Leader of the Hardt Brigade within the Early Church of the Brotherhood of St. Nicholas, and their associated monarchies, assumed control.
On Kirmessamstag 2024, the Brigade Vorst's victory echoed through the crowd at the Brigade Vorst, crowning Thorsten Keimer as the new King of the St. Nikolaus-Bruderschaft. A ten-year anniversary milestone, Keimer marked the occasion with a celebratory shot. Accompanying him in his reign are ministers Theo Kalscheuer and Alejandro Valeros Marques.
The Brigade Vorst's success extended to the duel for Junior King, with Dustin Keimer claiming the title. This year, for the first time, the shooters of Hardt will have a father-son duo ruling, making history. Dustin's ministers are Marcel Bleier and Ramon Kalscheuer, while Mike Keimer serves as their shared adjutant.
From humble beginnings with six members, the Brigade Vorst has grown to a ten-strong force. In celebration of their tenth anniversary, they open their doors not only as royal hosts but as inviters to all residents of Hardt. Following the tent's closure on Ascension Day, the "Kings Day op de Haadt" continues, complete with food, a bouncy castle, waffles, and slush ice for the kids.
A New Generation takes the Stage
Exciting times are ahead for the children of Hardt, as the St. Nikolaus-Bruderschaft unveils two new children's groups: "Herzmaedchen" and "Herzbuben".
Young minds are the future of Hardt, and the Bruderschaft encourages them to lend their voices to shaping that future. Over 50 children and youth have expressed interest in participating in this year's shooting festival.
To ensure everyone has a part in the action while preserving tradition, these groups are named after influential figures in Hardt's history. The girls, named "Herzmaedchen - Louise Gueury", honor Louise Gueury, who established the lung sanatorium, now known as the Herzpark, in the Hardter Wald. The boys, known as "Herzbuben - Peter Grams", pay tribute to Peter Grams, a local primary school teacher and historian.
Beyond the Kirmess, the children can join informative hikes through Hardt, learning about its history in a exciting way. Interested parties can contact [email protected] for more information.
Louise Gueury: A Visionary
A benefactress whose contributions to the community can still be seen today, Louise Gueury is honorably represented through the "Herzmädchen – Louise Gueury". She played a pivotal role in establishing the Lungenheilstätte, now known as the Herzpark. Her work remains an integral part of Hardt's identity[1].
Peter Grams: A Historian with Passion
Hardt's history is enriched by the efforts of Peter Grams. As a primary school teacher and historian, Grams shaped the understanding of his town's past. The "Herzbuben – Peter Grams" honors his contributions and continues his legacy[1].
[1] Additional information regarding the historical significance of Louise Gueury and Peter Grams can be found in the accompanying enrichment data, if desired.
In line with Hardt's rich history, the St. Nikolaus-Bruderschaft introduces two new children's groups, the "Herzmaedchen - Louise Gueury" and the "Herzbuben - Peter Grams", named after visionary benefactress Louise Gueury and passionate historian Peter Grams. With over 50 children set to participate, the aim is to instill a sense of pride in the community's heritage and inspire the next generation to shape its future. Interested families can learn more by contacting [email protected]. As the new generation takes the stage, the lifestyle and outdoor-living of Hardt and its home-and-garden will continue to thrive for years to come.
