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Restoration in Eberstadt unearths cassette from 1899 – return of the statue imminent
During the extensive restoration of the Germania monument in Darmstadt-Eberstadt, a historic metal box dating from 1899 was opened – containing a handwritten certificate and documents from the time of the laying of the foundation stone. The newly gilded inscription and a restored base are currently preparing the way for the return of the Germania statue to its original location near the Church of the Holy Trinity.
Cassette containing historical and current documents
Since June 20, 2025, the base has contained a mixture of historical and contemporary artifacts: a copy of the Darmstädter Echo from the same day, euro coins, a flyer from the Dotter Foundation, a business card from the responsible stonemason Jonas Neukirchen, a copy of the 1899 certificate, and a new text for opening the box – signed by district administrator Ludwig Achenbach and Dr. Erich Kraft from the Eberstadt-Frankenstein Historical Society.
Peace symbol instead of war memorial
The Germania statue, dating from 1899, was originally erected to commemorate the Eberstadt residents who participated in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71. However, it deliberately conveys a peaceful image: the sword is not raised, but carried calmly at the belt. The Hans Erich and Marie Elfriede Dotter Foundation, the main sponsor of the restoration, therefore sees the monument as a European peace memorial.
The cracks in the base, which compromised the building's stability, made renovation absolutely necessary. This was carried out professionally in coordination with the cultural affairs office and the historic preservation authorities.
Hope for the future
With a view to future generations, the new documentation in the base contains a clear message: "May future finders read this text in a peaceful Germany and Europe!" – so ends the current accompanying text for the time capsule.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
