Blumenau, Brazil’s most iconic German heritage city, was founded in 1850 by a young pharmacist from Germany — Dr. Hermann Blumenau. But who was he, and why did he travel across the Atlantic to create a new colony?

🇩🇪 From Germany to Brazil

Born in 1819 in Hasselfelde, Germany, Hermann Blumenau studied chemistry and pharmacy in Erlangen and Berlin. Inspired by the dream of creating a German colony, he first arrived in Brazil in 1846. After scouting the Itajaí Valley, he returned to Germany to gather support and later returned with 17 settlers in 1850.

🏞️ Founding the Colony

On September 2, 1850, Blumenau officially founded the colony that now bears his name. With a focus on education, community, and cultural heritage, the settlement grew steadily along the banks of the Itajaí-Açu River.

📚 A Man of Science and Vision

Dr. Blumenau promoted education and science. He founded the city’s first school and wrote extensively about his experiences in Brazil. His work helped attract new settlers and contributed to the development of Santa Catarina.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Legacy Today

• The main road, Rua Dr. Blumenau, honors his name
• A statue of Hermann Blumenau stands in front of the Museu da Família Colonial
• The Hermann Blumenau Foundation preserves his letters and artifacts
• His birthday, December 26, is still commemorated locally

🏛️ Where to Learn More

Museu da Família Colonial
Located on Alameda Duque de Caxias, this museum houses Blumenau’s former home and early settler artifacts.
🔗 TripAdvisor

Arquivo Histórico José Ferreira da Silva
Home to documents, photos, and maps from the city’s early years.
🔗 blumenau.sc.gov.br

🌍 Final Thought

Hermann Blumenau’s vision created more than a colony — it laid the foundation for a proud, multicultural city that continues to celebrate its roots.