What if I told you this very tree before you, the Eschersheimer Linde, is over 300 years old? It has silently watched Eschersheim transform from a quiet village into a vibrant part of Frankfurt. The Eschersheimer Linde is more than just a tree. It is a natural monument and a landmark for all to see.
Back in the late 17th century, someone planted this summer linden tree. It stood alone in an open field. This was along the eastern side of what is now the Eschersheimer Landstrasse. At the time, it was just an undeveloped road. People originally called it Kleine Linde. This translates to Little Linden. There was another linden tree called Grosse Linde. It was about 50 years older. It stood further north at Am Weissen Stein. Sadly, a storm damaged it badly. It finally collapsed in 1923.
The Eschersheimer Linde has seen many changes. In 1888, a steam tram ran along the Eschersheimer Landstrasse. Later, the city took over the tram in 1901. They electrified it in 1908. A tram stop was built right in front of the Linde. Gradually buildings sprung up on both sides of the road.
Since 1937, the Eschersheimer Linde has been a protected natural monument. It stands about 25 meters tall. Its trunk measures around five meters in circumference. Tree surgeons have cared for it a couple of times. The road’s paving and sealing threatened the tree’s health. So, in 1968, workers installed a drainage system. In 1984, they added artificial watering and ventilation.
The Eschersheimer Linde even gives its name to a nearby street. It is called Am Lindenbaum. This street connects to the Eschersheimer Landstrasse. Near this intersection lies the Lindenbaum U-Bahn station. The subway line curves slightly here to protect the tree.
Once, a seat encircled the Eschersheimer Linde. It stood majestically. However, as the city grew, the street came closer. The village quiet gave way to modern traffic. Yet, this mighty Linde endures against the busy road. The Eschersheimer Linde stands tall. It is a symbol of nature’s strength. It is a testament to the past. It is a treasure for the future.