"An Extraordinary Skill Hidden in Plain Sight"
Impoverished Poet Sophie Dethleffs Resides in Schröderstift
Frank Kürschner-Pelkmann's portrait series "Century Women" revolves around the life of Sophie Dethleffs, a destitute poet residing in the Schröderstift for over a decade.
Born on February 10, 1809, in Heide, Holstein, Dethleffs was born to a high-ranking official but lost her mother shortly after birth. Known for her imaginative and cheerful nature, Dethleffs lived in a small apartment in the Schröderstift, a residential home established by merchant Johann Heinrich Schröder for those in less fortunate circumstances. She lived rent-free and received a small pension for her upkeep.
The Schröderstift, originally opened in 1853, provided a sanctuary for Dethleffs, who may have gained her temporary lodging due to her poignant poems. Prior to her residence there, she faced financial difficulties when her father was exposed for embezzlement. As a consequence, he lost his official position and became completely impoverished, leaving Dethleffs to fend for herself.
Notably, the Hinz&Kunzt vendors serve as the primary avenue to obtain the current issue of the magazine featuring Dethleffs' story. Individuals outside of Hamburg may subscribe to a print edition to access the content.
In the small apartment she called home within Schröderstift, Sophie Dethleffs found solace and inspiration among the pages of books that filled her space, serving as her source of entertainment in the midst of her challenging circumstances. Her life's story, imbued with poignant verses and heartfelt poems, was brought to life by Frank Kürschner-Pelkmann's portrait series "Century Women," providing a beacon of hope and creativity for those who might face financial struggles similar to her own.
