Tradition obliges: Rodenbach's new field jurors in action!
On July 6, 2025, Paul and Brönner will take on the honorary role of field jury in Rodenbach and promote tradition and boundary maintenance.

Tradition obliges: Rodenbach's new field jurors in action!
In tranquil Rodenbach, two new faces have taken on the voluntary position of the field jury: Paul and Brönner are now the contact persons for citizens when it comes to property boundaries and historical boundary issues. Their commitment is not only a tradition, but also an important basis for legal clarity and the preservation of local history. How main-echo.de reports, both are full of pride in their new role and bring passion and knowledge about their homeland with them.
The task of the field jury has a long tradition that goes back to the late Middle Ages. Paul emphasizes how important it is for citizens to get involved in such volunteer positions. The aim is not only to measure borders, but also to preserve cultural heritage. Both are active members of the Rodenbach hiking club, where they take care of the maintenance of boundary stones. The historical roots of their commitment lie deep in the trust that people should know about their homeland and its borders. Brönner describes documenting the borders as a fascinating task that keeps knowledge about the region alive.
The tradition of the field jury
In Bavaria, where this tradition is particularly strong, the field jurors are also known as “sevens,” a name that comes from the rule that each community appoints seven of these volunteers. This honorable office has existed since the 13th century and there are around 24,000 field jurors active in the Free State, including around 15,500 in Franconia. This information is not only fascinating, but also evidence of the long-standing anchoring of this voluntary work in society, as shown heimat-landkreis-fuerth.de can be read.
Before the introduction of state land surveying in 1801, the role of the field jury was of central importance. She monitors property boundaries and ensures the preservation of the community. Historical documents, such as those from Langenzenn from 1426, prove the role of the “Sevens” in resolving disputes. Although the tasks of the field jury have changed over the centuries, today they still coordinate over 80% of surveys in rural regions and work closely with the survey offices. This role is invaluable as they not only take on technical tasks, but also contribute to conflict resolution and harmonious coexistence in their communities.
The craft of border marking
Field jurors don't just act in theory. They take an oath to the mayor and are allowed to use secret symbols to mark borders, which are only passed on orally. Natural features such as trees and rivers used to be the distinctive boundaries, but today old granite stones are mainly used. These roots of tradition remain alive, and the new generation of field jurors is democratically elected by older colleagues.
Supported by the sevens chairman, these “young sevens” learn the craft techniques that are essential for their work. The program also includes exchanges with each other; Regular meetings and training courses are part of the commitment. On ldbv.bayern.de you will find further interesting details about this voluntary work, which is so highly regarded in the community.
In conclusion, it can be said that the work of the field jury is invaluable for coexistence in the communities. Paul and Brönner are ready to continue this tradition in Rodenbach and to support citizens with questions that may go far beyond boundary stones and parcels.