French Hussars, 1808-1814

I got these two figures for free from Wargames illustrated.

Since I have gotten out of the Napoleonic Wars (except for War of 1812,) I will be using these in other locals in lieu of other troops

both are 28mm but will fit nicely into my project for fighting in South Africa as Dutch, and in South America as Spanish.

Updated 4/6/2019

My buddy who I have traded kits and troops with has asked for my French collection. I will be keeping these figures for a South American liberation wars of the 19th century which used surplus Napoleonic kit. I am also passing over a brigade of British troops.

In trade, I received about a dozen more kits and several other figures. I have increased my collection without spending any funds!

Hevia - Busindre Reel video oficial HQ

 I have always liked this song, but it holds a special place in my heart as the day my son was born, the nursing staff had a CD entitled The Most Relaxing Feel, and this tune was one of them playing. When it began, he really did start to want to come out. Copyright held by Hevia

John Tams - Over the hills and far away (feat . Sean Bean)

 A song which has had various versions. This one is at the tail end of the era I wargame and reenact. Copyright of song and video are held by John Tams, and Granada TV

Osprey Publishing - The Black Watch

Osprey Publishing - The Black Watch




Another one of the first MAA from Osprey. My Dad nearly got the whole first series, but picked the ones which had an 18th century connection to his own historical interests.




This volume gives a good account of the regiment in the Seven Years War in North America. It also covers the conflicts the regiment was involved with up to the date of publication.

Happy New Year the year of the Snake, British Regiments and Talavera 1809

Happy New Year to readers of my blog.
Here in Japan, New Years is a big event, but my wife and I usually like a quiet one, as Christmas to us means a bit more.
I had planned to include a Battle of Quebec 1775 video but it failed.
I did however take some shots of my British regiments. I'm having some trouble uploading pictures but may have figured it out with the new google system.

British troops in Nova Scotia trying to stay warm in the winter

Composite Light Infantry at Louisbourg

The 42nd Royal Highland Regiment, whowere the only British unit to break into Montcalm's defences at Ticonderoga.

The 78th Fraser's Highlanders whe were raised as cannon fodder but proved their worth as one of the toughest regiments in North America.

The 17th Regiment, one of the more experienced Regiments in Nova Scotia from the early 1750's

The 28th Regiment

The 40th Regiment, the most senior regiment in Nova Scotia having been in the colony since 1717.

The 1st Regiment The Royal Regiment

The 55th Regiment which was at Ticonderoga

The 60th Regiment

The British Army at Quebec

Our battle of Talevera was an interesting little adventure. My buddy Trevor came over again and took the place as the French commander.
Ian was the Spanish commander while I took the British troops.
Unfortunately for Ian and I, Trevor had had some experiences playing D&D back in the day, thus was able to advance his troops as collums. As the British player, I attempted to form line and blast the French with musketry. The Royal Artillery fared well in taking out the French artillery, but the French cavalry charged into the Rifles and Light Infantry.
Eventually, the French right charged into the Spanish who broke and ran. As the British were unable to hold their line against the French, they then fell back.
Trevor won the day.
Next time, we'll meet on an American battlefield.

 

 

The Battle of Garcia Hernandez July 23, 1812

This refight was to see how the action would play out.
This battle is known in military history as one of the few chances where cavalry have broken and infantry square!
During the refight, one French battalion formed square, survived some infantry then were able to flee to the heights above the village of Garcia Hernandez.
The 1st and Light Divisions then advanced into the village having chased the French 6eme into the alleys. After a brisk volley from the 60th Royal American Regiment, the French 6eme fled onto the ridge. The British 12th Lt. Dragoons then charged through the village to block a French retreat. The 42nd Royal Highland Regiment, the Black Watch and the 79th Regiment, Cameron Highlanders then formed line and charged the ridge. The Black Watch took heavy casualties but took out the French guns. Finally, with the Cameron Highlanders levelling their bayonets, the remaining French infantry fled. The only change to this battle, the King's German Legion heavy dragoons were decimated by French musketry when the German's attempted to block the French retreat.

(photo courtsey of Wargammers Illustrated)