1833The first newspaper in Alsfeld

In 1832, the tobacco manufacturer Hermann Bücking, who owned a printing press in his factory used for printing tobacco labels, saw an opportunity for an additional source of income. Aware of his spare capacity, he negotiated with District Court Assessor Schäfer and County Secretary Dr. Rautenbusch to publish an “Anzeigenblatt für Alsfeld und Umgebung” (Advertiser for Alsfeld and Surroundings)—a printed newspaper, similar to those already existing in most other cities of the Grand Duchy.

Following approval by the Grand Ducal Ministry of the Interior and Justice, publication began under the supervision of the Alsfeld County Office and District Court for the Alsfeld district. This decision was announced by the Grand Ducal County Councilor of Alsfeld, Neidhardt, on January 1, 1833. The “Anzeigenblatt” was issued by the county administration as the official organ for its announcements and decrees to local authorities and residents, holding the exclusive privilege of being the public gazette.

Initially, the editorial responsibility lay with the Grand Ducal District Court Assessor Schäfer and the Grand Ducal County Secretary Dr. Rautenbusch. Alsfeld’s first newspaper was printed on this very machine belonging to the tobacco manufacturer Hermann Bücking, which is depicted here. (MNic)