“Steure dem Dieb” once meant “Störe den (Holz)dieb”. That’s what this Steuerndieb Plaque is all about. It marks a place with a long and interesting history.
The Steuerndieb Plaque commemorates a watchtower. This tower was first mentioned in 1392. It was part of the Hanoverian Landwehr. The Landwehr was a defense system. It protected the area around Hanover. The tower stood on this very spot.
The name Steuerndieb originally referred to the tower. It meant “Disturb the thief” in Low German. The tower’s purpose was to deter wood thieves. These thieves would steal wood from the nearby forest.
Watchmen guarded the tower. Their job was to protect the forest. They didn’t earn much money. So, they were allowed to sell drinks. This helped them make a living. Since that time “Steuerndieb” has been documented as a tavern.
Over the centuries, the buildings at Steuerndieb changed. After the Second World War, the foundation for today’s Steuerndieb was laid.
In 1870, guests could still cook their own coffee. Around 1900, members of a cycling club built a bike path. It ran from Pferdeturm to the zoo. It was one of the first bike paths ever.
From 1924 to 1955, the Eilenriede Race took place annually. Motorcyclists raced through the Eilenriede forest. They passed the Steuerndieb on a 4.8 km track. The Eilenriede is the biggest city forest in Europe.
Around 1750, a new forest and inn was built. It was leased to different foresters. They also ran a tavern. In 1763, a new peat barn was built at the Steuerndieb. This was after a storm destroyed the one in Altwarmbüchener Moor.
In the early 19th century, it became a popular spot. People enjoyed entertainment like shooting stands. Later, bowling alleys were added.
After 1872, only restaurant owners leased the property. Around 1900, the city wanted to renovate forest restaurants. From 1901 to 1904, the modest Steuerndieb building was torn down. A new building was constructed in its place. It was designed in neo-Baroque and country house styles by the architect Otto Ruprecht.
The new park offered 4000 seats in the beer and coffee garden. Otto Reuter ran the new inn. He also had a wine restaurant in Hanover.
In 1913, the Völkerschlacht oak was planted near the Steuerndieb. This commemorated the centenary of the Battle of Leipzig. Soon after, wounded soldiers were brought to a nearby military hospital.
Around 1935, extensive construction work was carried out for the Eilenriede Race. Dangerous curves were straightened. Up to 150 workers were involved daily.
During World War II, the Wehrmacht used the Steuerndieb as a munitions depot. It was damaged by bombs during air raids. After the war, the house served as accommodation for refugees. Later, British military authorities seized the property.
In 1955, the Steuerndieb was demolished. Only one building remained. It was called the Hanebuth Cave. In 1956, it was expanded into the new forest restaurant Steuerndieb.
In 1967 and 1968, the forest restaurant was rebuilt. It became a sophisticated restaurant. Stefan Schwerdtfeger designed it.
Today, the Steuerndieb offers fine seasonal cuisine. It also serves international classics. The restaurant has a garden terrace. There is also a beer garden. You can find modern guest rooms in the forest.