Ernest II, Duke of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg

What people wore

Prussian Soldier Clothing Allowances

Prussian soldiers were entitled to annual small clothing issues including two pairs of shoes, two shirts, and linen trousers, costing 5 thalers, 6 groschen, and 2 pfennigs, often deducted from their pay. Old uniforms were frequently repurposed into nightcaps and chest cloths by non-commissioned officers and soldiers.

Getting around

Difficulties of traveling on Prussian roads

In the 18th century, travel in Prussia was notoriously difficult due to poor roads, with some passengers joking that they could have walked faster than the carriage. A coachman could even abandon a passenger on the road if the passenger struck them or complained too aggressively.

At the table

Daily rations of simple fare

For everyday meals, domestic staff and farm workers were served a daily ration of bread soaked in milk, whey, or thin beer. They also consumed porridge and seasonal vegetables like beans or peas, with meat served only on Sundays or special holidays.

Music

Music restricted during Frederick William I's reign

During the reign of King Frederick William I, who considered music a harmful art, musical performances were restricted to churches, and home celebrations or carnival processions were not held.

Daily life

Irregular school attendance and teaching

Prussian schooling was often erratic, with children frequently absent during summer months to work on farms or when families were required to pay fines for failing to send them. Many schools lacked trained teachers, relying instead on local sextons, discharged soldiers, or day laborers who often struggled to teach basic reading and arithmetic.

What it cost

Grain prices in Berlin

In 1740, a bushel of rye in Berlin cost 1 thaler and 21 groschen due to a bad harvest, though prices typically stabilized between 19 and 20 groschen until the Seven Years' War. At the time, one thaler was equal to 24 groschen.