Reg Butler O.A.M was a celebrated South Australian historian whose legacy we are now proud guardians of.

A local luminary, Reg's passion for the intricate stories of our town's past shines through his extensive collection of books, maps, diaries, and more, which are now housed on our family farm here in Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. 

With his intense interest in people and places and his exceptional knowledge of local history particularly relating to the original Lutheran immigration to Hahndorf, imposed a strong and highly respected presence and authority regarding his broad historical research which extended over an extensive period of time. Reg was born 12 February 1941 and died 29 December 2024.

Material and information available includes:

• Books and Publications both authored by contributors and of specific and general interest
• Information regarding South Australian Genealogy, Land Titles and local history
• Family history of first settlers and their descendants
• Extensive photographic collections of people and places.
• Information on the First Special Survey and the associated partners
• Local and Germanic Shipping Lists
• Adelaide Hills hotels and publicans
• Hahndorf and Mt Barker Land Titles Databases

Another substantial collection is the personal research work of the late author and historian Allan Wittwer.

Allan compiled his research collection over an extensive period of time which involved Hahndorf family histories, extensive photographic collections, many publications and  written information on historical and heritage matters.  He was also involved (usually in senior positions) in many organisations  and the Lutheran Church.

Other suitable collections/items of relevant material and data will be added to the Hahndorf Archives over time if considered appropriate.  All such items must have suitable and relevant connections to Hahndorf's historical and heritage background to be accepted and may include appropriate genealogical research.

More information on the Hahndorf Archives is available here.

You're warmly welcomed to uncover these treasures firsthand.

Email us at events@beerenberg.com.au to schedule your visit.

The materials and views contained in these historical archives represent the perspectives and contexts of the time in which they were created. They do not necessarily reflect the current views or values of Beerenberg. We present these materials as part of our commitment to preserving historical records and fostering an understanding of the past. We encourage viewers to critically engage with these documents, considering the context in which they were produced.

We acknowledge the Peramangk people as the traditional custodians of the Adelaide Hills region. We recognise their continuing connection to the land, waters, and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.