Background

The project Ybbs in Four Dimensions (https://ybbs.4dimensionen.eu/) concluded in September 2024 with a waltz performed on the Schiffmeisterplatz in Ybbs. Although this square was once a thriving center of traditional craftsmanship, its historical significance is still little known among the people of Ybbs and beyond. This project aims to change that.

In line with the goals of OpenGLAM.at, the local community is actively involved in the process of digital transformation. More specifically, we teach participants fundamental skills in working with data—particularly historical data. They learn how to explore datasets independently, use them creatively, and immerse themselves in the history of Schiffmeisterplatz.

Project Content and Research Questions

In earlier times, various craft businesses offered their services at Schiffmeisterplatz in Ybbs an der Donau. However, historical documents and artifacts providing evidence of these activities were never systematically archived. Even the small amount of material that does exist has only been partially catalogued. Current research indicates that the Schiffmeisterhaus once hosted, among others: an inn, a bakery, a saddlery, a blacksmith’s workshop, rope makers, a wine merchant, stables, and a cooperage. In addition, there were storage areas in the so-called Niederlassung, where shipping goods were temporarily stored and—according to the Stapelrecht (right of compulsory storage)—also had to be offered for sale by traveling merchants.

The wide range of crafts is documented through deeds, objects such as guild chests, and photographs. Some of these objects are preserved in the museum, others are kept in archives. The estate of photographer Franz Schatz, who worked at Schiffmeisterplatz, also contains a large collection of historical visual materials. As part of the project, these archival materials are digitized and made accessible both on-site and online. The local community is actively involved: they contribute their own materials for digitization and archiving and participate as Citizen Scientists in the research process.

Methodology, Workflow, and Events

The project follows the principle of “Leave No One Behind.” In practice, this means organizing workshops and inviting the people of Ybbs to participate as Citizen Scientists and explore their historical heritage. Hidden materials are uncovered, new insights are gained, and all findings are presented through various multimedia formats.

Markus Passecker and the USTP team prepare the collected materials for an exhibition. Through new interfaces of the eArchiving network—both in the repository system earkweb and on the Europeana platform—the materials are stored in a way that ensures the newly generated knowledge is archived sustainably and remains accessible. A virtual exhibition in public spaces makes the history of Schiffmeisterplatz—with all its gaps—visible, while also laying the groundwork for follow-up research.

In the previous project, strong relationships were established with the residents of Ybbs. The project team builds on this foundation and involves citizens in artistically interpreting the city’s history. Under the direction of Florian Müller, the Klangforum Wien develops new soundscapes together with volunteers from local music groups, the men’s choir, and the music school. Performer Klara Wandl and Florian Müller bring a dynamic physical dimension to the spatial installations through live performances.