The Homburg flea market yielded what, for me, was an awesome snag - an old volksmarching walking stick. When we were here in the 80s volksmarching was huge. They were 10km walks which drew large crowds. People joined volksmarch clubs and hiked together socially. When you participated in a walk you would earn a small metal badge which you tacked onto a walking stick like this one. People collected badges from all over.
People still walk here with great enthusiasm, but I see few sticks. Nordic walking poles have largely replaced the old canes. I was glad to find this one which was covered in badges. The others I have seen have had far fewer. Must have been a well-traveled volksmarcher. : )
That is so very very cool! What a find!
Posted by: Kimberlee | June 22, 2012 at 11:00 PM
Love it! (And the painted wooden container that's holding it. :)
Posted by: Rebecca | June 28, 2012 at 05:09 AM
Gosh, I used to do a lot of volksmarches here in the states, mostly in Ohio. Have they just died a natural death, I wonder?
Posted by: Mary Jean | June 29, 2012 at 08:11 AM
I really don't know if it's the event itself or just the equipment that is changing. Good question. I know here that people just do walk, socially or independently, ALL the time. The trails are full.
Posted by: Kim | June 29, 2012 at 08:39 AM