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Biography of
Ulrich Varnbüler, continued.
The character and
fortunes of Ulrich Varnbüler are seen in sharp contrast to those of his
contemporary, Mayor Waldmann of Zürich. Their effectiveness in service to
Zürich and St. Gallen is comparable, but we must take into consideration that
Waldmann was an adopted citizen of Zürich and Varnbüler a native of St. Gallen
who had previously [before he had to flee] enjoyed the respect of his fellow
citizens. Waldmann had been granted the golden chains and the title of knight
by virtue of his service on the battlefields of France, whereas Varnbüler did
not receive the same rewards for his role in the [Grandson and Murten] military
victories (possibly because he was already a knight, as shown in the St. Georg
crest, mentioned in only one document?). All of these details speak in favor of
Varnbüler. It is known that Waldmann had an unlimited lust for glory and
wealth, in connection with pride and love of pomp, while Varnbüler enjoyed the
honors, but remained modest and unassuming. His actions attested to his true
love of his native city. However, it is likely only a legend that in his flight
he threw the seal of the city of St. Gallen into the waters of Lake Constance
in order to prevent it from falling into evil hands. He actually gave the seal
to the council, thus proving his upright character. Waldmann with his renowned
weaknesses became involved in the politics of the entire Swiss Confederation,
whereas Varnbüler limited his interests -- with perhaps too much passion -- to
the events of his native city. He recognized that if Abbot Ulrich Rösch's plans
for the city became a reality, the city would be ruined forever. Thus Waldmann
gained significant enemies through his widespread involvement, whereas
Varnbüler had a single opponent -- Abbot Rösch, who was known far and wide for
his ruthless and vengeful character and became Varnbüler's arch enemy,
eventually turning the rest of the Confederation against him.
Fate would pass
final judgment: Waldmann's family died out and only his reputation -- hardly a
positive one -- survived. For the Varnbüler family the sun came up again, this
time in a new fatherland. After years of legal conflicts the family lost some
of its possessions, but gained respect and honor in areas that were more
deserving of their educational status back in St. Gallen. Father and son gave
way to descendants who to this day are famous for their contributions to the
sciences and diplomacy.
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biography of Johann Conrad
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the biography of Nikolaus
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