Garde’s and Grenadier’s

1

16thIrishDivision

New member
Hi can someone give me a little info on Garde’s and Grenadier’s plz.

Garde’s - were specialist units, required to be over 6 foot tall, and served in all areas of the Germen army, infantry, cavalry, artillery, pioneer etc. What's meant by specialist unit?, did they see action on the front?

Grenadier’s - Always infantry? Wore the extended Prussian wappen - did ALL the (Grenadier) German states wear the extended Prussian wappen or just Prussia? . The title "Grenadier" was bestowed on an ordinary infantry regiment that had distinguished itself in some way during an earlier campaign. Like a reward for outstanding service given to the whole regiment.

Lastly what’s the difference between leib-garde and leib-granadier to regular garde and grenadier, personal bodyguard?
 
Thomas,

You really are asking questions about something nothing more than tradition. Originally at some point in time these units were supposed to be a cut above or trained somewhat differently. However, as we approached 1914 the training cycles became pretty ubiquitous. At one time there was really a training difference Between the line and fusilier battalions within a Regiment. Think of it as the same thing as differences between different types of cavalry. Ulan and Dragoon had completely different uniforms – completely different traditions – were equipped the same – and were functionally used identically.

The guard Corps was recruited from the entire empire, and in some cases got additional funding. Because of their parade requirements etc. their funding had to be a little bit higher. And indeed there were still recruiting requirements on the size of the soldiers. There actually were some different recruiting requirements depending upon the branches of the soldiers. I do not really know what you mean when you say specialist units – these guys saw very good action and much was expected from them. Especially because of tradition and the historical rhetoric surrounding the Franco-Prussian war.

Grenadier's was a traditional name. There were guards Grenadier's, regular Grenadier's and grenadier regiments that traced their heritage back through minor principalities such as Mecklenburg. 1. Großherzoglich Mecklenburgisches Grenadier-Regiment Nr.89 Schwerin; II Neustrelitz. Those regiments Did not wear the Prussian eagle.

The difference between Leib Guard and Lieb Grenadier is tradition. Again those tracing their roots back to minor principalities had different ceremonial requirements for that principality and would nominally be a lifeguard of sorts for the leader of that principality. Again almost all of this is tradition not training.

There were different lifeguard type functions often in the retinue of the Royal personage which can get quite complex.


ps1527 by joerookery, on Flickr
 
16thIrishDivision said:
What can you tell me about this particular garde haube? listed on EBay.
Click to expand...

I will tell you that this helmet is a highly desirable item amongst collectors and will get up into the $3,000 range.

It is considered a infantry regiment.

check this out for more info....
http://www.kaisersbunker.com/dunkelblau/helmets/dbh61.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
 
poniatowski said:
who's the guy dressed up as a xylophone?
Click to expand...
This is the kitchen chef of the Kaiser Alexander Garde Grenadier Regiment Nr1, wearing his kitchen smock and hat, and waiting for his guests to serve the lunch... :D :D :D :P

Philippe
 
As a potential guest, I think I would think twice, before I say the food does not taste... :o

Philippe
 
Palace Guard-- Prussia
This was an interesting organization. Only 70 members and all NCOs. There was actually a hierarchy besides rank. After 25 years of service you were lent a dagger, and he wore a button on the bandolier. Those individuals were called Krongardist.
 
Joe,

I am thinking this Feldwebel from the Schloßgarde-Kompagnie may have originally been wearing the Überrock in this heavily "doctored" photograph. It is a shame that his decorations are unclear as it would be interesting to have a go at identifying him. He certainly appears to have an impressive rack. The ranks were as follows:

Feldwebel-Sergeant
Feldwebel-Unteroffizier
Feldwebel
Vizefeldwebel

The illustration below is from the excellent history of the Schloßgarde-Kompagnie for comparison. This pattern of Mitre was introduced per AKO of 31 December 1896. This pattern of dress coat was replaced in 1909.

Regards
Glenn

schlossgarde.jpg
 
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