Tannery Museum

The tanning profession is deeply rooted in the history of Tittmoning. In fact, back in the 16^th century five different tanneries were busily at work here producing leather. The tanneries were located along the lower reaches of the Ponlachbach, a stream that was intensively used by other artisans as well. The tanners of Tittmoning held property, belonged to the upper echelons of society and were even granted full citizenship rights. Today, all of the businesses which once contributed to this important sector of the local economy are closed.

Back in the year 1991, the Wandinger family donated the extensive equipment from their tanning workshops to the town of Tittmoning, now forming the nucleus of the new Tannery Museum.

Vegetable Tanning

… involves natural materials and plant products to turn animal skin into leather, which is then transformed into shoes, clothing or bridles for horses, for example. The businesses that relied on this leather included saddlers, shoemakers and beltmakers.

Mineral Tanning

Mineral tanners treat the animal pelts in watery solutions, formally of alum, now aluminum sulfate, in order to manufacture things such as coats or warm clothing. For the most part, it would be the furrier who would take the raw leather goods and turn them into the finished product.