Born in Neumarkt an der Rott Napoleon August von Hauner dedicated his life to children’s health. He became a prominent pediatrician in Munich. His legacy lives on through the Dr von Haunersches Kinderspital.
This monument you see before you commemorates him. It stands as a tribute to a man who revolutionized pediatric care in Germany. Hauner wasn’t just a doctor. He was a visionary.
He began his career in Munich as a city physician for the poor. His annual salary was a meager 150 gulden. Yet he had a dream. He yearned to create a hospital specifically for children. He opened his private children’s clinic in 1846. It was one of the first in the German-speaking world. It was located in a rented apartment.
His clinic wasn’t just about treating sick children. Hauner believed in education and prevention. He informed mothers about nutrition childcare and education. This holistic approach was revolutionary. He stressed that proper upbringing was key. Children needed not just medical attention but also healthy development. He saw education as a preventative measure.
He moved his clinic to a larger building at Jägerstraße 9 in 1849. His dedication paid off. In 1858 he received a personal title of nobility. He was awarded the title August von Hauner. He continued teaching courses at the University until 1883. He published yearly reports and research on pediatrics.
He always championed natural treatments. He recommended water therapy for illnesses like scarlet fever and typhoid. He believed in the healing power of warm milk baths for chest and abdominal ailments. He was a strong advocate for smallpox vaccination.
His tireless efforts led to the construction of a large public children’s hospital. It was built on Lindwurmstraße and opened in 1882. The building stands today as the Dr von Haunersches Kinderspital. It’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to children.
Sadly von Hauner died two years later. His legacy lives on in this hospital. It continues his vital work. His son-in-law Alfred von Halm took over. The Bavarian state took over the hospital in 1886. Heinrich von Ranke became the first director. The Dr. von Haunersches Kinderspital became a university clinic. This remarkable man transformed pediatric care. He left an enduring mark on Munich and Germany.