Since 1988 I have been engaged in genealogical research into the origin of the Gütlich family. During this research, which led to the discovery of the earliest family history from 1573 in the small town of Groß-Gerau, located in Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany; not only have almost all relatives belonging to the Gütlich family tree been mapped out, but the research has also led to the discovery of special events and stories about relatives; including (Johann) Hermann Gütlich (1836-1861), who was born in Darmstadt.
His life and the story of a special journey Hermann made in his youth, the description of which has been handed down through two publications, are central here. On the basis of his travelogue and other sources, I want to create the best possible picture of who this Hermann actually was, but also take you along the route he took during his journey in 1853, by publishing his travel report. As a tribute to his youthful (over) courage, I followed in his footsteps in June 2022 by cycling the same route and reported on it here as well.
Hans Gutlich