Rathausstraße 18

Nestled in the charming town of Linden, Hessen, Rathausstraße 18, also known locally as the Hüttenberger Heimatmuseum, is a delightful journey into the past. This quaint museum, housed in a beautifully preserved half-timbered building dating back to 1772, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the cultural and historical tapestry of the Hüttenberger region.

The History of Rathausstraße 18

The building at Rathausstraße 18 has a rich history. Originally constructed as a town hall, it has served multiple purposes over the centuries, including a schoolroom, a fire station, and even emergency housing for refugees. By the mid-20th century, the building had fallen into disrepair. However, thanks to the efforts of local poet Georg Heß, it was transformed into a museum in 1952. Heß, with the help of local craftsmen and donated materials, restored the building to its former glory, unveiling the hidden half-timbered structure beneath layers of plaster.

Exploring the Museum

Stepping into Rathausstraße 18 is like opening a time capsule. The museum spans 180 square meters and showcases approximately 500 artifacts that paint a vivid picture of rural life in the Hüttenberger region. The ground floor transports visitors to an era of agrarian labor, with displays of farming implements under the theme from seed to harvest. Here, you can find plows, harrows, and yokes that once played a vital role in local agriculture.

The adjacent room is designed as a traditional Hüttenberger farmhouse parlor, complete with a canopy bed, cradle, and an array of household items. This room also features hunting tools, a night watchman’s horn, and a saber once wielded by a local police officer, adding a touch of intrigue to the domestic setting.

The Upper Floor Exhibits

The upper floor of the museum is dedicated to the rich tradition of Hüttenberger costumes. Nine large glass cases display life-sized figures adorned in the region's traditional attire, showcasing work clothes, festive garments, and mourning dress. The highlight of this collection is an exquisite 19th-century wedding dress, complete with a crown, ribbons, and a white apron, illustrating the region's flair for colorful ribbons and intricate embroidery.

Also on this floor, visitors can admire a large loom from the Rühl weaving mill in Laubach, the only item in the museum that was purchased rather than donated. This room also contains tools for flax processing, providing insight into the textile production that once thrived in the area.

A Glimpse into Artistic Heritage

The museum also houses a small but charming collection of oil paintings. The oldest piece, dating from 1906, is titled Painting with Cow by Ernst Eimer. Other works include a portrait of a girl in Watzenborner costume, a depiction of a Hüttenberger bride by Wilhelm Großhaus from 1939, and a painting of an elderly woman from Leihgestern by Karl Sümmerer. These artworks add an artistic dimension to the museum’s historical narrative.

Architectural Charm

The building itself is a masterpiece of traditional German architecture. The two-story structure stands proudly with its half-timbered design, characterized by symmetrical patterns and decorative woodwork. The ground floor is constructed from whitewashed stone, while the upper floor showcases the intricate timber framing. A notable feature is the Wild Man motif on the north side, adding a touch of folklore to the building’s facade.

The entrance is marked by a double-leaf wooden door, above which the year 1772 is inscribed, reminding visitors of the building’s long-standing presence in the community. Inside, the large room on the ground floor boasts a flat beamed ceiling supported by a central wooden post, creating a rustic and inviting atmosphere.

Conclusion

Rathausstraße 18 is more than just a museum; it is a celebration of the Hüttenberger region’s heritage. Each artifact and exhibit tells a story of the people who lived and worked in this area, preserving their traditions and way of life for future generations. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, a visit to this charming museum is a journey through time that you won’t want to miss.