Just picked up an officer's pickelhaube from the Königl. Sächs. 1. (Leib) Grenadier-Regiment Nr 100. I know this was a guard unit, but does anyone have any information on it's major activities 1914-18?
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This regiment was in 23rd Infantry Division throughout the war:
1914: Belgium, Aisne, Marne,
1915: Aisne (fairly quiet all year),
1916: July-October on the Somme, fairly heavy losses for the division,
1917: Champagne defensive and offensive
1918: March-April offensive in the Somme resulted in 70% casualties, refitted, then on the Marne June and July being pushed back. July-August fell back under British attack in the Artois.
British intelligence rated the division very highly until the spring of 1918.After that, it was constantly chewed up and demoralized. -
Doug, I am just starting to get into pickle helmets. I hope to pick one up on my next trip to Germany. Can you send me a pic of the helmet? I would be interested to know the range of prices on these. Also what are the best reference books for these helmet?
ThanksImperial German Medalbars and RibbonbarsComment
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Paul,
I am just getting into these myself and don't even have a good reference yet. My main focus is EK's, but I just had to have this one as an example and an investment. It has the haarbusch (horsehair and mount), the case, as well as a nice long (real) silver spike which are interchangeable. My only other pickelhaube is a plain old M1915 Prussian EM model. To minimize my risk on buying a high end item a little outside of my area of expertise, I purchased the Saxon from a very reputable dealer.
[ 17 August 2001: Message edited by: Doug See ]Comment
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Rick,
Thank you very much for that information. I really appreciate the effort.
DougComment
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Here's a link to a photo of the helmet
http://www.mindspring.com/~dsee/saxon.jpg
[ 17 August 2001: Message edited by: Doug See ]Comment
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It goes back quite a few years, but Pickelhauben by Eric Johansson (Library of Congress card # 82-083464)would be a good reference to start with.
For those who want a cheap helmet thrill, rent the Marx Brothers movie "Duck Soup" and check out the honor guard in the grand welcome for Rufus T. Firefly. Then ask yourself, "are they still in a prop warehouse in Hollywood?" Freedonia!Comment
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