eye.
King Friedrich Wilhelm III awarded Arnim the Pour le Mérite order in 1807. This was for his valiant conduct. By 1813, Arnim was a major. He joined the Hanseatic Legion as a cavalry leader. The legion tried to defend Hamburg. They fought against French troops under Marshal Davout.
After Hamburg fell, the Legion retreated. They continued fighting in Mecklenburg. Arnim died trying to liberate Lübeck. A stele was erected to honor him. Besides the Pour le Mérite, he belonged to the Order of Saint John. His remains were buried in Schönberg’s Laurentiuskirche.
The Arnim-Denkmal is not the only tribute to this brave soldier. The Arnimstraße in Lübeck also bears his name. It serves as a lasting reminder of his sacrifice. He married Wilhelmine Librecht in 1813. They had a son. The son’s name was Maximilian Otto Friedrich. He died as a student in Bonn.
The Hotel Arnimsruh in St. Gertrud derives its name from the Arnim-Denkmal. The hotel was originally built in 1903. It was a popular destination for daytrippers from Lübeck. The Arnim-Denkmal stands in a garden. It is located close to the hotel. All hotel rooms are located at the back of the hotel. They offer either a garden or a view of the Arnim-Denkmal.
So, as we stand here, remember Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig von Arnim-Suckow. Think about his bravery. Think about his dedication. The Arnim-Denkmal is more than a monument. It is a symbol of courage and sacrifice.