Duchess Elisabeth of Württemberg

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

Musical instruments used in local ensembles

Music ensembles at a boarding school in Slutsk regularly used instruments like trumpets, French horns, oboes, violins, and kettledrums purchased in Königsberg.

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

Annual income of a craftsman

An average craftsman in Kraków earned 465 Polish złotys per year during the reign of Stanisław August Poniatowski (1764–1795).