The Electorate of Vulgaria

A bit off topic.

2010-07-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

Vulgaria was established sometime during the late dark ages and became a full fledged Imagi-Nation during the period that coincides with the 30YW. There will be a few pictures of Vulgarians marching off to support the Empire eventually. For now here are a few photos of my first Regiment; a group of Saxons.

Saxons deployed for Action (Flash photo)

Saxons Deployed for Action (No Flash)

Saxons Deployed for Action (Natural Light Lamp-the rest of the photos were taken this way)

Musketeers to the Front!

Mustaches; my wife likes the mustaches!

Pikes to the Front, Musketeers to the Flanks!

Saxons ready to Advance.

Forward, ...Advance!

More mustaches; I told you.

Close up of the Saxon Command.

A question for the readers - If you would be so kind.

2008-03-13T08:27:00.001-07:00

I have a question, an informal poll for the readers of this blog.

There are apparently at least two of you and thank you BTW for the comments and encouragement.

Which of the two examples above do you prefer for The National Flag of Vulgaria?

The Black is the common thread in all Vulgarian standards and uniforms, it reminds Vulgarians of their long struggle, if they were able to survive the black days they can survive all.

The great white Boar is a mythical Vulgarian animal that represents the Elector, heroism, sacrifice, stubbornness and a willingness to fight to the death. Bozidar the first Vulgarian chief led his people to this area of the world, although it was inhabited by a great white boar that stood 4 meters at the shoulder. After a week long fight Bozidar prevailed and wore the animals pelt as his royal robes; it was such a large animal that its flesh fed the entire nation for the first year. All wild boars in Vulgaria are believed to be descendents of this animal. They are hunted but never for sport, only for food and fur.

That brings us to the choice; for the red sun or the yellow sun. Clearly the yellow sun would be the new days of Vulgaria moving out of the black and into the light. Alternatively the red sun would represent the blood of the people martyred and sacrificed to provide an independent Vulgaria.

I'm leaning a bit towards the red sun, as the black and red are somewhat indicative of my own anarchist early years.

Vulgarian Standards

2008-03-10T14:21:00.001-07:00

It's about time Vulgaria had a Flag!

The top flag is the National or Electors Standard. Every Regiment is awarded one of these. The bottom flag is the Regimental Standard for regiments of foot. The color on the flag matches the regimental color.

So what we have here is the Regimental Standard for the Bosklosviakov Musketeer Rgt. the senior musketeer regiment in the Vulgarian Army.

The great white boar is the symbol of the Elector. As a heraldic device the boar represents stubbornness, bravery and a willingness to fight to the death.

Vulgarian Infantry Uniforms

2008-03-07T13:36:00.000-08:00

In order of seniority I present the uniforms of the regiments of the Electorate of Vulgaria. There are also militia, cavalry and a few artillery pieces that will be added to the blog eventually. Additionally unit histories will be forth coming and a battle report. The Pedastool Empire attempted a sortie into the south of Vulgaria through one of the many mountain passes that contect the two countries. It occurred at a time when friendly Russe regiments were bivouacked in country on a joint military exercise.

My thanks to David Linnienblatt of Not By Appointment for the excellent templates to create uniforms with. His website is here: http://nba-sywtemplates.blogspot.com/ and I highly recommend a visit.

The Electorate of Vulgaria Responds to the Grand Duchy of Stollen

2007-05-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

http://emperor-elector.blogspot.com/2007/05/to-duchy-of-mieczyslaw-and-electorate.html

Hans Karl von Wilkowiczeske,

The Electorate of Vulgaria welcomes the exchange of Ambassadors during these times of turmoil. There appears to be a major movement toward crises in the West that is at best confounding and absolutely perplexing. It is at times like these that civilized Nations should become friends!

Vulgaria is willing to extend the hand of friendship with two caveats; As the Empires of Maria-Theresa and Elizabeth march so marches the Army of Vulgaria, Betrayals of our friendship will be considered an act of war and will be retaliated against most severely.

I await your response in earnest anticipation of a new friendship with all that it conveys.

Byr Levrenti Beria
CoD

For the Elector Vleg Donislov I of Vulgaria

A Meeting with the Elector!

2007-05-21T14:39:00.001-07:00

In the highest room of the castle in Schweingrad the Elector Donislov I sits, with his Chief of Diplomacy Levrenti Beria, in front of roaring fire; wine, cheese, sausages and a chess board adorn the table.

A Grenadier announces from the portal to the room; “Major Poruchik and escort sire!”

“Yes, yes send him in!” replies the Elector, and to a figure at the side, “Another plate and glass for my friend the Major.”

The command to send in Major Poruchik was a small formality and unnecessary as the Major has free access to all chambers in Schweingrad; such is the authority of the Intelligence Officer and the trust the Elector places in him.

“Sire, I bring news from our Northern border.” announces Poruchik. To his right and slightly behind him stands a young officer from the Hosok Tere Hussars.

“A man of yours Poruchik?” queries Beria, nodding towards the Hussar Officer.

“A man of the Electors and trusted by me!” replies Poruchik.

“Stop you two, I’ve had one too many glasses of wine to negotiate new settlements between Intelligence and Diplomacy tonight.” commands the Elector. Major Poruchik nods his acceptance of the Electors command.

"I had only thought to establish the Officers credentials Sire.” offers Beria.

“Oh I know what you thought to establish Beria, and if you two are unable to find a way to coexist in Schweingrad, I shall send you to the Empress in St Petersburg and Poruchik to the Empress in Vienna! A fine pair of play things you two would be also!” the Elector retorted.

“Now have a seat Major and tell me what this is about.” The Elector motioned to an empty seat, between him and Beria, now set with glass and plate. Poruchik sat and the Hussar took a spot again just behind and to his right at attention; conspicuously between the Major and Beria.

“We have a report of an Alzheim encroachment on the plateau overlooking our shared lake.” stated Poruchik, allowing a moment for the weight of that statement to be felt before continuing. “Our patrol is in contact with an unknown number of Alzheimers on the plateau. In fact young von Stahl believes this to be an invasion.”

“What do you think Major?” asked the Elector.

“Von Stahl has shown excellent tactical ability; however, he can be a bit rash at times. I selected him for this operation in hopes that he will continue to mature as an Officer in the Army of Vulgaria. Initial reports from our men assigned with him suggest that he is positively developing in the field as a commander.

Those same men were able to forward information regarding this new incident to our young Hussar Officer here, fortuitously in the area on leave. As a result of analyzing that information and questioning this young man I’m not convinced that this incident is an invasion.” replied the Major.

“Did you see any signs of an invasion young man?” asked the Elector of the Hussar Officer.

“No Sire, the road between Schweingrad and the lake are completely clear as is the surrounding area.” responded the officer.

“How fortuitous indeed that he happened to be home on leave in this very area of operation at this very moment in time, eh?” insinuated Beria.

“This young Officer is to be commended Sire, he encountered a patrol of our irregular horsemen in the area and commanded them to ride to the plateau to investigate and report back to Schweingrad their findings. I expect that we will have additional news within the day.” added Poruchik.

The Elector picked up his wine stating; “Well done son! See that he is rewarded Major; perhaps a promotion!”

“I certainly will Sire.” Responded Poruchik, and turning to address the Hussar, “You are dismissed; however, wait for me at my headquarters.”

The Hussar saluted and left with the hint of a smile on his face.

After the Hussar had left, Beria asked Poruchik; “What does this mean? I have just sent a delegation to Alzheim and they were accepted. We have had less then satisfactory relations with the Alzheimers over the last few hundred years! Everything was beginning to look better. Should I recall our people from the road?”

“The Duchy has been heavily fishing the lake and naturally we thought it was in anticipation of a new campaign against us. The mission to the lake was to more closely observe this behavior all under the auspices of some non-existent poaching. We have verified that they are taking fish, but not in numbers that are overly alarming.

Bear in mind that the whole continent is ripe for war. We ourselves have begun to store grain, pickled vegetables and smoked meats in anticipation of the event. There are multiple problems with many of the smaller states and the major Empires are actively looking for a spark to move our world into the chaos that is War!

I suspect that what is occurring on the plateau is outside of the plans of Augustus Rex or any of his ministers. There appear to be no signs at the moment of an invasion only an incursion. We don’t know the scope of the thing yet although we should shortly.

I would recommend mobilizing a couple of squadrons of Hussars and sending them to the lake with a section of Artillery. The official reason can be to celebrate the promotion of our young messenger to his Captaincy. If nothing is amiss when they get to the village of Hosok Tere they can fire a few celebratory salvoes over the lake and return.

At the same time we should send a messenger to St Petersburg to enquire about moving up the planned exercise to our south with the Czarina’s forces. This will cement our dedication to St Petersburg and it is a good time to have a few regiments of Russe bivouacked with us.

We should send a few additional staff with specialized talents to the Court in Vienna. And we must absolutely try to maintain good relations with our neighbors north of the lake. Beria keep your delegation moving to the Alzheims Capitol and when they arrive have them invite a similar delegation to visit with us.” replied Poruchik.

“What if you are wrong Major?” asked the Elector.

“If I’m wrong then there will be war with Alzheim. Vulgaria as well as the Duchy will be gobbled up by the Russe or the Empire or Germania, our larger neighbors, in their desire to be at each other and you Sire may have my head on a pike at the approaches to your castle.” confidently replied Poruchik.

“I like the sound of that!” quickly added Beria.

“Stop! There will be no heads on pikes, you are my son’s dearest friend and I consider you a part of my family Major.” inserted the Elector with a stern look at his Chief of Diplomacy.

“Sire, Vulgaria does not have a monopoly of rash young men; I'm sure Alzheim has her share also. Rash young men can be used to drive countries apart or together. There has been peace between Vulgaria and Alzheim since 1720. Let us wait and see what the next few days bring.” offered Poruchik.

“Sound advice, my faith is not misplaced, do as is required Major!” commanded the Elector.

“Sire, Beria, if you will excuse me, I need to prepare our newly appointed Captain for a trip to St Petersburg.” replied Major Poruchik as he got up and left the room.

“Are you sure of the Major Sire, he has ‘people’ it would seem everywhere?” whined Beria after Poruchik had left.

“Please, my friend, we have been together a long time, there is room in my staff for both of you and your fine skills. Now let us enjoy another glass of wine and a game of chess before the evening gets too old.” insisted Donislov.

Pix coming of the finished conversions and a question for the audience.

2007-05-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

I would be posting pictures today of the painted conversions except for a slight problem. I was reviewing the Pengel and Hurt volumes on the Russian Army and noticed that I had made a mistake in my painting. I have painted my line Regts with white flag staffs and my Grenadiers with red flag staffs.

Erhmmmm, this is opposite to the information reported by Pengel and Hurt and will need to be rectified. Fortunately as this is a fairly new project we are talking about only a few staffs to be repainted.

Is this really a big deal BTW?

I suspect if we know and can make it right we should. In this case it's easy, although I wonder if I would consider the repair if the mistake were substantially larger.

Oh well and now for a question that perhaps someone out there could be of assistance with.

As part of the Russian Armies train there was a company of Pontooniers. These fellows were not Engineers but were on assignment from the Russian Navy. I have it on authority from a number of good sources that the Engineers wore a uniform similar enough to the artillerists as to be identical. However, I can find no information at all on the uniform of the Russian Navy during the SYW. This formation was present with every incursion into Prussia, and consisted of roughly 60 pontoons, a few officers (the commander was a Navy Lieutenant), and approximately 60 sailors or marines and a dozen naval craftsmen.

Does anyone have any information regarding Russian Naval uniforms from the SYW? I have Googled and check the references that are at my disposal and I have found nothing to date. I suppose I could paint them in Black (very dark Navy Blue) as per current regulations; however, if it's possible I'd rather have some good information to base their uniforms on.

Thanks in advance for the help.

It's almost summer and Vulgarians love to travel.

2007-05-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

In an effort to bring stability to a deteriorating situation between The Duchy of Alzheim and The Electorate of Vulgaria, the Elector has dispatched his master of diplomacy Boyar Boris Basenov and his companion Natasha Lethale. They are traveling with a small escort of Hosok Tere Hussars, letters of introduction and various Vulgarian wines, smoked pork and clocks; lots of clocks. These are all intended as gifts for the assembled court in Alzheim.

The Elector has also dispatched Major Hohenschweingau with a small escort of the von Hause Dragoons as a military advisor to His Excellency the Landgraf Bogey von Hesse-Fedora. Regrettably Ambassadors and formal recognition are not possible at this moment. The Electorate of Vulgaria enjoys excellent relationships with two powerful Empresses and Hesse-Fedora’s adversarial Empress has not been named.

Byr Lavrenti Beria
Chief of Diplomacy
Schweingrad VU

News travels quickly; bad news travels very quickly!

2007-05-18T12:31:00.000-07:00

A pair of veteran Grenadiers; Grigor and Bogdan, are on post at the main gate to the castle in Schweingrad.

“Just stop Grigor, stop! Too may stories, will you never stop telling me these same old stories!”

“Shhh Bogdan, look!”

“What are you looking at you old fool?”

“A rider moving fast yelling, can you hear him Bogdan? My ears are not as strong as they once were.”

“Yes it’s the recognition sign, he’s a messenger! Open the gate! Open the gate now!” screamed Bogdan.

The gate opens just in time as the rider, now clearly visible in the uniform of the Hosok Tere Hussars, gallops past the sentries.

“He was in quite a hurry my dear Grigor; I have a bad feeling about this.”

“Well, with the damned Mohammedans active to our South, the rumblings with Alzheim to our North and Gallia and Hesse Seawald at each other in Germania, I fear for the balance of my hearing Bogdan!”

“Ehhh, why?”

“I’ve stood in one to many musket lines already; I’m not sure how many more my poor ears can withstand!”

“Grigor; you only need ears to hear with, I’ve never known you to shut up and actually listen to anyone you old fool!”

Grigor chuckles; “We’ve been together too long Bogdan, pass me some water and I’ll tell you of my time with the Musketeers!”

Conversions and new regiments!

2007-05-17T13:34:00.001-07:00

I think one of the best feelings I get is when a conversion looks better then I thought it would.

I'm painting, in addition to the forces from little Vulgaria, Russians. The RSM figures are brilliant, well sculpted, excellently proportioned and very life like in their ratios. They also make almost every casting in a March Attack variant which I believe is the best possible pose for the Seven Years War. The stately march with muskets held tight and vertical, bayonets gleaming, looks marvelous.

DPC; the sellers of RSM castings, do make Officers and Standard Bearers for the Russian Grenadiers. They are unfortunately sculpt at a run. I bought enough to paint a 53 man Regiment, cleaned them up and just didn't like the look of the Officer and Standard Bearer. It seemed unmanly at best to have the Officers at a run in front of these magnificent Grenadiers in their slow deliberate unfaltering march.

So I did what any petty tyrant would do, I lopped off their heads!

I took the bodies of the Russian Musketeer Officer with cane and removed his head and placed after careful pinning the head of the Grenadier Officer on his shoulders. I also clipped his cane and added a sword to his hand. The result is what you see in front of you. I think he's a much better candidate to lead a Regiment of Russia's Grenadiers then the running man!

Here's a side view of the Officer conversion. I'm very pleased with how this turned out.

In place of the running Standard Bearer I used the Prussian Officer with Spontoon. I removed the head, clipped the spontoon at the hand, leaving the thumb for some added stability and shaved off the lapels. I then added the Grenadier head after pinning and drilled the hand and placed a brass rod with a shaped spear point in it, finally I gently lifted the thumb back into place.

Here's a side view of the Standard Bearer conversion. I'm very pleased with this one also.

Here's the entire Grenadier Regiment after priming awaiting the brush.

A closer view.

Here's a Regiment of Russian Cuirassier in progress. I need to add 2 standard bearers, a musician and a commanding officer to complete it's muster. I have it on good authority from two different OSW friends that the Prussian Cuirassier castings from DPC will fit the bill nicely.

And here's a close up, the officer leaning back heroically yelling; "Come my children, for Mother Russia and the Czarina!"

I'll post more photo's as the paint begins to stick!

The World grows smaller and more populated.

2007-02-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

Allow me to intorduce two new countries in the world of fictional SYW nations.

The Principality of Hesse-Engelburg and The Duchy of Saxe Murnau. Our little world grows smaller and more populated at every months passing. Ambassadors of course have been sent by The Elector to both nations. This will hopefully ensure that the current diplomatic difficulties between Vulgaria and Alzheim don't spread.

For the inquisitive travelor you may find directions here or in the links.

http://hesse-engelburg.blogspot.com/

http://evilsquire.blogspot.com/

The Elector waits with anticipation for news from both of these nations and welcomes them as brothers to our little world.

Better photos.

2006-11-27T14:43:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we get smart early; sometimes it's late. Anyway here are the same three photos after run through a photo editor. It's always late with me!

I do like these guys.

The animation is first rate.

I'd like some ragged Swedes also.

Musketeer Miniatures GNW

2006-11-27T13:02:00.000-08:00

I recently ordered and received a group of sample Musketeer Miniatures Great Northern War range figures. M-M currently has available four packs; Swedes in Karpus Attacking, Swedes in Tricorne Attacking, Russians in Karpus Standing and Russians in Tricorne Standing.

As a diversion I painted one of the Swedes this weekend. These are very nice castings ranging 25-28mm and very well detailed. The listing promises many more items and I am very tempted by this range of castings. The Great Northern War has been on my list for about 20 years now. I simply haven’t found to date a complete line of castings that I liked. These fellows could be the figures I’m looking for. You can see the listing at the M-M website and few castings:

http://www.musketeer-miniatures.com/index.php

The left side of the casting, one of the features of these figures is that the sword and bayonet sheath are a separate item. This has some painting advantages; however, the little pieces could be lost during mass production. I intend to paint units of 60+ figures and 60+ swords scattered about might become problematic. I suspect the prudent modeler would attach the weapons during the cleaning process.

I really like the animation in these little fellows. The Swedish drill at the time consisted of two half volleys fired during the approach followed by a charge with no reloading permitted. Fully one third of a Swedish battalion would have been pike and I suspect the site of Charles the XII’s grizzled veterans charging was more then many a Saxon, Pole or Russian could stomach.

This miniature is painted in the colors of the Västerbotten Regiment. His shoulder straps should be blue not white, I will rectify that shortly. I have read that the karpus was only issued to rank and file; NCOs’ and Officers would be in Tricorne, can anyone verify this?

Bill Thornhill the “Owner, designer, mould maker, caster and general dogs body of Musketeer Miniatures” to quote him; has promised Command, Pikes and Grenadiers next. I will certainly purchase a few of each upon release. I am eagerly anticipating the marching poses and cavalry. This line has an excellent start and I’ll post the additional figures as I paint them perhaps a Russian of Preobrazhenskii next.

If you're interested in the Great Northern War I highly recommend this line of castings!

No they aren't new elite Vulgarians!

2006-11-13T14:36:00.000-08:00

H.G. Wells dedicated his book 'Little Wars' as "A game for Boys from twelve years of age to one hundred and fifty and for that more intelligent sort of girl who likes boys' games and books." I have a niece that is certainly intelligent; although I'm not sure about liking boys' games. Regardless her brother is getting toy soldiers for Christmas this year (see my other blog: http://thewhitegeneral.blogspot.com/ for some photos of them--yes I know it's a shameless plug!) so I thought she should have toy soldiers also. After all, when she plays princess dress up he does also. I should point out that he is a little less then 2 right now and his sister at 5 is clearly in charge! Nic Robson and Eureka make an excellent line of Teddy Bear soldiers that I thought would do the trick nicely.

http://eurekamin.com.au/

They can be found in the 28mm Eureka catalog.

Since they are Teddy Bears I felt they should be painted in a few different fur colors. I selected purple as the jacket color and copper for the metals. The "J" on the cartouche box is for Jaena, my niece. Above you have examples of the front and back of the musketeers, complete with cork pop guns. Eureka manufacture Teddy Bears for the Wild West, the Zulu Wars and more SYW castings as well. I finished them in gloss as I think it'll hold up better in the long run.

I wanted very bright and happy colors that weren't garish. I painted a multicolor flower for the cockade and relied on purple, copper, yellow and white for the majority of the colors.

I like the officer a lot; this is a casting with lots of character. Wooden picket fence sword and hat in hand he leads his men (erh TeddyBears) gallantly. I gave him a rose colored sash (I just couldn't bring myself to paint it pink) and a rose nose.

I can't think of a better reason to keep the regimental colors upright, then topping them with a pot of honey! Jaena of course is the Queen Bee around the house and that made the choice of emblems easy.

The Regiment in line, I'll add to her army at Birthdays and Christmas with Grenadiers scheduled next-they are available in mitre and bearskin; although I'm not sure TeddyBears in Bearskins is completely proper! This was a fun project to paint and I suspect I'll be painting a few for my daugthers' who kept telling me how cute they were.

More Gentlemen of the Regiment OSW!

2006-10-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in posting of late as the realities of my job have intruded most foully upon my hobby.

I have painted a few new Vulgarians and will post photos soon.

The story continues to develop regarding the soon to be obvious misunderstanding between Alzheim and Vulgaria.

At least for now I can introduce a few new sites of interest.

First Jeff Hudelson and Saxe-Bearstein, in fact I have had a link to Jeff's site for awhile.

http://saxe-bearstein.blogspot.com/

He has some magnificent flags for his regiments, great rules ideas and an excellent number of photos of his Great Northern War figure collection. Well worth watching, he is very active with lots of useful tidbits.

Second Allan Tidmarsh and the Kingdom of Wittenberg, dedicated to 18th century warfare in 40mm. A scale I find near and dear to my heart as I have another Blog for 40mm Russo-Turkish War figures.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/allan.tidmarsh/Wargames/WG-index.htm

Allan is developing a website with all manner of 18th Century goodness, scenarios, armies, dioramas a diary and more. Take a peek and bookmark it, he updates more frequently then I have of late.

Last but not least the Grimsby Mariner.

http://grimsbywargaming.blogspot.com/

First Paul is a fan of American Rules football and the Chicago Bears. We both love defensive based NFL football teams; I'm a Baltimore Ravens fan and have been since we got the team. More importantly Paul updates frequently with excellently painted figures from the War of Spanish Succession and Monday night games at his local club. He has been online with his blog for awhile and his pages deserve a good inspection as they are full of great ideas and well painted figures.

Trespassers on the plateau.

2006-10-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

"Alarm!" "Alarm!"

The voice was crying from the front of the cave.

"Alarm!"

It had been peaceful and quiet a moment ago and now this.

"Alarm!"

Helmut forced himself awake and moved instinctively to the sound. There stood an exasperated looking Fusilier with Opalnitz. Opalnitz had arrived from a different location in the cave a few seconds prior to Helmut.

"Alarm!" the Fusilier exclaimed again.

"Damn it man, you've said that, stand to and behave like a soldier!" ordered Opalnitz.

"I will not have a Fusilier under my command behaving in such a fashion in front of my senior officer. Now calm yourself and state your report!" Opalnitz added.

"Alarm Sir, there are intruders at the ruin."

"Ahhh the poachers have finally arrived, eh Opalnitz. I believe the game is finally afoot!" Helmut felt he had correctly identified the source of the Fusiliers agitation.

"I do not think so Sir!" stated the Fusilier.

"Oh and why would you not think so soldier?" Helmut blurted out impulsively. He really found these Fusiliers to be tiresome at times.

The Fusilier looked perplexed, not sure of a correct course of action. The silence was no more then a few seconds and yet it felt like centuries passed.

"You have been addressed by a Senior Officer Fusilier, now answer the question directed at you promptly, or so help me I will have at you with the lash!" commanded Feldwebel Opalnitz.

The Fusilier a youth of perhaps 18 looked as though he wanted to run and hide, flushed at the suggestion of the lash, he blurted out; "They are wearing uniforms Sir!"

"Uniforms? Are you sure Fusilier? Are they ours? What else do you know man! We need all of the information that you can provide!" demanded Helmut.

"It is time for a proper report Fusilier Haug and you have been taught how to make such reports." added Opalnitz.

"Sir, I was on watch at the ruin with Fusilier Zieter and the Warden. We heard footsteps and thought the patrol was coming back early, we were about to issue our challange when the Warden put his finger to his lips. Sir we knew he meant for us to remain quiet and to find cover. A body of men, perhaps a platoon or so came up the path in military order and began to establish a camp at the ruins. The uniforms are not black, they are a blue tint and they do not speak Vulgarian, the Warden suspects they are from Alzheim. He told me to report here, to alarm our forces. He and Zieter are continuing to watch from the brush."

"My God! It's an invasion." Helmut said while staring thru Opalnitz. "Feldwebel Opalnitz, quietly organize our forces. We will move quickly out onto the plateau and establish a firing line outside of the cave with the Musketeers to the right and Fusiliers to the left. I want all muskets primed, charged and loaded prior to moving out of the cave. We will then advance across the plateau and give fire. I expect the action will become general and develop from there. I will command the Musketeers and the battle line you will second me and maintain order over the Fusiliers. We will advance across the plateau in order giving fire as we advance. If we can capture any prisoner of merit we shall to hopefully shed some light on all of this."

"Sir!" Opalnitz and Fusilier Haug departed to begin organizing the soldiers.

Helmut was forced to view Feldwebel Opalnitz a little differently. He certainly had exhibited the skills expected of a Feldwebel.

But what of these soldiers from Alzheim here on the plateau. If it was a platoon there must be many more on the main road moving inland. If his small force could drive this party off of the plateau he could hold it against substantially larger numbers.

Another thought, where was Stieger? Did his patrol still exist or had they perished during the initial phases of the invasion? Helmut wished he had Stieger's patrol at the cave with him now. The extra soldiers, leadership and experience would be useful in the next few minutes.

"Hauptmann von Stahl, the command is formed in column, Musketeers to the front and Fusiliers to the rear. You may form line to the right when leaving the cave and your battle line will be established." reported Opalnitz.

"Thank you Feldwebel!" replied Helmut.

Well the tea was brewed as the Anglanders so often said and must now be drunk. Hot it would be also.

"At the double, Command Advance!" cried Helmut!

"Urrah!" shouted the soldiers as they erupted from the cavern.

A cave with a view!

2006-09-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

The cave was most agreeable! Well vented, reasonably dry and warm, especially with a nice fire kept raging in an alcove. Multiple layers of new pine boughs were kept over the cave vent, dispersing any sign of smoke, to prevent detection. So far they had dined on venison, on boar and a very pleasant fish stew. What Helmut wouldn’t give for a few bottles of wine or a beer? Unfortunately as the supplies had been brought in by hand, carried on litter, extra little comforts were simply too extravagant to be easily justified. Helmut had decided to do without and share in the deprivations of the men and boys.

Camp had been established with no problems and for the last week a routine had set in. Two patrols a day; one in the morning led by Helmut and one in the afternoon by Steiger! Opalnitz and the fusiliers had been given the weighty task of guarding the camp, the ruins and watching the lake! Actually the access to the plateau was directly behind the ruins so there was some import associated with the effort. Signs and countersigns of recognition had been set and the camp appeared secure. The Forest Wardens had met them earlier and now accompanied each patrol. The only thing amiss was the poachers! There simply were none to be had anywhere. It would be very bad form to return to the capitol “sans un braconnier”!

“Have you noticed anything peculiar with the Alzheim fishing boats we see every few days Opalnitz?” queried Helmut.

“Herr, they seem to take more then they need and I have watched them dump the excess into those secured pens on their side of the lake.”

“Exactly, the lake is loaded with fish and there seems no end to them. I don’t understand the need to horde. Do you suppose gluttony is a vice of their Prince, Feldwebel?”

“I wouldn’t know sir, I’ve never been to the Duchy or through their lands and I’m sure I have no knowledge of any Alzheimers!”

“Very good Opalnitz, if you or your fusiliers observe anything else unusual with our neighbors across the lake please make note of it and bring it to my attention promptly. Now, you wanted to ask something of me.”

“Yes Hauptmann von Stahl, if I may be so bold, I would greatly appreciate being allowed to send some of the fusiliers on patrol with your regiment. It would augment their training while we operate in the field. I will gladly stay at the camp, although I must confess that I would like….”

“Feldwebel Opalnitz” Helmut interrupted cognizant of his tone to not offend the soldier again. He knew he needed to stop this discussion before Opalnitz managed to talk his way into a patrol leadership position.

“We will be in this location for at least a month, perhaps longer. Let us leave things the way they are currently for another week. As we move into our third week here we will begin to give your boys some patrol experience. It is an excellent suggestion. Additionally, I would like you to have the soldiers not on duty use the excess litters to construct a barricade a few meters outside of the cave. It will add to our security and keep the soldiers busy! You may go now and attend to the guard!”

“Sir!” Opalnitz saluted smartly and left.

That was a disaster barely avoided! Helmut couldn’t allow Opalnitz to lead any of the Bosklosviakov soldiers and he certainly couldn’t let the fusiliers patrol on their own. That was now twice, he would need to be much more careful when engaging Opalnitz.

The Regiments of Vulgaria

2006-09-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

A long time ago I painted some Brunswickers for the era of Napoleon I and also Napoleon III and the Franco/Austro-Prussian Wars. I was intrigued by the way the blue and black looked together and at that point I decided that if I ever started my fictional country the uniforms would be based upon that of Brunswick. So the Regiments of Vulgaria wear black coats with different facing colors. There will be 1 Grenadier Rgt, 4 Musketeer Rgts, 1 Fusilier Rgt an organization of Jaegers and some irregular formations. The country is somewhat Slavic in nature although it has been organized and trained by a Prussian/German. I suspect you could think in terms of an independent Transylvanian Army being trained by Baron von Steuben.

The Bosklosviakov Musketeers- The senior Musketeer Rgt in the Vulgarian Army.

The Tod und Herrlichkeit Fusiliers- They are also known as the "Death and Glory" boys. Those of you familiar with American rules football will notice that the fusiliers wear the colors of the Pittsburgh Steelers. This is intentional and is a bit of a dig as I am a Baltimore Ravens fans. Yes, that does mean that the Grenadier Rgt will be dressed in purple and black. The Fusilier Rgt is the depot and training regiment for the Vulgarian Army and therefore will be the least motivated and trained troops. Being an old soldier myself the name was specifically chosen as the sort of thing that will draw the uninitiated to the colors, although veteran soldiers typically aren't impressed with such things.

The Bosklosviakov Musketeers.

The Tod und Herrlichkeit Fusiliers.

A patrol of the Bosklosviakov Musketeers and Tod und Herrlichkeit Fusiliers moves into an area of Vulgaria overlooking a border lake. The T und H boys usually accompany Musketeer Rgts on patrol as part of their continued training. After a few years with the fusiliers good well acclimated soldiers can accept positions in the musketeer regiments.

The formation is called to parade by the Bosklosviakov NCO prior to establishing a bivouac by the ruins.

A tentative beginning!

2006-09-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Walking along the path thru the forest Hauptmann Helmut von Stahl could not remember the last time he had been happy. The rain had tapered off a little, it would not end, it never did! Other then the rain on the leaves the only other sound was that of the equipment clanking and banging together on the soldiers that moved with him. He was leading the first zug or platoon. That was appropriate was it not? After all, he was the patrol leader. Feldwebel Steiger was leading the second zug and in between them a zug of the Vulgarian Fusiliers.

The Vulgarian Fusiliers, also known as the “Tod und Herrlichkeit” boys; Death and Glory indeed! The fusiliers are the depot and training regiment for the entire army. The fusilier platoon had been attached to his patrol for field works training. Tod und Herrlichkeit was a phrase used to bring the lads to the colors. It is the sort of thing that can instill a martial spirit in the breast of children. It was said with a roll of the eyes and a smirk by the regular veteran regiments. They are just lads; Death and Glory indeed!

Actually; he did remember now, when he was still a child back in Saxe-Gotha. Summer warmth, that was happiness, the spring and flowers and scents on the air. He could almost smell the fields of onions that were everywhere at this time back in his native country. You can’t grow onions in Vulgaria it’s much to wet. It was always wet in Vulgaria. Sure there were a few days in the summer with no rain. There was a day or two in spring that didn’t rain. It did snow in the winter, not a nice firm snow, rather those bloated plump flakes that plop when they hit the ground and turn instantly to slush. Helmut couldn’t help but scrunch his toes in his boots, at the thought of the slush, which caused the water to squeeze out of the seams of the soles. The water would return!

"Halt! Pass the word, I want Feldwebel Steiger!"; commanded Helmut.

It would take a few minutes for word to reach Steiger and for him to make his way to the front of the small column of men. His column, his command, three platoons, two from his regiment the Bosklosviakov Musketeers and one platoon of children with new black uniforms, the “Tod und Herrlichkeit” boys indeed! He could not help but chuckle out loud!

"Herr Hauptmann?"; from the ranks.

"Yes Gefreiter? Oh! It is nothing!"; replied Helmut.

His command, Helmut liked the sound of that. He did not like Vulgaria! His father had come to Vulgaria and taken an appointment in the Electors Army. It was now his Army and his country, but not his memories, the memories of his childhood, days in the fields in the sun.

"Herr Hauptmann?"; from a voice.

"Gefreiter, I told you it was nothing!"; responded Helmut a bit aggitated.

"Herr?"; the voice again.

Awakened fully from his daydreaming he realized that Steiger was addressing him. Steiger was not alone. Feldwebel Opalnitz, in charge of the fusiliers, had accompanied him to the front of the column.

"I did not send for you Opalnitz only Feldwebel Steiger!"; Helmut placed a very slight emphasis on the Feldwebel.

"Sir! I thought that we would be discussing our orders."; replied Opalnitz.

"I did not send for you. With all officers at the front of the column there is no one in command at the rear! Do not assume in the future, it is not your place, do you understand?"; Helmut replied a bit too arrogantly he thought to himself.

"Sir! ";Feldwebel Opalnitz brought his heels together smartly and saluted before returning to his place in the column.

There was very little chance of anything occurring. They were still in Vulgaria although close to the border. They were not at war, the veterans were not prone to desertion and the fusiliers would be too afraid to desert with veterans in front and behind.

Helmut simply did not much care for Opalnitz. He had left the Kürbis Koenig Musketeer regiment at the request of his Oberst. There had been a position available in the fusiliers or he would most likely have been forced to leave the colors. No NCO voluntarily leaves the musketeers except to accept an appointment to the Schweingrad Grenadiers. There was something about Opalnitz, but enough, he had business with Feldwebel Steiger.

"Ah, Feldwebel Steiger! We are approaching our area of operation for the next month."

"Yes Hauptmann von Stahl!"

"Our orders are to perform an active reconnaissance on our side of the lake. The wardens claim that we have been visited by poachers from the other side. I feel that we should establish a central camp for surveillance and then deploy our strength as required. I have in mind a location that is very strong, central and as dry as can be expected."

"The ruins sir?"; inquired Steiger.

"Yes Steiger, the overlook and ruins. That location provides an almost full view of the lake. It is only approachable from one side and has a near by cave where we can bivouac and provide a dry mess for the soldiers. I think it is an ideal position to set up and commence our operations from. To reach it will require that we leave the path and move up the side of the mountain. Have the soldiers build litters, one for every two men, to carry the extra rations from the wagon. It will not be able to follow us."

"Sir!"; Steiger snapped to attention and departed.

Helmut liked Steiger; he was a soldier’s soldier. When asked by his regimental commander, Oberst Pavol, to select a second there was clearly only one choice. Helmut knew that he needed a man well versed in field craft that he could trust completely. Steiger had accompanied him on missions before, sometimes to the other side of the lake. Even when not at war it is important to know what is happening in the territories of your neighbors. Yes clearly there was only one choice, Feldwebel Steiger.

He didn’t like having Opalnitz or the fusiliers along. Most of the boys would make fine musketeers in time. If there was trouble Helmut was confident he could keep the fusiliers safe. He was concerned that Opalnitz might put them in danger in an effort to restore his reputation. Opalnitz had already taken one liberty, it was important to be sure he was not given the opportunity to take any more.

There had also been rumor of specially enlisted soldiers from the castle in Schweingrad being placed into the fusiliers. Street urchins were supposedly asked to swear fealty to one of the Electors Ministers over the oath to the Elector and Vulgaria. He had heard this from many of the other officers from his regiment. With Opalnitz and possible treachery present he would need to be careful about how he accomplished his mission. The death and glory boys would need to be kept busy in the event that any creative initiative was required.

Blogs of Interest and well worth the viewing!

2006-08-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce two fellow bloggers with similar interests. These fine gentlemen are both members of that esteemed online group Old School Wargamers (OSW)! BTW-well worth a look in its own right, a finer group of gamers you'll be hard pressed to find. You will be rewarded with lively debates, friendly challenges and mutual support for our endeavors in our shared hobby. Please check my links for more details.

First; G. Horne, author and owner of the The Duchy of Alzheim!

http://mavisming.blogspot.com/

Greg has posted a number of beautiful pictures of his painted regiments. I'm using his site as an inspiration for mine. Recently, Greg has offered a number of home conversions to his castings that are fantastic. Clearly there is a large amount of material to go thru; however, I have enjoyed his recent posts and slowly reviewing the archives.

Great job Greg!

Second; S. Schwartz, the scholastic historian and archivist of The Grand Duchy of Stollen and its immediate surroundings.

http://grandduchyofstollen.blogspot.com/

So far we have an excellent story with promises of more to come. I find it interesting that we have both chosen the same area of the world to live in, although Vulgaria has the added pressures of the Ottoman Empire to its south. I like that Stokes has decided to add a belligerent neighbor and a few smaller countries to participate in the mayhem. This is something I had thought to do as well. I am eagerly awaiting the promises of maps and pictures of regiments!

The most recent post suggests an alliance between the two Duchies against Frederick of Prussia. Beware your southern front my friend! The Elector Vleg Donislov is known to be a cad and rank opportunist at times!

Awesome start Stokes!

Rumblings to the East

2006-08-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

Establishing the correct order of march, please ignore the old fat man by the table!

This is a photo with flash, it gives the pic a nighttime feel.

The massive war machine of the Empress Elizabeth of Russia has come to life! Ok so really only one Regiment, that of St. Petersbourgski, has been painted. It should also be noted that rumors of this were reported on another blog.

Let's start with a bit of history and geography!

2006-08-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

The Electorate of Vulgaria was situated somewhere between Prussia, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Russia and the Ottoman Empire. It exists sometime between 1720 and 1790 and was a minor player during a period of titanic clashes between colossal states. I ask the readers indulgence and beg they not become too agitated at the difficulty of placing the Electorate on a historical map or timeline. In that scholarly work, The Universe in a Nutshell, Professor Stephen Hawking has indicated that multiple universes and timelines are in fact a reality! So is Vulgaria a figment of my own over active imagination or a whisper, which I am privy to, from another time in space?

The country is small and mountainous dissected by many clean rivers and streams. Villages are tucked quietly into river bends and surrounded by virginal forest. The current Elector; Vleg Donislov holds his position for life and in fact casts the only vote. The position is bestowed upon a new Elector by the unanimous vote of his predecessor upon his death. There are unsubstantiated rumors that the Elector has had affairs with both the Empress Elizabeth and the Empress Maria-Theresa. These rumors all seem to radiate from the castle at Swinegrad; the capitol of Vulgaria.

The army is small and modern. It consists of seven regiments of foot; one of grenadiers, one of fusiliers, four regiments of musketeers and one of jaegers. The jaegers are only mobilized during times of national emergency from the ample number of forest wardens and border guards. There are two cavalry regiments; one dragoon, one hussar and numerous independant companies of irregular horsemen. The army is rounded out by a few artillery batteries, a company of pioneers and a large contingent of river wardens. The river wardens act as a local constabulary, ferry toll collectors, tax agents and armed marine. Garrison duties at the castle in Swinegrad are provided by the grenadiers and dragoons.