Book Description

Starting in the Late Middle Ages, the Fassbind family history spans across almost a millennium until present day. Family trees go back to the 14th century and serve as orientation. Images and illustrations of personalities show the exponents of the individual Fassbind generations. Postcards of the hotel palaces during the Belle Époque reflect the pioneering spirit of the family and honors from a wide range of European royalties represent its business success. Ancestors’ achievements and notable positions in politics and military once brought influence and prestige to the family. The aforementioned appears in the first part of the book («The Golden Age»). With the outbreak of World War I, the Belle Époque ended and turbulent times dawned upon the family. The hotel business, in particular, faced lean years. These lasted until the end of World War II and put a lot of strain upon the family enterprises. The family eventually found economic relief in post-war years. At the same time, however, rapid social and technical change arose, which also took a grip of the Fassbind family and their companies. Family members had to adapt and opened a new chapter with new life and business models. Throughout this period, family ties loosened, and some branches lost contact altogether. Others continued to cultivate their relationships and met each other on a variety of family gatherings. This is especially true for the descendants of the Fassbind family in Arth and Lugano, who kept in touch throughout the decades and corresponded frequently. The second part of the book («Changing Times») focuses on these two branches. The third part of the book («A New Beginning») addresses the latest development of the Fassbind branch in Vitznau. It is the starting point for the further development of my history and that of my siblings and cousins.