The Uniforms of the Infantry of the German Imperial Army - 1871 – 1914. Part VI - Hesse
The first part of this series deals generally with the uniforms of the Prussian infantry - 1842 – 1914.
The second part focuses on the distinctive features of the uniforms of the Guard and line grenadier regiments (No. 1 - 12).
The third part is dedicated to the Prussian line infantry regiments (musketier/fusilier regiments).
In further parts the particularities of those units are treated which were incorporated into the Prussian army (after 1866) or which, through special uniform features, referred back to certain (non-Prussian) traditions (as here Hesse).
Additional contributions present the Saxon, Württemberg and Bavarian infantry, which, in peacetime, belonged to relatively autonomous contingents.
The series concludes with articles on the Jäger and Schützen and on the machine-gun detachments formed from 1901.
The Hessian troop contingent was regarded as an autonomous component of the Prussian army. It had been incorporated into the Prussian army by convention of 13.06.1871. The Grand Duchy of Hesse provided the infantry regiments No. 115-118 and 168 (XVIII Army Corps).
Notes on the above photo.
The guard formation was distinguished by white linen braids (silver for non-commissioned officers) with "Kapellen", namely on each side of the square tunic collar a single braid for non-commissioned officers and a double braid for other ranks, as well as three horizontal braids on each sleeve flap.
On the helmet the imperial cockade was worn on the right and the Hessian cockade on the left. The latter was white with a red ring.
Notes on the above photo.
The special Hessian helmet plate is clearly visible on the helmet. It shows the yellow Hessian lion surrounded by laurel and oak leaves.
The officers' sashes consisted of a silver band woven through three times with equally wide red stripes. The tassels were made of two rows of silver cover-fringes and one row of red-silver filler-fringes.
On the Pickelhaube the fluted spike rested on a trefoil mount.
The Hessian musicians and oboists were equipped like those of the Prussian guard regiments. However, the drum ornament was a circular lion's head. A Hessian lion was also present on the bell of the signal horn.
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