The board

It was in the year 1979 that a decision was made in Hohenhameln which would pave the way for a new approach to the preservation of local heritage. Until that time, the community had operated as a local branch of the district heritage association – a tried and tested model which had proven effective in many places. Yet within Hohenhameln, there was a growing sense that the village’s own history and identity deserved greater prominence.

Mr Gehrmann, then chairman of the district heritage association, possessed a keen intuition for such developments. He recognised early on that Hohenhameln was not merely one village among many, but rather a place of particular significance, with a rich historical background, a well-established local structure, and a strong sense of communal spirit. In his view, it was only logical that this village should form its own independent heritage group.

The idea fell on fertile ground. Within the same year, Herbert Fette founded the Hohenhameln Heritage Group, which from that point onward operated as an independent body, dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and community life of the village. From the very outset, it developed into a local institution, deeply rooted in the public life of the community. Under Fette’s leadership, a strong foundation was laid—one that extended far beyond archival work: exhibitions, lectures, walks, publications—all driven by the commitment of local residents.

In 1992, Otto Köhler assumed the chairmanship. Having previously served as vice-chairman, he was intimately familiar with the group’s inner workings. His tenure saw a significant development: the association was formally registered as a charitable organisation—a milestone that provided a firm legal and organisational framework for its work.

During this period, Otto Köhler was ably supported by Horst Fette, son of the founder Herbert Fette, who carried forward his family's legacy with great dedication, serving as vice-chairman. Together, they led the heritage group with expertise and foresight, expanding the archive, strengthening public engagement, and solidifying the group’s standing within the life of the municipality.

A representative of the next generation, Hans-Werner Ahrens-Modrow, had for some years served as vice-chairman with great commitment. In 2024, he assumed leadership of the heritage group—at a time when heritage preservation entails not only retrospection, but also the shaping of the future. Under his guidance, the group is increasingly opening itself to digital formats, educational initiatives, and the active involvement of younger generations. Throughout, it remains steadfast in its founding principle: to preserve the sense of home—vibrant, accessible, and in dialogue with the present.

Today, the Hohenhameln Heritage Group stands as a well-established local institution. It serves as a bridge between generations, a place of remembrance and storytelling—and a testament to the strength and unity that can grow from a decision to seek independence.