Watering Can Museum, museum in Germany

The Watering Can Museum in Giessen is a collection of watering cans made from various materials such as zinc, plastic, porcelain, and earthenware, showing how this simple tool has changed over time. The displays range from old, worn pieces to modern designs and come from donations by residents and private loans.

The museum began in 2011 as a participatory project for residents ahead of the Landesgartenschau Gießen 2014, under the motto "The gardener's first duty: watering!". The city of Gießen is its sponsor, and the artist group gärtnerpflichten runs it. The collection was first shown in the former market watchman's house by the market arcades, then from 2011 on about 150 square metres in the Galerie Neustädter Tor, and since September 2017 in a converted shop of about 100 square metres near the Botanical Garden.

The collection features watering cans from different cultures and eras, reflecting how diverse people have cared for their gardens. Many pieces display personal decorations and regional characteristics, showing how visitors connect their own memories to these objects and view them as part of local remembrance.

The museum is centrally located near the botanical garden and city market, allowing easy access and the chance to combine your visit with other local exploration. Visitors should note opening times on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and can take guided tours to explore the collection with additional information.

The collection displays watering cans that residents have personalized with details such as stickers or handmade decorations, revealing the personal habits and tastes of former owners. These worn and customized objects tell vivid stories about how people actually used simple tools in their gardens and homes.