"Prussians in the Grand Armee" Topic

Hi everyone, I would be very grateful if anyone could answer the following questions for me, were there any Prussian units with the army that Napoleon took into Russia in 1812. If there were, which type of uniform did they wear, which regiments were present and roughly how many were there, ie a brigade a division etc etc. Thanks in advance for any help, all the best, Dave.

Well the immediate answer is…Oh Yes. Prussians, Austrians, even Spanish and Portuguese, all from countries that had fought Boney.

Well they did invade Russia, not sure that made them all part of La Grande Armee, though, strictly speaking (von Pivka). First chance they got, they saw which way the wind was blowing. They sent about 30,000 men I gather (Paul Austin) to protect Boney's Northern left flank. My impression is operating independently…..

That was what led to the white circle, black centre, on the front of their shako oilskin cover I gather. Before or after, it was not used.

I am sure the experts will give far more detail on Corps, Divisions etc……. Infantry every regt from 1st to 12th, but for 8th, (according to Haythornthwaite)

Funny thing is that FW III is still there in the 1812 Gallery in the Kremlin as helping to defeat Boney. Our guide, last time, was a history graduate….nice lass…..but did not have a clue. She told us that Napoleon ran away at Borodino and that led to the famous retreat. I could not suppress my two lads (then about 17years old,) who asked why the Russians burnt Moscow then?

Most of the Prussians operated semi-independently on Napoleon's left flank:

PDF link

However, there were a couple cavalry units elsewhere. I don't have that info to hand.

Ed

Hello gentlemen, thank you both very much for your kind and helpful responses' all the best, Dave.

The Prussian Auxiliary Corps was made up of composite units as a way to spread the experience around.

There were two Prussian cavalry regiments with the main body of the Grande Armée, in two different cavalry corps:

kombiniertes Husaren-Regiment No. 2 (Major v. Zieten)
kombiniertes Ulanen-Regiment (Major v. Werder)

In addition, two companies of the Ostpreußische Artillerie-Brigade were attached to the train of the Imperial Guard.

IIRC the Prussian Corps fought the Russians at Eckau, Dahlenkirchen and Mittau in 1812.

The L&H plate might be of help. This link should take you to it, and you want Band V, number 76.

link

Terry

Great link that is……….!

Yes, a wonderful link which I've looked at before but didn't realise that it was as comprehensive as it is until today.

Wonderful!

Cheers,

A hugh thanks to everyone who has replied, it is very good of you. I completely agree about the link that Terry37 provided, that page is a veritable goldmine of info. Best wishes to all, Dave.