The Rueder Valley

This was Easter Sunday 2007 when we had the opportunity to visit Schmiedrued, where the Webers lived.

We dropped over a ridge and there was the little town. The buildings were sturdy and snugged together. Large roofs covered the dairy barns and silos. It reminded us of the Star Valley and Logan areas.

The area's museum is housed in an old building with about 3 floors. I believe it was a mill of some kind.

The village economy diversified from strictly agricultural and dairy to home weaving about the time Samuel and Verena were children. Here are some of the looms and equipment used to make ribbons. (Ribbons for medals, hair, zippers, bindings, sewing, etc.)



The lady in black is our cousin, Frau Luthi. Her grandfather was Verena's brother so her mother is Martha's 1st cousin. Her husband is the tall fellow and the valley historian is the fellow on the left. He could speak English, Frau Luthi could also speak a bit of English. I wished I could do better than just the dictionary. But we spoke the same language when it came to photos and pedigree sheets. She wanted to know so much about the American family.