In the heart of Vienna’s 5th district, on Gartengasse 18, stands a modest plaque, a testament to a man named Franz Haydinger. It’s a simple memorial, yet behind it lies a story of dedication, passion, and a love for Vienna’s history. See? There’s a portrait relief on the plaque, a glimpse into Franz’s life. He was born in 1797 and lived a full life until 1876. But Franz wasn’t just any man. He was a Bibliophile, a lover of books, and a Gastwirt, a pub owner. Franz Haydinger wasn’t merely a pub owner, he was a pioneer in preserving Viennese history. He dedicated himself to collecting books, manuscripts, and artifacts that told the story of Vienna.
Imagine entering his pub, “Zu den zwei weissen Kruegeln,” which stood on this very spot. It wasn’t just a place for drinks, it was a haven for those who shared Franz’s love of Vienna’s past. He’d hold court surrounded by treasures of Viennese history, sharing his knowledge and passion with anyone who would listen. Franz was more than just a collector. He was a scholar, deeply knowledgeable about Viennese history, geography, and culture. His collection wasn’t just a random jumble of old things. It had a purpose, a story behind each item.
His collection was so impressive that experts from all over Europe consulted him for his knowledge. He even traveled to auctions across Europe, buying rare books and artifacts to add to his Viennensia collection. His collection was an incredible achievement, spanning history, theater history, costume studies, and literature, including first editions and even the history of the Reformation and Counter Reformation. The collection was a testament to Franz’s dedication to history and his passion for Vienna. But it took more than just dedication. It took money. Franz used his own money to fund his passion, buying rare books and traveling to find treasures.
After Franz died, his collection was sold, and the Viennese city library bought part of it, the Viennensia, Josephinica, and Theatralia parts. Unfortunately, they couldn’t afford the whole collection, so the rest was auctioned off. Even though the city couldn’t afford the whole collection, Franz Haydinger left a lasting impact on Vienna. His dedication to preserving the city’s history inspired future generations of collectors and historians. The Franz Haydinger plaque is a reminder of that legacy. Though it’s a small memorial, it stands as a symbol of the power of passion, dedication, and a love for one’s city’s history.