Andreas Ernst Gottfried Polysius, born on November 17, 1827 in Klein-Kühnau, son of a shepherd, initially followed in his father's footsteps but was quite dissatisfied with his assigned vocation. Upon reaching the age of majority (21 years), he started an apprenticeship as a locksmith and metalworker.
After completing his apprenticeship, Polysius traveled extensively across Europe including France, England, Austria and Italy. He also worked in France for a while, which is why he spoke not only German and English but also French.
In the spring of 1859 he passed his master's examination for the master craftsman certificate: master locksmith and metalworker in Dessau. Shortly thereafter Gottfried Polysius’ locksmith shop commenced operations in Dessau.
