Wegekreuz Lustheide

Gazing upon the Wegekreuz Lustheide, one can almost hear whispers of a bygone era. This wayside cross, standing as a silent sentinel in Cologne’s Refrath district, holds a story woven with love, faith, and community. Wegekreuz Lustheide isn’t just a cross. It’s a testament to enduring devotion. It was erected in 1897 by August and Elisabeth Ossenbach. They commissioned the cross to commemorate their silver wedding anniversary. August, a baker from Lindlar, and Elisabeth, from Kürten, began their married life on April 23, 1872. August, ever the entrepreneur, ran his bakery business from the “Restauration zum Königsforst”. He would traverse the streets of Refrath with his horse and cart, delivering fresh bread to the community. The Wegekreuz Lustheide reflects the Ossenbachs’ deep faith. The three-tiered structure features a raised base. Atop this sits an inscribed block. It’s crowned by a console adorned with flower reliefs. This likely held fresh blooms, a vibrant contrast to the stone. The inscription reads: “Erected by the couple August Ossenbach and Elisabeth nee Arnold in memory of their silver wedding anniversary on April 23, 1897”. The central block depicts a poignant image: the Sorrowful Mother of God. A sword pierces Mary’s heart, symbolizing her grief. Above this rests the crucifix. Its bronze figure watches over the neighborhood, a beacon of hope. The pedestal beneath the crucifix bears the simple yet powerful inscription: “Mein Jesu Barmherzigkeit” (My Jesus Mercy). Wegekreuz Lustheide has faced its share of challenges. Its original location was along Lustheide street. However, increasing development and property changes necessitated its move. It now resides in a corner of the parking lot at Lustheide 44, between Lustheide and Im Hilgersfeld streets. The Bürger- und Heimatverein Refrath (Refrath Citizens’ and Homeland Association) has played a crucial role in preserving this historical gem. They spearheaded the cross’s restoration in 1998. Two of the Ossenbachs’ granddaughters witnessed the rededication. They had initially reached out to the association for help with the restoration. Another restoration followed in 2011. Sadly, in 2012, thieves stole the original bronze crucifix. Despite public appeals and notifications to metal dealers, it was never recovered. The Bürger- und Heimatverein Refrath stepped in once more. They provided a replacement crucifix. This new cross, salvaged from an abandoned grave in Cologne-Poll, now graces the Wegekreuz Lustheide. It stands as a symbol of resilience. Since 1985, Wegekreuz Lustheide has been a protected monument. It serves as a reminder of the Ossenbachs’ enduring love, the community’s dedication to preservation, and the power of faith and remembrance.