Left-Behind Seamen’s Trunks Auctioned in Hamburg. Proceeds to Fund Renovation.
Hamburg, July 8 – Dozens of treasure hunters gathered on Wednesday at an auction of left-behind seamen’s trunks in Hamburg, hoping for a big find. While some were disappointed, the event successfully raised funds for the Seamen’s Mission.
This auction was the first of its kind since 2014 and only the second ever organized by the Seamen’s Mission. Participants had to decide whether to bid on a trunk or other items without being able to inspect the contents beforehand. Starting prices ranged from five to ten euros, depending on the weight of the luggage, with the highest bid reaching 20 euros.
Mysterious Contents and Happy Bidders
The non-profit organization auctioned off approximately 20 trunks, bags, and mysterious boxes. The proceeds are earmarked for the upcoming renovation of the association’s premises.
One bidder, for instance, secured a promising carton from which she later extracted an ornate knife, leather fittings, and model figures. Another student found valuable silver spoons, wine accessories, and jewelry boxes in her trunk. She expressed immense satisfaction with her purchase, stating she would gladly participate in such an event again.
Overall Proceeds of €200 Deemed Satisfactory
Felix Tolle, Managing Director of the Seamen’s Mission, offered a positive assessment of the event, despite the absence of a major financial windfall. He expressed satisfaction with the total proceeds of around 200 euros.
The trunks were left behind by seamen in their rooms at the Seamen’s Home years ago. Tolle explained that these often contained items used in their daily lives or things that brought them joy. All items not collected within a certain period are stored in the basement and later auctioned off.
The Seamen’s Home: A Home Away from Home
Tolle emphasized that the Seamen’s Home serves as “a home away from home” for many sailors. It offers not only short-term or long-term accommodation but also pastoral care and bureaucratic support. He noted a decrease in the turnover of seamen at the home, with the number of long-term residents shrinking to 50. For financial reasons, the Seamen’s Home now also offers accommodation to tourists.
Duckdalben Seamen’s Mission: A Temporary Home
When sailors from all over the world dock in Hamburg, they often visit the club in Waltershof, where many feel like part of a large family. The Duckdalben team conducted over 25,000 conversations with sailors in 2024, and the demand for chocolate remains high.
The Seamen’s Home on Hamburg’s Michel has hosted countless sailors from around the world. While much has changed over the years, it continues to be a vital resource for seafarers.
Source: NDR 90.3 | July 8, 2026 | 12:13 PM
