The Order of Louise

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The Order of Louise (or Luisen-Orden in German) was founded on 3 August 1814 by Frederick William III of Prussia to honor his late wife, the beloved Queen Louise. It was intended strictly for women whose service to Prussia was worthy of such high national recognition. Its dame companion members were limited to 100 in number, and were intended to be drawn from all classes. The Chief of the Order of Louise was the reigning queen. Daughters in the royal family were invested with this order in lieu of the Order of the Black Eagle, Order of the Red Eagle Grand Cross, Prussian Crown Order First Class, and Royal House Order of Hohenzollern that were reserved for the sons. The Order of Louise was renewed with each successive monarch. At its initial creation in 1814, the Order was only available in one class. A second class was added during the reign of Wilhelm I.