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Perleberg is reminiscent of Richard Schuch: a life full of joy and commitment
Find out more about Richard Schuch, the popular Santa Claus from Perleberg, who would have lived to be 100 years old.
Perleberg is reminiscent of Richard Schuch: a life full of joy and commitment
In the small Perleberg there is reason to remember and celebrate. Richard Schuch, a well-known face in the city, would have turned 100 on August 23, 2025. The city community looks back on a fulfilled life that was characterized by tireless commitment to its citizens and a loving presence. Schuch, whose traces extend back to the Advent season, not only made children's eyes light up as Santa Claus, but was also a passionate organ grinder.
Having started out as a machinist in the Wittenberg sewing machine factory, he showed a good knack for various professions. He later worked, among other things, as a bicycle mechanic, police sergeant and driver. He even made a name for himself as a country film projectionist at the Union Theater from 1937 to 1989. In 1994, the city recognized his commitment and entered him in the Golden Book, an honor that shows how interwoven he was into the cultural threads of Perleberg.
A life for the community
The love of Perleberg was omnipresent for Schuch from childhood. He lived his whole life in the city and died in 2002 at the age of 77. During his active time, he was not only known for his appearances as Santa Claus, but also for the donations that he collected for the zoo all year round. At zoo festivals and markets, he delighted the guests with his barrel organ and thus ensured conviviality and joy.
With his great warmth and charitable spirit, he made the Christmas market a special experience for the little ones. Distribution of candies was as well as his skills as the ability to make people laugh. His commitment to the community was tireless and has shaped the image of the city sustainably.
The historical backdrop of Perleberg
Perleberg himself has a fascinating story. The city was first mentioned in 1239 and has developed from a Slavic settlement into an important trading center. Strategically cheap, Perleberg played an important role between the Elbe and Havel. The name "Perleberg", the origin of which is partly unclear, symbolizes home and belonging for many citizens.
The historical significance of the place is underlined by the relics of its rich past. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Perleberg was a self-confident town that belonged to the Hanseatic League and had its own town charter. Today the name Perleberg is not only part of the historical heritage, but also an integral part of the cultural self-image of the residents. Whether on street signs or club names, the name lives on, embedded in the city's everyday life and traditions.
Overall, Richard Schuch remains a shining example of what it means to be part of a community. His memory and commitment will always be remembered in Perleberg. August 23, 2025 will be a very special day for all of Schuch's friends and supporters, celebrating not only respect for a wonderful person, but also the connection to the city of Perleberg.
A commemorative leaflet about Richard Schuch's life is available free of charge in the city information office at Große Markt 12, and the citizens are looking forward to honoring his special day together.
For more information about Richard Schuch and the history of Perleberg, see [maz-online.de]. stadt-perleberg.de and nordkurier.de.