History is captivating. Especially when it‘s shared history – in a community where togetherness is still a given. Here, in the Gölsen Valley region, many had to stand in the former inn, now a pizzeria, to follow the presentations. Mayor Hannes Gaupmann thanked everyone who had already contributed material and knowledge to this archive, as well as those actively involved in uploading this collection. Alexander Schatek briefly explained the origin and function of the archive. The main part of the evening was dedicated to reminiscing and sharing stories from the past, presented by archive curators Ingeborg Baldauf and Franz Schneeflock, who expressed their special gratitude to Stefanie Wochner, who provided her husband‘s photographic legacy as the foundation for this archive.
Beyond the regional context, remarkable historical details can be found here. It was called a Lichtfeier – „Festival of Light,“ which isn‘t actually religious, but was nevertheless celebrated with holy water and blessings. This is because „light“ was the term used back then for what we now call electricity. In 1961, there were hardly any electrical appliances for everyday use; the electric razor was just beginning to appear, as was the refrigerator, which was replacing the icebox. So electricity was simply “light”.
Also noteworthy are the details in this cover image, which can be seen here in its entirety: the building on the left, as the original image shows, is still thatched, and the decoration on the ridge has a legend behind it: supposedly, during the Turkish Wars, marauding bands mistook the ornament for a crescent moon and spared the houses that bore it as decoration. Perhaps some Viennese historians will also find it interesting that a photograph of the tramway workers‘ hostel can be found in this new Toptheque.
Ingeborg Baldauf refreshing memories © Alexander Schatek