Well, today was simply one of the most enjoyable days that I have had at a wargaming show. I attended my first convention or show in the UK at the Partizan show at Kelham Hall on Sunday May 31, 2015.
Twenty of us from the A Military Gentleman ("AMG") forum convened to host a version of the twin battles of Ligny and Quatre Bras, only with soldiers from the Seven Years War. The French versus Prussians and British battle was ostensibly fought between the Grand Duchy of Lorraine (France) and the VFS (British and Prussian forces). The game was fought as two separate battles on two separate tables. The terrain was made by Graham Cummings from Teddy Bear fur ( disclaimer: no real bears were harmed in the making of the ground cloth. Several other members brought some buildings to complete the tableau.
The rules used were The Wargame Rules by Charles S. Grant and let me emphasize that these are not Old School Rules, but revised, well tested and modern rules that were relatively easy to pick up and understand within a couple of turns. John D. was at my table, Ligny, and he was well versed in the rules and helped us as needed. Graham refereed the Quatre Bras game with equal skill.
Most of the members brought their own troops to the game so I did not have to haul any metal across the pond. I was fortunate to be able to command a brigade of Prussian infantry from John Ray's collection and faced off against a variety of Mindens, RSM, Front Rank and I'm sure a few brands that I did not have the chance to see.
One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to meet all of the other players, of whom I only knew through the Internet, and to match a face and voice with the name, while getting a chance to talk with my fellow gamers. You couldn't find a better group of gentlemen than those in this group.
Another highlight was seeing John Ray's collection first hand and up close, especially the vignettes for which he is well known. To my right, and capably holding down the flank was Dave Hall and his beautifully painted Minden Prussian hussars and Dragoons.
Well, enough background, let's get on to the game pictures. I took so many snap shots that I will post the pix over several different blog entries, including one devoted to the other games that were at the show.
Wonderful looking game - well worth crossing the pond for
ReplyDeleteMy word, what a sight, and Graham's terrain looks fabulous. wish I'd been there. Thanks Jim for bringing us this report so quickly.
ReplyDeleteChris
Note: when I return home later this week, I will reload all pictures so that when you click on them, they enlarge. The Blogger iPad ap will only post the pictures in the small format.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a good time was had by all...Bill
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a tremendous, unique event in a superb setting. Everyone looks to be having fun and in the moment, well done!
ReplyDeleteIt was a cracking day Jim. Nice to have met you and all the other chaps.
ReplyDeleteA spectacular game full of interest, but spoilt for me by the truely awful lighting!
ReplyDeleteGreat images, obviously a real battle-feeling.
ReplyDeleteJim,
ReplyDeleteindeed it was a 'cracking' day and a great pleasure to meet you. So glad you found the trip worthwhile.
Graham: you just know that now we have to back in 2016 and complete the Wolfenbuttel War with Waterloo.
ReplyDeleteOf course we do :)
DeleteWho's going to start the thread then on AMG?
DeleteLooking fantastic Jim - glad the trip was as wonderful for you and the AMG boys as it sounded from over here. Excellent!
ReplyDeleteA fabulous game, fun to play, great company and a top notch weekend.
ReplyDeleteGreat photos, Jim - the game looks amazing, and with very well controlled teddy bear fur!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes
Giles
Words fail me. What a spectacle. Worth traveling for.
ReplyDeleteSome of those flags are breathtaking.
All of the flags on John Ray's and Phil Olley's figures were painted by Mark Allen. There were some GMB Designs flags and probably a few other hand painted flags too.
ReplyDelete