Have you noticed this understated monument before? This is the Heinrich-Pfeil-Denkmal. It stands here as a tribute to a man who loved Leipzig and its people. Let’s explore the story behind this memorial.
The Heinrich-Pfeil-Denkmal is located in Gohlis. It sits on a green space near Villa Kickerlingsberg 19. You will find it across from the Gohliser Schlösschen. The city of Leipzig commissioned this monument. It was created in 1938 in the modern art style. The artist Will Howard designed it.
Heinrich Pfeil was born in Leipzig in 1835. He died here in Gohlis in 1899. Pfeil was a man of many talents. He was a composer, a writer and a music journalist.
Pfeil’s father was a book printer. Heinrich attended the Ratsfreischule in Leipzig. There, his music teacher Carl Friedrich Zöllner guided him. He then apprenticed as a bookseller. Later, Pfeil became an editor. He worked for the Leipziger Stadt- und Dorfanzeiger. He was its publisher from 1884 to 1889.
From 1862 to 1887, Pfeil edited Die Sängerhalle. This was the official publication of the German singers association. From 1890 to 1896, he lived in Glauchau. He published the Glauchauer Zeitung there. Then, he returned to Leipzig. He lived in Gohlis on Straßburger Straße now Daumierstraße.
Pfeil had a passion for choral music. He loved folk songs and community choirs. He wrote many songs. Some became very popular. He aimed to connect with the common people through his work.
This monument is a stele. It features a portrait relief of Pfeil. It is made of limestone. You can see the name Heinrich Pfeil inscribed on it. The Heinrich-Pfeil-Denkmal is in good condition. You can visit it anytime.
In 1929, Leipzig named Pfeilstraße after him. It is in the Großzschocher district. The Heinrich-Pfeil-Denkmal was erected in 1930. It uses limestone from Franconia.
Heinrich Pfeil left a lasting impact on Leipzig. He wrote the lyrics and music to many songs. Two of his most famous songs are Still ruht der See and Ein Sohn des Volkes will ich sein und bleiben. Pfeil also wrote books. These include Gute Kinder – brave Menschen and Deutsche Sagen.
As you stand before the Heinrich-Pfeil-Denkmal, remember the man it honors. He was a son of Leipzig. He dedicated his life to music and the common people. His legacy lives on in his songs and stories. He wanted to remain a son of the folk.