Mehterhâne-i Âmire Ocağı’nın Islahı (1826)

Abstract

After abolishing the Janissary Corps, Sultan Mahmut II worked on reforms intended for existing military corps. The Tent Pitchers Corps, entrusted with producing, maintaining, repairing, protecting and carrying the Sultan’s tents and tents given on behalf of his, was regulated again with law which came into force on 13-22 October in 1826. The law comprised significant innovations at administrative, financial and military aspects. The Superintedent had more authority than the Commander over the corps administration. By defining the roles and responsibilities of civil servants and military officers, more effective administration was ensured. Saving was made in budget by reducing the number of administrative and military staff of the corps about one-third. On the other hand, salaries of members of the corps were improved. The Tent Pitchers Corps reform constituted the beginning of a process leading to the establishment of Superintendency of War Material.