Vinum’s history can be explored through its local heritage: the inn, general store, mill, brickworks and farming settlement each represent a different side of the village. This offers several ways to explore the past for a trip with an interest in cultural history. The dates range from the late 17th century to the second half of the 20th century, tracing a path from agriculture and trade to social history.
Inn and store at Vinum Kro
Vinum Kro was modernised and remodelled by J. Thaysen Jensen in 1910. It ceased to operate as an inn in the 1920s, but the general store continued until around 1970. The history of the building therefore cannot be reduced to its use as an inn: the store remained in operation for several decades after the inn closed. These dates help place the local history in time and trace the shift between the two uses.
Mill and brickworks: family history and technology
Vinum Mølle is part of the history of the Hansen miller family in Vinum and Døstrup. Numerous historical photographs of the mill survive; one from 1930 shows Vinum Mølle and Møllehus. The family connection and the photographs offer different perspectives: the history of the mill can be linked both to a named family and to the two buildings.
Another stop in the local history is Vinum Teglværk. It operated from around 1830 to around 1944 and had a track gauge of 600 mm. The approximate dates indicate the period when the brickworks was in operation; the track gauge adds a specific technical detail. This trade can therefore be viewed both in terms of its long operating period and a measurement of its technical setup.
Agriculture and social history
The settlement pattern can also be explored through specific dates. In 1688, Vinum had two farms and one freehold farm. By 1776, there were five farms and nine smallholder holdings. These dates offer insights into different periods and categories of farming settlement. One farm in Vinum is dated to the period from 1900 to 1950, adding a later chapter to this picture.
Vinum’s poorhouse is part of its social history. It was one of 64 poorhouses built in North Schleswig between 1815 and 1894. Along with the farms, store and trades, it helps build a broader picture of the village’s history: agriculture and crafts were not the only parts of it; social institutions were too.
Døstrup Church and getting there
Nearby Døstrup Church is an architectural landmark in the area. It is a Late Romanesque church with a Late Gothic tower and is not in Vinum itself. A visit can be arranged through church custodian Henning Schweer, Genforeningsvej 10 in Skærbæk, or through the pastor. Confirm the possibility of a visit before travelling.
The nearby Døstrup Sønderjylland station is served by GoCollective. As operators and transport services may change, check the current timetable before travelling. This allows you to plan your visit to the local historic sites and your journey separately, without mistaking the station for a location in Vinum.
Discover more destinations: Brøns, Ballum, Østerby, Bredebro, Emmerlev, Agerskov, Tønder, Sønder Sejerslev.
For the main travel overview: Tønder Municipality.
