She lived through 8 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Schloss Neuenstein.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
The 1630s · Eleonore is born in Schloss Neuenstein
In the news1618–1648
Destruction of the Thirty Years' War
The Thirty Years' War, lasting from 1618 to 1648, caused a demographic catastrophe where roughly one-third of urban residents and two-fifths of the rural population perished. Soldiers and camp followers frequently destroyed crops and seized food, leading to widespread famine and forcing villagers to abandon their land.
Getting around
Travel Speeds Were Generally Very Slow
Typical travelers, often delayed by weather, poor roads, or cargo, were generally happy to cover 100 kilometers in a week.
In the news1631
The Sack of Magdeburg
In May 1631, the strategic city of Magdeburg was plundered and burned by Catholic armies, with most of its 30,000 inhabitants dying or fleeing. This event became a major media moment spread through over 250 newsletters, fueling intense sectarian anger and propaganda.
Daily life
Dark and smoky rural homes
Rural homes, known as Hallenhäuser, lacked chimneys; the open fire caused dark, smoky, and stuffy living conditions. Families often lived under the same roof as their livestock, sharing the space with generations and servants.
What people wore
Men's fashion favored comfort and leather boots
During the Thirty Years' War, men's fashion shifted toward comfort, featuring high-waisted doublets and wide, knee-length breeches that fell in loose folds. Soldiers and educated men alike popularized large leather boots that reached above the knee, which were often worn turned down or slouching.
Music
Regulated Wedding Celebrations
Weddings were the most significant lifetime celebrations, with music, guest lists, and food heavily regulated according to the social status of the families involved.
At the table
Salted Herring as a Daily Staple
Salted herring was a vital, affordable protein source for ordinary people, with a single fish costing 2 alb. It served as a staple alongside bread and cheese to supplement grain-based diets.