[1] This custom dates back to the reconstruction of the neighborhood after the fire of 1814 which was deliberately started by occupying French troops as a defensive measure.

[5] The prostitutes (nicknamed for their clothing Stiefelfrauen, or "women with boots") sit on stools in the windows, usually scantily dressed, to try to entice prospective clients to enter.

[6] In September 2005, the Energy Hamburg radio station was fined €10,000 for having made a Live Morning aus der Herbertstraße in March, the content of which was criticized for inappropriate sexual practices and offers of prostitution.

In December 2015, Hamburg police handed out flyers at the entrances to Herbertstraße warning male visitors of the prostitutes' tricks including charging excessive amounts for supposed sexual services.

[8] On 8 March 2019, International Women's Day, members of the feminist activist group FEMEN removed the metal gates keeping Herbertstraße out of public view.