Battle of Lesnaya; Belarus Sept 28th, 1708 ( julian calender).

 This was a bit of an awkward battle to start with. The Russian Army approached the Swedish army via two roads, which came together in a small clearing prior to heading for Lesnaya.

The right hand Russian column, led by Golitzyn ( with the Czar as "assistant" ) had the hardest march even on a track.  The left hand column under General Menshikov also approached in a road column, but they had the easier march.

I did not want the armies moving long ways because that could cause problems for player access. Therefore I used the " around the houses" approach in that stands cannot be moved through the woods. 

The battle came about when a Swedish relief column under General Lewenhaupt, containing waggonloads of supplies along with livestock was spotted by Czar Peters army. Peter realised that if he could destroy these supplies  Charles the 12th’s army would be in dire straits.

Russian Army = 19,000 = 19 points x 3 = 57 points;

Right Hand column;

1 stand of Pikemen @ 3 points.

4 stands of Line Muskets @ 2 points = 8 points.

1 General ( Czar Peter ) @ 1 point.

1 General ( Golitzyn) @ 1 point.

1 stand of Guard Infantry @ 3 points.

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Cossack Cavalry;

4 stands of Light Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

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Dragoon Cavalry;

1 General  ( Christian Bauer ) @ 1 point.

7 stands of Line Dragoon Cavalry @ 2 points = 14 points.

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Left Flank Column;

2 stands of Pikemen @ 3 points = 6 points.

5 stands of Line Infantry Muskets @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of  Artillery @ 1 point.

1 General ( Menshikov) @ 1 point.

------------------------------------"------------------------------------------

Swedish Army = 11,300 = 11.3 x 3 = 34 points r/u.

Right Flank;

1 General and C-in-C ( Lewenhaupt) @ 2 points.

4 stands of Dragoon Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

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Left Flank;

2 stands of Pikemen @ 3 points = 6 points.

3 stands of Line Infantry Muskets @ 2 points = 6 points.

1 stand of Dragoon Cavalry @ 2 points.

3 stands of Waggon Guard @ 1 point = 3 points.

1 General ( Stackelberg) @ 1 point.

1 stand of  Artillery @ 1 point.

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Forward Post;

3 stands of Dispersed  Infantry muskets @ 1 point = 3 points.

1 " General" ( Lieutenant ) Freijbourg @ 2 points.

4 stands of Line Muskets @ 2 points = 8 points.

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● Russian Army stands cannot be moved into or through the wooded areas. Neither can any Swedish stands move through the woods.

● The streams can only be crossed via the bridges. Any stands forced into the streams are lost.

●  Any stands forced into the wooded areas will be lost for the length of the battle. ( It seems that any units suffering a retreat into the trees lost their enthusiasm pretty quickly!). 

● The battle will be played for 8 Game-Turns. The Swedish Army must stop any Russian stands from reaching the bridge over the Lesnjanka stream.

● The log counts as a trench.

Here are the armies laid out;

Notes;

The real battle finished on the first day at the Swedish outpost in a stalemate and went into a disjointed second day of battle.  General Lewenhaupt burnt the wagons in order to move faster hoping to reach the King with the wagons that had already crossed the Lesnjanka. However, the Swedish column ,with morale collapsing, lost its cohesion. With many men getting drunk and being captured by the Cossacks, the majority of  waggons were lost.

There are two ways you can fight this battle depending on which result you want. Either;

1) On the First Game-Turn, the Russian Army moves first. For the next 7 Game- Turns, a die is thrown for each side. The higher score moves first, and also has the Initiative Point for that Game-Turn.

After movement, a die is thrown for each side. The higher score fires first. Combat is simultaneous.

Or;

2) For the 8 Game-Turns, the Russians move first and fire first. Combat is simultaneous.

If at the end of 8 Game-Turns, if it is decided to carry on then the Night Move rule can be used and the battle played for another 8  Game-Turns,

Here is the map;

Notes on the use of Pikemen.

There is a current school of thought that is suggesting that during the English Civil War, the Pikemen were kept together as a block rather than being distributed through the muskets. I have gone along with that in my Northern War armies.

Therefore, the same rule applies. Any musket stand in close combat with an enemy stand that has a friendly stand of pikes in an adjacent square,behind can add the points of the pikes to their combat total.

As you can see in the above photo,  the Swedish muskets about to go into close combat with the Russian stands. The 3 points of the Swedish Pike are added to the points of the muskets.

3 points may seem excessive for an unarmoured pike block in this era, however I figure that if a group of aggressive pikemen got that close to an enemy musketeer, that gentlemen would be more concerned about getting out of the way of the large metal spike rather than shooting straight!!

Well, that's my version of events. The table is 3 feet x 2 feet ( 90cm x 60cm). The figures are mostly Miniature Figurines with some Peter Pig figures. The cavalry are Miniature Figurine Cavalry with Peter Pig heads.

The houses are by Total Battle Miniatures. The bridges are from Kallistra ( cut down a bit). The bases the trees are sitting on are from S and A  Scenics. The trees are from various manufacturers.The small wagons are from Tumbling Dice Miniatures.

The square bases are cut from picture framing cardboard. The round stands are 3mm mdf from Minibits.

The river and track way are cut from thin card. The standards are made from masking tape and hand painted.

Battle of Chotusitz ; Bohemia, 17th May 1742.

 After the battle of Mollwitz, King Frederick of Prussia sought to get his conquest of Southern Silesia ratified by peace treaty with Austria.

With the help of the British Government as mediators, Frederick wanted Austrian recognition of his  right to the territory.

Maria Theresa, the Austrian Empress was having nothing to do with that. Frederick decided that another pitched battle would have to be fought and won in order to pursuade the Austrians otherwise!

As it happened the Austrians were in the same frame of mind. Therefore 1742 found both opposing armies facing each other in Bohemia. Prince Charles was a far more cautious commander than King Frederick. At one point the Prussian Army was divided and some hard marching was required to unite the two halves.

Prince Charles could not take advantage of the Prussian mistake because his intelligence was poor,however he was determined to bring the Prussians to battle. With the blessing of the Empress and a steady advance he did ;

The Prussian Army;

28,000 = 28 points x 2= 56 points.

Left Flank;

1 General (Jeetze) @ 1 point.

3 stands of Line Cavalry @ 2 points = 6 points.

1 stand of Hussars @ 1 point.

Forward Line;

1 General ( Prince Leopold ) @ 1 point.

4 stands of Line Infantry @ 2 points = 8 points.

1 stand of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points.

3 stands of Light Artillery @  1 point = 3 points.

Rear Line;

1 General and C-in-C King Frederick 2nd @ 3 points.

8 stands of Line Infantry @ 2 points = 16 points.

1 stand of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points.

Right Flank;

1 General ( Buddenbrock) @ 1point.

4 stands of  Line Cavalry @ 2 points.

Austrian Army;

30,000 = 30 points x 2 = 60 points.

Left Flank;

1 General ( Count Karoly Bathyanyi ) @ 1 point.

3 stands of Croat Light Infantry @ 1 point = 3 points.

5 stands of Line Cavalry @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Hussar Light Cavalry @ 2 points.

Forward Line;

1 General and C-in-C Prince Charles @ 1 point.

4 stands of Line Infantry @ 3 points = 12 points.

2 stands of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points = 8 points.

2 stands of Light Artillery @ 1 point = 2 points.

Rear Line; 

1 General ( Konigsegg) @ 1 point.

4 stands of Line Infantry @ 3 points = 12 points.

Right Flank;

1 General ( Count Leichtenstein) @ 1 point.

4 stands of  Line Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points

Here is the map;

Notes;

• The Prussian Army retains the Initiative Point for the 8 Game-Turn battle.

• The Austrians move first on the first Game-Turn. For the remaining Game-Turns both sides dice for which side moves first at the start of the Game turn.

• The Prussians fire first on every Game-Turn.

• The Artillery stands can be moved up to two squares. ( Horse Artillery had not yet been invented).

• The River; can only be crossed at the bridge.

Here is the armies positioned for battle;

The figures are mostly Miniature Figurines with Peter Pig and Essex Miniatures also. The buildings are from Total Battle Miniatures. The  hills are by Brien of  Essex Miniatures.

The trees are a mix of Manufacturers. The roads and river sections are from thin card. The bridge is scratch built.

The square bases are from picture framing card, and the round 40mm mdf bases are from Minibits.

As before the table is 3 feet x 2 feet, ( 90cm x60cm).

The Battle of Wilson's Creek; Missouri August 10th 1861

 This is my own interpretation of the battle so, any mistakes in the narrative are purely my own.

At this time. Missouri,s political direction was still undecided. There was an attempt by some members of the State Legislature to maintain Missouri as a neutral state. However there were those on both sides of the political divide who wanted the state within their sphere of influence and the manpower it could provide. 

The Army to defend the area was being gathered at Wilson's Creek. However a massive row and eventually, a civil riot broke out  over the  actions of Nathanial Lyon ( who was pro Union ) regarding the arrest of  some civilians.

Lyons himself ( who by nature was a real firebrand) bought things to a head when he declared war against some members of the Missouri state council by stating that Missouri should remain within the Union.

To that end Lyon gathered up as many Union sympathizers as he could. These men were organised into four brigades which Lyon eventually led to attack the Missouri state troops gathered at Wilsons creek. 

It is worth noting at this point that a fair number of troops gathered within Missouri  of both forces were wearing civilian clothing of a greyish colour because the troops of both sides had yet to be formally inducted into distinct organisations.

On the Confederate side a row ensued as to who was to command. Stirling Price was picked to command but he could not get along with Nicholas Pearce, the commander of the 1st Division. Pearce himself decided to work with McCulloch.

 Pearce also caused confusion, in that he was numbering units as they turned up at the muster point rather than follow the official listing.

( this is why there is the 3rd Arkansas Infantry and the 3rd Arkansas State Troops. Each was distinct from the other!).

Prior to the battle Lyon sent Franz Sigel and his second Brigade to circle East and attack the Confederate camp from the South while Lyon with the 1st, 3rd and 4th Brigades attacked from the North. Either Lyon was ignorant of the numbers he was going against or he thought the men encamped at Wilson's Creek would not put up much of a fight.

Either way he would have a battle on his hands!

Union Army; 5,404 = 5.404 points. x 6 = 32 points r/d.

1st Brigade;

General Samuel D. Sturgis   @ 1point.

2 stands of 3rd class Infantry  @ 1 point = 2 points.

1 stand of 3rd class Cavalry  @ 1 point.

2nd  Brigade;

General Franz Siegel  @  1 point.

2 stands of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points = 4 points.

1 stand of 3rd class cavalry  @ 1point.

General Nathanial Lyon ( C- in-C ) =2 points.

3rd  Brigade;

General George Andrews @ 1 point.

2 stands of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points = 4 points.

1 stand of Light Artillery @ 1 point.

4th  Brigade;

General George Deitzler @ 1 point.

4 stands of 1st class Line Infantry @ 3 points = 12 points.

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Confederate Army ; 11,000 =11 points x 6 = 66 points.

McCulloch,s Division; (Yellow).

General Benjamin McCulloch  @ 1 point.

2 stands of  2nd class Line infantry @ 2 points = 4points.

3 stands of  2nd class Mounted Infantry @ 2 points = 6 points.

Pearce,s Division; (Green).

General Nicholas Bartlett Pearce  @  1 point.

3 stands of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points = 6 points.

2 stands of 2nd class Cavalry @ 2 points = 4 points.

2 stands of Light Horse Artillery @ 1point = 2points.

Price,s Division: ( Light Red ).

General Sterling Price @ 1 point.

4 stands of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points = 8 points.

1 stand of Light Artillery @ 1 point.

Cawthorns Cavalry Brigade;

Colonel James Cawthorn @ 1 point.

3 stands of 2nd class Cavalry @ 2 points = 6 points.

Combined 3rd, 4th, 6th and 7th Division;

3rd Division;( Purple).

General John Bullock Clark Jnr  @ 1 point.

1 stand of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points.

1 stand of  2nd class Cavalry @ 2 points.

4th  Division: ( White).

General William Y. Slack @ 1 point.

2 stands of 2nd class Line Infantry @ 2 points = 4 points.

1 stand of  2nd class Cavalry  @ 2 points.

6th Division;( Orange).

General Moseby M. Parsons  @ 1 point.

1 stand  of 2nd class Line Infantry  @ 2 points.

1 stand of  2nd class Cavalry @ 2 points.

1 stand of Light Artillery  @ 1 point.

7th Division; ( Red ).

General James H. McBride @ 1 point.

2 stands of  2nd class Infantry  @ 2 points = 4 points.

1 stand of  2nd class Cavalry  @  2 points.

Special Rules;

● The Union Army keeps the Iniative Point for the entire battle. This is because there were regular troops present.

● On the first Game-Turn, the Union army moves first and fires first. For Game-Turns 2 until Game-Turn 8 both Players will roll a die as per the normal rules to decide which side goes first.

● Stands cannot be moved over or into any squares marked as " rough ground" of which there are five. Stands can still fire through the squares.

● Stands cannot be moved over or through any squares with a tent on it. Stands can still fire through the tented squares.

Skeggs Branch:  The battle took place across this stream. I don’t know how deep it is ( or was) but it did not seem to impede movement. Therefore stands can move and fire as normal while standing in the stream. Wilson’s Creek can only be crossed via the bridges.

Notes on the Cavalry: 

Any dismounted cavalrymen are 1 point less than when they are mounted. For Third Class cavalry at 1 point, the dismounted unit has no points, therefore it's just a die roll.

For firearms, the Cavalry use Pistols on horseback. Dismounted Cavalry use Carbines.

Dismounted cavalry can move in any direction.

The Artillery and Muskets:

I honestly don't know whether either army had true horse artillery so, when I fought this battle I assumed that being as both armies were not readily supplied with weapons, both sides would have smoothbore guns and muskets. Therefore;

● All muskets are two squares range as are cavalry carbines.

● All artillery have a four square range.

● Stands of artillery move at two squares in any direction. They can move and fire.

In the army list above and in previous battle descriptions I use 1st class, 2nd class etc. This is not a reflection of fighting ability. The description is used to label points to a stand and is also connected to the strength of the real units. The American Civil War did not have unit designations such as Guards, Dragoons etc.

However I've used the "Line" designation to show which stands can only move through the face of a square and those which can move in any direction.

The battle is played for eight Game-Turns. If the Union player still has stands on Oak Hill by the end of the Eighth Game-Turn the battle is a draw. The Confederates win if they can overcome the Union forces on Oak Hill by the end of the Eighth Game-Turn.

The Union Army can win by causing more casualties in stands  in the Confederate Army by the end of the Eighth Game- Turn.

Well, this is my presentation.The battle was played out on a 3 foot by 2 foot board ( 90 cm x 60cm) The figures in the photo are a mix of Peter Pig, Miniature Figurines and Essex. The flags are from Peter Pig. The tent lines are from Peter Pig.

The trees are from various manufactures. The hills were made by Brian at Essex. The road and rivers are made from thin card. The square bases are from picture framing card. The round bases are 40mm mdf  from Minibits.

The 5th Century in Britannia; Part 4. Uthyr, the Scots-Irish and the Battle of Deols.

As before,this is my interpretation as a wargamer, of events in this era.The numbers of troops involved are purely my own calculation. This is a long blog, mainly because there is a great deal going on. To leave anything out would disjoint the story.

In the story of the fifth century in Britannia,  events happened, but, because of the  lack of written testimony there is no accuracy in some the descriptions.   Therefore all of the battles written about in this blog are my " best  guess". 

 462AD found Octa and Ebissa and 900 of their battered and exhausted warriors taking refuge within the remains of Eboricum (York). After the battle of Conisborough, the Germanic warriors had been harassed by the Amorican cavalry during the retreat.That 700 Cavalry now took up position around the perimeter of the almost deserted town. Six days later Ambrosius arrives with 4000 infantryman. 

Realising the position they were in, the tribesmen petitioned Octa to ask for clemency from Ambrosius.This was granted. The warriors are  sent North to Tremontium as Foederati. The year ends with Ambrosius organising Garrisons north and south of Hadrians Wall. 

Einon Ap Cunnedda ( pro; Cunetha) is promoted to Dux Britannarium. He is given charge of Northern Britannia including Gwynedd. His famous father Cunedda Wledig ( Cunetha Wuledig) has previously been killed fighting Scots-Irish raiders. Ambrosius also visits Alclud (Dumbarton castle) which is at the western end of  what was the Antonine Wall.  He supplies the fortress and leaves a garrison of 500 men, 200 of which are cavalry. Five weeks later he is back at Caerleon.

There is a reason for the garrison at Dumbarton. The Del Riata or Scots-Irish have three major settlements on the west coast of Caledonia. Dunolli ( near Oban, mid Argyll ). Dunadd, the main settlement, near Kilmartin in mid Argyll. The third is Dunaverty , at the southern end of the Mull of Kintyre. Many of the Scots-Irish raids into Britannia started from these points.

Over the winter Ambrosius and Uthyr decide to strike back at the Scots-Irish homeland. Ambrosius knows that the Britons would not be enthusiastic about going to Hibernia. Therefore he asks Merlin to concoct a story. The army led by Uthyr is to travel to Dal Fiatach in Hibernia to recover some large stones with special magical properties.

 Really it is to attack the holdings of the young High King Gillomarius ( Lugaid Mac Loegairi ) and his father Loegaire. 

Ambrosius orders ships to be built at Caerleon and Menevia ( Cardiff ).

 In the Spring of 463AD, Uthyr takes 2000 Amorican regular infantry and 2000 Briton Militia infantry in 50 ships from Caerleon. When Uthyrs army arrives at Latharna, Gillomarius gathers 6000 warriors to oppose the landing.

Battle of  Coill Taobh.( fictional name).

Scots-Irish ; 6,000 ( 6 points x 6 = 36 points).

1 Chief ( Gillomarius ) @ 1 point.

3 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 3 points.

12 stands of Warriors @ 2 points = 24 points.

4  stands of chariots @ 2 points = 8 points.

The Briton Army. 4,000 ( 4 points x 6 = 24 points.)

Uthyr @ 2 points.

4 Stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 8 points.

2 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 2 points

.

Alfric (fictional character) @ 1 point.

5 stands of Militia Infantry @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Light Archers @ 1 point.

Note:

● The Briton army gets the Iniative Point every Game-Turn.

●The Briton army moves first every Game-Turn.

● The Briton army fires first every Game-Turn.

● Combat is simultaneous as described in the 2 player rules.

● The battle takes place over 8 Game-Turns.

 After a hard fought battle, Uthyrs army wins out, causing the Scots-Irish to retreat and fragment in the process. Ignoring the fortress of Knockdhu, Uthyrs army marches north, raiding as they go.

 Picking up some monolithic stones,Uthyrs army makes its way back to the ships. The Scots-Irish tribes are unable to unite against a common enemy. In sailing back to Carleon, Uthyr brings another 10 ships taken from the Scots-Irish. 

The result of this major incursion reduces the number of raids on the west coast of Britannia. However, small bands of Saxons, Angles, Jutes, Visigoths, Vandals and Picts are still raiding the south and east coast.

In Gaul in Soissons, The Visigoths make another attempt to invade the province. At the battle of Orleans, Childeric and Aegidius defeat the Visigoths led by Theodoric. In Hispania, The Visigoths are also skirmishing with the Suebians.

 464AD;  Pascent, Vortigerns surviving son appears at Dunadd in western Caledonia and eventually meets up with Octa and Ebissa.

 With their combined warbands they start raiding Briton settlements north of Hadrians Wall. Ambrosius with 600 cavalry and Einon with 1200 Infantry militia march from Deva to find Pascents army of 1500 Germanic and Scots-Irish warriors.

 Once again it is Ambrosius,s cavalry which tips the balance.In a series of skirmishes Pascents warband army is forced back to Dunolli. From there, the Warband Army takes ship to Hibernia, being welcomed by Gillomarius. 

 The late summer of 464AD finds Pascent with another raiding force of 800 Scots-Irish, Saxons, Angles and Jutes. This time it was a direct attack on Caerleon. The fleet sails up the Severn estuary and lands near Menevia ( Cardiff ). They launch their attack but Uthyr has 700 men to oppose them (500 regulars and 200 militia).

The two forces meet at Croes Carn Einon. ( The battle is fictional but the place is real ).

The forces involved;

Germano-Scots-Irish Warband; 800 = 8 points x 3 = 24 points.

Pascent   @ 1 point.

5 stands of Warriors @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Light Archers @ 1 point.

Logaire @ 1 point.

5 stands of Scots-Irish Warriors @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Light Archers @ 1 point.

The Briton-Amorican Army; 700 = 7 points x 3 = 21 points.

Uthyr @ 2 points.

6 stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 12 points.

1 stand of Light Archers @ 1 point.

Atgan (fictional) @ 2 points.

1 stand of Militia Infantry @ 1 point.

3 stands of Militia Light Archers @ 1 point = 3 points.

Notes;

● The Britons get the Initiative Point for the entire battle.

● The Britons get to move first each Game Turn.

● The Britons get to fire first each Game Turn.

● Stands that fight or fire within the Ford of the river do not suffer penalties.

Any stand that is within any other part of the river when firing or fighting does suffer penalties.

● The battle is fought over 8 Game-Turns.

Uthyr and his men win the battle and once again Pascent and his mixed war band are driven back to their ships. Loegaire was leading the Scots -Irish but he looses his life in this battle. Pascent sails back to Hibernia taking the lifeless Loegaire with him.

On the Continent, Anthemius is made Emperor of the West by Leo ( Emperor of the East ). Anthemius has a Senior General, Ricimer and two others, Majorian and Aegidius. Majorian wages successful campaigns against the Germanic tribes. Fearing Majorians success, Ricimer has him assassinated.

Aegidius launches several campaigns against the Visigothic ( Roman Foederatii) army led by Theodric but controlled by Ricimer. Theodoric the leader of the Visigoths is related to Ricimer.

( note; Ricimer is a senior Patrician in Rome. He cannot become Emperor himself because he is Aryan Christian. However he controls Anthemius ).

Aegidius died suddenly in 465AD. Some say Ricimer was responsible. In this year Syagrius, the son of Aegidius takes over in Soissons, the last Roman Province of the Western Empire in Gaul.

Syagrius is allied to Childeric, the King of the Franks  in the north of Gaul. To the south of Soissons there is the Visigoths, now led by Euric,who has murdered his elder brother Theodoric. Euric is also a nephew of Ricimer.

 There are also the Vandals ( by now, on the west coast of Hispania) led by Geiseric. Groups of Saxons are now in Normandy as they are gradually being pushed out of their original territory by the Franks.

465AD. Pascent sends Octa and Ebissa on another raid; 500 German tribesmen and 500 Scots-Irish. They head along the river Ribble and attack Bremetennacium ( Ribchester). Next, they head south in a lightning strike on Mamucium ( Manchester ). 

Learning of the attack while at Deva, Ambrosius, Gorlois and Einon gather a scratch force of 300 regular Cavalry, 300 regular infantry and 500 militia infantry and head to Mamucium.

Realising that he had missed the enemy. Ambrosius leaves Einon and the Cavalry at Manucium while he and Gorlois head south with the infantry. Ambrosius,s force caught up with Octa and Ebissa,s Warband at Aquaeanemetiae ( Buxton). During this battle Ambrosius,s infantry are pushed back and surrounded at Mount Damen ( said to be Ramshaw Rocks on the A53 ).

Overnight, Ambrosius and Gorlois decide on a dawn  attack with swords drawn. Covered by an early morning mist Ambrosius, Gorlois and the men attack. Added to this was the arrival of Einon with the cavalry. This time it is an overwhelming victory. The war band was completely broken.

Octa  @ 1 point.

Ebissa @ 1 point.

500 Germanic warriors = 5 points x 4 = 20 points = 8 stands of Warriors @ 2 points =16 points. 

2 stands of Light Infantry Skirmishers @ 1 point = 2 points.

500 Scots-Irish = 5 points x 4 = 20 points = 9 stands of Warriors @ 2 points = 18 points.

 2 stands of Light Skirmisher Archers. @ 1 point = 2 points. 

Ambrosius @ 2 points.

Gorlois @ 2 points.

9 stands of Militia Infantry @ 2 points = 18 points.

5 stands of Auxilliary  Infantry @  2 points =10 points.

Einon @ 2 points.

5 stands of Auxilliary Cavalry ( javelins) @ 2 points = 10 points.

The Fog;

●At the beginning of each Game-Turn the Britons are moved first. 

●The only stands that can fire during the entire game are the Archers and the Cavalry. These stands can only commence firing when there is no Fog marker between them and their target.

●When a Briton stand is moved into the square containing a " Fog marker" that fog marker is removed and a combat takes place. 

●The fog marker is not replaced once it is removed.

●No Germanic or Scots-Irish stands can be moved until the Fog marker is removed from in front of the stand or, the stand is Moved Back as a result of Combat.

The Briton Cavalry;

●These are placed in the wood at the bottom left of the battlefield.

●At the beginning of Game-Turn 3 and for every Game-Turn thereafter the Briton Player rolls a 6 sided die. On the score of 5 or 6 the cavalry are moved  on to the table where the road is ( bottom right of the battle map ).

● Once the cavalry are on the table, they can be moved along with the Briton Infantry.

Note; The Briton cavalry cannot be fired upon or engaged in close combat until they appear on the road.

● The battle is played for 8 Game-Turns.

Octa and Ebissa were captured. There was no mercy. Having already taken their oath Ambrosius is in no mood for clemency. Both Octa and Ebissa are put to death.

466AD. Easter at Carleon. Ambrosius gathers his Officers and Nobles to celebrate the Festival. It is here that Gorlois discovers Uthyrs affair with his Wife Ygerna. Gorlois leaves the Festival vowing no further support for the Amoricans in Dumnonia. Ambrosius has no choice in supporting his brother and declaring Golois  a renegade.

Note; This could have been an arranged confrontation. Golois was a redoubtable and brave leader who was popular with his warriors and the Dumnonians looked to him rather than Ambrosius.

Ambrosius sends Uthyr into Dumnonia to attack Gorlois,s holdings. Eventually, during a sally from Damelioc hill fort Gorlois is killed. Uthyr takes Ygerna as his Wife. Ygerna has a two year old son  by Golois named Medreut ( Mordred).

467AD.  In the early part of this year Ygerna gives birth to a boy who is given the name  Artorius ( Arthwys Ap Uthyr Ap Constantine :( Ap meaning " son of" ) or Arthur. In September a girl,Anna. 

There are still raids across eastern Britannia but no major incursions. Londinium is all but abandoned as are a number of major posts in the north, east and south east.

468AD. Ambrosius has political connections with the Patrician Syagrius, and Childeric, King of the Franks  He also has contact with King Rechimund ( Riothamus ? ) of the Suebians on the North-western corner of Hispania in an area called Gallaecia. 

( In this year at the battle of Mecurium, the Vandals destroy a huge Roman invasion fleet off the coast of Africa. This battle is said to be the death-knell of the Roman Empire in the West.)

This is because there is a Briton colony there called Bretona. Riothamus is pro-Roman and has allowed groups of Briton refugees to settle in Gallaecia. The Suebians are enemies of the Visigoths. Now possessing a Navy, Ambrosius can keep in contact with the Gallaecian colony.

469AD. In this year Ambrosius receives a request from Syagrius as does Riothamus for troops to fight the Visigoths. Syagrius carries the remit of the Eastern Emperor, therefore the order must be acted on.

Ambrosius leaves Uthyr 4,800 regulars including 300 cavalry to hold Britannia, while he takes 4,000 regulars and 500 cavalry in sixty ships. Riothamus has 8,200 infantry warriors (including 2000 Britons )in 90 ships. These two fleets  carrying 12,700 soldiers and warriors make their way to the Loire  river, and then down the river Cher to Bourges.

In July, Riothamus and Ambrosius, following the River Indre on their right, move forward on foot to Deols, south of Bourges. Here they camp to wait the arrival of Syagrius.

 However, Syagrius was betrayed by Arvandas, who informed Euric of the impending attack. Euric attacked the position of Riothamus  and Ambrosius before Syagrius had arrived.

The Gallacio-Briton army; 12,700 = 12.7 points x 4 = 51 points r/u.

The Britons and Amoricans; 4,500 = 4.5 points x 4 = 18 points.

Ambrosius ( inc bodyguard )  @ 3 points.

1 stand of Auxilliary Light Cavalry  @  2 points.

5 stands of Auxilliary Infantry  @ 2 points = 10 points.

3 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 3 points.

The Gallaecians; 8,200 = 8.2 points x 4 = 33 points r/u.

Riothamus ( inc bodyguard )  @ 2 points.

3 stands of Light Archers / slings  @  1 point = 3 points.

14 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 28 points.

The Army of Syagrius ( not present but included for completeness ) ; 

8,000 infantry = 8 points  x 4 = 32 points,

2,000 cavalry = 2 points x4 = 8 points.

Syagrius @ 1 point.

4 stands of Light Cavalry ( javelin ) @ 2 points = 8 points.

7 stands of Regular Infantry = 3 points = 21 points.

3 stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 6 points.

4 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 4 points.

The Visigoth Army; 18,000 = 18 points x 4 = 72 points.

Euric  @ 1 point.

Ardo (fictional)  @ 1 point.

Genderic ( fictional)  @ 1 point.

5 stands of Cavalry @ 2 points = 10 points

5 stands of Light Archers @ 1point = 5 points.

27 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 54 points.

Notes:

● This battle is played out as a normal two player game. At the start of each Game-Turn both sides throw a 12 sided die to determine which side gets the Initiative point for that Game-Turn.

● The battle is played out over 8 Game-Turns.

● Stands can only be moved in and out of the camp via the gate. Any stands within the camp can claim cover.

Note: It has been written that Arvandas, (a Praetorian Prefect ) under instruction from Syagrius, informed Euric of the impending attack hoping to wipe out Ambrosius and Riothamus and dismantle the  independant British Province.

 Ambrosius and Riothamus were forced to retreat back to Bourges with the remainder of their warriors  where the ships are moored. They had to reach open water before the Visigoths closed off the Loire.

Syagrius retreated back across the Loire at Orlean. Ambrosius and Riothamus return to their Provinces with their respective troops. Ambrosius now knows that the Roman hierarchy riven with political intrigue, cannot be trusted.

470AD,  Ambrosius returns to devastation. The army is down to 4,000 men commanded by Lott which has retreated to Silchester. The Picts led by Nechtan are raiding Northern Britain in strength. Pascent and the Scots- Irish are attacking the west coast. Dumnonia is in a Civil War between the supporters of Gorlais and the supporters of Uthyr, who has been killed by assassination.

Ambrosius contacts Lott to bring the army to Tintagel. Einon is to garrison all the forts along the frontier from north to south. He then rides with Cador, the new Dux of Dumnonia to Damelioc. 

Ambrosius threatens to put everyone in the fort to death if the leaders of the rebellion are not handed to him. The leaders are surrendered and put to death, whereupon the rest of the rebel Dumnonians swear allegiance.

Over the winter and into 471AD, Ambrosius with the help of his few senior officers trains up his army recruiting from amongst the young Britons. Eventually the army comes together at Carleon. The Army;

3,000 Regulars ( 2,500 infantry, 500 Cavalry in 6 Cohorts)

Cador, the Dux of Dumnonia ; ( 3,000 Infantry Militia, 500 Cavalry in 7 Cohorts.)

Einon of Gwynedd ; ( 5,000 Infantry Militia, 400 Cavalry.)

As Spring comes along Ambrosius finds out that a 500 strong warband of Germanic warriors mainly Saxons, have set up a settlement at Eboricum,( York) with new leaders, Colgrin and his Brother Baldulf. In May, the Briton army is assembled at Deva.

 Ambrosius has 2,000 regular Infantry and 500 regular cavalry. Cador brings in 1,500 infantry militia and 500 militia cavalry. He leaves 500 regular infantry to guard Carleon where Ygerna is living with the children. 

Einon,s troops are given the task of garrisoning the border.

Merlin the Sage is also there. Being part Druid his presence is resented by the Clergy but he is part of the Bucellarii of Ambrosius.

Ambrosius marches the army to Eboricum to confront the raiders. At first it was going to be another siege, because the Germanic tribesmen had cut trees to form a defensive perimeter.

 However,this time things were different! Word had come that a large fleet has anchored in the Humber estuary near Petuaria ( Brough). This army has 150 ships carrying 10/12,000 men, mostly Saxon led by a Chief called Cheldric.

This is a full scale invasion. Ambrosius is forced to retreat to Deva and back to Carleon. He needs food and troops. He sends a request to Hoel, High King of Amorica. The King arrives at Totnes three months later  with 8,000 men including 1,000 cavalry.

472AD; Ambrosius and Hoel set the army in motion toward Lindum. British scouts have located the main Saxon army in this area although there have been sporadic raids in the south-east. The British-Amorican army ;

Ambrosius ; 1,500 regulars = 1.5 points x 4 = 6 points.

1,500 Infantry Militia = 1.5 points x 4 = 6 points.

500 Regular Cavalry in 1 cohort. = 0.5 points x 4 = 2 points.

500 Militia Cavalry in 1 cohort. = 0.5 points x 4 = 2 points.

King Hoel; 7,000 Regular Infantry = 7 points x 4 = 28 points.

1,000 Regular Cavalry = 1 point x 4 = 4 points.

Ambrosius @ 3points.

1 stand of Regular infantry @ 3 points.

1 stand of Regular Cavalry @ 2 points.

2 stands of Militia infantry @ 2 points = 4 points.

1 stand of Militia Cavalry @  2 points.

2 stands of Light archers at 1 point = 2 points.

King Hoel @ 1 point.

8 stands of Regular Infantry @ 3 points = 24 points.

3 stands of Archers @ 1 point = 3 points.

2 stands of Regular Cavalry ( javelin ) @ 2points = 4 points.

Nechtan and his Picts; 4,000 = 4 points x 4 = 16 points.

Nechtan @ 1 point.

9 stands of Light-Armed Warriors @ 1 point = 9 points.

4 stands of light Archers @ 1 point = 4 points.

1 stand of Light Cavalry @ 2 points.

The Saxon Army; 10,000 = 10 points x 4 = 40 points.

Cheldric @ 1 point.

Colgrin @ 1 point.

Bardulf @ 1 point.

18 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points =36 points.

1 stand of Light Infantry Archers @ 1 point.

Notes;

● The Romans retain the Initiative Point for the entire battle.

● The Romans move first on every Game-Turn.

● The Romans fire first during the firing phase.

● The battle is played out over 8 Game-Turns.

Ambrosius sends some of his cavalry in a sweep around the south-east to guard against any warbands coming ashore. The main army marches north past Lindum ( Lincoln ) and comes up on the Saxon army at Locodraco ( modern Dragonby, Yorkshire ).

Composed of 10,000 infantry led by Colgrin, Bardulf and Cheldric, who is the Bretwalda. They have also been joined by 4,000 Picts ( including 500 light cavalry) led by Nechtan.

The battle is hard but a charge by Hoels cavalry at the critical point decides the battle. The 6,000 Saxons retreat back to their ships on the Humber. As the Saxons move south and east out into open sea, Ambrosius and Hoel harass Nechtan and his remaining warriors back to Caledonia.

This time Ambrosius is caught out.  Instead of sailing to Normandy, Cheldric takes his fleet to Totnes!. Isca Dumnoniorum is devastated by the Saxons, who ravage the area eastward toward Lindinis ( Illchester ) where they make camp. For three weeks the Saxons continue to devastate the area. A message is sent  to Ambrosius who, four weeks later appears at Aquaesulis (Bath ).

Ambrosius has had to leave Hoel at Alclud with a garrison of 1,000 men because he is sick. The rest of the army marches with him. 

Cheldric, Colgrin and Bardulf have 8000 warrior infantry. When Cheldrics scouts inform him of the approaching Amoricans he knows he has to retreat to a defensive position because of the Cavalry. Cheldrics fleet has also been anchored at Lym Supra Mare ( Lyme Regis ) to take the baggage that had been looted.

Cheldric has his warriors take up position facing east on Ham Hill( Somerset ),which is  the site of an old hillfort. The ramparts have gone but there is a small village and the shell of a Roman villa.

Ambrosius and Cador along with Einon have 4,000 Amorican regular infantry and 800 cavalry. Ambrosius has 1,000 regular infantry, 900 militia infantry and 400 militia cavalry. 

Briton-Amorican Army.

Ambrosius; 7,100 = 7.1 x 5 = 36 points r/u.

4,000 Amorican Regulars = 4 points x 5 = 20 points =

5 stands of Amorican Regulars @ 3points = 15 points.

2 stands of Light Archers  @ 1 point = 2 points.

Ambrosius  @ 3 points.

800 Amorican Cavalry = 0.8 x 5 = 4 points =

2 stands of Amorican cavalry @ 2 points = 4 points ( javelin ).

1,000 Briton Auxilliary Infantry = 1 x 5 = 5 points =

2 stands of Briton Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 4 points.

Cador @  1 point.

900 Briton Militia Infantry = 0.9 points x 5 = 4.5 or 5 points r/u.

1 stand of Militia Infantry @ 2 points.

2 stands of Militia Light Archers @ 1 point = 2 points.

Einon   @ 1 point.

400 Briton Militia Cavalry = 0.4 x 5 = 2 points.=

1 stand of Militia Cavalry  @ 2 points.

Germanic Tribal Army, 8,000 = 8 points x 5 = 40 points.

Cheldric @ 1 point.

Colgrin @ 1 point.

Bardulf @ 1 point.

17 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 34 points.

3 stands of Light Infantry @ 1point = 3 points.

Notes ;

● The Briton- Amorican army retain the Initiative Point for the entire battle.

● The Briton-Amorican army moves first on every Game-Turn.

● The Briton-Amorican army fires first on every Game-Turn.

The ruined villa;

Stands can only be moved in and out of the villa via the East entrance exit. No missile fire can take place from within to targets outside and vice versa.

The battle starts with Ambrosius directing an advance against the Saxon tribesmen. Neither side gains the upper hand. However, Ambrosius knows he has to return to Alclud. 

Ambrosius launches another attack uphill at the Saxon battle line. Ambrosius is in the front rank to encourage his men. This time the Saxons are broken.  Ambrosius leaves Cador to pursue the Saxons back to their ships at Lym Supra Mare. Ambrosius returns to Carleon. From there he takes 3000 Amorican infantry and 800 British regular Infantry along with 600 cavalry in 60 ships and sails to Alclud.

Toward the end of 472AD Ambrosius is back at Alclud when he is informed that a large army of Scots-Irish under Gillomarius and Pascent  has landed at Dunadd. This army is estimated to be of 5000 men,and is marching toward Alclud. Ambrosius realises this is his one chance to break the Scots-Irish threat.

Over a two day running battle, Ambrosius and Hoel with 4,800 regulars and the 600 cavalry beat the Scots-Irish army around Loch Lomond, driving the remainder back to Dunadd. Both Gillomarius and Pascent are killed.

Ambrosius decides to put Caledonia to the fire and sword. He devastates the area up to Loch Ness ending the Pict and Scots-Irish threat to Britannia for a long while to come.

In August of 472, Ricimer passes away.  Into 473 AD, Ambrosius, although Amorican is undisputed Warlord of Britannica. He was 50 years old when he came to the country and he has been fighting for twelve years.

 Artorius Constantine (Arthur ) and his sister Anna are 6 years old. Mordred is 8.

Well that is the end for the moment. All the battles are played out on my board which is 3 feet by 2 feet ( 90 centimetres by 60 centimetres ).

Nearly all the figures in the pictures are Hat Industries 1/72nd scale figures painted by myself. Some are from the Newline Designs range.

The maps are my own efforts. The hills are by Brian of Essex Miniatures. The green and brown ground bases are from S and A Scenics.

The Tents in the Deols scenario are from Bauda, the wagon is from Ceasar Miniatures Roman Train. The earth work is cold modelling clay with bits of cocktail stick.

Finally, the trees are from various manufacturers. The round 40mm Mdf bases are from Minibits, and the square bases are cut from picture-framing cardboard. The fog sections, roads and rivers are of thin card.

The 5th Century in Britannia: Part 3. Ambrosius, Uthyr and the Death of Hengist.

 Once again the following article is my personal interpretation of events as a wargamer. Information of the battle site of Maisbeli I found online and in a book written by Ilka Sylvanne.

The original position of the actual town on rising ground to the east of  Mexborough is my own supposition.

In the early months of 462AD, Hengist, leader of the Germanic tribes in Lloegyr , knew of Vortigerns demise. He was also very aware of the capable Warlord leading the Walisch, and the soldiers that he led, well trained and well armed.

With that information in mind Hengist had sent out a message for all his Warriors to march North of the river Don and the Humber Estuary. The warriors were to gather at Petuaria ( modern day Brough ).

In May of 462AD, Ambrosius, leaving Uthyr to command the Reserve in Dumnonia, assembles the field army at Deva ( modern Chester ) and starts the five day march to the Don river. He is accompanied by Eldol, the Dux of Gloucester and Gorlois, the Dux of Dumnonia, each with their personal Retinue.

Camping at Manucium ( Manchester ) and Navio ( Brough-on-Noe), Ambrosius leads his army toward the Don. He knows that a major part of Hengists army will be somewhere in the area.

Meanwhile, Hengist has been told by Scouts that the Roman Army is marching East. He also knows the road Ambrosius will be following through the Pennines so decides to try an ambush. This is a place called Maisbelli ( said to be modern day Mexborough).

After a three day march Hengist reaches the area first and deploys his troops. Ambrosius gets wind of the attempted ambush but still marches on. Both sides camp near the intended battlefield. On the eve of battle both opposing Warlords know what is at stake. 

Neither side can back down, the loss of prestige would be to great. It was victory or death!.

The Roman Field Army; 5,400 (54 points).

Ambrosius @ 2 points.

Eldol, Dux of  Glevum (Gloucester )@ 1 point.

1 stand of Glevum Militia archers @ 1point.

Gorlois, Dux of Dumnonia @ 1 point.

I stand of Dumnonian Light Archers @ 1point.

4 stands of Light Roman Cavalry ( spears and javalins ) @ 2 points = 8 points.

12 stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 24 points.

4 stands of Light Infantry Archers @ 1 point = 4 points.

4 stands of Regular Infantry @ 3 points = 12 points.

Note; I use the word Roman to describe the Amorican army as their tactics and equipment were Romanic in origin.

Hengist,s Army; 4,000 ( 40 points ).

Hengist and his Jutes; 1,500 ( 15 points).

Hengist @ 1 point.

6 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 12  points.

2 stands of Light Archer Infantry @ 1 point = 2 points.

Octa,s Saxons; 1,300 ( 13 points).

Octa @ 1 point. 

5 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 10 point.

2 stands of Light Archer Infantry @ 1 point = 2 points.

Ebissa,s Angles; 1,200 ( 12 points).

5 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Light Archer Infantry @ 1 point.

Here are the armies laid out for battle;

I've portrayed Eldol and Gorlois as dismounted and representing them and their respective bodyguards but these leaders may well have been on horses.

Here is a map of the battlefield ( conjectural);

Notes for Solo play;

● The Romans retain the Initiative Point for the entire battle.The Romans win any tied results.

● Throw die for each side to see which side is moved first. The entire army can be moved.

● Throw dice for each side to see who fires first. The entire army can fire if able to do so.

● combat is simultaneous.

● The town of Conisborough ( Cunungeburg ? ) cannot be entered.

● Any stands in the Warband army forced off the table will be counted as casualties.

● The game is played for eight Game-Turns.

For a 2 player game;

● The game can be played is normal. However the Romans still retain the initative point for the game.

● The game is played for eight Game-Turns.

● The winner will be the player who looses the least number of stands.

Conjectural notes.

While looking up the details of the area and playing out the battle, something didn't seem quite right. It has been said that the battle was hard fought. As the Roman troops gained the upper hand Hengist retreated to Conisborough near where the castle stands to make his final rally.

The field of battle ( Maisbeli) has recently been identified as Mexborough. Looking on Googlemaps the information says that its a 50 minute walk from Mexborough across the river Don to Conisborough.

After fighting for some time would the men have enough stamina for say, a 25 minute run across a river of unknown depth and turn to face the enemy?, especially if they were chased by Cavalry. Also any troops fleeing a battle would take the route they had previously marched over, in this case the North-east.

I fought the first battle on flat ground. It was a walkover for the Romans. However having looked at the area there is a hill to the East of Mexborough where the River Dearne runs into the Don.

 I do not know if this hill is natural or a waste heap from a former mine in the area. It's shape certainly looks like it could have had a stockaded town on the top. I restated the battle with the hill, giving the Warband army the higher ground.

I reset the battle with the hill to the East and positioned Hengists army in front on the slope. This time, even with the Romans having the Iniative Point throughout the battle it was a much harder contest. Hengist did not enter the town. The gates may well have been locked so he made his last stand there allowing the rest of the remaining warriors including Octa and Ebissa to get away. 

This is just my theory, but you never know ? - - -.

The battle was played out on a 3 foot by 2 foot board. ( 90cm x 60cm )

The figures are from Hat Industries with a few from Miliart and Newline designs. The flat hills are by Brian at Essex Miniatures. The tall hill and stockade sections are scratchbuilt. The trees are by various manufacturers.

The river and track sections are made from thin cardboard. The figure bases are from picture framing cardboard. The round 40mm mdf  bases are from Minibits. The tree bases marking out the wooded area are from S and A Scenics. The two houses are either Peter Pig or Hovels.

Postscript:

At the end of the battle Gorlois entered into close combat with Hengist and captured him. After the battle it was decided in council that Hengist was sentenced to death. He was beheaded and Ambrosius gave Hengist full pagan rights in his burial.

The Battle of Ooderen :The Spanish Netherlands, June 31st 1703

The details of this clash of arms is a bit sparse in English sources, so this is my interpretation of the events leading up to this battle. Some of the details could be wrong.

 This battle was one of many in what is known as The Malburian Wars or The War of the Spanish Succession. The British and Dutch were fighting the French. Louis the 14th had sent his army North, to invade the Spanish Netherlands, which roughly equates to the country of Belgium in present times.

The Dutch government had sent their army South  into the Netherlands to try and forestall the French army in its advance. The British General, The Duke of Marlborough had warned General Obdam the Dutch General not to advance to far.

Obdam disregarded the Dukes advise wanting to show that the Dutch did not need the British to give them instructions. At this time the country of Holland was known as The United Provinces.

The French C-in-C, the Duc De Boufflers was no fool and as the Dutch army advanced saw an opportunity to surround it. At Eckeren this manoeuvre came about.

Realising what was happening, Obdam with his army tried to fight his way out of the encirclement. First, he directed an attack against Eckeren  but the French forced the Dutch to retreat. Next, he directed an attack against Hoevenen, but this was not pushed home.

Hoevenen was where the majority of the French Cavalry was stationed. The area consisted of open country. The Dutch Generals realised that their mainly infantry army would be cut to pieces if caught in open country in marching column.

The Dutch Army was camped in enclosed territory ideal for defense but they were surrounded on three sides with their backs to the Scheldt river ( pro: Skeld ).

The Dutch Commander knew there was only one thing he could do; he deserted!!.

Disguising himself as a French Officer, Obdam went South, leaving his Officers and the army in a dire situation. Luckily for the Dutch troops, the second in command, General Slangenburg was made of sterner stuff,.

He realised that the only way out was through Ooderen. When the Scheldt river was at low ebb, the polder (a very large drainage gully ) near the village would be passable.

Even at low tide the drainage ditch and the dike further east would be an obstacle for cavalry so would provide some defence should the Duc De Merode become aware of the Dutch manouvres.

Having decided on a plan General Slangenburg and his fellow General Friesham got the army moving.

The Army of The United Provinces ( Holland)

8,500 foot ( inc; Generals and Artillery) = 8.5 points x  4 = 34 points.

1,500 Horse= 1.5 x 4= 6 points.

1 General ( Slangenburg) @ 2points.

1 General (Friesham) @ 1 point.

3 stands of Cavalry @ 2 points = 6 points.

3 stands of Light artillery @ 1 point = 3points.

2 stands of Grenadier infantry @ 4 points =8 points.

10 stands of Line Infantry @ 2 points = 20 points.

The French "Division" at Ooderen.

9,500 Foot = 9.5 x 4 = 38 points ( inc Generals and Artillery ).

2000 Horse = 2 points x 4 = 8 points.

1 General ( the Duc De Villaroi ) @ 1 point.

2 stands of Heavy Field Guns @ 2points = 4 points.

8 stands of Line Infantry @ 3 points = 24 points.

1 stand of Dismounted Dragoons @ 1 point.

2 Stands of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points = 8 points.

4 stands of Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

Here is a map of the battle;

The battlefield;

Notes;

The Dutch get the Initiative Point on every  Game-Turn. This is for their bravery born out of desperation and for the French not expecting the Dutch to attack!.

Any stands being forced into the water West of the village bridge will be lost. This was the flood plain of the Scheldt so very deep and soft mud. The left side of the board from the Dutch base edge is river so stands will be lost if they are forced to retire off that side.

Any Dutch stands retiring over the dike will be lost ( they would eventually be caught by the French troops to the East).

The polder East of the Bridge is treated as a river that under the rules can be crossed with penalties.

The winner of the battle after 8 Game-Turns will be the side with the least number of stands lost and/or the Dutch have stands on the bridge at the village. The Dutch have only one way to go. That is North.

The other parts of The French Army didn't take part in the battle. I'm surmising that either Generals Boufflers and Merode assumed that General Villeroi could defeat the Dutch ,or, the acoustics of the area muffled the sound of the battle.

General De Bedmar,s Spanish " Division" was at Wilmarsdonk to the South, but he did not move. I'm assuming that he also thought that Generals Villaroi and Merode would be able to stop the Dutch escaping.

For completeness, here is my interpretation of the remainder of the Franco/ Spanish Army;

The French "Division" at Hoevenen

6,500 horse = 6.5 points x 4 = 26 points.

1 General ( Merode) @ 1 point.

8 stands of Cavalry @ 3 points = 24 points.

1 stand of Mounted Dragoons @ 1 point.

The French "Division " at Eckeren.

11,000 Foot ( inc: Generals and Artillery)= 11 points x 4 = 44 points.

2,000 Horse = 2 points x 4 = 8 points.

1 General, C-in-C ( Boufflers) @1 point.

1 stand of Heavy Artillery @ 2points.

3 stands of Light Artillery @ 1 point = 3 points.

2 stands of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points = 8 points.

10 stands of Line Infantry @ 3 points = 30 points.

4 stands of Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

The Spanish "Division" at Wilmarsdonk.

8,500 Foot ( inc: Artillery and Generals = 8.5 points x 4 = 34 points. 

1,500 Horse = 1.5 x 4 = 6 points.

1 General ( De Bedmar) @ 1 point.

2 stands of Grenadier Infantry @ 4 points = 8 points.

7 stands of Line Infantry @ 3 points = 21 points.

4 stands of Light Artillery @ 1 point = 4 points.

3 stands of Cavalry @ 2 points = 6 points.

Credits;

I set this battle up on a 2 foot (60cm) x 2 foot (60cm) board as there seem to be very little manoeuvring space according to one Period map I have seen.

The figures are mostly Miniature Figurines with some from Peter Pig and Essex Miniatures. They represent the middle 18th century rather than the earlier Malburian era.

The buildings are from Total Battle Miniatures. The bridge at the village is scratchbuilt, as are the dike sections. The rivers and roads are thin card.

The bases of the figures are made from picture framing card and the round 40mm mdf  bases are from Minibits

 

The 5th Century in Brittannia : Part 2. Hengist, Horsa and Ambrosius

Once again this is my personal interpretation as a wargamer of events as presented by the historians.

454AD started like most recent years within the Western Roman Empire. Various tribal Elders steeled themselves and their followers for more trouble to come. Everything was in turmoil. The only constant was Aetius, the powerful Roman Warlord, keeping the balance of power in the West after his victory over Atilla at the Catellaunian Fields.

That all came to an end in September of this year when  Aetius was assassinated by a rival jealous of his success. This paved the way for more bloodshed as various Germanic leaders fought for territorial control in Gaul, Hispania and Himlingoje.

The situation in Britannia having been relatively quiet was also about to change. Hengist, leader of the Gewissi ( Jutes) was deep in thought during the Winter of 454. He realised that, with Aetius now dead, he could make a bid for power and wealth in the country.

There was no one who could stop him. The Britons (or "Wallisch) were to divided and to weak. The Wallisch Council in Londene had never ever paid them enough to make up for the Jutish blood shed in their defence.

In early 455AD Hengist and his Brother Horsa made their move. Taking to their ships with their followers, they sailed  North up the East coast in groups. The main group sailed along the Humber and down the river Don. 

Note 28-10-20:

I don’t know if the River Don was navigable by boat it’s entire length at that time. It is possible that Hengist and his warriors had to walk part of the way.

 The one commodity that will bring money lies at Derwent. Not Gold but something  the the Romans prized for the manufacture of their weapons and armour: Lead!. Other groups land at Holderness above the Humber Estuary. From these points, they fan out to raid villages, and smaller settlements.

 The Gewissi have been sailing the rivers and coastline for ten years fighting the Frankish Pirates, The Picts and Scots. They know where they are going.

When the Nobles realise what is happening they are at a loss as to the solution. The only one with the power and influence is Vortigern. He is detested by the Romanised members of the Council for his Scots-Irish background and for employing the Gewissi.

He uses the situation to his advantage. In return for the Council declaring Vortigern as Pendragon ( High King ). Vortigerns son Vortimer is declared as Warleader and he along with his brother Catigern gather 1,500 Picts and Scots-Irish Federated troops  ( using their Fathers connection) with which to oppose the Gewissi.

The first battle takes place at Derwent between Vortimers 1,500 men and the 700 men of Hengists Warband.  (This village is now below water at Ladybower Reservoir)

The Battle of Derwent: Spring 455 AD.

Scots-Irish and Pict Army; 1,500 = 15 points x 2 =30 points.

Vortimer @1 point.

Catigern @ 1 point.

12 stands of Warriors @ 2points = 24 points.

2 stands of Light Cavalry @ 2 points = 4 points.

The Jutes ( Gewissi); 700 = 7 points x 2 = 14 points.

Hengist @ 1 point.

Horsa @ 1 point.

5 stands of Warriors @ 2 points = 10 points.

2 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 2 points.

Here is a map of the battlefield ( conjecteral) ;

● The Jutes get the Initiative Point every Game-Turn.

● The Jutes move first on every Game-Turn.

● The winner after 8 Game-Turns is the Player with the lowest number of stands lost.

● The Jutes win if they still have 4 stands remaining at the end of the game.

● The river Derwent can only be crossed via the bridge. Any stands entering the river will be lost.

● The hills to the North cannot be entered. The battlefield can only be exited via the East, West or South. The River Don is to the East of the battlefield.

In the historical and hard fought battle, Hengist is beaten and he and his men are pursued back to his ships on the Don

From there he, and his men sail back to Thanet. Having beaten Hengist, part of  Vortimers Army go against other groups of Gewissi in Holderness and drive them back to their ships.

It takes three days sailing for Hengist and all his men to reach Thanet. He knows that Vortimer will come after him. He has fifteen days to prepare his remaining force and he knows he will be outnumbered.

Realising where they would go, Vortimer and Catigern gather up their Army and march the 250 miles South-East toward Thanet, receiving supplies in London on the way. Vortimer looses men on the march due to straggling, wounds and desertion. Some of the warriors are not prepared to be away from their villages in Rheged, Gwynedd and Powys.

Fifteen days later, two opposing battle lines faced each other at a fording point on the River Medway at Episford ( modern Aylesford).

 Hengist had been told by his Scouts that the Walisch Army is not as large as he thought it would be. Hengist takes a gamble and leads his men out for battle.

Hengist and his Jutes ( Gewissi) 700 = 7 points x 2 = 14 points.

Hengist @1 point.

Horsa @ 1 point.

5 stands of Warrior infantry @ 2 points = 10 points.

2 stands of Light Archer skirmishes @ 1 point = 2 points.

Vortimer and his Scots-Irish 800 = 8 points x 2 = 16 points.

Vortimer @ 1 point.

Catigern @ 1 point.

4 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 8 points.

2 stands of Light Archer Skirmishers @ 1 point = 2 points.

2 stands of Light Cavalry. @ 2 points = 4 points. 

The Scots-Irish get the Initiative Point every Game-Turn.

The Scots-Irish move first on every Game-Turn.

The Scots-Irish fire first on every Game-Turn.

After 8 Game-Turns the side loosing the least number of stands is the winner.

 

Once again Vortimer and Catigern go on the attack and, after a stiff fight drove the Gewissi back. This time the Gewissi (Jutes) were harried back to Thanet.

Hengist and his remaining men were given no time to make a stand. They had to take to their ships to save their lives. During the course of this protracted skirmish, Vortimer and Horsa lost their lives.

With the Jutes now banished from Britannia, the remainder of the Picts and Scots-Irish army under Catigern is encamped near London. Vortigern is now undisputed master of the round table Council of Britannia. 

But Hengist wants revenge. Not only for being beaten by Vortigerns army, but also for the death of his brother.

In the following year 456AD, Hengist returns to Thanet. This time he is accompanied by his two sons Octa and Ebissa alongside 4,000 battle hardened Jutes, Angles and Saxons in 40 ships. In Gaul the Saxons are gradually being forced out of their new territory by the Franks. 

This time Hengist is determined to stay, so spends the rest of the year consolidating his position.

Vortigern needs time to assemble his Army that has scattered back to their various settlements, he has no forces large enough to face Hengist immediately.

To add to his problems Vortigern hears rumours of an army being assembled in Amorica in order to come to Britannia.

457AD finds both opposing armies once again  assembled for battle on the ford at Aylesford.

Hengists Army: 4,000 (40 points).

Hengists Jutes; 1,500.

Hengist @ 1 point.

6 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 12 points.

2 stands of Light Archer Infantry @ 1 point = 2 points.

Octa,s Saxons; 1,300.

Octa @ 1 point.

5 stands of Warrior Infantry @ 2 points = 10 points.

2 stands of Light Archer Skirmishers @ 1 point = 2 points.

Ebbisa and the Angles; 1,200.

Ebissa @ 1 point.

5 stands of Warrior infantry @ 2 points = 10 points.

1 stand of Light Archer infantry @ 1 point.

Catigern,s Army;

The Scot-Irish;

Catigern @ 1 point.

8 stands of Warrior Infantry = 2 points = 16 points.

1 stand of Light Infantry Archers = 1 point.

The Picts;

Pascent @ 1 point.

2 stands of Light Cavalry @ 2 points = 4 points.

7 stands of Light  Infantry skirmishers @ 1 point = 7 points.

Note; The Medway river can only be crossed via the Fording point.

●Both sides will throw a D12 at the start of each Game-Turn to decide which side has the Iniative and moves first.

●The battle will last for 8 Game-Turns.

● The winner of the game is the side will the lower number of stands lost.

In the historical battle, Catigern,s army is defeated,

Note; 11-11-20. It is said that Catigern died at this 2nd battle of Aylesford and is buried there.

Vortigern now knew for sure that an Amorican army would arrive eventually. Therefore he decides to attempt peace talks with Hengist hoping he can use the Germanic troops as Federates.

Hengist arranges a Banquet for Vortigern and 300 Wallisch nobles. The Gemanic warriors called everyone in Britannia " Wallisch" meaning "foreigners".However this time Hengist wants nothing less than absolute power. As Bretwalda,or Warlord, Hengist has to award his followers with gifts and lands that he has promised them.

To that end he ensures that each British Noble has a warrior sitting next to him. Each warrior is armed with a concealed knife. At a given signal, Hengist's men kill virtually all the Britons. Vortigern is taken hostage. In exchange for his life and eventual release he gives Hengist Eastsex, Southsex and Middlesex, along with Londene, Wincestre, Lindum and Eboricum. Arbeia on the Eastern end of Hadrians wall is also given to Hengist. 

Saxons, Jutes and Angles now spread out across Lloegyr taking slaves and land. The remaining Romano-Britons are in full retreat. Most head toward Dumnonia and the Southern coast of Powys around the Severn Estuary. Some of the Picts retreat Northward toward Bana on the Wall along with the Scots Irish. 

Vortigern, now totally discredited  by his actions retreats to his fortress of Dinas Emrys in Northern Gwynedd along with 1,000  Pictish and Scots-Irish warriors of his personal guard.

 

Note; Vortigern,s remaining  son, Pascent is not heard of at this point. I am surmising that he went either to Ireland or North into Western Caledonia.

By 458AD British Nobles with their followers are arriving in Amorica ( Brittany) with stories of the disaster unfolding in Lloegyr. Aldwyr, the High King of Amorica decided it was time to act. He chooses Ambrosius and his brother Uthyr the two remaining sons of Constantine the 3rd as Commanders of the Army. Both had been trained in Roman military matters and both had gained experience in fighting the Franks and Alans.

In the Spring of 459AD Ambrosius and his brother Uthyr land at Totnes in Dumnonia along with 8,300 regular troops. The Romano-Britons in the area gather to the standards. 

The first mission for Ambrosius is to capture the Usurper Vortigern. He takes half the army North into Gwynedd to attack Vortigerns fortress ( Dinas Emrys). Using siege techniques and fire missiles the fortress is destroyed. Vortigern dies during the attack everyone assuming he has died in the flames.

From then on and during 460AD, Ambrosius takes his army through Gwynedd and Powys driving out the Scots-Irish settlers. By the end of that year after a successful campaign Ambrosius is declared Pendragon (Warlord) of Britannia, at Woodchestre (near modern Stroud in Gloucestershire.)

In 461AD Ambrosius and his brother Uthyr start planning operations against the Gemanic invaders.

Army of Ambrosius; 8,500.

The Field Army; 5,200

Ambrosius @ 2 points.

Eldol ( Dux of Gloucester)  @ 1 point.

Gorlois  ( Dux of Dumnonia )@ 1 point.

4 stands of Light cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

4 stands of Regular Infantry @ 3 points = 12 points.

12 stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 24 points.

4 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 4 points.

Reserve in Dumnonia; 3,300.

Uthyr @ 1 point.

4 stands of Light Cavalry @ 2 points = 8 points.

8 stands of Auxilliary Infantry @ 2 points = 16 points.

4 stands of Light Archers @ 1 point = 4 points.

4 stands of Light Ballista Field Artillery @ 1 point = 4 points.

Notes;

The Roman Cavalry I use at this point in the history do not have body armour and ride unarmoured horses.

Although all Regular infantry in this era were known as Peditum, I use the words " Regular" and " Auxilliary" to separate those troops wearing mail body armour and those without, this being the latter.

Credits;

Nearly all the soldiers are Hat Industries. The wagons,mules and civilians are from the Ceaser Miniatures Roman Train boxes. The Eagles are scratch built. 

The regular infantry standing behind the Generals are Newline Designs Roman Infantry. The boat crew are Emhar Viking crew.

The ship's are scratchbuilt. The buildings are from Hovels and Peter Pig.

The square bases are picture frame cardboard. The round 40mm mdf bases are from Minibits.