"Sonntagsbesuch": Das Handwerkermuseum in der historischen Wassermühle in Sittensen

This historic half-timbered building, with its long brick extension, is located directly on the Oste River, near the mill pond.

The mill was first mentioned in historical records in the 16th century. Originally belonging to the Verden Abbey, it came into the possession of Diedrich Schulte, a burgman from Horneburg, at that time. In 1701, it was transferred to the Bellmann family of millers. In 1839, another change of ownership took place when miller Friedrich Gohde married into the family. The Gohde family operated the mill until the 1980s.

After commercial milling operations ceased, the municipality of Sittensen acquired the building in 1984. In 1989, the municipality had the watermill extensively renovated. Further interior work followed in 1996, and the crafts museum was established in collaboration with the Heimatverein der Börde Sittensen e.V. The exhibition was officially opened on June 6, 1998.

Since then, the museum’s mission has been to preserve and share the history of the Börde Sittensen region in general, and the history of craftsmanship in the region in particular.

The Sittensen Watermill is also a venue for cultural education in rural areas. In this spirit, it is operated by the municipality of Sittensen with volunteer support, including that of the Heimatverein der Börde Sittensen e.V.

Permanent Exhibition

The permanent exhibition in the historic watermill and the old blacksmith’s shop is dedicated to the history of crafts in rural areas.

Authentically recreated workshops and a large number of exhibits showcase the diversity of crafts in the Börde Sittensen region and their evolution. Whether at the apothecary’s, the barber’s, or in the shoemaker’s workshop, the exhibition provides fascinating insights into nearly forgotten craft techniques and traditions.
And hands-on participation is encouraged! Our visitors can get involved themselves and try their hand at activities such as writing with a quill and ink or planing wood in the carpenter’s workshop.

In addition, visitors can explore the inner workings of the watermill, which is over 400 years old.

In our museum blacksmith shop, the trades of wheelwright and blacksmith are showcased. A visit is especially exciting during the demonstrations by our volunteer blacksmiths.

Special Exhibitions

Special exhibitions are held regularly at the watermill. Artists from the region exhibit their works. Exhibitions on the history of Sittensen or on crafts past and present are also organized.