By Michail & Georg

The tradition of travelling craftsmen (and also women) is a tradition in the german speaking countries that date back till the middle ages. After ca. 3 years of apprenticeship in a master´s workshop the young craftsman leavs into the world, to live and work in various places, to further his skills and also get to know different ways of life. Returning to his home after 2 0r 3 years he may become a master himself. Until ca 150 years ago in most crafts this procedure was a prerequisite (Voraussetzung) to obtain your own workshop. Thousands of companions were on the road those days. Now about 400 (ca. 10% females) are wandering by free choice, most of them being workers organized in brotherhoods or travelling free. Tools, working clothes and personal belongings are all stored in the bundle and in the many pockets in jacket and trousers, weighting about 9 respective 5 kg. The traditional outfit including hat and walking cane serves not only functional purpose, but also enables the travelling craftsmen to be recognized as such. This way a welcome at the places he asks for food, shelter and work is ensured.