This room was not used as a kitchen, but as a preparation room for the officers' meals. It was supervised by the "Messman", a soldier, usually a sergeant, who presided over the mess and the officers' servants. His position was quite enviable because he was able to make social connections with the officers, he had an unlimited supply of wood (which was rationed for the other soldiers), had access to the officers' meals, and to the wine cellar.