The Vaterländische Bibliothek traces its origins back to the pastor and historian Markus Lutz (1772–1835) from Läufenfingen. However, this description alone does not make the library’s special significance clear: Lutz demonstrated great skill in building up his collection: Entire collections of documents belonging to Swiss politicians came into his possession, and he also acquired numerous significant historical manuscripts. Although he lacked the funds to purchase coveted treasures, he evidently knew how to lend the collection a semi-official character – an impression already reflected in its name – so that it fulfilled, at least to a certain extent, the function of a central federal archive and attracted relevant materials. Particularly characteristic are the many bound volumes containing a mixture of mandates, printed documents and manuscripts – overall the collection of brochures and single-sheet documents is remarkably extensive.