Description
These Regimental Steins 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.
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.
The 12th (Thuringian) Hussar Regiment (German: Thüringisches Husaren-Regiment Nr. 12) was a German Hussar regiment active during the Napoleonic Wars, the German revolutions of 1848–1849, the Austro-Prussian War, the Franco-Prussian War, and World War I.
During World War I, the regiment was first deployed on the Western Front and participated in the German invasion of Belgium. In November 1914 it was transferred to the Eastern Front and took part in the battles in northern Poland. In May 1915 it saw service in Kurland and Lithuania and then came to Romania. By early 1917 it was involved in the fighting on the Southeast Front. In February 1917 it was transferred back to the western front. There it gave up the horses and was transformed and downsized into a dismounted riflemen battalion. After receiving infantry training they took part in defensive battles in Flanders until the end of the war.
Made of ceramic and pewter, this Reservist’s Flask is an AMAZING example! It is adorned with numerous scenes, along with a decorated lid and handle. It features the wording;
Stolz zu Roß die Kavallerie, auf den Posten spät und früh.
(Proudly mounted, the Cavalry, at their Posts late and early)
5. Eskr. Thüring. Hus. Rgt. No. 12. Torgau. 1907/10
The recipient’s name is written at the bottom, and indicates:
Reservist Priem
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!
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