The tale of Klabautermann dates back to the late 18th Century, straight from the heart of the German maritime culture. Klabautermann, a kind of Kobold or sprite from the depths of Germanic mythology, is said to live on board of seafaring vessels, aiding sailors and fishermen in their endeavors to sail through the rough North Sea. As long as the ship was well cared for, the Klabautermann lived a contented life, busying himself with tasks around the ship; mending ripped sails, re-tying tangled ropes, and alerting the crewmembers to approaching dangers or threats during their sailing expeditions. Despite his helpful nature, this bewhiskered, pipe-smoking spirit was seldom seen by the crew. The only time sailors generally caught a glimpse of the Klabautermann was when disaster was about to strike. Seeing the spirit was a considerable omen, foretelling doom and ruination to the ship and all those on board. This story was prevalent amongst the seafarers, and it is believed that it also played an influential role in encouraging a general ship maintenance culture that ensured the upkeep and longevity of the seafaring vessels. The Klabautermann is a significant part of the local folklore, serving as a constant reminder to the town’s maritime past and the intriguing legends that went with it.