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Steensgaard Gods
Steensgaard tells the powerful story of Vincents Steensen, who led the defence of Langeland in 1659 and sacrificed his life for his homeland.
Steensgaard is the site of one of Langeland’s most dramatic and heroic stories. On the night of 7 February 1659, Swedish warships approached the island’s eastern coast. But Langeland was prepared. The 66‑year‑old owner of Steensgaard, Vincents Steensen, mounted his horse and rode to the coastal defences to lead the fight alongside local farmers and a handful of soldiers.
Despite heavy cannon fire, the defenders held their ground. The battle reached its climax at Andemose Knøs, where the Swedes landed and brutal close‑combat fighting unfolded in the darkness. Here, Vincents Steensen was fatally wounded and died later that night at Steensgaard.
His final words – a heartfelt plea for unity and courage – were later inscribed on a memorial stone erected in 1909 at the very place where the battle took place. Today, Steensgaard stands as a reminder of bravery, solidarity, and devotion to homeland.