Conference of local chroniclers: Discover Mecklenburg's exciting history in Dassow!

Conference of local chroniclers: Discover Mecklenburg's exciting history in Dassow!

At the upcoming specialist conference of the local chroniclers of the Mecklenburg Foundation, participants can expect an exciting journey through the history of northwest Mecklenburg. On Saturday, November 15, 2025, numerous volunteer chroniclers will gather in the Dornbuschhalle in Dassow to pursue their passion for writing history. The event starts at 9:30 a.m. and the participation fee is 10 euros, which is supported by the Ministry of Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

The conference will begin with an opening section and subsequent greetings. This is followed by several interesting lectures. Stefan Pohlke will speak about “1000 years of the church in Mecklenburg”, while Manfred Rohde will shed light on the history of the estate village of Kalkhorst. Olaf Both takes the listeners on a journey into the world of Low German hall houses in northwest Mecklenburg. After a lunch break from 12.30 p.m. to 1.30 p.m., Lutz Pinnecke explains the background to the Johannstorf manor house to the participants, followed by Dr. Andreas Wagner, who deals with the history of the inner-German border. Last but not least, there will be a professional exchange where participants can present their own works. These regular conferences are an integral part of the work of (hobby) local chroniclers, which have been organized since the 1990s. Dr. Reno Stutz is in charge and leads the meetings, which also support networking among the local chroniclers.

The role of the local chroniclers

Local chroniclers have established themselves in Mecklenburg to document and preserve the local history and cultural aspects of their homeland. Together they help ensure that important events and developments are not forgotten. The Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has launched an interactive local chronicles portal that supports the work of these chroniclers. On the platform, users can write, publish and make their chronicles available digitally. This tool is intended for both experienced local researchers and laypeople interested in regional history. It offers, among other things, an interactive map, an alphabetical place index and a variety of historical articles. The aim is to promote the dissemination and support of chroniclers' activities in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, while at the same time creating an extensive archive of local historical works.

The conferences are an excellent forum for the exchange of knowledge and experience among local chroniclers. The close connection between genealogists and chroniclers is also repeatedly discussed at such meetings. Dirk Schäfer, a board member of the Association for Mecklenburg Family and Personal History, has already given lectures on cooperation between these groups. This networking not only strengthens local historical research, but is also valuable for future generations of historians.

With the conference in Dassow and the exciting topics, another chapter in the history of the local chroniclers is certain. The passionate historians can hardly wait to share their findings and exchange ideas. On days like these, the significance of one's own local history comes alive and can be experienced.

• Datum: 15. November 2025
• Veranstaltungsort: Dornbuschhalle, Dassow
• Beginn: 9.30 Uhr

It will be a unique experience for anyone interested in sharing the stories of their region and becoming part of a network dedicated to preserving history. As already mentioned, exchange between chroniclers and the promotion of their work is essential. We can only hope that many participants find their way to Dassow!