Wulf-Isebrand-Platz

General information:

Credit where credit is due – Wulf Isebrand is a folk hero in Dithmarschen. His heroic deeds are many years past, but that makes them no less valuable or worthy of remembrance.

The exact year of Isebrand’s birth is not known. He was likely born between 1465 and 1480, and died, according to the chronicles of the state of Dithmarschen, in 1506. It is likely that he came from Holland and was married to Anna Muhlen aus Epenwöhrde. So much for his birth and death dates – unfortunately, exact numbers and facts are not available.

Now, on to his heroic deeds: On 17 February 1500, the farmers of Dithmarschen conquered the far more numerous troops of the Danish King Johann. I. and his brother, Duke Friedrich von Holstein, in the battle at Hemmingstedt. During the battle, Isebrand took over the leadership of a battalion, significantly contributing to the victory for Dithmarschen. It was an important victory, because it secured the independence of the Farmer’s Republic for another 59 years.

Nearly 400 years later, the folk hero received an accolade to honour him and his services: In 1926, Heide named Wulf-Isebrand-Platz.