In the charming town of Oerlinghausen, nestled in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands a building that has witnessed centuries of history: the Langer Gottfried. This historic edifice, located at Hauptstraße 53, is not just a house but a repository of tales stretching back to the early 17th century. Known locally as the Langer Gottfried, this building is the oldest in Oerlinghausen and a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
The story of Langer Gottfried begins in 1618 when Johann Barkhausen, a newly appointed bailiff, received permission from Count Simon VII of Lippe to construct a house along the Passweg over the Tönsberg. This was no ordinary dwelling; it was strategically positioned opposite the Alexanderkirche, serving as a tavern and a hub for linen and yarn trade. The tavern quickly gained popularity among travelers, outshining other local inns.
After Johann's death in 1636, his son Simon took over the establishment. Simon expanded the business by venturing into distilling schnapps and brewing beer. His entrepreneurial spirit bore fruit, and by 1652, the family owned a considerable amount of livestock, including horses, cows, pigs, and sheep. Despite the flourishing business, Simon left behind significant debts upon his death in 1681, which threatened the family's ownership of the property. It was only through the financial intervention of Johann Arnold zu Barkhausen that the house remained in the family.
In the mid-18th century, the property changed hands, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Henrich Ernst Wistinghausen, the new owner in 1745, commissioned an expansion on the east side in the traditional half-timbered style. This architectural addition further enhanced the building's charm and historical significance.
Later, under the ownership of Lübbertsmeier, the house was transformed into a bakery. It was during this period that the building acquired its endearing nickname, Langer Gottfried. However, financial difficulties plagued Lübbertsmeier, leading to a forced auction in 1859, which resulted in the loss of the tavern license.
The subsequent owners, Moses and Heinemann Paradies, brought a new dimension to Langer Gottfried. As a cigar factory, the building not only contributed to the local economy but also became a center of Jewish life in the area. Around 1860, a mikveh was installed in the cellar, providing a place for ritual purification for Jewish women. The house also hosted a Jewish elementary school until 1892, making it a focal point for the community.
Despite their efforts, the Paradies brothers faced financial ruin, and the property was sold to Friedrich Wiskemann, a merchant who supplied local inns with alcoholic beverages. The presence of beer barrels in the cellar rendered the mikveh unusable, marking the end of its role in Jewish religious practices.
Throughout the 20th century, Langer Gottfried changed hands several times, each owner adding their own chapter to its storied history. In 2011, local historian Werner Höltke noted that a depression in the cellar floor still marked the site of the former mikveh. Between 2011 and 2012, the building underwent extensive renovations and was converted into eight residential apartments, blending modern living with historical preservation.
Today, Langer Gottfried stands as a proud monument to Oerlinghausen's past. Visitors can admire its architectural beauty and reflect on the myriad stories embedded within its walls. While the building itself is not open to the public, its exterior offers a glimpse into the architectural styles and historical influences that have shaped the region.
Strolling through the streets of Oerlinghausen, one can appreciate the town's commitment to preserving its heritage. The Langer Gottfried, with its rich tapestry of history, serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the people who have called this town home over the centuries.
In conclusion, the Langer Gottfried is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Oerlinghausen's enduring legacy. Its walls have witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from bustling taverns and thriving businesses to cultural transformations and modern renovations. For those who seek to explore the depths of German history, a visit to this remarkable site is an enriching journey through time.
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