Wustendittersdorf

Wüstendittersdorf is a subdivision of Schleiz, Saale-Orla-Kreis, Thüringia, Germany

= History =

Wüstendittersdorf was probably settled in the twelfth or thirteenth century by nobility who were expanding feudal territories. These nobles sought out willing people to develop and farm the land, offering tax exemptions and reduced interest rates as incentives.

The term “Wüst” portrays an often temporary settlement. By the fourteenth century, the land was depleted and the remaining forest was needed for hunting and construction. Other natural resources, such as mines and clay, gravel, sand pits were then harvested.

“Ditters” refers to the name of the settlement’s founder, probably Dietrich or Theodoric. However, there are four Dittersdorfs in the immediate area, and a number of versions of the origin of Wüstendittersdorf exist, with the definite origin unclear.

1.The Dittersdorf north of Schleiz on the road to Neustadt / Orla. The first written reference in 1232. 2.The Dittersdorf at Wisenta today Wüstendittersdorf. First clear documented reference in 1302. 3.The Dittersdorf in Kämmerawald near Tanna, a deserted village still exists today. First clear written reference (1297) 1367. 4.The Dittersdorf at Greiz. First recorded mention in 1269

Wüstendittersdorf suffered destruction during the French-Prussian war when Jerome Bonapart marched 100,000 troops and 15,000 horses through the area of Schleiz in October1806. It was nothing short of a miracle that the army was fed and housed by such a small community. The people were terrorized and the town hall was burned down during this invasion. What livestock, seed and produce that remained after the army left is unknown, but the next winter was mild and the following harvest was so plentiful that even greater negative effects were averted. In January 1968, Wüstendittersdorf was included in the Schleiz LPG.

= Church Records =

Family History Library Holdings
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