Old Chaplaincy

The pair of houses at Ellenstraße 28 and 29 forms a harmonious ensemble, each with matching 19th-century façades. Of particular note are the front doors, carved in the traditional German style.

These buildings were originally commissioned by Vicar Heinrich Reck, the first headmaster of the Thomaeum Grammar School, founded in 1659. Initially intended as an Annuntiaten convent for a contemplative order of nuns, they became known as the Reck Houses.

Later, they served as chaplaincies – residences and service buildings for parish chaplains, many of whom lived here with their families or housekeepers.

Heinrich Reck, an energetic councillor and educator, was instrumental in expanding school education in Kempen. In 1668, he oversaw the construction of the Burse, the first dedicated school building for the grammar school.