Behold the Robert Oettel Stone a monument to a remarkable man. This unassuming granite block nestled within the Goerlitz Oldtimer Parkeisenbahn holds a significant piece of Goerlitz history. It commemorates Karl Robert Oettel born in Goerlitz in 1798. He died in 1884.
Robert Oettel was more than just a successful Goerlitz merchant. He was a city council member for an impressive 44 years. That’s a record for Goerlitz. More importantly for our story he was a passionate poultry breeder. Oettel didn’t just raise chickens. He revolutionized poultry farming in Germany.
His dedication led to the founding of the Hühnerologischer Verein Goerlitz in 1852. It was Germany’s first poultry breeding association. The name itself “Hühnerologischer” meaning something like “chicken-ological” hints at Oettel’s playful nature. The association quickly grew boasting 600 members just three years after its founding.
Oettel’s impact went beyond his club. He introduced Asian chicken breeds to Germany. These Cochin and Brahma chickens were larger. They produced more meat. Importantly they laid eggs even during winter. This was a huge advancement. Before Oettel’s import German chickens laid eggs seasonally. The improvements Oettel brought revolutionized German poultry farming.
The Robert Oettel Stone itself is a testament to his legacy. Sculptor Reinhard Schnauder created the bronze relief. It’s set within a large granite block. The unveiling took place on June 15 1901. Oettel’s grandson August Kienitz gave a celebratory speech at the event. The inscription proudly declares its dedication by the Hühnerologischer Verein Goerlitz and poultry breeding associations from Germany and Austria. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who transformed the humble chicken.
So the next time you see the Robert Oettel Stone remember more than just a man. Remember a revolution in German poultry. Remember a dedicated civic leader. Remember a legacy etched in granite and in the history of Goerlitz.