Nostalgic Computer Expo in Hünfeld: "Reviving Childhood Computing Memories"
This weekend, the Vintage Computer Festival Europe (VCFe) made its debut in Hünfeld, a town in Hesse, Germany. Known for its rich computing heritage and strong community of enthusiasts, Hünfeld became the perfect setting for this annual event dedicated to the preservation, celebration, and exploration of vintage and retro computing technology.
A Hub for Vintage Computing Enthusiasts
The VCFe in Hünfeld attracted a diverse crowd of technologists, historians, collectors, and hobbyists, all sharing a passion for the history of computing. From early mechanical devices to home computers from the 1970s and 1980s and beyond, the festival featured exhibits, demonstrations, talks, and workshops that offered a unique insight into the evolution of computing technology.
Honouring Konrad Zuse and Konrad-Zuse-City
One of the unique aspects of VCFe in Hünfeld is its connection to Konrad Zuse, the pioneering German computer scientist and inventor, and the local designation known as Konrad-Zuse-City. Zuse (1910–1995) is widely recognized for creating the world's first programmable computer, the Z3, in 1941. His contributions laid critical groundwork for the development of modern computing.
Hünfeld's Konrad-Zuse-City nickname represents the town's pride in its local and national heritage of computing innovation. The connection is symbolic, showcasing Hünfeld's deep-rooted commitment to preserving and celebrating its computing history. Despite Zuse's actual work being centered in other parts of Germany, Hünfeld embraces his memory and impact.
A Tribute to Computer Pioneers
At VCFe in Hünfeld, exhibits dedicated to Konrad Zuse's machines and contributions were a highlight, including replicas or models of his Z-series computers and discussions about his impact on computing history. This tribute honours Zuse's pioneering role and inspires visitors to appreciate how early innovation evolved into today's technologies.
A Successful Event in Hünfeld
The VCFe in Hünfeld was free to attend both days and was open from 10 am to 5 pm each day. Mayor Benjamin Tschesnok welcomed Horst Zuse, son of Konrad Zuse, to the event and expressed delight at the great interest in the festival. Professor Dr. Wolfgang Karl from the Konrad-Zuse-Society co-organized the event with the city, and the Konrad-Zuse-Museum offered free guided tours at fixed times both days during the VCFe.
Exhibitors and a sales stand by PolyPlay offered the chance to purchase rarities and accessories, adding to the overall experience of the festival. The event's success in Hünfeld marks an exciting addition to the VCFe's annual calendar, joining cities such as Munich, Berlin, and Zurich as hosts of this celebrated event.
Next year, Hünfeld will celebrate the 20th anniversary of being designated Konrad-Zuse-City, further cementing its position as a significant hub for vintage computing culture and a testament to the enduring legacy of Konrad Zuse and the early pioneers of computing.
The Vintage Computer Festival Europe (VCFe) in Hünfeld, home to Konrad-Zuse-City, honors the memory and work of Konrad Zuse, a pioneering German computer scientist, through exhibits dedicated to his machines and contributions. This festival, a tribute to Zuse and traditional computing lifestyle, showcases the town's deep pride in its general-news-worthy computing history, further positioning Hünfeld as a hub for vintage computing enthusiasts and a symbol of technology's evolution over time.
