Kornschreiberhaus

Private dwelling (beginning of the 17th century) in the historic city centre of Burgsteinfurt, Bütkamp 14. Narrow, two-story half-timbered house with pointed gable.

The grain recorder's house at Bütkamp 14 is a narrow two-story half-timbered house with a high pointed gable. It towers over its neighbours, which are either single story or one-and-a-half story. In contrast to the farmer's house opposite, which is low and wide and has its hall door in the centre, the grain recorder's house has a narrow front door and parlour windows, marking it out as a private dwelling.

It dates back to the start of the 17th century, and is thus probably one of the earliest two-story burgher's houses build using the half-timbered method. It is distinguished by the protruding upper and attic floors. This manner of construction entailed significant advantages for the residents, increasing the available living space and also stabilising the half-timbered construction. Since the weight of the upper storeys rested on the protruding beam, and the pressure was especially heavy at the ends, the floors of the upper storeys were less likely to collapse. Of course, those who could afford it ensured that the tappets supporting these protrusions were richly carved. In this example, the carving on the upper floor is richer, while that on the attic floor is rather more plain.

Old housing lists record the name of one of the Count's officials between the years 1617 and 1658: the grain recorder Michael Oeglein, who probably came from Swabia. According to tradition, he built this house, and there are certain facts to support his assumption. Although the exact year in which the house was built is not certain, it can definitely be traced to the start of the 17th century. The house was occupied by the family of Michael Oeglein for all of 80 years. As one of the Count's officials, the grain recorder probably monitored and collected the agricultural levies due to the local landlord. Even in later years, the house continued to be owned or rented by the Count's officials.

Thanks to the initiative and care of the current owner, the building has been restored and its distinctive characteristics preserved. A plaque next to the door lists the house's former owners and occupiers.