WWI-Era German Memorial Plaque – Turnverein Klein- und Grossbarchlitz Fallen Members Tribute

This rare and poignant Imperial German memorial plaque, measuring approximately 16 x 10 inches, serves as a solemn tribute to the fallen members of the Turnverein Klein- und Grossbarchlitz—a local gymnastic society—from World War I. Beautifully etched into a flat bronze or brass sheet, the plaque was designed for wall display and includes four factory-drilled mounting holes, one in each corner, allowing for easy installation in a memorial hall, gymnasium, or Vereinsheim (clubhouse).

The German text reads:
“Seinen im Weltkriege gebliebenen Turnbrüdern”
("To its fellow gymnasts who remained in the World War")

Beneath this dedication, the names of the fallen are split into two columns flanking a sword entwined with oak leaves. Above the names are two Iron Crosses, symbolizing bravery and sacrifice. The names include:

• Left column:
  Oskar Barthel
  Otto Bornamann
  Otto Cornelius
  Fritz Jikert
  Otto Müller
  Otto Näwe

• Right column:
  Curt Thiele
  Georg Thiele
  Otto Ulbricht
  Otto Fritzsche (listed as "vermisst" – missing)
  Paul Wiesel

At the bottom, the originating organization is noted:
“Turnverein Klein- u. Grossbarchlitz”

This plaque offers a rare and humanizing glimpse into the personal losses endured by even the smallest communities in the German Empire during the Great War. Turnvereins were physical fitness and nationalist social clubs, strongly integrated into local communities and often the social backbone of towns across Germany. Memorials like this were typically placed in club buildings or town halls after the war and are seldom found outside of Europe.

Historical Relevance:
Klein- and Grossbarchlitz are small Saxon towns, likely in the region of Saxony or Thuringia, where such Turnvereins were particularly active. The listing of multiple men with the same surname (Otto, Thiele) suggests familial ties or brothers-in-arms lost together.

Display Suggestion:
Due to its flat design and original mount holes, this plaque is ideal for wall hanging in a curated militaria collection, museum exhibit, or historic preservation space. The sword and oak wreath motif evoke honor and remembrance, making it an especially moving piece of WWI homefront memorabilia.

Condition: Excellent overall with light, age-appropriate surface wear; darkened bronze or brass patina with some minor oxidation, especially on reverse; four original corner mounting holes intact.