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Friedrich Grimm Jr.Calvinist priest, grandfather of the Brothers Grimm
Date of Birth: 11.03.1707
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Background and Education
- Ministerial Tenure
- Family
- Grief and Remembrance
- Domestic Care and Sibling Support
- Final Years and Legacy
Background and Education
Friedrich Grimm, the paternal grandfather of the Brothers Grimm, was a Calvinist minister who inherited his father's parish in Hanau. He received his education at the Lansschule in Hanau, the Old Gymnasium in Bremen, and the University of Heidelberg, where he studied theology.
Ministerial Tenure
In 1730, Friedrich Grimm became the pastor of St. Catherine's Church in Steinau an der Straße, a position he held for 47 years. His congregation regarded him as a "zealous shepherd and guardian of souls."
Family
On October 6, 1734, Friedrich Grimm married Christina Elisabeth Heilmann, the daughter of a court counselor. Together, they had eight sons and three daughters, though many of their children died in infancy or childhood. Christina Elisabeth passed away at the age of 39 during childbirth.
Grief and Remembrance
Friedrich Grimm was deeply affected by his wife's death. He had her buried in St. Catherine's Cathedral between the altar and the pulpit where he preached. According to Wilhelm Grimm, Friedrich Grimm brought fresh flowers to her grave every Sunday and on church holidays.
Domestic Care and Sibling Support
After his wife's death, Friedrich Grimm's oldest daughter, Juliana Charlotte Frederica, took over household duties and cared for her siblings, including Philipp Wilhelm, the father of the Brothers Grimm. Jacob Grimm later recalled his "dear Aunt Schlemmer" with fondness.
Final Years and Legacy
Friedrich Grimm died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 70. He was buried in the New Cemetery in Steinau under a massive stone monument. In 1997, his remains were moved to St. Catherine's Church and now rest next to his wife's grave.
