Hanau city pays homage to entrepreneur Heinrich Brüning through a posthumous tomb dedication
In a significant move, the city of Hanau has decided to elevate the grave of Heinrich Brünning, a prominent figure in its economic and city history, to an honorary grave. This decision was made on the 5th of September, 2025.
Heinrich Brünning, born in 1851 and deceased in 1918, started his career as a young merchant and later founded the internationally recognised "Lithographic Art Institute Heinrich & August Brünning" in Hanau. This company, established during the Gründerzeit, significantly contributed to the industrial development of the city.
The Lithographic Art Institute was renowned for producing colourful cigar box labels, postcards, and posters. At its peak, the company employed over 700 people and was awarded an honorary diploma at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893.
Heinrich Brünning was described as a strict but benevolent employer who cared for the well-being of his employees. His contributions to the city extend beyond his successful business ventures, as he helped make the Brothers Grimm city known far beyond its borders.
The grave of Heinrich Brünning, a protected monument, reflects the taste of the Gründerzeit and traditional sepulchral symbolism. It features an impressive aedicula, wreaths, a rose bouquet, and a symbolic column. The city of Hanau will now maintain and upkeep this elaborately designed grave.
The elevation of Heinrich Brünning's grave to an honorary grave ensures the permanent preservation of his memory as a commercial councilor and entrepreneur. This move honours Brünning's significant contributions to Hanau's industrial development during the Gründerzeit, under the leadership of Mayor Claus Kaminsky.
For more information about this event, please contact Florian Bauer at [email protected].
