Steinernes Kreuz, Remscheid

Steinernes Kreuz is the common name for a small and rather inconspicuous memorial very close to the Jakobsweg on the north bank of the Remscheid Eschbachtalsperre, where the old Cologne-Dortmund army road used to run along and is located on the footpath to the Birgden I farmstead.

It bears the following inscription, already weathered: "Prayer for the soul of Mr. Josef Weizels, whose assault this cross is set, in memory of October 17 in the year of the Lord 1554." Some researchers also argue that it must be the year 1509.

According to tradition, a money messenger with the above name was attacked and killed at this place. Dying, he shouted to passing juniper thrushes that they should avenge him. Some kilometers further in Bergisch Born the two robbers would have eaten roasted juniper thrushes, also called "Krammetsvögel" in the Bergisches Land, as a meal and would have said while serving: "They won't betray us." However, the innkeeper overheard the conversation and passed on the information about the crime.

Due to this carelessness, both criminals were caught, sentenced in Cologne and executed there by hanging.

In the past, the "Steinern-Kreuzer-Kirmes" was held here early on Whit Monday. Historians assume that it developed from a memorial celebration for Josef Weizel, who died here. The tradition of the fair was later continued in Bergisch Born. Here, the Krammetsvogelkirmes was held on the last weekend of September until 2012.

The monument stands a little off the thoroughfare, but is always visited by passersby.