Grünenberg family

Some of these branches owned land in Alsace and in southern Bavaria, especially in the Markgräflerland and in Breisgau.

The founder of the younger Schnabel line, Markwart I, received the southern part of the family lands.

Through marriage they were related to a number of other noble families in the area including the Counts of Aarburg, Balm, Wolhusen and Aarwangen.

The two branches of the Grimme line acquired towns, villages and churches throughout the region during the 14th century.

However, by the late 14th century the Austrians had lost their power in Oberaargau and Bern was expanding rapidly.