Local history museum in the old school building of Rankwitz on Usedom with over a thousand exhibits on fishing, farming, crafts and traditional costume.
From May 16, 2026
The exhibition shows how the Lieper Winkel traditional costume (Tracht) has developed since 1800, using historical accounts and photographs, including images of the Warther costume group from 1953. It can be seen throughout 2026.
The museum was established in the years after reunification in the former school building of Rankwitz, where the first five school years had been taught together until 1974. As part of a job-creation measure (Arbeitsbeschaffungsmaßnahme), the schoolhouse and barn were renovated; the workers gathered exhibits, documented them and recorded more than 60 life stories from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Heimathof opened to visitors in 1995.
After the funding ended, an association initially looked after the house but had to give up operations in 2010. For several years only a few volunteers kept the museum going, until the Heimatverein Lieper Winkel was founded in July 2013 to open regularly again. Since 2014 a heated classroom and a historic living room have been available.
By 2021 the building had been converted: a large shared room was created on the upper floor, the classroom was renovated, the sanitary facilities were renewed, and a revised display with new lighting now presents the collection in a contemporary way. It comprises well over a thousand objects, mostly originals from the region, which show everyday life in the Usedom Achterland from the 18th century to around 1950, before boats, farm machinery and workshops became motorized.
Admission is free.
Donations are welcome.
Ground floor and outdoor area are accessible; upper floor and barn are not.
Great for kids & families
In summer there is a flashlight night for children with a campfire, legends and a walk through the dark museum; parents are welcome to join.
Parking available
Parking available at the house.
The museum is right at the village entrance. Coming from the B 110, follow the district road VG 34. Map services sometimes show the address as Dorfstraße 1 incorrectly.
Get directionsOn open days, tea and coffee invite visitors to linger and chat.
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tours are possible at any time during opening hours; groups are also guided outside these hours by arrangement (+49 38372 70563). The website offers a virtual tour. |
