Hofsgrund

A thousand years ago, life in Hofsgrund was already taking root. High in the Black Forest, nestled beneath the watchful gaze of Schauinsland mountain, this small community began to flourish. Hofsgrund wasn’t always known by this name. Before the 16th century, it was called “Rütti,” meaning “cleared land,” a testament to the hard work of those early settlers who transformed the wilderness into fertile ground. Imagine them, carving out a life amongst the dense trees, their smoke rising towards the towering peak of Schauinsland. Hofsgrund’s history is deeply intertwined with the mountain and its rich mineral deposits. The name Hofsgrund first appeared officially in 1517, in Emperor Maximilian’s mining regulations for the area. The mountain, once called “Erzkasten” or “ore box”, provided silver, lead, and zinc. These precious metals drew miners to the area. These miners lived in two settlements near the mines, but these were later abandoned in the 16th century. The echo of their picks and shovels can almost still be heard. Can you envision those miners, toiling deep within the earth, their lamps casting flickering shadows on the tunnel walls? The mining history is extensive. The tunnels under Schauinsland stretch for nearly 100 kilometers, spread across 22 levels. In 1954, mining activity ceased. But the legacy of this era remains, a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Today, the Forschergruppe Steiber maintains the “Museums-Bergwerk Schauinsland,” or Schauinsland Mining Museum. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of medieval mining. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience the challenges and triumphs of those who sought riches beneath the earth. Hofsgrund has also seen its share of historical transitions. Originally part of the Swiss monastery of St. Gallen, Hofsgrund later became a possession of the Zähringer dynasty before being gifted to the Wilhelmites of Oberried im Walde monastery. A crucial document, the “Dingrodel,” established a local constitution for Hofsgrund in 1296, outlining the rights and duties of the monastery and the local inhabitants. This document was so important that it was renewed several times over the centuries. Today, Hofsgrund is a district of Oberried. This union, formalized in 1974, marked a new chapter in the long and fascinating story of Hofsgrund. From its early days as “Rütti” to its present identity, Hofsgrund stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its community. Its story is a story of change, growth, and the enduring connection between people and the land they call home.