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Karl DershauBaron, Lieutenant General, St. Petersburg Chief of Police
Date of Birth: 01.01.1784
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Baron Karl Magnus von Derfelden
Early Life and Military CareerBorn in 1784 to a noble family in Courland Governorate, Karl Magnus von Derfelden received a private education before joining the Riga Dragoon Regiment as a junker in 1803. By 1805, he had risen to the rank of ensign and fought against the French in several battles during the 1806-1807 campaign in East Prussia.
Napoleonic Wars
In 1812, Derfelden transferred to the Leib-Guard Cuirassier Regiment and distinguished himself in several battles during the Patriotic War of 1812. At the Battle of Borodino, he captured French artillery with his squadron, earning a gold sword inscribed "For Bravery."
During the 1813-1814 Foreign Campaign, Derfelden continued to earn accolades. He received the Order of St. Anna, 2nd degree, and the Prussian Iron Cross for his actions at Kulm. For his role at Leipzig, he was awarded the Prussian Order "Pour le Mérite," and for his service at Fer-Champenoise, he was honored with the Order of St. Vladimir, 4th degree with bow, and the Bavarian Order of Maximilian.
Police Service
In 1822, Derfelden was appointed Police Master of St. Petersburg, where he quickly gained the attention of Emperor Alexander I for his zeal and competence. He played a significant role in suppressing the Decembrist uprising of 1825, earning him the Emperor's gratitude.
Commandant of Abo
In 1829, Derfelden was promoted to St. Petersburg Ober-Police Master, a position he held for nearly six years. He received numerous awards and financial rewards for his exemplary service, including a pension and a civilian rank.
Later Years and Death
In 1835, Derfelden was appointed Commandant of Abo, serving in that role until 1855. During the Crimean War, he participated in the defense of the Finnish coast and against the Anglo-French fleet. He was promoted to Lieutenant-General in 1848 and received the Order of St. Anna, 1st degree, in 1855.
Derfelden passed away in 1862, leaving behind a legacy as a respected military officer and police chief. His sons, Nikolai and Fyodor, achieved notability as a privy councillor and a writer and publisher, respectively.
