The Richard Wagner Sites in Graupa near Dresden have added a fascinating original document from the composer’s family to their collection. 190 years after it was written, a letter from Wagner’s mother, Johanna Rosine Wagner, was added to the collection. Dated April 25, 1836, it is addressed to Wagner’s friend Theodor Apel. Wagner’s great-granddaughter, Dagny Beidler, was expected to attend the handover, but she had to cancel due to illness. The letter will be on display at the Lohengrinhaus through the end of August 2026.
The Wagner Sites in Graupa possess an extensive collection
Last year, the museum had already received numerous objects and documents from the composer’s life.
This is because the Wagner collection of Armin Trösch—honorary president of the Swiss Wagner Society—was transferred to Graupa. It comprises more than 500 artifacts and books, including handwritten letters by Wagner, the first printing of the piano score for the opera “Rienzi,” and numerous first editions. It also includes a suitcase that Wagner presumably took with him when he fled Dresden for exile in Zurich following the failed revolution of 1849.
The Richard Wagner Sites in Graupa are considered the world’s oldest residence of the composer to be used as a museum. At the Schäfer Estate—now known as the Lohengrin House—he spent his summer vacation in 1846 and created the musical sketches for his opera “Lohengrin.” Museum visitors gain insight into the way of life of people nearly 180 years ago. The neighboring Graupa hunting lodge has hosted a permanent exhibition on Wagner since 2013.
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