Bangards' Cabin

Since the 15th century, the inhabitants of Thann have made the vineyard a cornerstone of their prosperity. To protect their crops, they established a surveillance system by electing guards responsible for watching over the vines and fields. These guards, called "Bannwarth" in German or "Bangert" in Alsatian, gave rise to the French term "bangard." Each year, four are chosen from the bourgeoisie, one from each guild, to carry out this prestigious mission. Indeed, sitting on the city council requires having previously held this position, which represents a local honor.

This institution, dating back to 1483, is documented by archives preserving the names of the bangards since that date. For one year, they ensure the surveillance of the Thann, Vieux-Thann, and Leimbach areas. Their role includes protecting crops and vineyards, maintaining paths, and detecting forest fires. To carry out their mission, they have a cabin where they reside.

At the end of their term, tradition dictates that they commission a commemorative panel, painted on wood or engraved on sandstone. Today, fifteen of these panels are kept at the Friends of Thann Museum, while twenty-seven sandstone panels and one faience panel remain in the cabin, which is open during Heritage Days. These works bear the names of the bangards, the emblems of their guild, and a text summarizing the significant events of their year of service.