Fascination with history: 130 actors inspire in Dörverden!

Fascination with history: 130 actors inspire in Dörverden!

In Dörverden last weekend, modern technology was left out - the fourth edition of the “Time Islands” transformed the Ehmken Hoff cultural asset into a living historiography. Around 130 participants presented representations across epochs from 100 BC. to the 19th century. The event took place on June 29, 2025 and attracted participants from all over Germany and the Netherlands. “We want to make history come alive and let visitors immerse themselves in another time,” said the organizers Michael Tjarks and Stefan Okrongli from the Time Islands Working Group.

The enthusiasm for bygone eras was reflected in the increasing number of participants in recent years. It all started in the first year with 22 participants, in the third year there were already 94 and now 130, which underlines the growing popularity of the event. Visitors praised the positive atmosphere, the authentic presentation and the slight presence of modern technology.

Fascination with historical representations

A highlight of the event was the performance of the “Braunschweiger Jäger 1776”. This group represents a historic infantry unit formed in 1776 to support British troops during the American Revolutionary War. With their passion for history and intensive source studies, the hunters manage to faithfully recreate the life of that time. The association also deals with the hunting customs of the 18th century and the general civilian population of the time.

The actors from the hunter group transported visitors to the time of the American Rebellion and the Seven Years' War. These conflicts are not only part of history, but also part of regional identity. In the Seven Years' War, the Principality of Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel fought on the side of Prussia and Great Britain and set up numerous hunter units. The majority of these units were recruited from foresters and took part in various battles, including the defense of Canada.

An eventful supporting program

The program was rounded off with battle displays, weapons demonstrations, exciting duels and cannon shots. The musical accompaniment was provided by the group “Schalk & Rausch” from Bremen, while fashion performances offered another look into the past. Eike and Insa Harstick's Dalmatian “Byron” not only caused a stir, but also formed a curious part of the historical narrative, as this breed was very popular in the 18th century.

The positive response from visitors shows that the “time islands” have become an integral part of regional culture. Looking to the future, an expansion to include the Bronze Age from 2200 to 800 BC is also planned for 2026. planned. Because the fascination for history does not end, but rather continues to develop to enable even deeper insights into our cultural roots.

For those who would like to learn more about the time of the Braunschweig soldiers during the American Revolution, the Lower Saxony State Archives in Wolfenbüttel put together relevant information and original sources as part of an exhibition. This event is not only exciting for history buffs, but also shows the close connection between our history and international events. As nla.niedersachsen.de makes clear, many Braunschweig soldiers fought in North America, which had a deep impact on local history.

Especially in a time when digital devices are omnipresent, the “time islands” show that people can make history more tangible through direct experiences. Here the cell phone stays in the pocket - and that is the charm of this event.