Celebration of the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of Hägelberg and Steinen

Celebration of the 50th anniversary of the incorporation of Hägelberg and Steinen

On August 24, 2025, the time has finally come: Hägelberg and Steinen will celebrate half a century together since their incorporation. Organized by the Hägelberg association, numerous guests gathered to properly celebrate this special anniversary. Gabriele Kaiser-Bühler, the mayor of Hägelberg, insisted on personally welcoming those present and expressing her mixed feelings about the incorporation. However, she was pleased that the celebration provided an opportunity to strengthen community and the colorfully decorated tables with a festive floral image depicting the number 50 added a cheerful touch to the event.

Mayor Gunther Braun von Steinen impressively emphasized the positive side of the past five decades and the opportunity to celebrate together. “We celebrate what unites us,” he announced, beaming. Georg Schenk, the spokesman for the Steinen local senior council, agreed with these ideas and warmly thanked the numerous helpers from Hägelberg for their support in organizing the festivities. Such community actions show how important togetherness is for a lively village community, and not just in good times.

Cultural highlights and entertainment

A special highlight of the event was the surprise appearance of three brass players from the Alphorn Friends. With traditional melodies, including the piece “Gloria” and “Der Berner”, they created an atmospheric atmosphere and memories that will stay with those present for a long time. After the musical performance, there was a social gathering that brought old and young together. There was a selection of food and drinks that ensured a cozy end to the celebration.

But what exactly does it mean to celebrate incorporation? A look at history and the legal framework shows that incorporation means the loss of independence for the communities affected. They are legally integrated into the host community, which often happens for political, economic or demographic reasons. Such incorporations are regulated in German municipal law and can be carried out through legal regulations or laws. Citizens also have participation rights, which are anchored in the respective state law, and can object or sue against incorporations. This often led to challenges and discussions about local self-government, especially in the 1960s and 1970s.

The celebrations not only provide a nostalgic look back at the past five decades, but also an opportunity to reflect on the current state of the community and look ahead to the future. It is an occasion for celebration, gratitude and shared reflection on what brought the two communities together and how they can continue to exist as a strong community.

For those interested, there is further information about the event and the history of the incorporation on [steinen.de](https://www.steinen.de/gemeinde-steinen/ Veranstaltungskalender/964/50-jahre-eingemeindung-einladen-zum-gemuetlichen-beisammensein) and mtrlegal.com.