Sehnde Regional Museum

The “Große Freie” emerged from the “Große Grafschaft” in the region around Hanover and Peine. The name was coined in 1671. Its inhabitants enjoyed a number of special privileges; for example, anyone could sell their property without permission, engage in trade, brew beer, and bear arms. In return, every resident was obligated to perform military service for the sovereign. These privileges arose from the contentious sovereignty disputes between the Guelphs and the bishops of Hildesheim. The bishopric referred to the residents as “the Free People of the North Forest.”

The independent history of the Freemen began around the 12th century and continues to the present day. To this day, the “Reihestellen”—the farms where they originally lived—bear witness to this history. At their head stood an elected “Deputy.” Until the 19th century, this Deputy participated in the administration and jurisdiction of the Ilten district, thereby safeguarding the traditional rights of the Freemen. Although their significance has steadily declined over the centuries, the museum aims to preserve their memory and share knowledge about them.

In addition, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions.