Falkenberg. Imagine a village nestled in the valley of the Bobritzsch, a place with a history stretching back centuries. Falkenberg’s story is one of mining, milling, and community.
Falkenberg was first mentioned in 1350. It was called Valkenberg. In 1445 it was known as Falkemberg. By 1496, Falkenberg was known as a mining settlement. The name Falkenberg may mean a place where falcons fly.
Originally, Falkenberg likely belonged to the Lordship of Bieberstein. Later, it fell under the control of the Freiberg Virgin Monastery in the 14th and 15th centuries. By 1548, the Freiberg Council held the rights.
Falkenberg has a history of silver and copper mining. Mining took place from 1512 to 1838. In 1567, Falkenberg even had a stamp mill on the Bobritzsch River. Later, the royal mine König-August-Erbstolln moved its mining field to the Falkenberg valley side after 1715.
Falkenberg was once a village of farmers and tradesmen. In 1546, there were 29 landowners and cottagers plus 39 residents. By 1764, there were 20 landowners, 10 gardeners and 13 cottagers.
Consider the historic arch bridge near Falkenberg’s border. Elector August of Saxony ordered its construction around 1567. Not far from this bridge stood the hereditary lease mill. It was part of the manor until 1545. Other mills existed in Falkenberg. The oil mill closed in 1947. The Börnermühle closed a few years earlier in 1943.
A kilometer from the stone arch bridge, along the Bobritzsch, you will find the Schafbrücke. This is one of the oldest bridges in the Freiberg mining area. Shepherds once used it to move their flocks across the Bobritzsch. It was restored in 1983 by local enthusiasts. Flood damage in 2002 required further repairs. Further downstream lies the Salzbrücke. This bridge gets its name from the salt road that crossed it. Salt was transported from Halle to Bohemia.
Falkenberg had a stop on the Klingenberg-Colmnitz-Oberdittmannsdorf narrow-gauge railway. It operated from 1922 to 1970. Today, a cycling and hiking trail follows the former railway line.
Falkenberg became part of Conradsdorf in 1950. Then, in 1994, it became part of Halsbrücke.
Falkenberg may be a small village. But, Falkenberg is full of history and character. Falkenberg has a past shaped by mining. It is shaped by agriculture. And, it is shaped by the community. As you explore, think about those who came before.