Friderich Raph

Raff Family History
Friderich Raph
1609-1667
Burgermeister of Degerloch

Amptschultheiß (Village Mayor), Gastgeber (Host), Amtspfleger (Official Trustee or Promoter)

Oral tradition in the U.S. is that Friderich Raph (1609-1667) was the first burgermeister of Degerloch. If true, then the story of the transition of Dergerloch from a church centered government to a civil government should be especially interesting to the Raffs. Hopefully we will be able to locate, translate and publish that story in the future.

The significance of Friderich Raph to the city of Degerloch is evidenced by the stained glass window featuring his image in the old Degerloch City Hall. Friderich is portrayed as defender or guard not long after the 30 years war. Friderich held the office of Schuktheiße (Village Mayor) from 1635 until his death in 1667.

In 1982 the window with Friderich's images was featured on the poster advertising the Archive Der Stadt, Stuttgart in Wilhelmspalais (William's palace).

A limited number of these posters are known to be in circulation. These are considered prized heirlooms by the current generation.

The complete image of the window as featured on the poster is available. Images are also available for download in a variety of resolutions.