Anna of Anhalt-Zerbst

What people wore

Basic and durable peasant clothing

Ordinary people in the region wore basic garments made of wool or fustian, with men typically wearing tunics, hosen, and hats, while women wore dresses, aprons, and head coverings. Their clothing was functional and designed to be durable, often passed down or kept until it fell apart to maximize its investment value.

Daily life

Emergence of village schools in Hesse

Before the Reformation, village schools were reportedly non-existent in Hesse, but by 1556, visitors noted the establishment of seven village schools in the central region of the principality. Martin Luther emphasized that schools were necessary for both boys and girls to learn to conduct the affairs of life.

Work

Peasant life in medieval villages

Peasants comprised over 90 percent of the population, with most families living in small, manor-based villages. Their work was strictly gendered: men plowed and cleared land, while women handled food preparation, spinning, and caring for small animals.

Music

School children singing for income

School children were required to sing German hymns daily at church services and earned extra money by singing at funerals and in front of wealthy citizens' houses.

At the table

Grain porridges were a staple food

For ordinary rural families, the daily diet relied heavily on grain-based porridges made from millet or oats, often cooked with water or milk and seasoned with salt. While bread was more common among the nobility and townspeople, peasants frequently consumed this hearty porridge as their primary meal.

Getting around

Common modes of land travel

Most people traveled on foot, as railways and steamships did not exist, while the wealthy preferred horses or mules for their stability in mountainous terrain. Carriages were primarily reserved for women, the sick, or prisoners due to their lack of suspension and uncomfortable ride.

What it cost

Income of a Hessian foot soldier

A foot soldier hired to serve the Landgrave of Hesse could earn an annual salary of 40 gulden, along with two sets of court clothing.