A legacy for Prenzlau: Hans Burmeister and the Marienkirche

A legacy for Prenzlau: Hans Burmeister and the Marienkirche

On May 29, 2025, Hans Burmeister died at the age of 89, a loss that is felt in Prenzlau and far beyond. The committed monument conservator and expert on local history not only leaves behind a considerable legacy, but also many mourners who share his passion for the history of the Uckermark. Born on September 28, 1935 in Prenzlau, Burmeister always had the city and its architecture in his heart.

After graduating from Pushkin High School in 1954, he began an apprenticeship as a bricklayer, which paved the way for him to study architecture and civil engineering in Weimar and Wismar. His commitment to the region became apparent early on when he was a city councilor in Prenzlau from 1958 to 1962, where he worked for the Liberal Democratic Party of Germany (LDPD). His professional career ultimately led him to the Neubrandenburg Agricultural Combine, which recognized his skills for many years.

Dedicated monument conservationist

From 1982, Burmeister took on the role of district representative for monument preservation at the Prenzlau District Council and was passionate about preserving the local building culture. He created the district's list of monuments, which was of immense importance for many preserved buildings. In 1984 he took over the management of the “Workshop for Monument Preservation”, which grew into an important specialist department under his leadership. A particularly formative project was the restoration of St. Mary's Church in Prenzlau, a building that was close to his heart and which he led from 1987.

Burmeister was not only an important player in monument preservation, but was also involved in various organizations. These include the interest group for monument preservation, the AG for Uckermark church history and the Uckermark history association in Prenzlau, where he has been a member since 1989. His numerous publications on the city's history and the history of the reconstruction of St. Mary's Church are still a valuable source for those interested today.

Recognition and honors

His tireless work was not only appreciated by the community, but also officially recognized. In 2015 he was entered in the Golden Book of the city of Prenzlau, which illustrates his many years of service. Two years later, he was honored by the Uckermärkische Historische Verein, which awarded him the honorary plate for his special achievements in monument protection and local history. Burmeister's work had a lasting impact on the cityscape and historical consciousness of Prenzlau.

For many, his commitment is a role model that should also be highlighted at the future Open Monument Day, which will take place on September 12, 2025. This year's motto, "Being and appearing - in history, architecture and monument preservation", comes to life through his work and life's work, because he in particular was a prime example of the meeting of tradition and modern thinking in monument protection.

Hans Burmeister may be gone, but his legacy remains. St. Mary's Church, the city of Prenzlau and numerous historical sites will forever be a reminder of his passion and tireless commitment, and all those interested in the history of the Uckermark will always find a valuable treasure in his works and knowledge.

For more information about his life's work, check out Northern Courier, about the honor of the Uckermärkischen historical association Uckermark History Association or about this year's Open Monument Day Market mirror.