Konstancja Żwanowa

What people wore

Restricted Movement in Tight Prussian Uniforms

Prussian soldiers wore tight uniforms and white linen summer breeches that were so fitted they risked splitting if the wearer moved suddenly. They were required to keep their hair powdered, pulled back with a ribbon, and were never seen without their gaiters.

Getting around

Travel duration between Dresden and Warsaw

A typical journey between Dresden and Warsaw took 14 to 16 days, though royal messengers could cover the roughly 650 km distance in as little as 50 hours.

At the table

Mutton served to domestic workers

While beef and veal were preferred by the gentry, mutton was considered less desirable and was frequently served to domestic staff.

Music

Dance styles in Königsberg during the 1700s

During the mid-18th century in Königsberg, balls featured minuets and gavottes, and popular masquerades included polonaises and quadrilles.

Daily life

Compulsory Schooling for Children

Compulsory education was established for children aged five to fourteen, though in practice attendance varied, and instruction often focused on religion and obedience. Schooling was rudimentary; children typically learned reading and writing, sometimes practicing by writing with chalk on large wooden boards, while arithmetic instruction was very basic.

What it cost

Cost of basic goods

In the late 18th century, a pair of shoes cost 3 Polish złotys, while a pound of pork cost 7 groszy and a bushel of peas cost 8 złotys.