Altonaer Museum, Hamburg

The Altona Museum in Hamburg boasts a rich history since its establishment in February 1863 by a group including Pastor Georg Schaar, naturalist Carl Christian Gottsche, and shipowner Ernst Dreyer. Originally located at Palmaille 112, the museum primarily featured botanical collections. However, due to a lack of public interest, it temporarily closed in 1888. It was later revitalized under municipal control as Altona evolved into a significant industrial hub with a desire to showcase its prominence through cultural institutions.

In 1901, the museum relocated to a new edifice strategically positioned between the new town hall and railway station at Kaiserplatz, now known as Republic Square (Platz der Republik). This period marked a transformation in its mission under the guidance of Otto Lehmann, appointed as the full-time director in 1899. Lehmann's vision introduced a focus on Schleswig-Holstein regional and folklore studies, distinguishing the museum from its Hamburg counterparts and earning it the moniker "Folk Education Museum."

The museum intended to illustrate the interplay between nature and society in Schleswig-Holstein through both natural and cultural-historical displays, often using replicas and thematic staging for clarity. It also became a venue for young artists to exhibit their work, provided themed museum guides, and featured a café for refreshments.

Today, the Altona Museum stands as a key institution in Hamburg, reflecting the historical and cultural evolution of Northern Germany through its diverse and engaging exhibits.