Shoulder strap, Leib-Grenadier Regiment Nr. 8, ca 1890

[Nick]

Also in the package of things I received was this shoulder strap, which I now know from the pictures in Kaiser's Bunker was for a member of Leib-Grenadier Regiment König Friedrich Wilhelm III (1. Brandenburgisches) Number 8. I also understand that the "1" on the button signifies the wearer's company.

This shoulder strap likely belonged to Reinhold Nestmann, since I have his Erfahrepass showing that he served in that regiment and 1st Company. The other photo that came in the packet to an unidentified soldier, also in the same regiment, was identified to be in 3rd (Fusilier) battalion, so it couldn't be his since that would be Companies 9-12.

Is there any significance to the cut on the strap or is it simply damaged?

Thanks,
Nick

 

[Chip Minx]

Nick,

I think the slit in the board was meant to make it a little pouch. You often see shoulder straps used as mementos of a soldier's service time. We see watch pouches, pillow shams, table cloths, blankets, pin cushions and such, all made from shoulder straps.

 

[Nick]

Thanks for that insight, I appreciate it.

Nick