The farmers of the area organized into Bäuerten or farming communities quite early. The oldest Bäuert charter dates from 1555 and defines obligations and work assignments as well as meadow borders and grazing schedules. The current municipality was created in 1834 by combining the land and residents of several Bäuerten. During the 19th century, the population grew quickly. However, limited arable land forced many residents to take up cottage industries such as silk or linen weaving or wood carving. Others emigrated to the other countries, especially the United States. Construction of the Brünig railway line in 1888 and the road over to Meiringen in 1890 provided an influx of money and tourists. The Health Spa Brünig-Hasliberg opened in Hohfluh and by 1912 there were over 600 hotel rooms in the municipality.