4 cast-iron fountains are bubbling up again along the main street. They are remnants of what were once 8 wells, which were of great importance to the city, for watering cattle and extinguishing fires. But they are also visible witnesses of the city's former water supply.
The supply line used to consist of pierced tree trunks and two so-called well houses were built on the Obere Eich to collect the springs. From these, the wooden pipes were laid into the city, which now constantly fed the wells. Since the wood was constantly rotting under the moisture and this meant that repairs were always necessary, the municipality hired a special official - the "Bornmeister".
In 1879 all wooden fountains disappeared and iron fountains, which still adorn the streets today, took their place. After World War II, the wells were often the only drinking water supply when the central system stopped working. For many years, the fountains were planted with flowers in summer, which were then tended to by the local residents.
It was not until 1992 that the decision was made to make the fountain work again. According to the old tradition, they are now decorated with many colorful eggs again before Easter and have become a strong attraction for many tourists.
The 4 fountains are (along the main road, coming from Gehren in the direction of Ilmenau):
- the crow (literally Krabsch, peculiar name of the inhabitants)
- the Swan
- St. Margaret (patron saint of the "Church of Our Lady", depicted in the city coat of arms)
- the Frog