Museum im Zeughaus

In the charming town of Schaffhausen, Switzerland, lies a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike: the Museum im Zeughaus. Nestled within the historic walls of the cantonal armory, this museum offers a fascinating journey through Switzerland’s military, political, and social evolution. It’s a place where the past comes alive, showcasing the technical advancements in equipment and weaponry of the Swiss Army from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Origins of the Museum

The Museum im Zeughaus owes its existence to the passion and dedication of Karl Bauert, a long-time employee of the cantonal armory in Schaffhausen. Bauert meticulously collected historical military items that servicemen were allowed to keep after their duty, preventing them from being discarded. His collection of uniforms, ordnance weapons, and personal gear was later complemented with strategic purchases, laying the foundation for what would become a remarkable museum.

In 1993, Bauert began transforming spaces within the armory into a small museum. The collection was further enriched by Martin Huber, a former CEO and artillery officer, who started amassing cannons and military vehicles following the downsizing of the Swiss Army in the 1990s. Jürg Zimmermann, a historian and former artillery captain, contributed his private collection of Swiss-made brass instruments.

A Museum with a Mission

By 2005, these collections found a permanent home in Building 5 of the cantonal armory, creating a museum dedicated to the equipment and armament of the Swiss Army. The museum’s mission extends beyond preservation; it aims to educate the public about Switzerland’s military history and its broader historical context. Special attention is given to topics relevant to the Schaffhausen region.

The museum operates under the auspices of the Museum im Zeughaus Foundation, established in 2004, and is supported by a dedicated association. Volunteers run the museum, maintaining and expanding the collections, organizing exhibitions, and conducting guided tours. Funding comes from membership fees, activity revenues, and private donations.

Exploring the Exhibits

The Museum im Zeughaus offers a captivating array of exhibits across two locations. In Schaffhausen, visitors can explore the historical buildings of the cantonal armory, constructed in 1871/1872. Here, you’ll find exhibitions that delve into the mobilizations of the Swiss Army since 1792, the evolution of artillery, and the influence of Napoleon on Schaffhausen.

One of the highlights is the “Mobilmachung” exhibition, which chronicles the mobilizations of the Swiss Army, including a special section on the army’s response to the COVID-19 crisis in 2020. Another intriguing exhibit is “Bomben auf Schaffhausen,” which examines the tragic bombing of Schaffhausen on April 1, 1944.

Discovering Artillery and Vehicles

The museum’s second location in Diessenhofen houses an impressive collection of over 50 operational historical military vehicles and 21 tanks. Visitors can also explore a display of more than 40 artillery pieces, including anti-tank and anti-aircraft guns used by the Swiss Army over the past 150 years.

The “Motorisierung und Mechanisierung der Schweizer Armee” exhibition in Diessenhofen provides insights into the history of military vehicles, such as the Berna 2 US, and the Swiss motor vehicle industry. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone fascinated by the technological advancements in military transport.

A Journey Through History

As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter meticulously preserved “Einheitsfächer” from the Army 61, showcasing the corps equipment of a fusilier company and a heavy artillery battery. These exhibits offer a glimpse into the life of a Swiss soldier in the 20th century.

The museum also features a “Schaudepot” of personal equipment, displaying historical uniforms, ordnance weapons, and personal gear from the Karl Bauert collection. This section provides a personal touch, connecting visitors to the individual stories of soldiers who once wore these uniforms and used this equipment.

Engaging Exhibitions and Events

The Museum im Zeughaus is not just about static displays; it’s a dynamic space that hosts a variety of exhibitions and events. Past exhibitions have covered topics such as the history of Swiss military music, the role of cyclists in the Swiss Army, and the changing borders of Switzerland over time.

Current exhibitions continue to captivate visitors with themes like the colorful evolution of Swiss military attire over 250 years and the internment of 87,000 French soldiers in Switzerland during the Franco-Prussian War. These exhibitions are thoughtfully curated to provide a deeper understanding of Switzerland’s rich military history.

Conclusion

The Museum im Zeughaus is more than a museum; it’s a vibrant testament to Switzerland’s military heritage and its ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing this history. Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply curious about Switzerland’s past, a visit to the Museum im Zeughaus promises a memorable and enlightening experience.

So, next time you find yourself in Schaffhausen, make sure to step into this treasure trove of history and immerse yourself in the stories and artifacts that have shaped Switzerland’s military legacy.