Prussian Uniform of a Gefreiter (Lance Corporal) in Jäger-Regiment zu Pferde Nr. 3

This complete uniform ensemble of a Gefreiter (lance corporal) in Jäger-Regiment zu Pferde Nr. 3 of the Prussian Army represents an extraordinary historical testimony of the Imperial cavalry in the early twentieth century. The regiment was established on October 1, 1905, by order of the Prussian War Ministry dated April 4, 1905, and garrisoned at Colmar in Alsace, which at that time belonged to the German Empire. The unit formed part of the 39. Kavallerie-Brigade of the XV. Armee-Korps in Strasbourg.

The Jäger zu Pferde (Mounted Jägers or Hunters) evolved from Meldereiter (mounted dispatch rider) detachments created in the late 1890s. The Prussian Parliament approved the establishment of three regiments in 1905. Regiment Nr. 3 was formed from independent squadrons VII, XIV, and XV, plus personnel from Dragoner-Regiment Nr. 14 and Ulanen-Regiment Nr. 15, and consisted of five squadrons (Eskadrons) at its founding. Between 1901 and 1913, thirteen Prussian Jäger zu Pferde regiments were created in total, with the last seven raised in 1913.

The Model 1905 helmet for enlisted men of the Jäger zu Pferde displays the characteristic lobster-tail pattern with stepped front visor and neck guard. The blackened steel shell bears complete fittings in nickel, including the Prussian eagle plate, spike, rivets, and rim edging. The convex yellow chin scales and both cockades in large size complete the ensemble. The manufacturer C. E. Juncker of Berlin, one of the major Prussian helmet makers during World War I, produced this example in 1915 in helmet size 57. Regiments 1-4 wore helmets with nickel-silver fittings and tombak (brass) chin scales.

The Model 1905 Koller displays field-gray cloth in the special color for Jäger zu Pferde with dark green standing collar and cuffs. The characteristic green-yellow-green Kollerborte (decorative braid) identifies Regiment Nr. 3, with yellow being the regimental distinction color. Each regiment had distinctive Kollerborte colors as identification marks. The Koller was introduced in 1905 but was officially replaced by the Waffenrock (tunic) in 1910, though both continued to be worn in parallel. For regiments 8-13 raised in 1913, a different gray-green uniform following dragoon patterns was issued.

The nickel-plated Gefreiten buttons on the collar and the shoulder buttons of the 1st Squadron on the dark green shoulder straps mark the wearer's rank and unit affiliation. Particularly notable is the chevron on the right sleeve for good lance fighting, a proficiency badge documenting training in lance combat. The interior owner label names Stubbendick, 1st Squadron of Jäger-Regiment zu Pferde Nr. 3, thus identifying the original owner of this uniform.

The rare bandolier for Jäger zu Pferde with nickel-silver fittings and large cartridge box shows in the lid the chamber stamp "J.R.z.P. 3 1905 3 E" and the manufacturer stamp "Becker & Co., Elberfeld". The box still contains the original interior division for cartridges. The saber belt for enlisted men of the Jäger zu Pferde with saber hanger and attached map case, along with the brown cuff boots with sewn-in zippers and buckle-on spurs, complete the equipment.

The Jäger zu Pferde performed reconnaissance, patrol, security, and scouting duties and were considered heavy cavalry despite their light cavalry role, as reflected in their metal helmets similar to Cuirassiers. They were armed with carbines, sabers (Pallasch), and lances.

After mobilization in July 1914, the regiment served in World War I initially at Mulhouse in Alsace and at Saint-Quentin. Until November 1914, they operated around Arras and Ypres before transfer to the Eastern Front. From autumn 1914 to early 1916, they fought on the Eastern Front at the Vistula, Rawka, Bzura, and Düna rivers, and in operations toward Kowno and Vilna. From February 1916 to February 1919, the regiment served police and security duties in Russian Poland under Etappen-Inspektion 12. The unit maintained cavalry status throughout the war. From September 1915, orders were issued not to wear spikes in the front line; the Model 1905 helmet was gradually replaced by the Stahlhelm starting in 1916.

After World War I, the Jäger zu Pferde regiments were disbanded. The tradition of Regiment Nr. 3 was transferred to the training squadron of the 11th (Prussian) Cavalry Regiment in Ohlau in the Reichswehr. Alsace with Colmar was returned to France by the Treaty of Versailles, which is why the regiment was dissolved in Spangenberg beginning February 22, 1919. This complete uniform ensemble from an estate represents an incomparable historical testimony of its era.