1899 Wohlen

At Obverse.

In the verdant heart of Aargau, there stands a traditional maiden of Suisse lineage, gracefully poised at her loom, engaged in the delicate art of weaving straw plaiting. With nimble fingers and an artisan’s heart, she deftly intertwines the humble strands, creating intricate patterns that speak of both skill and tradition.

This scene evokes a cherished reminiscence of Wohlen, a place distinguished in its past for the finest straw braid hats, crafted with care and destined for export to far-reaching corners of the globe. Here, the straw—a modest material of the earth—was transformed into a symbol of prosperity, forming the very backbone of a flourishing industry that endured for two centuries.

What commenced as a humble cottage industry, a simple scheme to combat the specter of poverty that loomed over the overpopulated village, blossomed into a thriving enterprise. This transformation was not mere happenstance, but rather a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the people of Wohlen. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the straw industry burgeoned into an export-oriented hat-braiding industry, generating thousands of jobs and breathing new life into the community.

Factories rose like sentinels of progress, machinery whirred with purpose, and the fruits of labor adorned the heads of individuals from all walks of life. The humble village, once quiet and unassuming, became known as 'Little Paris,' a hub of creativity and commerce where braid dealers flourished as successful agents, their influence stretching across continents.

Thus, as the maiden diligently works at her loom, she embodies not only the artistry of her craft but also the rich legacy of her community—a legacy woven into the very fabric of Aargau’s history, where straw once held the promise of a brighter future for all who toiled under its sun. Her task, though simple in appearance, resonates with the echoes of the past, reminding all who behold her of the resilience and resourcefulness that define the spirit of Wohlen and its enduring connection to the world.

"Straw, a modest material, was the basis of a flourishing industry in this area for two centuries. What had started as home work gradually evolved into the export-oriented hat braid industry.

Wohlen became known for its straw industry, which began as a modest cottage industry over 300 years ago as a scheme against poverty in the overpopulated village, and in the 19th and 20th centuries grew into an export-oriented hat-braiding industry generating thousands of jobs. Factories were built and machine-made hats were sold all over the world, Braid dealers became successful agents and the farming village a 'Little Paris'." 

Inscriptions at Left, "Durch Fleiss" - "By Diligence"

Inscriptions at Right, "zum Fortschritt" - "To Progress"

At Reverse. 

Behold the proud blazon coat of arms of Wohlen, resplendent and regal, prominently displayed above a formidable crossbow, a testament to both valor and tradition. The emblem, adorned with three radiant stars, signifies the rich heritage of the parish, each star representing the steadfast communities of Niederwil, Göslikon, and Villmergen. These celestial icons shine brightly, serving as beacons of unity and purpose, steadfastly guiding the citizens through the passage of time, binding them in a shared history and collective spirit.

In the background lies the picturesque cityscape of olden Wohlen, its ancient structures rising gracefully against the horizon, whispering tales of yore. The buildings, with their timeworn facades, evoke a sense of nostalgia, recalling an era when the rhythms of life were woven into the very fabric of the town. Each cobblestone street and quaint dwelling stands as a silent witness to the joys and tribulations of generations past, echoing the laughter of children at play and the bustling activity of markets long gone.

As the eye traverses the scene, one may discern the harmonious blend of nature and architecture, with verdant fields flanking the edges, nurturing the life and livelihood of the good folk of Wohlen. Here, the spirit of community flourishes, where the heritage of the land and its people intertwine, much like the intricate designs of the coat of arms that proudly herald their legacy.

Thus, this splendid display not only commemorates the enduring strength of the parishes it represents but also stands as a proud reminder of the history and culture that continue to flourish within the heart of Wohlen. In every star and every stone, the essence of this noble town lives on, a testament to the resilience and unity of its people through the ages.

Schützenmedaillen paying homage on the rich artisanal past of Wohlen export industry of fashion hat braiding.