Rey Family

The Rey family, with historical ties to Cologne, Aachen, and Kerpen, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Known for their status as “schöffenbar frei” (free of jurisdiction), the family’s role in medieval society was significant.

Schöffenbar: Freedom and Social Status

In the Middle Ages, the term “schöffenbar frei” referred to a special legal status that afforded families various privileges. These families were exempt from specific taxes and services imposed by the emperor or king and could only be judged by “Schöffen,” a group of judicial officials. This special status allowed the Rey family to participate actively in regional jurisdiction and administration while being free from obligations that applied to other citizens and peasants. The legal and social privileges associated with being schöffenbar frei often included greater autonomy and influence in local governance.

Social Status and Knighthood

Many schöffenbar free families, including the Reys, enjoyed a high social status. They were often positioned above ordinary citizens and peasants, holding significant administrative and judicial offices. Additionally, many of these families were knightly (ritterbürtig), meaning they had the right to use noble titles and could be elevated to knighthood. Knighthood provided further privileges such as the right to bear arms, participate in tournaments, and possess a coat of arms, enhancing their social standing and influence. This dual status of being both schöffenbar frei and ritterbürtig solidified the Rey family’s prominence in medieval society.

The Heerschild and Social Order

The Heerschild system was a fundamental aspect of medieval social hierarchy. It defined the social and military ranking system, with various levels of hierarchy from the emperor down to peasants. Schöffenbar free families like the Reys typically occupied upper positions within this hierarchy, often close to knightly nobles. Their placement in the Heerschild system determined their rights and obligations, particularly concerning military service and judicial duties. This hierarchical structure was crucial for maintaining social order and ensuring that each class fulfilled its responsibilities.

Halfwinners and Economic Roles

Many schöffenbar frei families, including the Reys, were also known as “halfwinners” (Halfen or Halbwinner). These families managed large estates under long-term leases, which often passed from generation to generation. They shared the harvest with landowners, ensuring economic stability and social standing. As halfwinners, they played a critical role in the agricultural economy, balancing responsibilities to the landowners while also benefiting from their agricultural production. Marriages within their status level or even higher were common, often arranged to strengthen economic ties and consolidate resources.

Connection to Franziska Schervier

A notable figure connected to the Rey family is Franziska Schervier. Born in 1819 in Aachen, she founded the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of St. Francis in 1845. Known for her dedication to the poor and sick during cholera epidemics, Franziska Schervier’s social standing was significant, as evidenced by her godfather, Emperor Franz I of Austria. Her work and influence had a lasting impact on the Rey family’s commitment to social and charitable activities.

The Family Archive in Aachen

The Diocesan Museum in Aachen houses a valuable collection of the Rey family’s historical documents. The family archive provides deep insights into their history and development over centuries, including numerous documents such as deeds, contracts, and personal correspondence. These documents illustrate the family’s social status, activities, and contributions to the local community.

Detailed Genealogical Information from GenWiki

According to GenWiki, a comprehensive genealogical resource, the history of the Rey family has been meticulously documented. The book “Geschichte des Namens und der Familie Rey,” authored by Dr. Josef Gerhard Hubert Rey, provides an extensive overview of the family’s genealogy and significant contributions to the regions of Cologne, Aachen, and Kerpen. This book, now in its second edition, is an essential resource for understanding the family’s history and legacy.

Conclusion

The Rey family exemplifies the role and significance of schöffenbar free families in the Middle Ages. Their history, closely tied to the regional development around Cologne, Aachen, and Kerpen, highlights their importance in society at the time. The family archive in the Diocesan Museum in Aachen is a valuable resource for studying this era and the role of the Rey family. Their connection to knighthood solidified their social status, while their link to Franziska Schervier underscores their long-standing commitment to social and charitable initiatives. The detailed documentation of their genealogy in GenWiki further enriches the understanding of their historical impact.

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