Club of Lord Mayors

Hohenhameln – Living Tradition, Humour and a Sense of Community

In the very heart of the idyllic village of Hohenhameln, nestled among fields and half-timbered houses, one of the region’s most charming and tradition-steeped institutions has flourished for over six decades: the Club of Lord Mayors (Club der Oberbürgermeister). What once began in a local inn has since become a cherished part of village life – and a true emblem of Hohenhameln’s joyful spirit.

How it All Began – With Busse, Beer and Carnival Speeches

On Thursday, 1st April 1954, the married men of the village gathered for the first time since the Second World War at the historic inn “Busse” for an official municipal assembly. What had been intended as a formal administrative meeting swiftly evolved into a warm and convivial gathering – a true reflection of Hohenhameln’s communal spirit.

From this initial meeting, the “Club of Lord Mayors” was born. A stroke of genius: from then on, an annual gathering would take place on Shrove Monday, followed by a rousing carnival celebration. To ensure the organisation remained in the hands of the villagers, a “Lord Mayor” was elected each year from among the attendees – complete with ceremonial robe, honorary title, and a generous sense of humour.

Wilhelm Busse – Founding Member and “Wilhelm the First”

Special recognition must be given to one of the founding fathers and visionaries: Wilhelm Busse. Related to the renowned inn, he also became one of the club’s first Lord Mayors. In 1956, he took office as “Wilhelm the First”, thus becoming the second Lord Mayor recorded in the club’s annals. It is thanks to him that the mayoral insignia – a ceremonial chain of office and symbolic council key – became part of the Lord Mayor’s dignified appearance.

Bad Hohalia – Carnival with a Local Flavour

During the carnival season, quiet Hohenhameln is transformed into cheerful “Bad Hohalia”. The local multi-purpose hall becomes a grand stage where dance, music, humorous speeches and comedy all come together. What once began as an intimate gathering has become a major event with several hundred guests – known far beyond the village borders. And although the technical equipment occasionally seems to have a mind of its own, the team of sound engineers, event planners and stagehands never fails to create a memorable spectacle year after year.

A Club with Heart and Humour

The club’s history makes one thing clear: here, carnival is more than a celebration – it is an expression of a unique sense of community. With great attention to detail and a twinkle in the eye, the Lord Mayors shape the cultural life of Hohenhameln – whether at the marksmen’s festival, anniversaries of fellow associations, or festive occasions throughout the year.

And there is never a shortage of humour: since 1968, the legendary “Ox Song” has been sung annually – written at the inn by Dr Theodor Weitzner and set to music by Werner Trog. Anyone who sings, “... for they could not find a bigger ox than here in Hohalia,” knows that this is no insult – but rather a special mark of honour.

Living Community – All Year Round

It is not only on Shrove Monday that the spirit of togetherness shines: the “Mystery Tour” in early summer takes couples to regional places of interest; the traditional late-summer barbecue strengthens social bonds; and on milestone birthdays, distinguished members are ceremonially named “old sacks” – or even “ancient sacks” – always with a wink and a grin.

Let me know if you'd like this adapted for a formal publication, commemorative programme, or another tone (e.g. more humorous or academic).

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