Beningafehn combines a distinct local history with an active community and events scene. Its founding as a moorland settlement and the change of name from “Louwermans Vehn” to Beningafehn give the village a historical context, while monthly afternoon tea gatherings and regularly held baking days add a different dimension. When planning a stay, both the village’s development and specific event dates are therefore of interest. If you would like to attend an event, check that its date fits your travel dates.
Founding and Name
Beningafehn is a moorland settlement. In 1772, Privy Councilor Arent Jan van Louwerman founded the fen settlement in a moorland area between Kiefeld and Gut Stikelkamp; the area was considered part of the Hesel cadastral district. Its original name was “Louwermans Vehn.” The founder, original name, and historical landscape context are all part of its founding history. In 1788, the fen settlement was sold to the Lantzius-Beninga family, whose home was at Gut Stikelkamp. It received its present name, Beningafehn, after this family. The two dates mark distinct milestones: its founding in 1772 and its sale in 1788. The later naming reflects the family’s history and helps distinguish the original name from the village’s present name.
Events and Community Life
The Beningafehn theater group has been active for over 50 years, representing a long-standing tradition in local cultural life. For many years, the Beningafehn Local History Association e.V. (founded in 1990) and the Beningafehn Boßel Club e.V. (founded in 1981) have regularly held baking days. The monthly afternoon tea gatherings take place at the Vehnhus in Beningafehn and are conducted in Low German. The program includes readings and theater performances, among other things, as well as occasional talks. Homemade cake is served at the gatherings. The events differ in frequency: afternoon tea gatherings are held monthly, while baking days take place regularly. Check specific dates if you would like to attend one of these events during your trip.
More to Explore in the Greater Hesel Destination
In the greater Hesel destination, the Archaeological Exhibition at Villa Popken explores the settlement history of the Geest village of Hesel, from the Stone and Bronze Ages through the Middle Ages. One of its main focuses is the history of Barthe Monastery in the Hesel Forest. These topics range from Hesel’s settlement history to its monastic history, complementing the story of Beningafehn’s own founding. Also in the greater Hesel destination is St. Ludger’s Church: the medieval church was demolished because it had fallen into disrepair, and a new building was constructed in 1742. The pulpit, with corner columns and reliefs of the Evangelists, and the altar with its Last Supper painting were created in 1653 by Tönnies Mahler from Leer, who was a carpenter, woodcarver, and panel painter.
The greater Hesel destination also offers nature experiences: Hesel Forest has an adventure playground and a tree trail, and its extensive woodland paths invite visitors to observe local wildlife. Around Gut Stikelkamp, approximately 5 km of woodland trails are ideal for walks. The Hesel Experience Route is a 41 km cycling tour that includes, among other things, a river crossing on a “do-it-yourself ferry.” This offers a choice between walks and a longer bike ride. Seasonal ferry service may vary; check the timetable before your tour.
Discover more destinations: Kleinhesel, Neuemoor, Siebestock.
Back to the overview of the greater destination: Hesel.
