History of Formation and Uniforms of the Old Prussian Infantry 1740 - 86.

The following explanations are based in particular on a handwritten - hitherto unpublished - manuscript of the Münster military historian Hans Bleckwenn (* 15.12.1912 in Leipzig; † 10.07.1990 in Münster), which was made available to the author.

This script was supplemented by the author with various references

to the principal work of the aforementioned (the same, The Frederickian Uniforms 1756 - 1786, Osnabrück 1984)

and above all

to Curt Jany, History of the Prussian Army from the 15th Century to 1914, Osnabrück 1967, Vols. II and III,

and

to Constantin Kling, The Infantry Regiments. General Remarks. History of the Clothing, Armament and Equipment of the Royal Prussian Army, Vol. 1, Osnabrück 1971.

Furthermore, contemporary sources — such as regulations (reglements, parole orders, etc.), memoirs, etc. — and some secondary literature were used for additions and corrections.

In the "Memoirs on the Character of the Prussian Army under the Great King - Frederick the Second. From the estate of an old Prussian officer. Glogau 1826" (pp. 138 ff.) it is written:

"When King Frederick the Second came to power, he found four fusilier regiments, which he, however, converted into musketeer regiments, and additionally established 16 fusilier regiments. The remainder consisted of 32 musketeer regiments (including the guards, which were called grenadiers, of which one company per battalion, moreover the entire third battalion of the guard, had grenadier caps) and the Grenadier Guard, or the core of Frederick William the First's great regiment. When West Prussia was then acquired, Frederick the Second established five more fusilier regiments in that province, and in Silesia a field-musketeer battalion for the garrison of Silberberg."

After the first army reinforcements in the year 1740, the authorized total strength of the infantry amounted to 56,630 privates, a total of 66,990 men, whereby the so-called over-complements were not taken into account. This was an increase of 14,005 men (Jany, History ..., Vol. 2, p. 7).

After the Second Silesian War the growth of the army and therefore also the increase of the infantry continued. According to the general lists, the infantry in the year 1755 counted: 2,511 officers, 5,830 non-commissioned officers, 224 fifers, 1,861 drummers, 13,393 grenadiers — including the carpenters — and 60,450 musketeers (Jany, History ..., Vol. 2, p. 195).

At the mobilization in the year 1756, the King's army included 50,700 infantrymen, the Silesian corps 19,400 infantrymen and the Prussian corps 20,700 infantrymen. Thus mobilized as infantry were: 90,800 men of infantry (Jany, History ..., Vol. 2, p. 352).

At the end of the Seven Years' War the infantry comprised 69,806 native subjects, 9,148 Saxons and 29,420 foreigners (Jany, History ..., Vol. 2, p. 645); the natives therefore predominated by far.

After the peace settlement (1763) the strength of the army was again reduced to peacetime levels. The prescribed strength of the infantry was to be: 1st Guard Battalion (920 men), 2nd and 3rd Guard Battalions (1,783 men), Saldern - Grenadier Guard (864 men), Anhalt-Bernburg with 3 battalions (2,580 men), 41 infantry regiments each 1,722 men, 5 infantry regiments without grenadier companies each 1,404 men, 2 grenadier battalions of 6 companies each 932 men, 4 grenadier battalions of 4 companies each 621 men, 4 companies of foot jägers (326 men), 5 garrison regiments of 4 battalions each 2,800 men, 2 garrison regiments of 3 battalions each 2,100 men, 1 garrison regiment of 2 battalions (1,400 men), 4 garrison battalions of 700 men each, 2 provincial regiments of 7 companies each 136 men and 2 provincial regiments of 4 companies each with 79 and 80 men respectively (Jany, History ..., Vol. 3, p. 12).

At his death (1786) Frederick the Great left an army with a total strength of 194,898 men. Of these, 111,780 men belonged to the infantry; in addition there were the Regiment of Foot Jägers (1,362 men) and 3 regiments of Light Infantry (4,899 men) (Jany, History ..., Vol. 3, p. 134).

According to the aforementioned "Memoirs on the Character of the Prussian Army under the Great King - Frederick the Second. From the estate of an old Prussian officer. Glogau 1826" (pp. 107 ff.) the establishment of a field-infantry regiment was as follows:

"A field regiment consisted of 51 senior officers among whom both the chief and all the staff officers were included, namely:

1. The regimental chief

2. The regimental commander, who at the same time commanded the first battalion.

3. The commander of the second battalion.

4. Two staff officers to adjudicate.

5. Seven captains.

6. 3 staff-captains. Nine first lieutenants.

7. 17 second lieutenants and 10 ensigns. Two subalterns were adjutants.

Furthermore 144 non-commissioned officers, 38 drummers, 6 hautboists, 12 company surgeons, 276 grenadiers and 1,220 musketeers, or fusiliers which were in effect the same.

This was the core of the regiments, which however were first increased by 20 men per company, and then augmented by another 20, so that a company numbered 162 privates. This augmentation was made fully in the regiments in the Mark, in the Magdeburg region and in Pomerania, whereas it took place only halfway in Prussia, Westphalia and Silesia. In addition there was the regimental lower staff, consisting of

1 regimental quartermaster, 1 auditor, 1 field preacher, 1 regimental field barber, i.e. doctor, 2 gunsmiths and stockmakers, 1 provost."

Georg Heinrich von Berenhorst adds in his Considerations on the Art of War (Leipzig 1827, p. 205: "The number of officers of a regiment of foot was in some fifty-one; he increased the same by four and five subalterns, which brought the number to fifty-five, in wartime the fifty-sixth comes in.")

When Frederick the Great assumed government he took over 32 infantry regiments. The following numbers refer to the infantry regiments newly raised from 1740 onward, all fusilier regiments except No. 34.

This regiment was raised in 1740 from the II Battalion of the old Crown Prince Regiment No. 15 when this was reorganized into the new King's Regiment. In view of this background it was not a fusilier regiment. The privates therefore also wore hats and not fusilier caps.

The uniforms of these new regiments were designed very simply. This did not apply, however, to the three Wesel regiments (No. 41, 44, 45), which wore "old" uniforms.

Among the new regiments silver as metal and muted (broken) colours were preferred.

The regiments shall every year according to the given pattern unanimously be clothed, and on the 1st of May issue the uniform. But when His Royal Majesty wishes to see the regiments pass the review, the uniform shall be issued the day before (p. 630).

The dark blue coat of the private was made of four long panels, which at the sides and back are sewn together down to the waist; at the sides the skirts are pleated into 3 folds from the waist button and held together by buttons, the corners at front and back are turned outwards and fastened to each other with a button (front) and a strap. The skirts reach in length to somewhat below the middle of the thigh.

The whole coat is lined with baize, only the sleeves with linen.

The facings are made of cloth (exception: No. 46 and G X = Garrison Grenadiers).

The (sleeve) cuffs are regimentally either round - closed, only for No. 4, 6, 18 and GNG open or Swedish with a pointed - in No. 7 a rounded - corner.

On the left shoulder there is a thumb-ready dragoner, lined with baize and buttoned up toward the neck.

According to Jany (notes probably after Feyereisen) the dragoner had the following colours: No. 1 - blue, No. 2 - blue, No. 3 - red, for the grenadiers white, No. 4 - blue, No. 5 - ?, No. 6 blue, No. 7 - pink, No. 8 - blue, No. 9 - blue, No. 10 blue, from 1786 yellow, No. 11 - blue, No. 12 - red, No. 13 - straw, No. 14 - blue, No. 15 I-III - red, wing grenadiers white, unranked red, No. 16 - blue, No. 17 - white, No. 18 - pink, No. 19 - blue, No. 20 - blue, No. 21 - white, red striped, No. 22 - blue, from 1786 red, from No. 23 - blue, No. 24 - blue, No. 25 - red, No. 26 - red, No. 27 - red, No. 28 - blue, No. 29 - blue, No. 30 - blue, from 1786 red, No. 31 - red, No. 32 - blue, No. 33 - white, No. 34 - red, No. 35 - yellow, No. 36 - white, No. 37 - red, from 1786 red, No. 38 - red, from No. 39 - blue, No. 40 pink, No. 41 - pink, No. 42 - orange, No. 43 - orange, No. 44 - blue, No. 45 - blue, from 1786 red, No. 46 - black, No. 47 - yellow, No. 48 - red, No. 49 - blue, No. 50, 51, 52 (grenadiers white) - respectively facing colour, No. 53 - blue, No. 54, 55 - respectively facing colour.

The metal buttons of 20 mm diameter are usually flattened, with a rim ring, on No. 7, 10, 15, 18, 22, 24, 28, 29, 34, 35, 39, 40, 49. On No. 5, 32, 47 the buttons are semi-round raised.

The placement is as follows:

at the front on the chest or on the lapel usually 6 pieces in 3 pairs, for No. 16 nine pieces in 3 pairs or in one row No. 6 (6 pieces), No. 3 (7 pieces), No. 15 (7 pieces), No. 21 (9 pieces), No. 27 (9 pieces), No. 8 (11 pieces),

front right at the waist 2 buttons,

on the dragoner 1 button,

on each (sleeve) cuff 2 - 4 buttons, namely Swedish 2, round - closed 2, round - open 3 or 4,

further on each pocket flap 3, each at the back in the waist 1, below that in the skirt folds 3, on the skirts respectively 1 button and namely at the front.

The regiments with old uniform have a trimming of woollen braids, cords or bows.

This trimming differs in its pattern and arrangement from regiment to regiment. For No. 6 and No. 15 the trimming consisted of metal braids. No. 15 had one coat with and one coat without trimming.

The latter unit also had a silver shoulder sash.

Of the regiments with new uniform the following have trimming: No. 41, 44, 45, 48, 50.

Regarding the colours:

The base colour of the coat is dark blue. The lining has a dull ponceau-red colour, only for No. 18, 31, 40 it is pink. For No. 41 it is kept in the facing colour, as well as for No. 15.

The facing colour is different in each case (see the following tabular overview taken from Curt Jany, follows).

The pattern of the trimmings was also different from regiment to regiment.

The flap edging is kept in the lining colour.

The dragoner is blue or in the regimental colour (for No. 21 with braid trim, likewise for the grenadiers of No. 3). See also the above information according to Jany.

The buttons are made either of brass or tin; for No. 15 they are silver-plated.

The shoulder sash for No. 15 I is silver, for No. 15 II and 15 III white-silver, the pins silver.

Regarding the lapels:

These are kept in the regimental colour. In winter or in correspondingly bad weather these can be buttoned over, namely from left to right.

The other regiments (without lapels) hook the coat closed at the front.

The skirts were then let down and the sabre hanger buckled over the coat.

With the round-open (sleeve) cuff the lowest button remains open.

The regiments can get along sufficiently with the ell-measure according to the Economy Regulation, therefore the uniform must also be made in such a way that it can be buttoned up in winter.

N.B. The coats and coat-sleeves, also the camisoles, shall be made so that they can be let out in winter.

The coats shall be made neither too long nor too short, with 3 folds in the side at the back instead of pleats, also with tight sleeves according to the pattern (p. 638).

In cold or very rainy (wet) weather the coats shall be fastened, and the hangers shall be fastened over the coat (p. 647).

The kamisol (= waistcoat) is made of cloth and reaches approximately to waist height.

It has no sleeves and is lined with linen.

It has skirts with pockets and flaps, is cut at the front and is closed single-breasted (with 12 buttons).

These buttons are somewhat smaller than the buttons on the coat.

The old regiments have sleeves for the kamisol. These are unlined.

The colour of the kamisol differed by regiment, but was usually in tones from white to yellow.

The vest is worn in summer in suitable weather with the lowest 3 or 4 buttons left open. The sleeves are sewn on in winter.

The breastcloth is made of cloth. Essentially it is a short jacket - with or without sleeves. The breastcloths are made from old kamisols.

In winter the breastcloth is worn under the vest described above.

The white shirt is made of coarse linen and has an opening at the back as well as a (lying) collar.

The white overshirt is made of fine linen and corresponds in style to a folded piece of linen.

The overshirt is only worn for parade and is fastened at the neck with pins on the shirt and tucked into the trousers at the front. It is visible between the neckband and vest, where it hides the shirt collar.

Furthermore there are white detachable sleeves made of linen. These are short sleeves which are tied to the lower part of the shirt sleeves.

The detachable sleeves are also only worn for parade and protrude from the sleeves of the coat.

N.B. The camisoles are to be made every 2 years sleeves without underlining (p. 630).

The camisoles shall be made short, not too wide, also the sleeves not longer than the coat sleeves (p. 638).

The breeches are of cloth or linen.

They are knee-breeches that are tied below the knee. At the front the breeches have a large flap which is buttoned on the sides just before the hips.

The cloth breeches have the colour of the kamisol. The linen breeches are white. The latter are worn in appropriate weather from 01.05. to 30.09.

The white stockings are made of wool and reach to the knee.

They are not always worn; there are also socks.

The white socks are made of linen (foot-laps, talg-laps) and are worn on marches in summer.

The captains shall each year procure for the non-commissioned officers, drummers and privates a pair of linen trousers of white linen, and each year in early spring and in autumn new red neckbands and hair-bands from the small uniform funds; and for one hair-band 4 ells are used.

N.B. The hair-band shall be purchased in Potsdam, and the ell of hair-band costs 6 pf. (p. 631).

The trousers must be tight around the legs and the seat, also cut short above the knee (p. 638).

Die Stiefeletten werden aus Zwillich gefertigt. Der Schnitt ist bequem und sie reichen bis auf die Kniescheibe. Unter dem Fuß befindet sich ein Steg (zum sicheren Halt und straffen Sitz).

Sie werden außen mit 16 bis 18 Knöpfen (Messing) geschlossen, und zwar hinten über vorn.

Die Stiefeletten sind weiß oder schwarz.

In Friedenszeiten werden die schwarzen Stiefeletten in der Zeit vom 01.10. bis zum 30.04. getragen, also im Winter, sonst werden die weißen Stiefelletten angelegt.

Im Sommer werden schwarze Stiefeletten auf Märschen oder bei schlechtem Wetter getragen.

Im Felde - also in Kriegszeiten - trägt man stets schwarze Stiefeletten.

Bis August 1756 hatte No. 15 I nur weiße Stiefeletten in Gebrauch.

New ankle boots shall be issued every year, and the non-commissioned officers, sergeants, pipers, drummers and privates shall at all times wear ankle boots on duty, even when they are walking on the road (p. 632).

In den bereits erwähnten "Denkwürdigkeiten zur Charakteristik der preußischen Armee unter dem großen König - Friedrich dem Zweiten. Aus dem Nachlaß eines alten preußischen Offiziers. Glogau 1826" (S. 141) heißt es zu den Stiefeletten:

"Die Stiefeletten waren von schwarzem Tuch, auch bei einigen Regimentern von schwarzem Zwillich, und in der Art ein gutes Bekleidungsstück, daß der Soldat bei nassem Wetter sie für sich allein trocknen konnte, ohne sich ganz ausziehen zu dürfen, wie bei langen Beinkleidern geschehen muss. Vor dem 7jährigen Kriege trug die Infanterie im Sommer weißleinwandene Stiefeletten, welche aber, weil sie sehr leicht beschmutzt werden., folglich nur jedesmal einen Tag getragen werden können, ohne wieder gewaschen werden zu müssen, für die Armee, exclusive dem ersten Bataillon Leib-Garde, abgeschafft wurden".

Die schwarzen Schuhe sind nicht blank und aus Leder.

Sie sind vorn abgestumpft und haben hohe Absätze. Sie sind zum Schnüren eingerichtet.

The entire regiment must have equally wide shoes (p. 639).

Die Halsbinde besteht aus Etamin (= eine besondere Leinwandbindung).

Sie wird durch eine Pappeinlage gesteift.

Bei roten Binden ist innen ein Leinwandsteifen, der oben etwa fingerbreit nach außen umgeschlagen wird.

Bei den Regimentern mit alter Uniform ist die Farbe der Halsbinde rot, außer bei No. 18 (sowie bei No. 28, 31, 32).

Die anderen Regimenter (ab No. 33) haben schwarze Halsbinden.

Die Unter-Officiers und Gemeine sollen allezeit ihre Mundirungs-Binden umbinden, und keine schwarze Leinewands-Siefeletten anziehen.

N.B. Die Die Binden sollen fest um den Hals gebunden, die Stieffeletten glatt aufgezogen und mit dem übrigen weissen Zeug gut gewaschen werden. Im Felde sollen sich die Bursche ihr weiß Zeug selber waschen (S. 646).

Als Handschuhe dienen Fäustlinge aus Tuch. Bei No. 15 I sind außerdem Fingerhandschuhe von Leder mit kurzen Stulpen in Gebrauch, wie bei den Unteroffizieren.

Die Handschuhe werden aus alten tuchenen Kamisolen gemacht. Die ledernen Handschuhe von No. 15 I sind gelblich angestrichen.

Die Fingerhandschuhe von No. 15 I werden im Übrigen nur zur Parade angezogen.

Das Kopfhaar wird von der Stirn weggekämmt und im Nacken zu einem runden Zopf vereinigt, welcher - eventuell durch eine Lunte verlängert - bis ins Kreuz reicht. Der Zopf wird mit einem Zopfband verwickelt.

Die Seitenhaare werden über den Ohren in waagerechte oder senkrechte Locken frisiert, deren Anzahl regimentsweise verschiden ist, bei ersteren meist links eine mehr als rechts, da der Hut aufs rechte Auge gedrückt gedrückt wird.

Schnurbärte sind erlaubt, er wird auf "polnische Manier gestutzt", d. h., die Ecken werden aufgedreht; dann eventuell eines Backenbartes.

Das Haar kann gepudert werden. Das Zopfband ist schwarz.

Das Haupthaar wird im Frieden nur zur Parade gepudert, im Felde nur auf besonderen Befehl.

Anmerkung: Im Felde dürfte die Frisur einfacher gewesen sein.

Die Haare müssen allezeit gut verschnitten werden, daß die Ohren bedecket sind, und müssen vor der Stirne eingebunden, und auf Parade allezeit wohl gepudert seyn.

N.B. Es soll kein Unter-Officier oder Gemeiner eine Peruque tragen, es wäre dann, daß einer nothwendig eine Peruque haben müsste, alsdann solche ganz dünne und kurz gemachet werden soll.

Die Haare werden auch verschnitten und die guten Bärte gut aufgebunden, so wie sie das Regiment trägt. 28.03.1751.

Der König lässt hart verbieten, daß kein Soldat einen gefärbten Bart, sondern so wie seine Haare tragen soll. 29.11.1751.

Der Herr General hat wahrgenommen, daß die Bärte bei denen Kompagnien nichts nutze sitzen, als sollen die Kompagnien danach sehen, daß die Leute lassen solche aufstutzen 11.03.1752.

Wenn Commandos abgehen, sollen sie ihre Haare nicht in Papillotten, sondern ausgekämmt und gepudert haben. 29.07.1753.

Die Chefs und Kommandeurs der Kompagnien sollen besser darnach sehen, daß, wenn ein Kerl ist, der einen Bart tragen kann, besonders wenn er ein gutes Grenadier Gesichte hat, solchen stehen stehen lassen, desgleichen auch die Rekruten, so noch nicht verspielt.

Die Zöpfe nicht zu hoch und nicht zu niedrig gefasst sein. Die Hakens sollen recht unter den Achselband sitzen, daß keine zu sehen. Auf die Frisur soll besser gesehen werden, daß jeder 3 gehörige Locken hat, es sei denn, daß er zu wenig Haare, so muß er doch 2 haben. Überhaupt soll auf die Propreté aufs Beste gesehen werden. 02.05.1780.

Der Hut bestand aus Filz.

Die mit einer Kamelhaarborte eingefasste Krempe ist dreimal aufgeschlagen, und zwar vorn rechts, vorn links und hinten.

Die Klappen werden am Hutkopf von Stutzschnürchen gehalten, die auf jeder Klappe zweimal etwa je 2 1/2 m lang sichtbar sind.

Auf der Klappe vorn befindet sich ein Knopf.

Den Hutknopf schnürt ein Kordon ein, dessen Endquästchen rechts und links zwischen den Klappen zum Vorschein kommen, nachdem sich der Kordon hinten am Hutkopf überkrempt hat.

Auf der Rückseite der Krempe vorn links ist ein großer wollener Hutpuschel befestigt.

Gehalten wird der Hut auf dem Kopf durch eine Haarschnur.

Bei No. 15 I sind die Hüte mit Tresse eingefasst. Diese ist beim I. Btl. breit und gebogen. Dazu die Kokarde wie beim Offiziers-Hut (neueren Modells).

Beim II. Btl. ist die Tresse mittelbreit und gebogen.

Bei den Unrangierten fehlt der Hutrand, aber es wird eine Kokarde wie bei den Offizieren angelegt.

Der Hut (Dreispitz) ist schwarz, die Einfassung weiß. Bei No. 15 ist diese silbern, die Stutzschnüre schwarz.

Der Knopf hat jeweils die Regimentsfarbe.

Am Hut sind Kordon und Puschel von gleicher Farbe, aber bei den Regimentern untereinander verschieden.

Die Tressenspangen sind silbern.

Der Hut wird von den Linien-Kompanien getragen, und zwar von No. 5 - 5, 7 - 14, 15 I und II, 16 - 32, 34.

Er wird auf das rechte Auge gedrückt, die vorderte Spitze etwas nach links gedreht.

Die Halteschnur (des Hutes) wird unter dem Zopf durchgeführt.

Alle Jahre sollen neue Hüthe mit weisen Cameel-Haarnen Schnüren gegeben, auf die Mundirung der Hautbois, Pfeifers, Tambours und Gemeinen aber wollene Schnüre gesetzet werden.

N.B. Es sollen allezeit neue Hüthe mit Püschels auf der Mundirungs-Cammer in Verwahrung sey, damit, wann ein Marche kömmt oder es sonst befohlen wird, die Regimenter neue Hüthe haben.

N.B. Die Hüthe, welche getragen werden müssen im propre und gut aufgestutzet seyn. Weshalb die Hüthe alle Jahr einmahl ausgeformet, und die Tressen ausgewaschen werden müssen (S. 631).

Die Hüthe müssen laut Probe aufgestutzt, und schmale Schnüre darauf gesetzet werden (S. 638).

Die Grenadiers müssen niemahls sonder Grenadiers-Mützen, und die Musquetiers niemahls sonder ihrem Mundirungs-Huth, auch nicht ohne Säbel auf der Straße gehen.

N.B. Im Gewehr muß kein Huth oder Grenadier-Mütze abfallen, daher die Kerls die Hüthe und Mützen fest auf dem Kopf setzen müssen, und die Mützen und Hüthe müssen nicht hinten in den Nacken, sondern gerade auf dem Kopff gesetzet werden; Dahero in den Hüthen Creutzer gemachet werden müssen (S. 645/646).

Die Grenadiermütze ist durch ein vorderes Blech gekennzeichnet, welches in Größe und Gestaltung (Ornamentik) regimentsweise unterschiedlich ist.

Am höchsten ist die Grenadiermütze bei No. 6, 15, 18, am niedrigsten bei No. 1 und 7.

Um den Kopf schließt sich der sogenannte Kranz an, meist aus Tuch, nur bei No. 6 und 15 sowie bei den Grenadier-Kompanien von No. 11 und 34 ist dieser aus Blech.

Der Kranz aus Tuch ist oben herum mit einer Borte besetzt und regimentsweise verschieden belegt.

Hinten mit einem Adler in verschiedener Form oder einem anderen kleinen Emplem besetzt, finden sich auf den Seiten jeweils eine Flamme oder eine Granate aus Blech.

Über dem Kranz schließt sich an das Vorderschild konisch der mit Fischbeinschienen gesteifte Sach an, dessen Nähte hinten und an der Seite mit einer Borte besetzt ist.

Bei No. 3, 6, 10, 15 I, II, III handelt es sich um einen Tressenbesatz.

Oben an der Spitze der Grenadiermütze befindet sich ein Wollpuschel.

Das Vorderschild besteht aus blankem Messing oder dieses ist auf Silberglanz geputzt. Dies hängt von der jeweiligen Metallfarbe (golden oder silbern) des Regiments ab.

No. 3 und 11 haben silberne glänzende Schilde mit einem Mittelstück aus Messing bzw. aus blauer Emaille.

Dem jeweiligen Blech entsprechen die Verzierungen des Kranzes.

Bei No. 6, 15, 11. 34 ist es ein ganzer Kranz aus Metall.

Die Grundfarben des Sackes und des Kranzes der Grenadiermütze sind voneinander verschieden.

The pompon mentioned corresponds to that of the respective regiment, insofar as it wears hats with one.

In No. 15 III the pompon of the line companies differs from the pompon of the flank grenadiers of all 3 battalions.

Grenadier caps are worn in all regiments by the grenadier or flank-grenadier companies and the garrison grenadier companies, as well as by the line companies in No. 6 and 15 III.

Every two years new grenadier caps without metal plates shall be made; however, new plates can take a very long time, and therefore new plates shall not be issued until the old ones can no longer be repaired and used. (p. 633).

The grenadier caps must fit very tightly on the head and must not sit too low, and the non-commissioned officers shall have black and white pompons on the caps (p. 638).

On the fusilier cap the front plate is lower than on the previously described grenadier caps.

The wreath is covered at the sides and back with small metal emblems. The free-standing (!) and pointed bag is reinforced at the seams with metal strips; furthermore it is crowned by a half flaming grenade of metal.

Wreath and bag are made of cloth, for No. 42, 44, 45 of oilcloth. For No. 46 of plush.

The front shield is of the metal color of the grenadier caps; the decorations on the wreath and bag follow the metal color of the respective regiment.

The color of the cloth varies by regiment and corresponds to the color of the cloth of the grenadier cap.

For No. 42, 44 and 45 the color of the bag is black.

The fusilier cap is worn by the line companies of No. 33, 35 - 49.

In the "Memoirs on the Characteristic of the Prussian Army under the Great King — Frederick the Second. From the estate of an old Prussian officer. Glogau 1826" (p. 139) the following is to be read about the origin of the fusilier cap:

"They say the King chose the fusilier caps for his new formations because they were composed of smaller men than the older regiments. But since the fusilier caps bore much resemblance to the grenadier caps, from which they could hardly be distinguished from afar, in war the enemy would be misled and suppose they had old grenadiers or core troops before them. At least this last reason has at times also been adduced for this headgear, and it is true that they presented an imposing sight when the sun shone on such a battalion, which resembled a row of fiery palisades.'"},{

The tent cap is made of cloth.

It is a pointed cap which has a two-finger-wide turn-up at the bottom. On top there is a pompon.

The tent cap is made from old camisoles.

In No. 15 I it is dark blue.

The turn-up is in the badge color.

The pompon is like the one on the hat.

It is worn off duty or in camp.

N.B. From the old camisoles the non-commissioned officers and privates shall have breastcloths, nightcaps and gloves made (p. 630).

The musket has an overall length of 1.45 to 1.55 m.

The caliber is 0.74 - 0.78 (subject to wear), which corresponds to about 20 mm.

The weight of the musket with bayonet is approximately 5 kg.

The barrel is smooth and without a welded-in part 115.8 cm or 104.5 cm long.

12 cm from the muzzle is the front sight (the bead).

The rear sight is replaced by a slight hollowing of the tang screw. This screw is specially fitted on No. 6 and No. 15.

The barrel rests in the hollow of the fore-stock by one third of its diameter, at which point it is invisibly fixed with pins.

The lock is a simple flint/battery lock, into which the flint is set in a leather cap; beneath the lock is the trigger guard.

The stock is made of wood; under the fore-stock there are 4 tubes for the 98.5 cm or 108 cm long, conical, reinforced ramrod, the rearmost (point tube) of which has a spring to hold it.

At the front the fore-stock is protected by the muzzle plate; further fittings on the stock are the following:

the "snake" on the side opposite the lock with the pan,

the "thumbplate", a round shield 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 cm in diameter, which shows the crowned cipher,

on the top of the stock before the bend to the butt,

further a fitting at the butt end (top and rear around).

The butt is straight-shaped.

The rather wide leather musket sling is attached in front just before the second tube and at the bottom of the butt to two loops with buckles; furthermore it also runs through a metal loop on the trigger guard.

The musket also includes a leather pan cover, i.e. a cover for the lock, with straps on both sides, which were tied around the trigger guard at the bottom.

All metal on the musket is to be kept bright; the wood of the stock is painted, mostly red-brown, but also regimental yellow, brown, dark brown or black.

Made of brass are: the front sight, trigger guard, tubes, muzzle plate, snake, thumbplate, butt fitting, the buckles for the strap; additionally on No. 6 and 1 the tang screw fitting; all other metal on the musket is iron.

The flint pouch is red leather, the strap and the pan cover are painted red; on the latter the small straps for fastening are gray.

The longer muskets are carried in the 1st and also in the 3rd rank.

The range of the musket is 400 paces, but it is really effective only from 200 paces.

The pan cover is fitted over the lock so that the shot does not go off prematurely; it is removed only for charging and tucked behind the sabre frog.

Der Pfanndeckel wird über die Batterie gestülpt, damit der Schuß nicht vorzeitig losgeht, nur zur Chargierung wird er abgenommen und hinter das Säbelgehenk gesteckt.

There are two models of bayonet.

The older model is 43–44 cm long including the tang. It is three-edged.

The newer model is 2 cm longer and wider, stronger, sharper and also heavier.

When not fixed, the bayonet is carried in a leather scabbard with throat-band, throat-band tongue and knob, in a leather scabbard on the sabre frog.

The bayonet is polished bright. The scabbard is made of brown leather.

The bayonet is removed from the musket in the field only by special order.

The infantryman is additionally equipped with a sidearm, either a sabre or a pallasch.

The latter is carried by No. 3, 28 - 30, 32, 48.

The sabre has a grip, a ricasso (stitch-plate) and a small quillon of metal.

There are small regimental variations.

In No. 3 the grip was made of wood, covered with leather, on which there is a fitting.

The blade was 2 1/2 inches, from 1744 only 2 inches long.

The scabbard was of leather, usually with a wooden insert.

Throat-band, throat-band tongue and clasp are made of metal.

The latter is covered with leather except for the button.

The sabre tassel is attached to the grip, namely on a woolen band, in No. 6, 11, 48 on a leather strap.

The tassel itself consists of a button, acorn, wreath and fringe.

The sidearm is worn on a frog. This is a leather strap about 5 cm wide. It hangs at an angle of 30 degrees.

Between the strap of this pouch a small leather loop for the bayonet scabbard is sewn onto the frog.

The grip, knuckle-bow, ricasso, quillon and the metal parts of the scabbard are of polished brass.

In No. 6 they are of tombac, likewise on No. 3 the grip fitting.

The leather trim is black.

The blade is of iron, polished.

The scabbard is brown leather.

The sabre strap is white or the leather strap is painted red.

The tassel varies by regiment; the life company always has white tassels. For the others the colors are designed at the discretion of the respective commander, wholly or partially colored or patterned.

The frog is painted white; the buckle is of polished brass.

The shorter sabres are initially handed to the 2nd rank.

The frog is buckled over the waist above the waistcoat, in war over the buttoned coat.

The regiments shall have new saber tassels every 2 years, and the non-commissioned officers shall procure another saber tassel within the 2 years.

N.B. The saber tassels shall be made for each company in a distinctive color according to the sample, so that the companies can be distinguished by their saber tassels; the life company, however, shall have two white saber tassels (p. 632).

The baldric must be tightened closely around the body so that the side-arm hangs properly in it (p. 639).

The cartridge pouch is made of leather.

It holds in one cartridge box 30 cartridges in three rows, each cartridge consisting of a 2-lot bullet and 1 1/2-lot powder weight.

Under the cartridge box there are a further 30 pieces in a tied linen bag; in an emergency the pouch can hold up to a total of 100 pieces.

The size and shape of the flap vary somewhat by regiment. The flap often projects considerably beyond the box and is fitted with an oval brass plate, which differs by regiment in pattern and size.

Furthermore, all grenadier and fusilier companies have small grenades in the four corners of the cartridge pouch, as do the line companies of No. 6.

On the cartridge pouches of No. 15 small round medallions are found here.

Under the flap a small bag of thin leather is attached, which contains flints, scrapers and a ball puller.

The pouch is carried on the 10 - 12 cm wide cartridge pouch bandolier, which is sewn to the rear of the pouch.

The cartridge pouch was black (varnished).

The fittings were of polished brass, for No. 6 and 15 of tombac. On No. 15 the fittings were also silver-plated.

The bandolier is painted white.

The cartridge pouch is worn over the left shoulder (innermost). It hangs roughly at the right coat pocket.

The instruments for cleaning and unloading the musket are screwed onto a thread of the ramrod for use.

The cartridge pouches must not be sewn on too short nor too long (p. 638).

The knapsack is made of rough calfskin.

It consists of a half lid which is fastened on the front with two buckles.

It is carried on a 3 to 4 cm wide leather strap, which is adjusted with a buckle (of brass) at the lower left (front).

The color of the knapsack is natural; all straps are painted white, the buckles are iron.

The knapsack contains clothing and the soldier's other possessions.

It is worn above the cartridge pouch and hangs on the back; it is strapped short so that the bread bag can fit underneath.

On this the Guard officer v. Scheelen reports (August 1756, p. 107):

"In the morning the King inspected a packed knapsack of ours and of the 2nd and 3rd Guard battalions. In such is a knife, spoon, fork, shoe and cleaning brush, powder pouch, comb, tallow rag, field cap, sleeve, 2 undershirts, 2 collars, 2 fore-sleeves, 1 pair of stockings, a bloodletting band; no mirror and also no barber's razor, the field surgeons shall take 4 knives and have their servants help them shave; 2 pairs of linen trousers; the new cloth trousers are taken by wagon."

The bread bag is made of linen.

It is closed with a flap; the corresponding button is made of metal.

The bread bag can hold bread for three days or more.

It is carried on a white strap. The bread bag is made of unbleached canvas and is greenish-gray.

It is worn over the right shoulder, namely under the knapsack. When empty, it can also find its place under the coat.

The tent pegs are made of wood. They are carved pegs, three to four pieces per man. They were tied to the back of the knapsack.

The field kettles are made of copper. Inside is a small saucepan (Kaserol).

Four kettles are transported in a leather bag. If they are carried individually by the men, a strap is used for that.

The field kettles are of bright copper. The leather bag is black, the straps probably white.

Usually the field kettles are transported in the described bag on packhorses.

In some regiments the transport is done by the men, then probably over the left shoulder.

The field canteen is made of tin. A cup is slipped over its opening. The field canteen is carried on a 3 - 4 cm wide leather strap, this with a buckle, which runs through eyelets around the whole bottle.

The color is light gray, the strap is painted white.

The field canteen is carried over the left shoulder; the strap lies beneath that of the cartridge pouch.

"The regiments quartered in Berlin next to us, as far as I remember, were Vokat, Winterfeld, Meyring and Kalkstein; then four princes' regiments: Prince of Prussia, Prince Ferdinand, Prince Carl and Prince of Württemberg, all four of which marched off partly before, partly after us, but later in the field rejoined us. Now march was sounded; tears of citizens, soldiers' wives, H... and the like flowed in heaps. The soldiers themselves, the country lads, who left wives and children behind, were completely dejected, full of melancholy and sorrow; the foreigners, however, secretly rejoiced and cried: At last, thank God, our deliverance has come!"

Everyone was bundled like a donkey, first strapped with a sword belt, then the cartridge pouch over the shoulder with a five-inch strap, over the other shoulder the knapsack, laden with linen and so on, likewise the haversack, stuffed with bread and other forage.

Next, everyone had to carry a piece of field equipment: bottle, kettle, pick or something like that, all on straps; then a musket as well, also on such a strap. Thus we were crossed over the chest five times, so that at first everyone believed they would suffocate under such a load. Added to this was the tight pressed uniform and such dog-day heat that sometimes it seemed to me I was walking on glowing coals, and when I gave my chest a little air a steam came out like from a boiling kettle. Often I had not a dry thread on me and soon languished from thirst."

Ulrich Bräker, Lebensgeschichte und natürliche Ebenteuer des Armen Mannes im Tockebnurg, Zürich 1789 (edition Stuttgart 1965, p. 121.

The entrenching tools consist of the tent axe, the mattock and the shovel.

Each piece is kept in a leather - buckled - sheath and carried on a 3 - 4 cm wide leather strap.

The handles are wood-colored, the sheaths are black.

The carrying strap is painted white.

The metals are probably bright.

Only one piece is transported per man. The strap runs over the left shoulder.

Occasionally the entrenching tools are transported along with the troop.

The musket caps, field flags, field kettles, field canteens, tent axes, drum covers and tent covers shall, when the regiments must procure such items in wartime, be paid for extraordinarily (p. 637).

The musicians wear the described uniform of the rank-and-file.

But with the following differences or peculiarities:

No dragoon on the coat.

On the shoulders so-called swallow-nests are worn. These have the base color of the coat. In No. 3 they are lined in red.

Moreover, the musicians' coat has a special trimming consisting of special drummer braids made of plush or wool.

Only in Nos. 15, 17, 18 and 48 do the bows of the rank-and-file appear.

The arrangement, the pattern and the width of the drummer braids vary by regiment.

Most regiments have two braids of the same pattern of different widths.

Regiments with braids of only one width are: No. 14, 18, 21, 25, 33, 41, 47, G IV, V, VII, VIII, NG.

For Nos. 21 and 25 this is not certain; No. 3 had braids in three different widths.

The wide braid sits on the sleeve seams; otherwise no general difference can be determined.

Within a regiment the braids are the same for all musicians. However, the oboists and the regimental drummers have braids with a richer execution.

In Nos. 12 and 18 silver is found in the braids instead of white.

The shoulder cords of the drummers in No. 15 are red-silver with silver pins.

The musicians' neckcloth corresponds to that of the rank-and-file.

The oboists and probably also the regimental drummers wear neckcloths like those of the non-commissioned officers, therefore white in Nos. 3 and 6.

The hairstyle of the musicians corresponds to that of the rank-and-file; beards are not worn.

The headgear also corresponds to that of the rank-and-file, but the oboists and the regimental drummers wear the headgear of the non-commissioned officers.

The grenadier pipers in No. 15 wear a Turkish knot.

The apron pelt consists of rough calfskin. It is natural-colored on the outside. Inside it is painted white.

When the drum is carried on the back the apron pelt is placed underneath.

When the drum is worn at the front, the apron pelt is tied over the waistcoat.

The musicians have the sidearm of the rank-and-file. On this the oboists and the regimental drummers wear the NCOs' tassel.

In Nos. 3 and 6 the oboists and the regimental drummers fasten the sling under the waistcoat.

The drum consists of a metal shell with wooden hoops. Its dimensions vary by regiment.

The large state coat of arms or the eagle is embossed on the shell. In individual cases a name inscription is also found.

At the bottom of the drum hangs the drum strap. This is attached on both sides to the hoop, which is bound with a drummer's braid.

The drum bandolier is of leather and about 10 to 12 cm wide. On the shoulder it is narrower. The ends are rounded and the front is fastened to the rear.

On the bandolier there are two loops at the front center. They are usually adorned with braids. They serve to secure the drumsticks.

At the lower front there are two small leather straps for tying on the drum.

The drumsticks are of wood and partly sheathed with metal.

The bandolier together with the loops and small straps is painted white and edged with a narrow drummer's braid.

The drums are painted to match the musket stocks of the respective regiment; the fittings are brass.

The bandolier is worn over the right shoulder (underneath).

The regimental drummer and the hautbois shall have hats like the non-commissioned officers, and white saber-tassels like the Life Company; the remainder of the uniform, however, shall be equal to the pipers' and drummers' uniform.

The flutes are transverse flutes made of wood with metal keys.

They are kept in a leather case holding 2 or 3 instruments. The flutes are carried on a 9 cm wide leather strap, which is adorned with a braid.

The color of the flutes was probably yellow with brass keys. The case is red oil-tanned leather. The strap is painted white and decorated with a narrow drummer's braid.

The strap is worn over the left shoulder.

The infantry regiment also includes the oboists.

They have wind instruments, namely 1 trumpet, 2 bassoons and 3 oboes.

The trumpet is larger than that of the cavalry and has a brass attachment.

In some regiments there is also a silver trumpet.

It is carried on the back with the bell upwards, on a woolen banderole woven with gold or silver, depending on the metal used in the respective regiment.

The colors of the banderole correspond to those of the drummer braid used.

The musicians' knapsack corresponds to that of the rank-and-file, but it is worn over the left shoulder, namely over the drum bandolier.

The piper wears it over the right shoulder (probably like the oboists).

The bread bag is like that of the rank-and-file, as are the tent pegs (?).

The regimental drummer and the hautbois shall have hats like the non-commissioned officers, and white saber-tassels like the Life Company; the remainder of the uniform, however, shall be equal to the pipers' and drummers' uniform (p. 634).

The carpenters belong to the grenadier companies.

There are six per company (Infantry Regulation 1743, p. 5). Later the number was increased to 7 (1749) and then to 10 (1781 - 84) per grenadier company.

They are actually responsible for pioneer work, i.e. for repairing roads, restoring bridges, erecting or removing entrenchments, etc.

In the field the carpenters are, however, separated from their companies and man the regimental guns.

In the notes of the Prussian guard officer v. Scheelen it is recorded:

"1756: On 18 April the carpenters from the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, Retzow and Heinrich Regiments, had to go to Berlin to the artillery, there they had to learn loading, rigging (preparing), and what is to be done with the cannons. Those from the 1st Battalion remained in Potsdam; one non-commissioned officer went along per regiment or per battalion; they reported in Berlin to Obl. Diesko, who had them billeted two men to a room, and ordered them every morning to the Unterbaum to drill."

In 1755 the carpenters had to hand in their muskets.

Characteristics of the carpenters are the carpenter's axe and the apron pelt.

Otherwise they wear the described uniform of the rank-and-file (grenadiers), therefore also the grenadier caps.

The non-commissioned officers wear the rank-and-file uniform, but are distinguished by some peculiarities:

On the coat there is a regimental variation of trim consisting of (silver or gold) bows or braids.

On the hat they wear a gold or silver tress edging. It is about a thumb's width.

In No. 3 there is a narrow hat tress like that of the officers.

On the hat a black-and-white wool tuft is also worn.

Gloves were worn. These were made of leather and painted white.

A black-and-white woolen tassel is worn on the sidearm. This hangs on a band with a black edge.

Band-tresses shall be applied to the non-commissioned officers' uniform and hats, so that these may be procured at public expense according to the account (p. 630).

The non-commissioned officers shall have new gloves every three years, and the whole regiment shall have new stockings every year at 8 Gr., and the stockings shall not be made longer than to the knee.

N.B. The non-commissioned officers shall in the three years also procure a pair of uniform gloves, and the lads shall procure each year one pair of ankle boots, because they sell their entire uniform every year (p. 633).

The non-commissioned officers also carry a stick (cane) with them. This is attached to a button of the coat when the non-commissioned officer, for example, carries the short musket.

The non-commissioned officers of the grenadiers and musketeers are armed with a so-called short musket.

In 1755/56, shortly before the start of the Seven Years' War, longer short muskets (probably only for the non-commissioned officers of the grenadiers) were introduced (Scheelen, Notes). These were over 3 m long (12 feet 11 inches, designated as "pike for the non-commissioned officers of the grenadiers").

The short muskets are painted (brown, yellow in No. 3), in the same way as the staffs of the officers' spontoons (Infantry Regulations 1743, p. 647).

They do not have a musket or a cartridge pouch.

However, in the grenadier companies there is a limited number of non-commissioned officers with muskets. These are muskets with rifled barrels (v. d. Oelsnitz, Geschichte des 1. Infanterie-Regiments, Berlin 1855, p. 398).

N.B. The officers' spontoons and the non-commissioned officers' short muskets must always be painted alike (p. 647).

If in future a non-commissioned officer has attached another man's stick than his own, he shall immediately receive 30 lashes. 02.05.1780.

The lance corporals (Gefreiten-Korporale, also called Freicorporal or Junker) also wear the non-commissioned officers' uniform. They are often very young (about 13 - 19 years old).

They are future officers (officer aspirants).

Since 1763 the five oldest lance corporals have worn the officers' sword-knot on the sidearm. They also received ensign's commissions (Instruction of 11.05.1763, Reinhard, Geschichte des 1. Garde-Regiments zu Fuß, 1858, p. 139).

In this connection one reads in the Considerations on the Art of War (v. Berenhorst, Leipzig 1798, p. 143):

"To assist their education, Friedrich ordained intermediates between senior and non-commissioned officers, Fahnenjunker with an ensign patent and a silver sword tassel. He wanted to make them more fit for the company of officers, in order to be trained among them, among people where nine out of ten themselves lacked any training."

For their service etc. see also: v. Weltzien, Memoirs of General v. Reiche, Leipzig, Vol. I, p. 15).

They carry the flags (Infantry Regulations 1743, pp. 6, 567).

There were also supernumerary Junkers (see v. Suckow, From My Soldier's Life, 1862, p. 9).

The sergeant also wore the non-commissioned officers' uniform, but had the officers' portepee on his sidearm (only in the year 1822 did the sergeants also receive the officers' weapon). In No. 15 I they also had a "Premier-Lieutenant patent" (v. Reinhard, History of the 1st Guard Regiment of Foot, 1858, p. 60).

The officers' coat is made of cloth and reaches almost to the knee. The waist is located about a handbreadth above the hip.

The skirts have three pleats each and are stiffened with linen canvas.

The entire coat is lined with etamine.

Collar, lapels and sleeve cuffs are, as to the cut, like those of the rank-and-file; deviating from this principle are found

in No. 3, 6, 19, 21, 27 GNG no collar,

in No. 4 closed sleeve cuffs,

in No. 16 and 26 open sleeve cuffs,

in No. 40 lapels.

The buttons in the old regiments are small, highly domed and patterned differently by regiment.

In the new regiments they are flat and larger.

The placement of the buttons is as with the rank-and-file,

deviating on the lapel or chest in No. 3, 6, 8, 15, 19 - 22, 40, 44,

three buttons on the right front at the waist in No. 3,

three buttons above the closed round cuff in No. 3 and 44.

The regiments with the old uniform — except No. 3 — wear a trimming of galloon, braid, bows or embroidered edging of metal threads, in No. 14 even interwoven with silk.

Placement and pattern of the trimming vary by regiment.

In the regiments of new uniform there is basically no trimming, except in No. 40, 41, 49.

In No. 15 there is a coat with and a coat without trimming (interim uniform) in use.

The shoulder cord is made of metal threads and consists of two loops and two loose cords with pins.

The shoulder cord is fastened on the right shoulder to a braided shoulder piece.

The color of the coat is dark blue, the lining red. In No. 18, 31, 40 the lining color is pink.

The badge color corresponds to that of the rank-and-file.

The buttons are silvered or gilded, according to the metal customary in the regiment.

Likewise the trimmings and the shoulder cord are executed in gold or silver. In No. 14 the galloon is threaded with orange.

The lapels on the officers' coat are, as with the rank-and-file, also folded over or on a coat without lapels this is buttoned up.

The skirts are only buttoned when the officer wears boots.

In No. 15 the unembroidered coat is worn in the field.

The cloth for the upper-officers' uniform and the cloth for camisoles, breeches, cuffs and flaps for non-commissioned officers and rank-and-file in the old regiments shall be taken from the Royal Storehouse, and the common cloth shall be paid at 12 Gr. per ell; whereas the blue cloth and the Boy as well as the cloth for the camisoles and breeches for the new regiments shall be taken from the towns where the regiments are assigned according to the economy regulations.

N.B. All uniform pieces, especially all woolen wares, must be taken in the Royal lands and in excisable towns, and this upon the cassation of the colonel (p. 634/635).

The gentlemen officers who do not allow themselves to be measured shall go to the tailor Noak. 14.02.1754.

The officers' camisole is like that of the rank-and-file, however the buttons are silvered or gilded.

The officers' undershirt is like that of the rank-and-file.

The bosom ruffle consists of lace and is worn over the front shirt, which is concealed by the bosom ruffle.

The gentlemen officers shall also immediately have their camisoles cut down so much that from the trouser waistband to the bottom they are only one-quarter of their length, and this must be done immediately. 23.05.1752.

The gentlemen officers who come to court shall be properly and neatly dressed, have an appropriate cravat and waistcoat, otherwise they will be immediately placed under arrest from the castle. 22.12.1780.

The colonel orders that the gentlemen officers conduct themselves in accordance with uniform regulations and do not appear on parade with a short waistcoat, otherwise they will be immediately sent to the new market. 15.09.1781.

The officers' stockings and shoes are like those of the rank-and-file.

The officers' ankle boots are also like those of the rank-and-file, but their buttons are gilded or silvered.

The boots are made of leather and are like those of the cavalry, with cuffs and spurs.

They are usually worn by staff officers and adjutants on mounted duty.

On the march and in the field they are generally worn by the officers.

The sash consists of a network of metal threads, interwoven with silk.

It is wrapped once or twice around the body, varying by regiment.

At the end the sash has tassels.

It is silver with black longitudinal stripes, the tassels are mixed black and silver.

The sash is worn for every duty, and indeed over the waistcoat. If the coat is worn closed, the sash is placed over it, the tassels then lying in front of the sword.

The construction of the neckcloth is among officers like that of the rank-and-file, however in the regiments with a red neckcloth it is white and in the regiments with a black neckcloth it is made of black silk.

The officers' gloves are like those of the non-commissioned officers. Brown gloves are also worn, which by an order of August 1760 are forbidden.

In the already mentioned "Memorable Notes on the Characteristic of the Prussian Army under the Great King - Frederick the Second. From the estate of an old Prussian officer. Glogau 1826" (p. 153) it says about the sash:

"The sash (sic) was solely a sign that an officer was engaged in the performance of duty, and therefore under no circumstances was it to be missing, be it on guards, rounds, parades, courts-martial, military and standing courts, commands of all kinds, etc. In some of these official affairs, as in the guards and parades, the wearing of the gorget was added in the infantry. In the field, and at the field state, as well as at any assembly of troops, sashes had to be worn universally. Even officers who were spectators at reviews had to have them on. The sash was not regarded as a garment or as part of full dress, and was therefore omitted in all those cases in which one was not to be regarded as standing directly in rank and file, or engaged in the actual duty task; consequently also at all daily parades where the officers were assembled merely to receive the order, at church parades, which at that time were held without sidearms and cartridge-boxes, etc. Whoever was on leave never wore the sash, unless he wished to attend the garrison drill, review and the like. The sash therefore did not serve for state and show or for ornament, but it was to the officer what the stole is to the priest."

The hairstyle corresponds to that of the rank-and-file, though powdered for every duty. Beards are not customary.

The general orders that the officers be so good and comport themselves in their dress as is customary in the regiment, especially with regard to their hair, and that none appear with such a Capuchin-style hairstyle as Lieutenant von Zastrow appears with. 26.07.1781.

The officers' hat has the same shape as that of the rank-and-file. However, no plume is worn with it (except in No. 27, here a plume of metal threads).

The edging in the regiments of the old uniform (and among the garrison grenadiers) is of narrow galloon.

In the regiments of the new uniform the galloon is wide and curved; additionally, on the front left brim there is a ribbon cockade in a galloon loop.

The cord in the regiments of the old uniform consists of metal threads, except in No. 6 and GNG. In these and in the regiments of the new uniform the cord is twisted of metal and silk.

In No. 6 and GNG the cord has particularly large little tassels.

For generals and for parade in No. 15 I there is a plume of ostrich feathers behind the brim edge.

No. 11 exceptionally has a ribbon cockade at the front left.

The hat is black. The plume in No. 27 is golden. The galloons are silver or gold, according to the regiment's metal.

The cord is golden in the relevant regiments of the old uniform, in the remaining units black-silver, the little tassels silver with black filling.

The button on the left of the hat is gilded or silvered.

The ribbon cockade is black, also in No. 11.

The plume is black.

The gentlemen officers may have their hats attended to, and whoever wants a new sash can report in due time. 28.01.1753.

The gorget varies by regiment.

At the top it has an indentation and at the bottom a more or less rounded protrusion.

In the center of the plate there is an enameled field, on which is usually an eagle, but also the royal monogram is depicted.

Around this field are war emblems.

The ring collar is worn on a silk ribbon.

The base of the ring collar is silvered; the emblems around the central field and the rim are mostly gilded.

The central field is white or light blue, with the eagle always in black. The cipher is black or white.

The ribbon is black (mostly with a white edge).

The ring collar is worn together with the sponton (esponton) around the neck over the waistcoat or the shirt, even when the coat is closed.

The grip of the sword is made of wood with a guard and a pommel of metal.

The pattern of the guard varies.

Before 1740 the sword often had a small side-plate.

The grip is wrapped with wire (initially not under King Frederick William I).

The scabbard is leather and has a metal throat-band, a throat-band tongue and a metal chape.

The scabbard hangs at a 45-degree angle from a broad leather waist-belt in a sewn-in pocket (made of straps).

The portepee consists of metal threads and silk and is a band with a tassel with loose fringes.

It is wound around the basket hilt.

Grip, guard and knuckle bow are gilded.

The winding of the grip is of copper, later of silver.

The scabbard is brown leather.

The metal parts are made of gilded brass.

The tassel on the portepee is mixed black and silver, the band itself is silver with black edges.

The sword is always worn. It should sit high above the left hip. It is drawn on mounted duty.

The frog is wound under the waistcoat around the body.

In appropriate weather the frog is worn over the closed coat.

The esponton (short: sponton) is a pole weapon and varies by regiment, also in length.

It has a blade on a shaft of wood.

The blade has a small iron quillon.

Its bar is not quite parallel.

On the blade is the royal name cipher, beneath it the engraved regiment name.

On the shaft, from the tip toward the grip, there is a fitting of two iron rails.

The ferrule is of iron.

The iron parts are bright/polished.

The cipher and the regiment name are gilded.

The shaft is painted differently according to regiment, often like the short guns of the non-commissioned officers or like the flagpoles or the rifles in the respective regiment.

Sometimes, however, completely different from one another.

The sponton is carried on foot in full dress.

The cane is made of reed.

It is long and has a metal knob with a ferrule, plus a band, also in the form of a small portepee.

The cane is brown; the knob and ferrule are gilded.

It was not carried when the sponton was in use or when the sword was drawn.

After the capitulation of the Saxon army at Pirna, parts of it were forcibly incorporated into the Prussian army, namely 10 infantry regiments as intact units. The staff officers and captains were Prussians, the subaltern officers mostly Saxons. Saxon free corporals were appointed ensigns.

This experiment did not work; already on the marches there was heavy desertion, and later whole units mutinied. "The king's intention to considerably strengthen his army by the incorporation of the Saxons has failed" (Jany, Geschichte ..., Vol. 2, p. 373).

The remaining Saxon units were during the course of the war either captured by the enemy or destroyed, or later simply assimilated into Prussian units (Jany, Geschichte ..., Vol. 2, pp. 375 ff.).

For the uniforming of these units reference is made to the following document from the former Secret State Archive. In the diary of a Prussian officer about the campaigns 1756 to 1763 (p. 352) it says: "The uniforms of the Saxon regiments were all the same, namely: blue coats, white and straw-colored facings and also such waistcoats. The difference by which one could recognize one regiment from another consisted in the buttons. The officers had either gold or silver, broad braid, though not scalloped."

In his "Thoughts ...." (1788) the former Prussian General von Fink comments as follows:

"The type of clothing and armament of a soldier is undoubtedly the best for both the cavalry and the infantry in the Prussian service. I therefore need only briefly state that the cleanliness of a soldier is indispensable. The clothing must not be too tight, because otherwise it greatly hinders the soldier on the march and during maneuvers. The hat must sit firmly on the head, and therefore must not be too small. It would be very good if every soldier had several pairs of foot-socks made of linen so that he does not wear the woolen stockings thin on the bare feet, whereby the soldier becomes debilitated on long marches.

The grenadier and fusilier caps, in the Prussian style, are very inconvenient for the soldiers. I would have the fusiliers wear hats, the grenadiers, however, caps made of tanned pound leather, like the Russian guards' grenadiers wear, which are much more comfortable, also resist a blow in an emergency and look very good, especially when feather plumes are stuck on them. For the infantry the sabers are utterly useless. A private has enough with his musket and bayonet. Also I have not seen the use of the long pike and the NCOs' short muskets. Therefore I would have them all equipped with good rifled tubes with bayonets. With these they can perform very good services on many occasions" (pp. 7/8).