our mission

The Geschichts- und Heimatverein Rothenstein / Oelknitz e.V. (association for local history of Rothenstein / Oelknitz, registered association) sees its mission investigating and documentating the history of the rural habitat surrounding the Thuringian cottage Rothenstein with the district Oelknitz.

The association has given itself not only the task to collect historical facts but also to explore and to present the development of life habits and fates of individuals in the community.

The association also sees itself in a long tradition of development and conscious making of the scenic beauties of the middle Saale valley which already began in the first half of the 19. century by the foundation of an embellishment association in the community of Rothenstein and reached untill the middle of the 20. century.

The demand of large shares of the ground of the municipality Rothenstein for military training purposes (tank-firing range) by the occupying power led to a decline of old rural traditions in the second half of the 20. century.

The Geschichts- und Heimatverein Rothenstein / Oelknitz e.V. wants to take up again traditions gone astray and therefore dedicates its activities the following practical tasks:

• Exploring the surroundings of Rothenstein and Oelknitz by guided tours as an offer for all citizens of the municipality.
• Construction of an historical collection in the Heimatstube (homeland room) with the emphasis on changing exhibitions about events and persons of local history.
• Accomplishing lectures and literary-musical events to enrich the cultural life of the community.
• Support of the local primary school by museum-educational offers.
• Offering of a guided historical tour for visitors of the municipality.