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Formation and Uniform History of the Old Prussian Cavalry 1740 - 86 - Part III - Dragoons

Dragoon uniform of D VIII. Original picture card from the Zeughaus Berlin before 1745.
Dragoon uniform of D VIII. Original picture card from the Zeughaus Berlin before 1745.

Number of Regiments

The number of dragoon regiments at the time of Friedrich the Great's assumption of government can be taken from the table further below.

The army was further expanded under Friedrich the Great and counted 211 squadrons after the Second Silesian War, including 70 dragoon squadrons in 12 regiments (Jany, Geschichte, Vol. II, p. 189; see also Preuß, IV, p. 308).

Under King Friedrich I there had still been 21 dragoon squadrons.

Only the hussars were strengthened in 1745 by a small corps of Bosniaks. From this a whole regiment was formed in 1771.

Cavalry strength in the year 1740 according to Kling.
Cavalry strength in the year 1740 according to Kling.

Establishment of the Dragoon Regiments

According to the regulation of 1743 (01.07.) a dragoon regiment with 5 squadrons comprised

32 senior officers

60 non-commissioned officers

1 kettle-drummer

4 hautbois (oboes)

15 drummers

660 dragoons

5 flag-smiths

745 horses (not including the officers' horses) and

60 supernumeraries.

The subordinate staff comprised:

1 regimental quartermaster

1 preacher

1 auditor

1 regimental field-surgeon

5 field-surgeons

1 riding master

1 saddler

1 provost.

Prussian dragoons in the year 1740. Drawing by Kling.
Prussian dragoons in the year 1740. Drawing by Kling.

The dragoon regiments of 10 squadrons numbered

64 senior officers

120 non-commissioned officers

1 kettle-drummer

5 hautbois (oboes)

30 drummers

1320 dragoons

10 flag-smiths

1486 horses (not including the officers' horses)

100 supernumeraries.

The subordinate staff included 10 field-surgeons.

From colored drawings by Knötel the Younger (cigarette cards)
From colored drawings by Knötel the Younger (cigarette cards)
From colored drawings by Knötel the Younger (cigarette cards)
From colored drawings by Knötel the Younger (cigarette cards)
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.

Hat, Hair Style

The hat and hair style corresponded to the construction and customs of the cuirassiers.

The dragoons, like the cuirassiers, lost the braiding on the hats.

The neckcloths were black.

Grenadier cap of the dragoon regiment Grenadiers on Horseback D III.
Grenadier cap of the dragoon regiment Grenadiers on Horseback D III.
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.

Coat and Waistcoat of the Private

The white (later - 1745 - 46 - light blue) coat made of cloth followed the cut of the infantry coat, but had a shoulder cord behind the right shoulder.

For the introduction of the light blue uniforms see Jany, Vol. II, 289/290. The reason was probably a danger of confusion with the Austrian cavalry.

Most regiments had lapels.

These and the collar, the cuffs and the coat lining displayed a uniform color, which varied between regiments.

The various uniform features of the dragoon regiments in the year 1756 according to Jany (Vol. II, 291).
The various uniform features of the dragoon regiments in the year 1756 according to Jany (Vol. II, 291).

The mentioned shoulder cord had the color of the buttons.

The waistcoat also corresponded to the model of the cuirassiers' waistcoat. However, it had pockets and buttons, not hooks.

Seat of the shoulder dragoon or the shoulder cord, here D IV. Sketch by Gauker.
Seat of the shoulder dragoon or the shoulder cord, here D IV. Sketch by Gauker.
Uniform colors of the Prussian cuirassiers and dragoons according to a table from 1747. Appendix 31 from Kling.
Uniform colors of the Prussian cuirassiers and dragoons according to a table from 1747. Appendix 31 from Kling.
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.
Uniforms and equipment of the Prussian dragoons 1740 - 86. Drawings by the author after various sources.

Coat, Stable Coat

The coat and the stable coat were the same as with the cuirassiers.

Before the outbreak of the Seven Years' War the introduction of blue coats instead of the white greatcoats was planned, but this was not carried out in all regiments because of the outbreak of the war (Jany, Vol. II, 291).

Officer of the Third Dragoon Regiment around 1756. Drawing by the author after Menzel.
Officer of the Third Dragoon Regiment around 1756. Drawing by the author after Menzel.

Boots, Breeches, Baggage and Tack

Boots, breeches, baggage and tack corresponded to the items used by the cuirassiers. This also applied to the gloves.

The packed dragoon saddle and bridling from 1777. Also overtrousers and forage cap.
The packed dragoon saddle and bridling from 1777. Also overtrousers and forage cap.

Uniform of the Non-Commissioned Officer

The non-commissioned officer had the uniform insignia as with the cuirassiers.

Accordingly, the NCOs had gold or silver braids around the cuffs. In D IX the NCOs even had silver bows.

Prussian dragoon officers. Drawings by the author after contemporary portraits.
Prussian dragoon officers. Drawings by the author after contemporary portraits.

Uniform of the Officer

Coat, waistcoat and breeches followed the construction as with the cuirassiers. This was also true for the hat (shape and trimmings).

A decorative bow ornament was worn on the parade uniform. The number and arrangement can be taken from the above table according to Jany.

The bows were either gold or silver, depending on the button color.

The sash was tied in front of the saber.

The scabbard of the saber was gilded.

Dragoon officer around 1737 (D VI). Drawing by Kling.
Dragoon officer around 1737 (D VI). Drawing by Kling.
Margrave Friedrich of Brandenburg-Bayreuth (1711 - 1763) in the uniform of D V.
Margrave Friedrich of Brandenburg-Bayreuth (1711 - 1763) in the uniform of D V.
Prussian dragoon officers. Drawings by the author after contemporary portraits.
Prussian dragoon officers. Drawings by the author after contemporary portraits.
Dragoon officer (v. Alemann, D I). Around 1751. After a contemporary portrait.
Dragoon officer (v. Alemann, D I). Around 1751. After a contemporary portrait.

Armament

The dragoons were armed with a pallasch and a carbine. The latter was a bit longer than that of the cuirassiers.

A bayonet was also carried for the latter.

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the dragoon muskets were seldom used.

The cartridge pouch was made of black leather and attached to a wide leather bandolier. The carbine hung from this as well.

On D III and IV brass stars were attached to the cartridge pouch.

Cartridge pouches of the dragoons at the time of Friedrich the Great. Drawing by Kling.
Cartridge pouches of the dragoons at the time of Friedrich the Great. Drawing by Kling.

A single specimen of a pallasch of the Prussian dragoons is described by Wagner as follows:

Pallasch of the Prussian dragoons, M 1732. The blade has the same dimensions as that of the cuirassier pallasch and also bears the same maker's mark. The grip is covered with leather and provided with an eagle head of brass. The brass guard has a hand- and side-guard with two crossed bands.

D VII had cuirassier swords (see Jany, Vol. II, p. 291).

According to Jany (Vol. II, 291) the dragoons gradually received lighter models and from 1747 brown leather scabbards.

Coat of a drummer of D V after Menzel. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Coat of a drummer of D V after Menzel. Colored sketch by Gauker.

Drummers

The drummers and hautbois, on the introduction of the light blue outfitting, initially retained the white coats, but from 1752 they also received light blue coats.

Typical for the musicians was the trimming of the uniform with colorful braids around the cuffs, collar, lapels and pocket flaps, as with the infantry.

The drums of the dragoons were smaller than those of the infantry.

Dragoon drummers during the Seven Years' War. Drawing by Kling.
Dragoon drummers during the Seven Years' War. Drawing by Kling.

Standards

Each squadron had a standard. These were slightly serrated at the fly edge. Under Friedrich the Great the old colours were for the most part retained.

The finials were gilded.

Ensign of D VII. After a colored drawing by Knötel the Younger. Cigarette card.
Ensign of D VII. After a colored drawing by Knötel the Younger. Cigarette card.

D I

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

J. E. v. Alemann (until 30.05.1755)

C. L. v. Normann (until 09.04.1761)

J. W. v. Zastrow (until 26.06.1774)

Garrisons

Greifenhagen, Lippehne, Schönfließ, Schwedt, Wriezen

Canton

Pomerania

Districts: Neustettin, partly Bülow, Lauenburg and Rummelsburg

and the towns: Belgard, Greifenhagen, Coerlin, Neu-Stettin, Zanow, Tempelburg, Rummelsburg, Ratzebuhr

Formation

1689, strengthened to 10 squadrons in 1725 and then split and strengthened again to 10 squadrons by 1740, split again in 1743, from 1760 additionally and temporarily a light squadron

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Prague, Kolin, Breslau, Leuthen, Zorndorf, Hochkirch, Torgau

Fate

Dissolution due to the capitulation at Lüneburg, remnants formed the Dragoon Regiment No. 2.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

The insignia were already black before 1745.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Friedrich Albrecht Carl Hermann Count v. Lottum (1721 - 1797), chief of D I (after a contemporary copperplate).
Friedrich Albrecht Carl Hermann Count v. Lottum (1721 - 1797), chief of D I (after a contemporary copperplate).
Major General Christian Friedrich Georg Ludwig v. Pastou (chief of D VII from 1803, here in the uniform of D I). After Priesdorff, Vol. III, 130.
Major General Christian Friedrich Georg Ludwig v. Pastou (chief of D VII from 1803, here in the uniform of D I). After Priesdorff, Vol. III, 130.
Standard of D I. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Standard of D I. Colored sketch by Gauker.

D II

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

R. J. v. Schwerin (until 15.09.1754)

C. F. v. Blanckensee (until 19.09.1757)

A. v. Krockow (until 08.11.1778)

Garrisons

Bunzlau, Freystadt, Lüben, Raudten

Canton

Silesia

Districts: Freystadt, Spottau

Towns: Freystadt, Spottau, Beuthen, Beuthen, Neusalz, Neustädtel, Primkenau

Formation

Formed in 1721 by division of D I.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Prague, Kolin, Breslau, Leuthen, Hochkirch, Kunersdorf, Liegnitz, Torgau, Freiberg

Fate

Dissolved in 1806 by the capitulation of Prenzlau. The depot in Silesia was used for new formations.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Officer from D II (around 1745 - 1756?). From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D II (around 1745 - 1756?). From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D II around 1770-75. Christian Wilhelm Sigismund Posadowski (Freiherr v. Postelwitz), see Priesdorff, II, 119.
Officer from D II around 1770-75. Christian Wilhelm Sigismund Posadowski (Freiherr v. Postelwitz), see Priesdorff, II, 119.
Standard of D II. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Standard of D II. Colored sketch by Gauker.

D III

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

G. P. G. v. Schönaich (until 13.04.1753)

G. L. Count Hereditary Count of Waldburg (until 19.03.1757)

P. v. Meinicke (until 09.04.1761)

C. F. v. Flanß (until 08.04.1763)

A. H. v. Alvensleben (until 13.08.1777)

O. B. v. Thun

Garrisons

Bärwalde, Küstrin, Neudamm

Canton

Neumark

Districts: Friedeberg/Neumark, partly Arnswalde, partly Landsberg on the Warta

Towns: Bärwalde, Dramburg, Lippehne, Reetz, half of Landsberg on the Warta

Formation

Formed in 1705 as "Derflinger", from detachments of all dragoon regiments. Strengthened to 10 squadrons in 1725. Divided in 1741.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Lobositz, Prague, Kolin, Rossbach, Kunersdorf

Fate

Destroyed in 1806 in Blücher's corps; remnants of the formation joined D IV.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Standards

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the regiment received rose-pink standards.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Coats of D III. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Coats of D III. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Regiment Grenadiers on Horseback. Drawing by Adolph von Menzel.
Regiment Grenadiers on Horseback. Drawing by Adolph von Menzel.
Officer and dragoon from Dragoon Regiment No. 3 (D III) in 1759.
Officer and dragoon from Dragoon Regiment No. 3 (D III) in 1759.
Lieutenant General Friedrich Rudolph Count v. Rothenburg (1710 - 1751), chief of D III from 1741. Cf. Priesdorff, I, 244.
Lieutenant General Friedrich Rudolph Count v. Rothenburg (1710 - 1751), chief of D III from 1741. Cf. Priesdorff, I, 244.
Officer from D III around 1760. From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D III around 1760. From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Major General Achaz Heinrich v. Alvensleben (1716 - 1777), chief of D III from 1763. Cf. Priesdorff II, 39.
Major General Achaz Heinrich v. Alvensleben (1716 - 1777), chief of D III from 1763. Cf. Priesdorff II, 39.
Major General v. Strantz (1739 - 1815), chief of D III from 1797.
Major General v. Strantz (1739 - 1815), chief of D III from 1797.
Standard of D III. Colored sketch by Gauker (corresponds to the information in Jany, II., 292). According to Bleckwenn, however, the original regiment's white standards were continued. The field center is shown as blue (1713) or blue-silver (1720).
Standard of D III. Colored sketch by Gauker (corresponds to the information in Jany, II., 292). According to Bleckwenn, however, the original regiment's white standards were continued. The field center is shown as blue (1713) or blue-silver (1720).

D IV

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

H. E. v. Oertzen (until 04.10.1756)

C. A. v. Katte (until 24.10.1757)

E. H. v. Czettritz (until 22.09.1772)

G. L. v. Wulfen (until 21.09.1782)

C. L. v. Knobelsdorf (until 29.05.1786)

C. L. v. Götzen

Garrisons

Landsberg on the Warta, Woldenberg, Arnswalde, Friedeberg/Neumark

Canton

Neumark

Districts: Landsberg on the Warta, Friedeberg (Neumark) and Dramberg, partly

Towns: Friedeberg/Neumark, Schönfließ, Woldenberg, Arnswalde, half of Landsberg on the Warta

Formation

Formed by division of D III as Bissing.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Lobositz, Prague, Kolin, Rossbach, Leuthen, Zorndorf, Hochkirch, Kunersdorf, Torgau

Fate

3 squadrons and the depot were able to reach East Prussia in 1806. With the remnants of D III they entered the newly established 3rd Dragoon Regiment.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Lieutenant General Johann Heinrich v. Katte (1740 - 1813), from 1792 chief of D IV. After a contemporary copperplate (1801).
Lieutenant General Johann Heinrich v. Katte (1740 - 1813), from 1792 chief of D IV. After a contemporary copperplate (1801).
Officer from D IV (August Count zur Lippe-Detmold (from 1797 with D IV, left service in 1808). From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D IV (August Count zur Lippe-Detmold (from 1797 with D IV, left service in 1808). From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Standard of D VIII. Colored drawing by Gauker. According to DS 29 and DS 37 the field center was silver, not blue. The flag book Friedrichstein from 1720, however, shows this as blue-silver.
Standard of D VIII. Colored drawing by Gauker. According to DS 29 and DS 37 the field center was silver, not blue. The flag book Friedrichstein from 1720, however, shows this as blue-silver.

D V

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

Friedrich Margrave of Bayreuth (until 24.07.1763)

Friedrich Christian Margrave of Ansbach-Bayreuth (02.08.1769)

Christian Friedrich Carl Alexander Margrave of Ansbach-Bayreuth

Garrisons

Gartz, Gollnow (instead 1763/71 Bahn), Pasewalk, Treptow/Tollense, Uckermünde

Canton

Pomerania

Districts: Wollin, Daber, Naugard, parts of Greifenhagen, Saatzig and Randow

Towns: Pasewalk, Gollnow, Gartz, Treptow, Daber, Fiddichow, parts of Uckermünde and Wollin

Formation

Formed in 1717 from detachments of the entire cavalry as Regiment Schulenburg.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Lobositz (only 8 squadrons), Breslau, Leuthen, Torgau

Fate

The regiment reached East Prussia in 1806 and became Cuirassier Regiment No. 2 (Queen).

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

The regiment probably already wore the newly introduced light blue uniform at the Battle of Hohenfriedberg (Jany, Vol. II, p. 290).

Standards

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the regiment received dark red standards.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoons of the Bayreuth Dragoon Regiment around 1756. Colored uniform plate after a drawing by Richard Knötel. (Uniformkunde No. 41).
Dragoons of the Bayreuth Dragoon Regiment around 1756. Colored uniform plate after a drawing by Richard Knötel. (Uniformkunde No. 41).
Ansbach-Bayreuth dragoons (1752-1802). Colored drawing by Krickel.
Ansbach-Bayreuth dragoons (1752-1802). Colored drawing by Krickel.
Officer from D V. From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D V. From a negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D V (1714 - 1772), joined D V in 1732, retired as captain in 1747.
Officer from D V (1714 - 1772), joined D V in 1732, retired as captain in 1747.
Officer from D V around 1787 (Christoph Karl v. Bülow, cf. Priesdorff, I, 511).
Officer from D V around 1787 (Christoph Karl v. Bülow, cf. Priesdorff, I, 511).
Field Marshal Friedrich Adolph Count von Kalckreuth (1737 - 1818), later chief of D V, previously chief of K 7, 1790 lieutenant general, 1798 general of the cavalry), governor of Königsberg, Berlin and Breslau.
Field Marshal Friedrich Adolph Count von Kalckreuth (1737 - 1818), later chief of D V, previously chief of K 7, 1790 lieutenant general, 1798 general of the cavalry), governor of Königsberg, Berlin and Breslau.
Standard of D V. Colored sketch by Gauker. Ground cloth probably black, prescribed (Economy Regulation of 1753) was however, as here, purple (according to Jany dark red: II., 292).
Standard of D V. Colored sketch by Gauker. Ground cloth probably black, prescribed (Economy Regulation of 1753) was however, as here, purple (according to Jany dark red: II., 292).

D VI

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

L. W. v. Schorlemmer (until 09.11.1760)

C. F. v. Meier (until 24.01.1777)

C. W. S. v. Posadowsky

Garrisons

Allenburg, Gerdauen, Königsberg/Pr., Labiau, Wehlau

Canton

East Prussia

Natangia: Offices Barten, Gerdauen, Wandlücken

Samland: Kalthof, Neuhausen, Wehlau, Kaymar, Laptau, Grünhof, Rosten, Fischhausen, Dischrein, Capora, Friedrichsberg

Lithuania: Georgenburg, Rogitten, Altorf, Insterburg, Dillaucken, Soldau

Towns: Königsberg/Pr. partly, Fuschausen, Labiau, Allenburg, Soldau, Margrabow

Formation

Taken over from Saxon service in 1717, allegedly in exchange for porcelain. Strengthened to 10 squadrons in 1725, but divided in 1727. In 1740 again strengthened to 10 squadrons. At times the East Prussian hussar corps was attached to the regiment.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Great Jägerndorf, Zorndorf, Kay, Kunersdorf, Freiberg

Fate

In 1806 it did not belong to the front troops. Later became Cuirassier Regiments No. 3 and 4.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoons of the Schorlemer Dragoon Regiment (D VI) around 1745. Original plate from the uniform studies (Rathenow) by Richard Knötel (Vol. III, No. 33).
Dragoons of the Schorlemer Dragoon Regiment (D VI) around 1745. Original plate from the uniform studies (Rathenow) by Richard Knötel (Vol. III, No. 33).
Lieutenant General L. W. v. Schorlemmer (1695 - 1776), chief of D VI (Priesdorff, Vol. I, 341).
Lieutenant General L. W. v. Schorlemmer (1695 - 1776), chief of D VI (Priesdorff, Vol. I, 341).
Philipp August Wilhelm v. Werther (1729 - 1802) chief of D VI, lieutenant general.
Philipp August Wilhelm v. Werther (1729 - 1802) chief of D VI, lieutenant general.
Standard of D VI. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Standard of D VI. Colored sketch by Gauker.

D VII

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

E. E. v. Rüts (until 03.08.1756)

C. F. S. v. Plettenberg (until 10.09.1763)

vacant until 1761

L. F. G. v. Apenburg (until 19.03.1781)

Borcke, G. M. S. v.

Garrisons

Tilsit

Canton

East Prussia

Districts: Tilsit, Memel, Insterburg (partly)

Towns: Tilsit, Memel

Formation

Created in 1727 by division from D VI. In 1740 initially divided into 10 squadrons, but split again in 1744. The East Prussian hussar corps was at times attached.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Great Jägerndorf, Zorndorf, Freiberg

Fate

In 1806 it did not belong to the front troops and later became the 1st Dragoon Regiment.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Major General Spahn or Spaen (1705 - 1762) with D VII, later chief of K 12 (Priesdorff, I, 467).
Major General Spahn or Spaen (1705 - 1762) with D VII, later chief of K 12 (Priesdorff, I, 467).
Lieutenant General v. Schenck (1730 - 1811) as chief of D VII.
Lieutenant General v. Schenck (1730 - 1811) as chief of D VII.

D VIII

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

A. F. v. Langermann (until 04.03.1757)

D. F. v. Platen

Garrisons

Insterburg, Ragnit

Canton

East Prussia

District: Insterburg (partly)

Towns: Insterburg, Pillkallen, Ragnit, Schirwindt, Stallupönen

Formation

Formed in 1744 by division from D VII.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Great Jägerndorf, Zorndorf, Kay, Kunersdorf, Laneshut (partly)

Fate

In 1806 it did not belong to the front troops and later became the 5th Cuirassier Regiment.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon Regiment No. 8 (D VIII). Colored drawing by Krickel.
Dragoon Regiment No. 8 (D VIII). Colored drawing by Krickel.
Front and back view of a coat of D VIII. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Front and back view of a coat of D VIII. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Lieutenant General Georg Friedrich v. Bardeleben (1734 - 1801) as chief of D VIII.
Lieutenant General Georg Friedrich v. Bardeleben (1734 - 1801) as chief of D VIII.
Standard of D VIII. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Standard of D VIII. Colored sketch by Gauker.

D IX

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

Georg Ludwig Duke of Holstein-Gottorp (until 09.04.1761)

N. A. v. Pomeiske (until 23.08.1785)

J. B. v. Zitzewitz

Garrisons

Deutsch-Eylau, Freystadt/Pr. (later Bischofswerder), Liebemühl, Marienwerder, Riesenburg

Canton

East Prussia

Districts: Mohrungen, Marienwerder

Towns: Riesenburg, Marienwerder, Liebemühl, Freystadt/Pr. Bischofswerder, Rosenberg, Gransee

Formation

Formed in 1741 from parts of D I. Divided in 1743.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Great Jägerndorf, Krefeld, Minden, Bergen

Fate

Destroyed in 1806 in Blücher's corps. The depot was later distributed.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Standards

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the regiment received yellow standards with red flames issuing from the four corners.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Georg Ludwig, Duke of Holstein-Gottorp as chief of D IX. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Georg Ludwig, Duke of Holstein-Gottorp as chief of D IX. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D IX. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D IX. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Lieutenant General N. A. v. Pomeiske (1717 - 1785) as chief of D IX (Priesdorff, II., 27).
Lieutenant General N. A. v. Pomeiske (1717 - 1785) as chief of D IX (Priesdorff, II., 27).
Standard of D IX. Colored sketch by Gauker (also Jany, II., 292).
Standard of D IX. Colored sketch by Gauker (also Jany, II., 292).

D X

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

J. A. v. Möllendorf (until 14.09.1754)

F. L. Count Finck v. Finckenstein (until 23.09.1785)

W. L. v. Rosenbruch

Garrisons

Hohenstein/Pr., Mohrungen, Neidenburg (instead as of 1779 Liebstadt), Osterode, Saalfeld/Pr.

Canton

East Prussia

Districts: Menzgut, Neidenburg, Ortelsburg, Soldau, Wittenberg

Towns: Neidenburg, Ortelsburg, Preußisch Holland, Passenheim, Sensburg, Wittenberg

Formation

Formed in 1743 by division of D IX.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Great Jägerndorf, Krefeld, Bergen, Minden

Fate

Perished in 1806 with Blücher's corps. The depot was ultimately distributed.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Officer from D X. Named: Alexander Georg v. Humboldt. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D X. Named: Alexander Georg v. Humboldt. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Standard of D X. Colored sketch by Gauker.
Standard of D X. Colored sketch by Gauker.

D XI

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

C. E. Count v. Nassau (until 27.01.1755)

C. L. v. Stechwo (until 06.03.1758)

L. J. v. Platen (until 15.09.1770)

F. G. v. Mitzlaff (until 11.03.1778)

F. L. v. Bosse

Garrisons

Beuthen (later Freystadt), Grünberg, Sagan, Sprottau

Canton

Silesia

Districts: Grünberg, Sagan

Towns: Grünberg, Sagan, Naumburg/Bober, Priebus, Wartenberg

Formation

Formed in 1741 as Nassau. After the capitulation of Maxen it was reduced to only 2 squadrons.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Prague, Kolin, Breslau, Leuthen, Kunersdorf, Maxen, Torgau, Freiberg

Fate

Perished in the year of the capitulation of Prenzlau. The depot was later distributed.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Standards

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the regiment received yellow standards with silver wedges.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn.

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Officer from D XI. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Officer from D XI. Negative formerly in the Bleckwenn/Münster archive.
Major General Karl Wolfgang v. Frankenberg (1730 - 1791), chief of D XI (Priesdorff, Vol. II, 331).
Major General Karl Wolfgang v. Frankenberg (1730 - 1791), chief of D XI (Priesdorff, Vol. II, 331).

D XII

Regimental Chiefs under Friedrich the Great

Friedrich Eugen Duke of Württemberg (until 09.07.1769)

C. E. v. Reitzenstein (until 04.06.1780)

J. N. v. Kalckreuth

Garrisons

Greifenberg, Massow, Naugard, Treptow/Rega (later Reetz), Wollin

Canton

Pomerania

Districts: Bütow, Lauenburg, Rummelsburg (all partly)

Towns: Bütow, Lauenburg and Schlawe

Formation

Taken over in 1741 from Württemberg service. It had been formed there in 1734.

Participations in battles in the Silesian Wars

Prague, Kolin, Breslau, Leuthen, Maxen, Torgau (only one squadron).

Fate

Was destroyed in 1806 with Blücher's corps. The depot was later distributed.

Uniform-related peculiarities and notes

Standards

According to Jany (Vol. II, 292) the regiment received red standards.

Sources: Information according to Jany, Lynker and Bleckwenn.

Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Dragoon (private) and officer. After a reproduced photo after the original copperplate series by J. C. H. v. Schmalen (Nuremberg 1759).
Friedrich Eugen Duke of Württemberg (1732 - 1797), chief of D XII.
Friedrich Eugen Duke of Württemberg (1732 - 1797), chief of D XII.
Hans Nikolaus v. Kalckreuth (1720 - 1807) as an officer of D XII. Lieutenant General from 1788.
Hans Nikolaus v. Kalckreuth (1720 - 1807) as an officer of D XII. Lieutenant General from 1788.
Standard of D XII. Colored sketch by Gauker (also Jany, II., 292).
Standard of D XII. Colored sketch by Gauker (also Jany, II., 292).

Economy Regulation from the Year 1753 (D VIII). Taken from: v. Baerensprung, History of the West Prussian Cuirassier Regiment No. 5.

Recommended Articles

Organisation

A contribution to the history of the Old Prussian Infantry Regiment Duke of Brunswick (IR No. 21).

Infantry Regiment No. 21 was formed in 1713 from various regiments returning from Dutch service, namely surplus personnel from five regiments. The canton (replacement district) lay in the Principality of Halberstadt, namely — in part — the counties of Wernigerode, Ilsenburg and Hohenstein and the towns Quedlinburg, Gröningen, Wegeleben, Halberstadt, Wernigerode, Derenburg, Bleicherode, Schsa, Ellrich and Beneckenstein.