Look closely at the Gänsereiterbrunnen. This seemingly simple fountain holds a fascinating history. It stands proudly behind the Apostelkirche in Essen’s Frohnhausen district. Erected in 1913 it’s a testament to a time long past. It was even granted landmark status in 1994.
The Gänsereiterbrunnen wasn’t just any fountain. Its design came from Hagen architect Ewald Wachenfeld. The sculptor was the British-German William Ohly. The name itself Gänsereiterbrunnen literally Goose Rider Fountain speaks to a unique local tradition. Apparently until the end of the 19th century Frohnhausen residents practiced Gansereiten.
Imagine this a centuries-old custom. Young riders would attempt to decapitate a goose hanging from a gallows. Success meant coronation as Goose King and a cash prize. The fountain’s design captures this thrilling moment. A young rider gallops on his horse a loyal dog by his side. He’s poised to strike the hanging goose.
Sadly World War II dealt a devastating blow. Bombing buried the Gänsereiterbrunnen under rubble. The original magnificent bronze sculpture disappeared forever. The fountain’s core was shattered. The trachyte pieces were damaged beyond repair. They had to be replaced with plastered brickwork after the war. For a long time the fountain remained dry its fresh water connection lost. The fountain lacked its centerpiece the bronze goose rider.
But the Gänsereiterbrunnen refused to be forgotten. Between 2008 and 2010 a meticulous restoration took place. The fountain was painstakingly disassembled. It was then taken to Saxony for restoration. Essen’s Eugen Kalenborn led the work. The 48 natural stone elements were carefully examined. Thirteen missing stones were recreated. New bronze overflows were added. The four weathered dolphin heads were replaced. The fountain head itself disintegrated during the restoration due to rust.
Now stands the magnificent Gänsereiterbrunnen. It is 30 tons of restored beauty. It sits slightly off-center in the redesigned church square. A modern recirculating pump and cistern now provide water. This ensures that the fountain no longer needs a constant supply of fresh water. The April 17 2010 rededication was a momentous occasion. The restoration costs were considerably higher than initially estimated. The Frohnhauser Denkmäler und Kulturwerte e V. played a vital role in fundraising.
The Gänsereiterbrunnen stands as a symbol. It’s a testament to the resilience of a community. It’s a reflection of a time-honored tradition that may have faded but never disappeared. This fountain is more than just water and stone. It’s a story waiting to be discovered.