Once upon a time, there stood a magnificent tree in a wide field. It was called Stolze Föhre. This name came about because of its impressive growth. Legend says a kind fairy once lived within its trunk. She transformed herself into an ugly old beggar. She sat and begged before her home for a time. She studied the hearts of all who passed by. Of course, no one recognized the beautiful fairy in the beggar.
Today we will explore the story of the Stolze Föhre. The Verschönerungsverein Stolze Föhre Strasshof was founded in 1986. It has a long history of improving the town’s appearance. It also focuses on creating a blossoming landscape. In winter 2022, a new dedicated team took over. Their goal is to make Strasshof flourish again. They aim to enhance the town. They want to achieve this through beautification and natural area design. The association wants to promote biodiversity. It also wants to give the town a visual upgrade.
Now, let me share a tale linked to this majestic Stolze Föhre. A rich farmer lived in the nearby village. He was an awful miser. Every morning, he walked past the tree with his maid. The maid was a poor orphan. She couldn’t help but share her meager breakfast. She shared it with the beggar each day.
When the stingy farmer noticed this, he cut the bread smaller. Because the good maid still shared, he eventually gave her nothing. The girl wept as she passed the Stolze Föhre. She had nothing left to share. But many workers following behind often found beautiful pearls on the road.
One day, the farmer was invited to a big wedding in the next village. Naturally, he didn’t miss it. He ate and drank heartily at others’ expense. Around midnight, he started home. As he neared the Stolze Föhre, it seemed he’d lost his way. Instead of the tree, he saw a brightly lit castle. Festive music came from it. He heard rustling and hissing, like dancing.
“Aha!” thought the cheerful farmer. “The fairy is having a ball. I must join!” He boldly entered the castle. Imagine his surprise. A crowd of tiny dwarves surrounded the beautiful fairy. They enjoyed a delicious feast. The fairy kindly invited the farmer to join. He eagerly accepted. He secretly stuffed his wide pockets with delicacies. His pockets bulged like sacks.
When the meal ended, the fairy and dwarves went to the dance hall. The farmer excused himself. He wasn’t a fan of dancing. He hurried home to show off the stolen feast. He wanted to impress his family.
Back home, he told his tale of the fairy. He pulled out his loot. But alas! The fine food had turned into stinking horse manure. His family laughed at him.
The farmer, punished as he deserved, raged. He threw the filth at his maid. “Here’s your share,” he sneered. “Share it with the beggar at the Föhre tomorrow!”
The maid went to dump the apron in the dung pit. Suddenly, she heard jingling and clinking. It sparkled and flamed in her apron. When she opened it, a pile of new ducats lay there.
Overjoyed, she rushed to the good fairy at the Stolze Föhre. Dawn was just breaking. She wanted to thank the fairy. It seemed clear the treasure was meant for her alone.
But the first thing she saw was the ugly old woman again. The kind girl couldn’t resist. She gave the old woman half the treasure.
Touched by such kindness, the fairy revealed her true form. She showered the brave girl with riches, wisdom, and beauty. Before three months passed, a mighty prince chose her as his wife.
The greedy farmer, on the other hand, soon wasted away. He died of envy for his maid’s good fortune.
The Stolze Föhre continues to inspire. The association is revitalizing butterfly meadows. It cares for the biotope at the old elementary school. They plant climate-resistant shrubs and perennials. They also decorate the town for Easter and Christmas. They have created nesting boxes for birds. They provide bat houses with kindergartens and schools. These are placed throughout the town. The Verschönerungsverein Stolze Föhre Strasshof ensures Strasshof shines.