Johann Marschalk von Frohburg - the first superior dignitary from modern-day Switzerland in the Prussian branch of the Teutonic Order and the brethen from Alsace-Burgundy

Abstract

Johann Marschalk von Frohburg (1320/1330-1391) came from Liestal in the far south-western fringes of the Reich, from an insignificant family who was looking after the stable of the Counts of Frohburg. The Teutonic Knights from his region hadn't played any role in Prussia so far. Very few written sources, the supposed dates of birth and the later carriercourses suggest that brother Johann gathered around him brethren of similar Alemannic dialect, in particular Werner von Tettingen and Konrad and Rudolf von Kyburg. At the same time, he began to forge an alliance with another crew from the south-west of the Reich, the Frankish. This cooperation paid off, because in 1387 brother Johann became the Great Trappearius. In May 1390 he was removed from his dignity. His countrymen from Alsace-Burgundy soon regained this office and gave it to the younger Werner. Johann Marschalk von Frohburg, who died in the following year, smoothed the way for other Aleman-speaking brethren in the Teutonic Order.