Stadtarchiv Iserlohn

The Stadtarchiv Iserlohn, nestled in the charming city of Iserlohn in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a treasure trove of local history and culture. This municipal archive not only preserves the administrative records of the city but also houses a fascinating collection of documents from private sources, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Iserlohn's past.

The History of Stadtarchiv Iserlohn

The origins of the Stadtarchiv Iserlohn date back to the early 20th century, when it was managed part-time by city officials. In 1900, Julius Baedecker and Pastor Reinhard Groscurth were tasked with organizing the archives, which were then housed alongside the administrative library in the town hall. However, it wasn't until 1920 that the archive received dedicated attention under the expert guidance of Ludwig Schröder, a writer and head of the public library. This marked the beginning of continuous care and development of the archive, which found a new home in the old armory in 1927.

By 1937, the archive shared its space with the local museum and public library in what became known as the House of Homeland. As the collection grew, the need for a larger space became apparent, leading to a move to the Rampelmann House in 1977. This relocation coincided with the hiring of Götz Bettge, the first professionally trained archivist for the city. The archive and museum were separated two years later, allowing for more focused management of each institution.

In 2004, the Stadtarchiv Iserlohn moved to its current location in the Alte Post building. This move addressed previous space limitations and provided a facility tailored to the needs of archival preservation and research.

Exploring the Archive

Visitors to the Stadtarchiv Iserlohn will find a wealth of historical documents and resources. The archive's collection includes records from the former independent municipalities of Hennen, Sümmern, and Kesbern, as well as the city of Letmathe, which was incorporated into Iserlohn in 1975. Despite the loss of many documents in city fires up to the 18th century, the archive still boasts a significant collection of materials.

One of the highlights of the archive is the collection of documents from the House of Letmathe, dating back to the 14th century. Additionally, the archive holds a portion of the estate of musicologist Ludwig Nohl, including the oldest surviving copy of Ludwig van Beethoven's diary from 1812 to 1818. This copy is invaluable, as the original diary no longer exists.

The archive also showcases the industrial heritage of Iserlohn, once a hub of metalware production. Visitors can explore records from prominent local firms such as Brause & Co and Kissing & Möllmann. Moreover, the archive houses numerous collections from local clubs and political parties, providing insights into the social and political fabric of the city.

Public Engagement and Resources

The Stadtarchiv Iserlohn is committed to making history accessible to the public. Since 2012, it has hosted a series of lectures on topics related to the city's history. The archive also organizes exhibitions and guided tours, bringing the past to life for visitors. In addition, it publishes various series on local history and offers reproductions of old city maps and postcards from its collections.

For those interested in delving deeper into regional history, the archive's library is a valuable resource. It boasts an extensive collection of books focusing on local, regional, and national history, as well as publications on archival science.

Visiting Stadtarchiv Iserlohn

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a researcher, or simply curious about the past, a visit to the Stadtarchiv Iserlohn is sure to be a rewarding experience. The archive's dedicated staff are always on hand to assist visitors in navigating the collections and uncovering the stories that have shaped this vibrant city.

In conclusion, the Stadtarchiv Iserlohn is more than just a repository of documents; it is a gateway to understanding the rich history and cultural heritage of Iserlohn. Its collections offer a unique perspective on the city's evolution and the lives of its inhabitants, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in exploring the historical heart of North Rhine-Westphalia.