Kastel Honours Visionary Mayor Heinrich Löffelholz with Honorary Grave Until 2045
Kastel has honoured its former mayor, Heinrich Löffelholz, by designating his gravesite as an honorary grave until 2045. The decision recognises his lasting impact on the town during his 18-year term from 1890 to 1908. Lord Mayor Gert-Uwe Mende praised Löffelholz for his responsibility, modernisation efforts, and forward-thinking leadership.
Löffelholz's time in office brought major improvements to Kastel's infrastructure. Under his leadership, the town built its first waterworks, replacing old private and communal wells with a reliable supply of clean water. By 1904, this system extended to Amöneburg, ensuring safer drinking water for more residents.
He also pushed for the construction of sewer systems and the paving of streets, transforming Kastel's urban environment. One of his most notable achievements was the completion of the Kaiser Bridge, which connected Mainz and Kastel, improving transport and trade between the two areas.
His contributions earned official recognition during his lifetime. In 1903, he received the Order of Merit of Philip the Magnanimous (Second Class). Two years later, he was granted permission to wear the Red Eagle Order (Fourth Class), further acknowledging his service to the community.
The decision to preserve his gravesite as an honorary grave follows a long-standing tradition in Wiesbaden. However, no similar honours have been awarded in the past decade for comparable civic achievements, with the last known case being that of Hans-Joachim Karge from an earlier period.
The honorary grave status ensures Löffelholz's legacy will be remembered for decades. His work on water supply, sanitation, and transport shaped Kastel's development in the early 20th century. The town's recognition reflects the lasting value of his leadership and vision.
