"The view set us on a wild pursuit" or "The spectacle sent us running in circles"

In the vibrant city of Oberhausen, a replica suspension railway has been erected, spanning a street and serving as a testament to a unique piece of local history. This installation is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a heartwarming gesture for those who visit the city to see their relatives or friends, and a nod to the enduring legacy of a beloved symbol.

The suspension railway in question is a nod to the original railway that once traversed the Wupper River in the nearby city of Wuppertal. The most famous passenger of this railway was a little elephant named Tuffi, who made headlines in 1950 when he jumped from the suspension railway into the Wupper River below. Tuffi's daring leap has since become a legendary story in the region.

The replica section of the suspension railway in Oberhausen is a homage to this unique feature of the original railway. Hanging from the ceiling structure of the replica is a small model of Tuffi, adding a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to the installation.

Ulrich Reinhoff, a resident of Düsseldorf, was moved by this installation. In a recent letter to the editor of a popular website, he expressed his admiration for the replica and its connection to the city's history. Reinhoff's girlfriend, who used to live in Oberhausen before moving, was particularly touched by the sight of the installation, as it brought back memories of her time in the city.

The installation in Oberhausen demonstrates that a bridge can be built between cities without an official partnership. It serves as a proof that the "Tuffi craze" has even reached the Ruhr region, and it's a reminder that symbols of unity and shared history can bring people together, no matter the distance.

If you'd like to share your thoughts on this installation or any other topic, you can submit a letter to the editor by emailing redaktion@unsere-website. For guidelines on general publication, please click here. To read more Roundtable reader letters, click here.

"The view set us on a wild pursuit" or "The spectacle sent us running in circles"