Station 18 Neuwegersleben

About the museum

Between 1832 and 1849, Prussia sent state and military messages by optical telegraph between Berlin and Koblenz. At 62 stations, telegraphists relayed signals by setting the six arms of a signal mast into prescribed positions. Station No. 18 near Neuwegersleben was in operation from 1833 to 1849. Its tower was a purpose-designed standard type building of gray rubble stone, with a cellar, a living room and a station room on the upper floor. Afterward, the building served as housing until 1955.

Commissioned by the then Börde district, the station was restored from 1995 according to heritage conservation principles; the topping-out ceremony took place in 1997, and the telegraph system was installed in 1999. The house has been open to visitors since 2001, and in May 2011 a completely revised exhibition opened. On the site of the neighboring Station No. 17 stands a replica.

Today, visitors can send messages themselves on the working system and observe the opposite station through a telescope. The exhibition also shows telegraphists' uniforms, a faithfully rebuilt telescope, a stamp collection, and a film about the everyday work of telegraphists.

Highlights

• Working optical telegraph with six arms on the signal mast
• Become a telegraphist yourself and send messages
• Rebuilt telescope and telegraphists' uniforms
• Video about the work of the telegraphists
• Station on the Prussian telegraph line Berlin–Koblenz

Permanent exhibition

• Optische Telegrafie in Preußen – Working telegraph system in the rebuilt station building, supplemented by an exhibition on the history and technology of optical telegraphy.

Founded

2001

Operated by

Verbandsgemeinde Westliche Börde (mit der Interessengemeinschaft „Optische Telegrafie in Preußen“)

Admission & discounts

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Accessibility

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Kids & families

• Hands-on stations

You can send messages yourself on the telegraph system.

Getting there & parking

The station is on the edge of Neuwegersleben toward Hornhausen, on the K246 road, marked by a sign for the Optical Telegraph Line. It lies on the Telegraph Cycle Route.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop

Events & venue rental

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Plan your visit