Harry von de Gass, Idstein

Harry von de Gass was an Idstein original. In his honor, a life-size bronze monument was inaugurated in Idstein's pedestrian zone on August 28, 2008. The approximately 24,000 euros needed for this were raised through donations from the people of Idstein. Among other things, young musicians from the Catholic parish of St. Martin gave a successful benefit concert.

Harry Seegebarth came to the Idstein socio-educational center Kalmenhof at the age of nine. He lived here until his death. He was employed in various areas, such as the tailor shop, housekeeping, basket making, the kitchen and finally in the laundry on the mangle. Despite his mental handicap, he gained special notoriety in his hometown as a singing street sweeper, conspicuous for his original dress. He was involved as an altar boy in St. Martin's parish for over forty years. During the festive entry into the church and during processions, he carried the recitation cross. In addition, he was an honorary member of the scout tribe of the parish and participated in many events in the city, e.g. as Kerbeborsch, court singer, Fassnachter and helper. In 2002, he could be seen with his work equipment in the Hessentag parade.

The bronze sculpture was designed by Waldemar Schröder. It was placed in Idstein at the corner of Rodergasse/Schulze-Delitzsch-Strasse, deliberately near a manhole cover, as Harry tended to sweep some dirt into sewer manholes.

The city of Idstein published a leaflet which, in addition to biographical data, photos and tribute, contains a song that M. Helmut Fischer had composed to him and which he sang on many occasions, with the refrain Des is de Harry von de Gass! In addition, the city illustrates its notes on the obligation to clear and grit with an image of the sculpture.