The first peatland colonist settled in Rechtsupweg in 1769. This early local history gives rise to several distinct themes: mill building, church architecture, the annual Döschkefest and the wildlife park each offer a different perspective. Rechtsupweg is a former peatland community with a scattered settlement pattern—its history and settlement form are equally part of the picture of the village.

Local History and Settlement Pattern

A year after the first peatland colonist settled there, six more followed in 1770. Together, the seven settlers are regarded as the founders of the village. The two dates make the sequence of early settlement easy to grasp: one settler was followed by a group who, together with him, helped shape the founding of the village. This fits Rechtsupweg’s character as a former peatland community with a scattered settlement pattern. Its peatland past and the settlement spread across the area offer two different perspectives on its development. Anyone interested in local history can consider both the beginnings of settlement and the shape of the village.

Milling History and Architecture

The Rechtsupweg mill was built in 1926 as a single-storey gallery Dutch windmill with a fantail. Its year of construction and specific design make it a tangible subject for anyone interested in mills and how they were built. The mill is privately owned and slated for restoration. The remnant of a former windmill in Rechtsupweg is a listed monument.

St. John’s Church offers another perspective on architectural history. The rectangular reinforced-concrete frame building, clad in brick, was built in 1963/64 to plans by architect Gerald Marquardt of Norden and consecrated on the third Sunday of Advent in 1964. Its artistic design can also be described through specific details: the abstract stained-glass windows are by Max Hermann of Oldenburg. On the altar wall is an abstract brick mosaic entitled “The Heavenly Jerusalem”. The building’s form, materials and works of art together offer different ways to explore the church.

Döschkefest and Wildlife Park

The “Döschkefest” is held every year on the village and market square in the centre of Rechtsupweg. Traditional crafts can be seen at the festival. If you would like to include it in your trip plans, check the current dates in advance; the specific programme may vary.

The wildlife park complements the village’s historical and cultural attractions as a place to visit. It has petting animals, birds, llamas, monkeys and many other animals. The animal collection may change. If a particular species is especially important to you, check in advance to see which animals are currently there.

Nature and Culture in the Wider Destination of Aurich

In the wider destination of Aurich, the Fehntjer Tief nature conservation station is an extracurricular learning centre for environmental education, as well as a place for people to meet and for public outreach. The station works to preserve the natural and cultural landscape of “Fehntjer Tief”. In spring and summer, students and visitors can experience the plants and birdlife of the wet meadows on walking or cycling tours. The station also has a listed Gulfhaus, a typical East Frisian farmhouse dating from 1843.

Discover more destinations: Marienhafe, Wrisse, Aurich, Großefehn, Hagermarsch, Wiesmoor, Lütetsburg, Südbrookmerland

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