Uckermark loses a legend: Brigitte Martin's unforgettable world of legends

Uckermark loses a legend: Brigitte Martin's unforgettable world of legends

Stories have a long tradition in the heart of the Uckermark, and nothing embodies this better than the work of Brigitte Martin. The author, who died on November 9, 2025, left behind an impressive legacy by documenting countless legends and myths of the region. Her work “Petals in Coffee” deals intensively with legends that come from the time of Christianization and are deeply immersed in the ancient beliefs of the Uckermark. It contains, among other things, the gripping story of Sabine, who sank in Lake Sabinen, as well as the story of Red Hans, which is linked to the history of the Slavic castle, and the sleeping giant near Neu Temmen.

Brigitte Martin, born in Königs Wusterhausen in 1939, became famous in the GDR through her collection of short stories “The Red Balloon”. During this time, she worked as a feature author in radio and particularly focused on the challenges faced by single mothers. Her remarkable biography is shaped by her relationship with Robert Havemann, a communist resistance fighter. Even though the separation came in 1971, this connection left its mark. Martin was observed by the GDR State Security, which did not stop her from being creative and further researching the Uckermark myths.

Creative escape

In order to escape the persecution of the security forces, she occupied a barn in Arnimswalde that was due to be demolished in 1978. She used this time to design rest areas in places associated with the region's legends. Her works of art can be found in several places, including in Libbesicke and at the Fergitz Church. Particularly impressive is the sculpture of her daughter Johanna, which commemorates Sabine's legendary jump at Lake Sabinen.

The stories she collected are not just stories, they are part of the cultural memory of the Uckermark. Whether it's about mystical figures or gruesome events, their works help keep the fascination of this region alive. The Uckermark Kurier visited Brigitte Martin in 2015 and said goodbye to her “Galerie Langer Stall”, where her art and her passion for the Uckermark were expressed.

A lasting legacy

Her death leaves a big gap in the culture of the Uckermark, because Brigitte Martin's literary work was tireless and full of joy for life. The memories of her stories continue to be told in the region, and the myths she preserved live on through the stories of future generations. With a keen eye for cultural topics, Martin embarked on a unique journey to preserve the lore that is now part of our shared heritage. Their contribution is unforgettable, and the Uckermark will always have a place for their stories.