Hanau city pays tribute to the late entrepreneur Heinrich Brüning by erecting a monumental tomb in his honor.

In a significant move, the city of Hanau has decided to elevate the grave of Heinrich Brüning, a prominent figure in its economic and city history, to an honorary grave. The grave, located on the Hanau main cemetery, is a testament to the city's recognition of Brüning's life's work, entrepreneurial courage, and services to the economic development of Hanau.

Born in 1851 in Langendiebach, Brüning was a young merchant who developed his father's business with courage and foresight. In 1892, he founded the "Lithographic Art Institute Heinrich & August Brüning" in Hanau with his brother August. The company, which at times employed over 700 people, produced colorful cigar box labels, postcards, and posters. Their products were awarded an honorary diploma at the World's Fair in Chicago in 1893.

Heinrich Brüning significantly shaped the industrial development of Hanau during the Gründerzeit, a period of rapid industrial growth and urbanisation in Germany. The grave, an impressive aedicula that reflects the taste of the Gründerzeit and the family's appreciation, underscores the city's respect for his contributions.

The grave, as an honorary grave, symbolizes the city's commitment to the maintenance and care of this important historical site. It also serves as a reminder of Brüning's significant role in shaping the industrial development of Hanau during the Gründerzeit. Contemporaries described him as a strict but benevolent employer who cared about the well-being of his employees.

Mayor Claus Kaminsky honours Brüning for his influence on Hanau's economic and city history. The city will now take over the care and maintenance of the elaborately designed grave. The grave, adorned with wreaths, rose bouquet, and a symbolic column, expressing traditional sepulchral symbolism, is a significant step in the city's ongoing commemoration and honour of its influential figures.

For press inquiries, please contact Florian Bauer at [email protected]. This notification dates back to 05.09.2025, marking a permanent preservation of the memory of the honorary citizen and entrepreneur, Heinrich Brüning. The city's honouring of Brüning signifies its recognition of his legacy and his enduring impact on the city.