Anna Zofia Lubomirska

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

Poor conditions of road inns

Inns were notoriously filthy and poorly equipped, forcing many travelers to sleep on straw in rooms shared with peasants or to camp in fields.

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

Fluctuating price of rye bread grain

In Berlin, a rye bushel (Scheffel, approx. 40kg) typically cost 19 to 20 Groschen, but rose to over 2 Taler during the hunger year of 1771.