Southern Minnesota landmark: Hermann the German needs $12M for restoration
New Ulm landmark needs $12M in repairs
A historical landmark in southern Minnesota needs $12 million in repairs. FOX 9's Maury Glover has the story.
NEW ULM, Minn. (FOX 9) - An iconic Minnesota monument that has stood watch over New Ulm for more than a century is now in urgent need of major repairs.
City leaders say Hermann the German needs significant restoration
What we know:
Hermann the German is a 129-year-old copper statue and a symbol of New Ulm’s heritage.
"Hermann's a part of every festival, every parade," said Joey Schugel, Parks and Recreation Director for the city of New Ulm.
The statue, which stands 102 feet above the ground and overlooks the Minnesota River Valley, was refurbished more than 20 years ago. But water has seeped into the base, damaging the brick, concrete and limestone structure.
This ongoing damage means it may soon be unsafe for the public to climb the 99 steps to the top for much longer.
"He absolutely does need some help and you know the time is now," Schugel said.
A big part of the community's identity
The backstory:
Hermann the German is more than just a statue for New Ulm. For generations, it has been a gathering point and a symbol of the city’s rich German heritage. The monument’s presence is woven into the fabric of local celebrations and daily life.
City leaders have known for some time that repairs would be necessary. "It's nothing new to the city of New Ulm to know that Herman was in need of some work," said Schugel. "Now we're at the stage where something significant is gonna have to be done."
The restoration project would involve bringing the statue down and reconstructing everything from the base to the pillars and the dome. The estimated cost is nearly $12 million.
The Hermann Monument is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and draws thousands of visitors each year.
"We have people come here from all around the world every year. Up to 10,000 people walk through those gates every year and we feel the significance of this project is something that could be funded with whether it's state or federal funds," said Schugel.
Solid footing for the future
What they're saying:
If the city can raise the money, leaders believe the reconstruction would take a couple of years and would ensure the monument stands strong for another century.
"It's an exciting time to see what the next possibilities are for Hermann to be around in New Ulm for another 129 years," said a city official.
The Hermann Monument Society is also planning a public fundraising campaign to raise $1 million for the project, with hopes to launch it by fall.