In the news1770–1771
Migration during the 1770-71 famine
During the great famines of 1770–71, peasants from other parts of Germany migrated to Prussia where food supplies were more accessible.
19 Jul 1776 – 13 May 1827
7 facts1 source
19 Jul 1776
Born
13 May 1827
Dies, aged 50
He lived through 6 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1770–1771
During the great famines of 1770–71, peasants from other parts of Germany migrated to Prussia where food supplies were more accessible.
Getting around
Dangers and Hardships of 18th-Century Travel
Travel was often physically demanding and dangerous, with carriages that were frequently uncomfortably sprung or unsprung, causing travelers to suffer from motion sickness or injury. Due to the poor state of roads and the threat of highwaymen, travelers often carried weapons or avoided unnecessary trips, with some prominent figures never leaving their home region.
In Europe1772–1795
Russia, Prussia and Austria divided Poland among themselves in three steps until, in 1795, it vanished from the map for 123 years.
Daily life
Homes with Sanded Floors and Lead Windows
In homes with stone or brick floors, families often scattered sand across the floor and stairs. Windows featured small round glass panes set within lead frames.
What people wore
Men’s Sunday Black Coat
Working men typically wore a simple black coat called a Rock for their Sunday attire, which was usually fastened with hooks rather than buttons.
Music
Everyday singing in homes and workrooms
Singing was a common activity in daily life, often performed without sheet music while working, such as during textile work in spinning rooms, or at church services and social gatherings.
At the table
Coffee and cheap surrogates were daily staples
By the late 18th century, coffee became a common daily necessity for ordinary people, often mixed with cheap surrogates like chicory or roasted rye and barley to stretch the expensive beans.