Baedeker, Karl (bā`dĕkər), 1801–59, German publisher, founder of the Baedeker guidebooks. His printing establishment was at Koblenz, but his son Fritz, who continued the business, moved it to Leipzig. Printed in several languages, the guidebooks provided valuable historical information and ran into many editions, especially for European countries. Although the firm's files were destroyed during World War II, the business was revived after the war by a great-grandson of Baedeker. In 1950 the firm began publishing automobile touring guides.

Baedeker, Karl

Karl Baedeker, oil painting by an unknown artist

(credit: Popperfoto)

(born Nov. 3, 1801, Essen, Duchy of Oldenburg—died Oct. 4, 1859, Koblenz, Prussia) German publisher. The son of a printer and bookseller, Baedeker started a firm at Koblenz in 1827 that became known for its guidebooks. His aim was to give travelers the practical information necessary to enable them to dispense with paid guides. A notable feature of the books was the use of “stars” to indicate objects and views of special interest and to designate reliable hotels. By the time of his death much of Europe had been covered by his guidebooks. Under the ownership of his sons the firm expanded to include French and English editions.