Spoiler
| | | The Lutzow in the gift of God. Theodor Körner carries on the night before his death in front of his comrades his sword song.Is the painting of Theodor Korner with fellow Freikorps Members. The following is an account Transcribed by Menelaos of Theodor Korner's Participation in the Freikorps:
Theodor Korner left Vienna on the 15th of March, 1813, with good recommendations to the most influential men in the Prussian army. On his arrival at Breslau, he found that (the then) Major von Lutzow had announced the formation of the free-corps known by name. At his call, young youths poured in, on all sides, to fight for the deliverance of Germany. Zeeal for this best blessing of life united all classes; official men, literary and artists, last holders, and youths full of hope were assembled in his corps. Theodor Korner felt himself irresistibly attracted towards such a combination, and his joining the corps followed on the 19th of March, at his own request.
The lutzow free-corps distinguished themselves by their gallantry during the ramainder of the war, and proved a source of constant annoyance and hostility to the French. They differed from the mass of the army, inasmuch as they were a voluntary association, and were also remarkable for superior activity, enerygy and enterprise. Many of them made a vow to neither cut their hair nor their beards, till they had driven the French out of German; and this vow they punctually fulfilled.
Since the corps was voluntary, black trenchcoats became the uniform, being easy to gain without a large expense. Red trim was chosen for the rank insignia. With the addition of brass buttons, the unit wore a black-red-gold colour scheme, a combination that became associated with republican ideals. Throughout the 19th century, these anti-Napoleonic Freikorps were greatly praised and glorified by German nationalists, and a heroic myth built up around their exploits. This myth was invoked, in considerably different circumstances, in the aftermath of Germany's defeat in World War I.
|
This is from a book on google regarding Theodor Korner. The rest is taken from sources regarding the uniform history that I had to dig down hard to find. No online translator was used, if you need me to hook you up with information I can try my best. Basically, find engagement records, letters, descriptions, and anything useful. Since it's in German, that's why it was impossible to find over English searches. If you're interested in units, there's a few neat ones I can tell you about.