Deutsch Country Days to celebrate 34 years this weekend
Posted 11/7/19
By Cindy Gladden Record Staff Writer Bob Hostkoetter has dedicated many years and countless hours of hard work to promote German history to the public — traits often attributed to the German …
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Deutsch Country Days to celebrate 34 years this weekend
Posted
By Cindy GladdenRecord Staff WriterBob Hostkoetter has dedicated many years and countless hours of hard work to promote German history to the public — traits often attributed to the German settlers he celebrates.Hostkoetter, founder and director of Deutsch Country Days, along with wife Lois, will oversee the 34th annual German Living History Weekend Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17-18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Luxenhaus Farm.During a recent break from preparing the grounds for the upcoming event, Hostkoetter said he believes his hard work has paid off.“Just think about it. If we have an average of 7,000 people, in 34 years, that’s almost 250,000 people,” he said. “When I started, there was nothing here. It was just blank. I do have a sense of accomplishment.”Located outside of Marthasville on Highway O, Deutsch Country Days offers much to the thousands who visit each year. Autumn colors, the smell of wood smoke, the sound of the steam whistle and the demonstrations of volunteers and artisans keep visitors busy the entire day. Add delicious German-style food and music from various musicians, Deutsch Country Days is a unique experience.“The sawmill attracts the most people,” said Hostkoetter. “I think people are attracted to the sound of the working saw. The kids really seem to be drawn to the blacksmith.”More than 20 historic buildings dot the ridges and valleys of Luxenhaus Farm. The pathways meander through a German village, the Eric Sloane covered bridge and up into the Osage Trail.Children can try their hands at a variety of farm skills, including making rope or dipping candles. Shopping is available in the General Mercantile and from various artisans. Some of the items for sale are Amish candies, peanut brittle, homemade root beer or kettle corn.Demonstrations are a popular hit, as attendees can see how apple butter was cooked over an open fire or how clothes were washed in the 1850s. Other skills demonstrated are quilting, weaving, fire starting, flintknapping, bobbin lace and native customs.As visitors move around the farm, the sound of the hammered dulcimer, violin, native flute, banjo or mountain dulcimer can be heard.In addition to the 1850s German village, a Civil War encampment will be located near the entry to Deutsch Country Days. The Osage Trail and trapper encampment is located in the pre-1800s area. Also along the Osage trail are Osage lodges and demonstrations.“The Osage were the last tribe of any size in Missouri,” said Hostkoetter. “That’s why we built the Osage trail.”Hostkoetter continues to seek out ways to share his German heritage. This past summer a pioneer camp was held for children and their parents, in conjunction with East Central College.Dedicated volunteers help the Hostkoetters maintain the property throughout the year and are joined by hundreds more for the event. Dressed in simple pioneer costumes, they attempt to take you back in time to discover the folk skills of German settlers.Gate entry fees are $18.50 for adults; $16.50 for military (with ID) and seniors; and $8.50 for children five to 15. On Sunday, each child ticket is available for $3.50 with the purchase of an adult ticket. Leashed pets are welcome. Parking is free.For more information, call 636-433-5669 or visit www.deutschcountrydays.org.
The 34th annual Deutsch Country Days will be held this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17-18, outside of Marthasville. The event is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Cindy Gladden photo.
