Henry VI of Reuss-Obergreiz

At the table

Beer and Wine Instead of Water

Alcoholic beverages like beer and wine were consumed regularly instead of water, as local well water was often contaminated. Adults and children commonly drank beer, with residents of some regions consuming 2 to 3 litres daily.

What people wore

Men's fashion favored comfort and leather boots

During the Thirty Years' War, men's fashion shifted toward comfort, featuring high-waisted doublets and wide, knee-length breeches that fell in loose folds. Soldiers and educated men alike popularized large leather boots that reached above the knee, which were often worn turned down or slouching.

Getting around

Walking and Riding Were Common Travel Methods

Most people traveled on foot, taking an average of 30,000 to 40,000 steps per day, while wealthy individuals typically traveled on horseback.

What it cost

Wages paid in goods

By the mid-17th century, laborer contracts often included payment in kind, such as pairs of shoes, grain, or clothing, in addition to a daily or annual wage.

Music

Versatile Town Instruments

Town musicians often played versatile instruments like the cornett, a wooden instrument with a sweet, singing tone, which was used for indoor and outdoor performances.

Daily life

Difficult access to clean water

Accessing safe drinking water was difficult; people often relied on ditches or rivers, which were contaminated by sewage and waste. Some used specialized cisterns to collect rainwater for drinking, keeping it separate from non-potable water.