Description
These Regimental Flasks were primarily made from 1890 to 1914 and were commissioned by active duty servicemen who were coming to the end of their mandatory service. The government-mandated service was somewhat unique — men signed up at age 17 and would sign up with a specific regiment. They then stayed with that regiment for their entire term of service, including training. After completing their term, they entered into the reserves until the age of 45. For those who wanted to commemorate their service, some forethought had to be given. The Flaks were not last-minute, spur-of-the- moment purchases; rather, they were expensive and took three months to fabricate.
Typically, a group of enlisted would order their souvenirs together to reduce costs, and even then, these souvenirs would cost five to seven week’s wages. Understandably, only 10% of servicemen were able to purchase these. The most popular was a walking stick (the least expensive), followed by beer steins (the most collected item today), and then ceramic hand pipes, picture frames, and schnapps flasks. Once brought home, these mementos would often be displayed on a shelf or in a cabinet rather than be used.
Made of glass, aluminum,and steel, this Reservist’s Flask is an AMAZING example! The most ELABORATE flask I have ever seen, the steel Schnapps Shot Glass (which are usually missing) features an Eagle atop, along with the wording;
Reserve Hat Ruh!
(Reserve Has Peace)
The center of the flask depicts a Grand Cross with a Shoulder Board representing the Kaiser Franz Garde Grenadier Reg. Nr. 2, as well as the city name “Berlin” In Bold letters is states;
Parole Heimat
Res. Hat. Ruh.
The bottom has an elaborate Trench Art depiction of various 7.92mm rounds, that have been welded together and affixed to the bottom of the flask.
The receipients name is writen at the bottom, and the information appears to indicate:
5. Gr. Res. Hendzierski 1912 – 14
The back features various small scenes, commemoration the member’s service (military life, personal life, etc.). The small disk in the center turns to reveal the Snapps that would have been contained inside, and features the slogan:
Dreh mich um.
sieh hinein
Und was drin ist, das nimm ein
(Turn me around. Look inside. And drink whatever is inside)
Also has a large tassel that surrounds the flask and shot glass. Some slight marks and wear, due to the age, but NO breaks, cracks, or damage! One of the NICEST and most COMPLETE Schnapps Flask I have ever seen, it would make a PERFECT item for any collection or display!
