In May 2000, the old town hall in Niederkleen was converted into a museum dedicated to the village’s history. The beautiful half-timbered building was originally constructed in 1701 as an administrative building, but was subsequently used as a courthouse, a prison and even as the village school. Together with the adjoining fire station, the museum presents the history of rural Niederkleen across three floors.

Some of the exhibits include agricultural implements for farm and field work, as well as tools from traditional crafts. Visitors also gain an insight into how half-timbered houses from the 17th to 19th centuries were furnished and how their inhabitants lived. An old saddler’s and cobbler’s workshop, complete with all its small and large tools, is housed in the attic.

An old classroom bears witness to the education and everyday school life of that era. Beautiful, old Hüttenberg traditional costumes, typical of the Kleebach Valley, and the many historical maps, letters and pictures in the local history museum provide a comprehensive insight into the lives of earlier generations in the Kleebach Valley.

Every spring, the museum holds its annual opening event, which features a different theme each year and includes a small celebration. The museum organises guided tours for schools and groups through the old village centre, featuring half-timbered houses and the bakery. Inside the bakery, visitors are shown the traditional techniques of bread-baking. The museum closes its doors with the traditional autumn festival, where typical regional culinary specialities are on offer.

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See also: https://giessener-land.de/heimatmuseum-niederkleen/