The Great Cavalry Battle At Leuthen And....

For some photographs see the blog, Campaigns In Germania.
http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/
Scroll down to the Stille Nacht topic and work upwards by topic for the right time sequence of events.

Kind regards,
Bill

Wagons Roll

The Column trudged its way along the dirt road, (if you could call it a road), leaving a substantial dust cloud behind it.
Wagons, civilians on foot and horseback, natives trackers and a few Iracow Indian auxiliary, and the only elements that added a military appearance to it, three Company's of soldiers from the 4th Regiment of Foot's 1st Battalion and a Troop of 4Pdr Guns from Bree's Battery. Except for the lack of any children, the column had all the appearance of a settler's train.
Why was this column heading towards the Eastern Marches of Neues Sudland?
What was their Mission; and why was COL Ann (Pictured), in command?
You are invited to my Blog to learn more!

Die Schlacht Bei Leuthen Ist Im Morgen.

Die Stunden vorher die Schlacht bei Leuthen. (The hours before the Battle of Leuthen.)

See blog links to Der Alte Fritz and Campaigns In Germania in the next few days. You can start now, if you wish.

Bill

Secret weddig ceremony and declaration of war

Bestonian evening news

28th of frebruary 1740

by The Honourable Alexander Mac

publisher of ,,Bestonian Evening News´´

Yesturday we all heard a great news that Count Edmund von Black, master of ceremonies to royal household has asked hand in marriage to Pamela MacDonald, a 16 year old queen chambermaid and daughter of late Jacobite general Sir Donald James Charles MacDonald. Sir Donald, who took part in Battle of Sheriffmuir and later was living in Bestonia, where he died 10 years ago give such nice highland beauty to our country. Marriage took place in chapel near barracks of highland jacobite troops, that are stationed in our country. Bride and groom were later wisited by king and queen, who give them their blessing and a nice manor near our capital. As together with our scottish we wish newlyweds a long and happy marriage life.

International news

News has reach to our hand that our Atlantic squadron was attackt buy ruthles pirate and slave trader Black Barnaby. Our coverment has reach the desision to end Atlantic slave trade and that was the main reasion why our ship was attackt. Further news as soon as the reach to the Board of Admiralty.

Running Of The Barrells

By some Divine Coincidence, the Reich-Ducal visit happened at the same time the Old Raubenstadt Festival tradition of "The Running Of The Barrells" was being held. A local beauty drops her scarf and the race is on!

Sir Rolf Is Back!

Sir Rolf was before the King.
"What's that you have Sir Rolf"?
"Well Sire, I thought I'd touch up the official portrait of Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein. Since the presentation of The Holy Order Of Mormoani I thought it only appropriate that the portrait receive a touch up".
The King took a closer look at the impressively framed likeness of the Reich Duke.
"Ahhhh, very clever! BRAVO! Smyth; send a copy to the Reich duke"!
The Chamber butler snapped his heels together.
"Consider it done you Majesty".

Reich Duke Wilhelm arrives in Raubenstadt

Duke Karl Frederick, Markgraaf of Raubenstadt, hosts a magnificent diplomatic dinner upon Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein's arrival in his realm. The ladies were entertained in a separate affair. Wilhelm looks forwards to a few days spent with good friends enjoying the festivities and fishing events planned by Duke Karl Frederick.

Cavenderian Ambassador Reports on Hesse-Engelburg

Gentlemen, may I direct your attention to the Hesse-Engelburg blog, where the Cavenderian Ambassador has found time to dispatch his first report to his sovereign.

Great scandal in Bestonia

Edmund von Black, Great charlatan, master of ceremonies to royal household and the most cunning man in etnire world has made a great desicion. You gentle reader may think that he his plannig overtrohv the coverment or swindle and cheat a great sum of money from king. if you think that then you are mistaken. He is in love!!! And to none other than Pamela MacDonald - 16 year old queen chambermaid. Last night he askd her hand in marriage and she agreed. So we have wedding ahead.

Grand Tour diverted to the Markgraaf of Raubenstadt

Reich Duchess Lynda insists her Military Aide, Major Debauchery, amend the Grand Tour's itinerary. At the request of Captain Ritter von Meltzer, a detour is approved to accommodate a family reunion with his father Duke Karl Frederick Markgraaf of Raubenstadt. Young Ritter von Meltzer has not been home for some time as his studies at the University of Pabst and his new commission in Pilsner Horse Grenadiers required his full attention. Reich Duke Wilhelm is also anxious to personally thank Duke Karl Frederich for his generous support during our last campaign against the Prussians.

Colonel Jung Recruits Venecian Privateers

Colonel Jung had hand-picked the captains he would approach, Venecians to a man, and as cut-throat a bunch as one would ever care to meet. Ugo da Padova, Este Greco, Nuncio Sanuto and Ilario Zancani. Surely one or two of the captains could be bought.

Read the entire fiction at

http://www.cavenderia.blogspot.com/

Grand Tour Itinerary

Reich Duchess Lynda's Military Aide, Major Debauchery, writes orders for envoys covering the next few stops on the Grand Tour. Envoys have been sent to the Grand Duchy of Hetzenberg , next stop on the Grand Tour, the Principlaity of Morea where young Basil will join the entourage, and then on to Cavenderia where Prinz Geoffrey has arranged a great gala!

Re Venesia..

Thanks for support for the new blog and apologies for the frustrations it must have caused you!!

I am looking for info:

Details of the Land Forces of Venice in the mid 18th century- uniforms and regtnumbers/titles.

Ideas for model ships to depict Venetian vessels in 1/1200 scale.

Naval rules for the period- I am ok with Napoleonics but not with 1750's rules which would cover these sorts of vessels.

Uniforms of Venetian sailors/naval officers.

Thanks to those who have offered ideas and support so far...

cheers

Alan

Venesia

Do join me at my new venture:
http://tradgardmastare-venesia.blogspot.com/

The Squadron Arrives!

From the Gazzete di Taranto

The populace of Taranto has been excited since last night, as the ship of the line Andronicus and the frigate Naumaxos made port late in the night. His lordship, Giovanni di' Malgiore, Captain of the Apulia regiment, together with representatives of the town's civil leadership ,received the two ships officially this morning.........

To read more please visit: http://phdleadhead.blogspot.com/2009/02/squadron-arrives.html

Reich Duke Wilhelm departs the Town of Trippelbruder for the Grand Duchy of Hetzenberg

Reich Duke Wilhelm departs the Town of Tripplebruder heading for his next stop, the The Grand Duchy of Hetzenberg. Sir David was a wonderful host leading guided tours of the defense works, magnificent gardens, and the Grand Opera House. Reich Duchess Lynda was overwhelmed by the hospitality of the Tripplebruder people!

Venice- an out of character posting

Gentlemen

May I crave your indulgence for a minute? Good! Time is finite so I do not follow all the blogs as often as I should or would like - sorry ! I, for some time ,have wondered if I might do something of a Blog connected with Venice. I thought I ought to mention it here as someone might already be doing one!! No offence intended if you are and I will most happily step down...

many thanks

Alan

Advance...

Please feel free to see what has occurred in the Tradgardland "invasion" of Saschen -Vindow:
http://tradgardland.blogspot.com/

Cavenderian Casualty

The first military casualty of the Bizerrcan/Cavenderian conflict has been reported by Colonel Jalsevic to the royal court.

The Colonel's regiment (IR-Die Dame's FuB) is in charge of security during Prinz Geoffrey's upcoming visit to Twinj, during preparations the good colonel has had companies of the regiment patrolling the Prinz's proposed route. During a routine march near the village of Zigvoz a Private named Culig left the company of his fellow soldiers to answer nature's call and was found later that day dead, with an arrow in his back. The company searched the coastline for the murderer but to no avail. Upon entering Zigvoz the captain of the company was informed that a red-sailed ship had been seen on the horizon that morning, the villagers fled and upon returning found much of their livestock gone. The captain therefore deduced that Private Culig must have encountered some of the Dey's Bashi advance foraging parties. In response Colonel Jalsevic has requested a squadron of Hussars be dispatched along the coast under his command.

See pics of the colonel and an additional pic of the death of Private Culig at

www.cavenderia.blogspot.com

Introducing Queen Raechel Of New Wales

"Sire, the Official Royal Portrait Artist, Sir Rolf Harriss has arrived with the Queen's Portrait".
"Golly Good! Send him in there is a good fellow".
The Chamber butler departed and was back within minutes with Sir Rolf.

Read more about the portrait at my blog.

Duchess Scenario & SYWA Convention

Gentlemen,

Please allow me to remind all of you who are planning on attending the SYWA Convention next month that there is a scenario that needs to be gamed out.

Now perhaps you've been planning this out behind the scenes . . . in which case this message is unnecessary . . . but just in case you've let it slip from your attention . . .

The Duchess of Saschen-Vindow is on the upper floor of the Inn of the Crooked Kobold near the border of the Kingdom of Stagonia. She is trying to reach Koenig Ludwig, with whom she is hopelessly infatuated.

She has heard the sounds of horses beyond the walls, shouts in the courtyard and the sound of heavy boots upon the stairs. She has pistols in her hands.

---==xXx==---

Herzog Ignatz proposed a scenario with four factions (beside the Duchess herself, of course):

• Schinderfranz's chauffeurs
• Mme de Winter's Black Legion
• Raubenstadter Frei-Hussars
• Stagonians (but which ones?)
  

Numerous other factions were proposed as well, including:

• Ludwig's Stagonian Dragoons
• Rotefort, agent of Stagonian Queen Mother (a de Sade with her own agenda)
• Duke's loyalist Dragoons (i.e., her husband's forces)
• Duchess' Noble supporters (from Saschen-Vindow)
• Local militia looking for smugglers, etc.
• Rowdy Nobles looking for fun
• The Inquisition
• Count l'Beauphaup & Unter Gruntshuffen malcontents
• Witch hunters OR vampire hunters
• Friendly hunters who will help Duchess (as a lady in distress)

---==xXx==---

So . . . is anything being done to further this scenario? Who is to take "point" on this project? Let us not let this drop; but let it grow to fruition.

I know that the Stagonian player (my evil twin) will not be able to attend . . . but will fully authorize anyone playing Stagonian troops to behave in any dispicable manner that seems cruel and unjustified . . . or, in other words, vile.

I do not believe that the Saschen-Vindow player (whose idea this is) will be able to attend either since he currently lives in Scotland. So it is up to you fellows to see this through.


-- Jeff

Gallian Frigate Arethuse {36} Arrives In The LeHavre Roadstead With Alisona of Tradgardland.

Gentlemen,When you have time, please repair to
http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/
Votre Serviteur et merci mes amis,Bill

Mormoan Royal Foot Guards: Senior Battalions

There are two Battalions in the Royal Foot Guards, (each of 400 men); and a Regimental HQ of another 120.
NAME: Royal Foot Guard (Grenadiers and Carabiners Battalions).
Find out all about them at my Blog!

A Drummer departs for Tradgardland

Drum Major Bond Scott (late of Princess Amanda's Dragoons), leads the Changing of The Maiden Guard at Broadford Gardens. Mounted on his Drum Horse Ned, they trot pass the Regimental Colour of the Maiden Guard, and the reviewing Officer, King Phillip I and General Von Zillmann.
He departs for Tradgardland.
Read more of his farewell at my blog.

Parliament at work

A special meeting of his ministers has allowed Kelvin Rapp, Parliamentary President of the Republic of Neues Sudland, to begin the establishement of a new Chivalric Order to reward those friends of the great republic. The record of the meeting may be read at the Neues Sudland blog. The last of the militia uniforms (for now) have also been posted.

Directions Please?

Drum Major Bond Scott (late of Princess Amanda Dragoons), is ready to depart On his Drumhorse to join the Duke Karl Frederick's Tradgardland Garde. The question now is, how does one actually get to Tradgardland?
Can anyone provide directions?

A note...

Gentlemen
A brief note to say that the current situation betwixt Tradgardland and Saschen-Vindow is reported in a mutually complimentary way on both blogs. If you desire to keep up with developments ,dear reader, please keep you attention fixed upon them . Diverse ( and sometimes contradictory) news may appear on both and/or one...
Have a good weekend
Alan

Pixies, uh, Proxies requested ....

The situation between the Kingdom of St. Maurice and Frankszonia has degenerated into a place where some sort of military encounter is inevitable (we hope).
Of course, this would require resolution by some putatively neutral gamers as I doubt that he and I will ever meet face to face in this world (one of the painful aspects of the net is you encounter folks you wonder how nice it would be to have them actually near by).
This should not be a large action.
I figure that Frankszonia will have a regiment or two of Hussars and a regiment of Curiassiers present along with a brigade of infantry (at least one militia battalion) and a battalion of jaegers along with a modest handful of artillery.
I doubt that Maurice would have much more than that. But we will see.
The terrain is wooded hills interspersed with farmsteads along a major road smack through the middle of it all.
Any takers?

A Campaign begins ...

Gentlemen you are invited to click upon the links below to find out what is occurring today in the Duchies of Tradgardland and Saschen-Vindow:
http://tradgardland.blogspot.com/
http://saschenvindow.blogspot.com/

David Linienblatt made a Companion of The Most Holy Order of Mormoani

To quote his Majesty, King Phillip I: "Without doubt the Royal army, and Militia would look like a ramshackle band of brigands if not for the sterling contributions of this noble soul. On behalf of a grateful nation I make Mr Linienblantt a Companion of this Holy Order!"
Hazzah!

A Mysterious Maiden?

A mysterious "Lady In Waiting" has joined Duchess Margaretta's court in Van demons Land.
She's been seen having 'whispered' conversations with the Duchess. Word around court is the young lady was once in the vaunted Maiden Guard but fell out of favour with King Phillip I.
Read more about the the Duchess' new favorite at my blog

Frigid Frankszonia

With all military maneuvers frozen by the worst ice storm in memory, the Hurtshog suffers anxiously over the fate of isolated farmsteads in the Stadt Wald. Col. Brattman, his emissary reported that he was physically abused, though l'Comte d'Beauphaup insists that it was actually an honorable gift. Furthermore, the Maurician claim that the raiders were really a few zombies is insultingly ludricous.

Reports of counter movements in the Kingdom of St. Maurice seem to indicate that their king is far less concerned with controlling these mythical zombies than with trying to escape his responsibilities!

With his staff, the Hurtshog considers the map ... which routes must be cleared of the rubble of fallen trees and repaired so that reinforcements can hurry south as the weather clears? What will the hussars find when they pursue these raiders across the border?

Reich Duke Wilhelm arrives in Tippelbruder

Reich Duke Wilhelm and his escorts arrived safely in the town of Tipplebruder, his first stop of his Grand Tour. Sir David Linienblatt hosted an intimate dinner for Reich Duke Wilhelm and Duchess Lynda. A fine time was had by all!

Events in Carpania

The first wing of Campbell's Highlander Battalion has joined the Carpanian Army and Major General Campbell, O.T., is negotiating a truce prior to the visit by F.M. Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein. Read all the details at the two latest postings on ColCampbell's Barracks.
http://colcampbellbarracks.blogspot.com/

A Party in Morea

The party had started an hour ago. The revelers were already in a tipsy mood. Some were in the grand ball room, listening and dancing to renditions of the latest musical fashions from Paris and Vienna. Others, where enjoying games of chance, conversations, hookahs, or tobacco in the anteroom. Still others were in the Anatolian room, listening to Greek or Anatolian music, or watching the belly dancers. There were men and women, dressed in their best. Greek and Turkish fashions mixed with the latest Milanese and Parisian dress. Conversations were in French, German, Greek, Albanian, and Turkish. All were lively. The Princess was well known for her revelries. In an hour acrobats, Bear-handlers, and wrestlers would flood the Great Ball room. The night would be long, but energetic...............

For the revelries please go to http://phdleadhead.blogspot.com/

Three Ambassadors Depart

King Phillip I sat on his Throne as Lord Melbourne spoke.
“Sire, the Ambassadors are awaiting your final instructions”
“Ah yes; best get them in here Melbourne”.
“Right away Sire. Send in the Ambassador’s to Tragardland, Neues Sudland and the Reich Duchy of Beerstein”!
The large wooden doors swung open and the three nobles started in. Sir Olaf Myfriendsagay, the Earl of Bradbury, Lady Amanda Hugankiss and Viscount Kingswood entered the King’s Thrown Room. They took their positions before the King.
Read More at my Blog

"Dearest Margaretta"

A letter has arrived for Duchess Margaretta of van Demons Land:

"Dearest Margaretta
I write to you to express my concerns pertaining to the recent coronation of Phillip. As you are aware I’ve never been overly fond of Phillip, and for good reason. He has never shown me the respect that I deserve as one of the wives of his Father, King Michael. The truth of the matter is he’s been down right disrespectful of me. But that is of little concern.

Of much greater concern is his mental instability. I’m sure I’m not the only person who is aware his erratic behavior. Your Peter on the other hand is a much better choice as rightful King. He is the eldest after all.

As for your religious views; what concerns are they really? Is not our God the One uniting God? Besides, I’m sure such a powerful man such as Peter could not be unduly influence by such a dainty lady as yourself anyway,......."

Something foul is afoot? See the complete letter at my Blog

Now Departing for Tragardland ...

Count Hermann of Munster says goodbye to Count Getja Bootzon before he departs as ambassador to Tragardland.

He will be accompanied on his journey by Colonel Alexander von Messing, who will be joining the Tradgardland life guard.

Von Messing received a number of presents from his friends and family. A new hat form the King, a new horse and accoutrements from his uncle the Duke of Escherstadt, a new blackened cuirass from General Waldebeck, and a commanders staff from the Field Marshal.

A New Personal Standard for King Phillip I

Earl Kilmore, Director of Royal Vexillations to King Phillip I is pleased to announce the presentation of a new Personal Standard to King Phillip I. A complete description of this Magnificent Battle Standard can be seen at:
http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/

Tides of War?

While Bizerrcans riot over the release of the buccaneer Spyridon Dukas to the Principality of Morea ,http://bizercca.blogspot.com/2009/02/riot-is-ugly-thing.html Prinz Geoffrey broods, believing this Dukas to be a delightful thorn in the side of the Dey and wishing with all of his Pinzly heart that something could be done to save him. Admiral Dukas would most surely put the Dey to flight.

"If only we had a champion of the seas such as Spyridon Dukas", he thought. Wait, perhaps there was a way", the Prinz reached for his quill and ink, "Yes, it may not be the most prudent diplomatic route as Detlev would say but secrecy would insulate us from retribution."

Read more about the Prinz's Plot at

http://cavenderia.blogspot.com/2009/02/tides-of-war.html

Principality of Morea-Army History and Organisation-The Old Regiment

Find on http://phdleadhead.blogspot.com/ uniform colors and info, on the Old Regiment of the Morean Army, first in precedence among all the infantry units.

Reich Duke Wilhelm departs on Grand Tour

Reich Duke Wilhelm and his escorts embark of the Grand Tour with his first stop to visit Sir David Linienblatt in the town of Tippelbruder. Other stops along the way will enclude visits with Grand Duke Karl of the Duchy of Hetzenberg, Furst Bruno von Ursa of the Principality of Saxe-Bearstein, Karl Frederick X of the Duchy of Tradgardland,Hurtshog Stanken Fhartz von Frankfurter, Duke Karl Frederick of the Markgraaf of Raubenstadt, Elector Ulrich von Luftberg of the Rheinstadt der Luftberg, Herzog Ignaz Hunsruck of Palz-Kognat-Obersayn, Albrecht Duke of Lagerburg, King Leopold IV of Wittenberg, Fitz-Badger Chancellor of the Soweiter League, Prinz Geoffrey of Cavenderia, Duchess Irma of Stracken, Grand Duke Alexander von Ostenburg-Buttinski of Stollen, Furst Guntram Blauerwolf of the Principality of Hesse-Engleberg, Campbell of Argyll, Duke Peter of Saschen-Vindow, Jean-Louis of the Presipality of Monte-Cristo, Grand Duchess Maria Marlene der Grolstein, Louis-Phillippe, Kingdom of St, Maurice, Duke Augustus von Lettow, Saxe-Huack, Augustus II Rex, The Duchy of Alzeim, King Basil I of the Romans, and Princess Theofilia of the Principality of Morea. The Reich Duke looks forward to visiting the interesting sites in each realm.

Honors’ and Sabotage!

General Von Zillmann, Minister For War has a mixed bag of news for the King of the Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales.
It seems a great honor has been bestowed upon the King, just as it seems a saboteur could be in the Kingdom. Read all about it at: http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/

Reich Duke Wilhelm toasts Captain Ludwig von Alesmister

Captain Ludwig von Alesmister, late of the Kronenberg Cuirassiers, leaves to join the Duke Karl Frederick's Tradgardland Garde.

Reich Duke Wilhelm, Duchess Lynda, diplomats, and towns folk gather to wish Captain Ludwig von Alesmister a safe journey.

Battle of Lobositz - Feb. 8, 2009

Croats defend the Lobosch Hill at the battle of Lobositz. Prussian IR13 Itzenplitz attempts to take the hill.



Prussian 12 pound battery atop the Homolka Mound support the CR10 Gendarmes and the rest of the Prussian cavalry in the center of the field.

Monsieur Chevert (Protz), Graf Frye (Randy) and Der Alte Fritz (moi, certainment) staged a refight of the battle of Lobositz today at the Little Wars Convention in the Chicago area. We used Charles S. Grant's Lobositz scenario from the Wargame Companion as our scenario guide, although we increased the overall size of the cavalry and retained the 10 btns per side that Charles recommends. I have to say that Charles has it right with regard to using only 4 cavalry regiments per side. That would have speeded up the game considerably, but nevertheless, we had a grand time with some mega cavalry melees.

Please click the line below to go directly to my blog entry:

http://altefritz.blogspot.com/2009/02/battle-of-lobositz-feb-8-2009.html

Be sure to click on all of the pictures to enlarge the view. Also, feel free to leave any comments on the blog site. I will post a similar, though shorter, battle report on the Campaigns in Germania blog tomorrow afternoon, USA central standard time.

Unit Histories and Uniforms of the Principality of Morea

For all spies, uniformologists, and all interested on military fashion and information, I have posted some unit information and uniforms on my blog. The first ones, concern the Guard units of the Janissary Orta and Hungarian Calvary.

Take a look at http://phdleadhead.blogspot.com/

A day in the Life of the Princess of Morea

Princess Theofilia in 1738. A painting by Jean Marc Nattier

Lully’s “Marche Pour La Cérémonie Des Turcs” played from the gallery, as her Orthodox and Serene Excellency Theofilia, Princess of Morea and Achaea, Duchess of Apulia, and Countess Palatine of Cephalonia and Zande, marched regally towards the throne dias at the end of the Throne Room of the Palace of Mystra, brilliant in her coronation robes of pearl, and red, velvet and gold. She was...........

to continue reading, please visit Mystra at http://phdleadhead.blogspot.com/

A Bitter Dutch Duchess!

Trouble is brewing for the King of The Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales. It appears his brother (pictured left) might have a domestic issue that could lead to trouble for the young king. You see, Grand Duke Peter's wife isn't to happy with her "station" in life.
Visit http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/
to see more,...

New faces...

You are invited to see the new Commanding officers putting their troops through their paces in the Duchy of Tradgardland by following the link below:
http://tradgardland.blogspot.com/

Tradgardland Gloria Mundi- an update...

Just an update and reminder to all who pledged figures for the Duke Karl Frederick's bodyguard that figures are eagerly sought. Thanks to all pledges so far and others are welcome to join in. The magnificent figure on the white horse was sent by Steve ( East Riding Militia) and he arrived this morning- he looks fantastic,thanks Steve. Now over to you ...

Your Majesties, Royal Highnesses, Excellencies, Graces and Gentlemen,

After much consideration I have been directed by the Parliament of the Republic of Neues Sudland to inform you that the Republic has, in order to better confer with their counterparts in this world, ordered a blog to be developed. Said blog may be found at http://neuessudland.blogspot.com/ .

The archives of the Republic will be deposited here as time permits. These archives have been expanded to show the history of the army and navy so that potential employers may understand the worth of the troops they may consider hiring.

Advice, corrections and felicitations will be warmly received.

I remain your humble servant,

Padraig O'Gabhain

Minister for War and Ambassador at Large.

Cher Alisona, Bon Voyage

Gallian Frigate Arethuse {36} departs Tradgardlandstadt for Le Havre this past January.

Aboard her is Princess Alisona. The harbor fort salutes the departure of Her Royal Highness.

Arethuse fires a salute returning the compliment. Off shore a Gallian squadron awaits Arethuse for the voyage et redezvous de l'Amour. By the time you read this, the squadron will be in the Le Havre roadstead.

Reich Duchy of Beerstein College of Honors posts new Honorees

F.M Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein is proud to approve the recommendations of the College of Honors to invest the following worthy individuals into our sacred orders:

Ancient and Honorable Order of the Tankard

Duke Augustus von Lettow, Saxe-Huack

Wilhelm von Starkherz, Elector of Bleiherzen
King Phillip I, The Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales
Augustus II Rex, The Duchy of Alzeim
King Basil I of the Romans

Prinz Kelson von Tisch, Principality of Fleisch-Spatzlestadt

Order of the Goblet
Princess Theofilia, Principality of Morea

Correcting a Misunderstanding

I wish to correct a misunderstanding that seems to be current among many of you.

I, Jeff of Saxe-Bearstein, will definitely NOT be launching an invasion of the Grand Duchy of Stollen. Remember that the Principality of Saxe-Bearstein and Stollen are very good friends and allies.

However my "evil twin", Stagonian Jeff, is said to have planted certain vile thoughts into the head of young Koenig Ludwig of the Kingdom of Stagonia . . . and HE is certainly most capable of launching an invasion on the shakiest of reasons . . . especially if it is a vile reason.


-- Jeff of Saxe-Bearstein

The Maiden Guard's Colours are on display!

Please visit: http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/ for details of the King's and Regimental Colours (Flags) of the King's Maiden Guard of the Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales. The Regimental History of this fine Regiment is also available for viewing at:
http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/2008/12/let-now-look-at-first-of-regiments.html
The Regiment (in miniature) is also available for viewing at:
http://theholymormoanickingdom.blogspot.com/2009/01/work-in-progress.html
Enjoy!

Saxon Cavalry Brigade Arrives At Lobositz

Gentlemen,

Regarding the above, please see:

http://campaignsingermania.blogspot.com/

See additional photos with captions and more.

--------

This is a new blog by Der Alte Fritz, Gen. Freyberg of Freyberg and Chevert of Gallia (myself). Jeff has kindly linked the blog to the right and below.

-------

Votre Serviteur,

Bill

The Purpose of EvE

Gentlemen: I would direct everyone to read the heading at the top this blog about the types of things that should be posted herein. May I suggest that we endeavor to keep our entries a little bit shorter and focus on the "diplomatic" topics or subjects that would have a direct effect on other imaginations in our realm?

I've noticed that entries seem to be getting longer and longer recently. Perhaps the longer entries should be posted on one's personal blog with maybe a short notice on this page "announcing" where the longer version may be found. Tradgardland, Colonel Campbell and Stollen do a very nice job of using this technique.

I hesitate to even make these comments as I do not wish to hurt anyone's feelings, but I felt that something should be said.

A study of the Morean Army, by Antonis Vlachernos

History of the Modern Morean Army 1675-1739, by Antonis Vlachernos

Andronicus II in Western Dress

Up to the 1675 reforms of Andronicus II the army of the principality of Morea was made up of some permanent elements, and than semi-feudal forces and foreign mercenaries. The permanent elements or the Oikiakon corps was made up of the Janissary guard orta created in 1517, a regiment of Hungarian cavalry created in the 1550s, and the two permanent mercenary regiments of pike and shot, the Vaggaron and Latinikon both created in 1599. The rest of the army was made up of ad-hoc formations of Albanian and Greek warbands, specializing in skirmishing, light Sipahi and Pronoia cavalry, and regiments of Italian or Balkan mercenaries rented for a campaign period. The artillery arm was also rudimentary.

Andronicus II reformed the army in 1675. He expanded the permanent force with the creation of 5, one battalion, territorial regiments raised by conscription of 1 out of 50 men and volunteers, and 1 naval marine’s regiment of 2 battalions. These where trained to fight in the western manner. The regiments where raised from specific areas of the principality and at peace time where posted there. The regiments where The Old Regiment raised out of Mystra itself, the Maniaton raised from the Greeks of Mani and Monevasia, the Arkadon raised from the Greeks and Slavs of Arkadia and Tripoli, the Albanikon raised from the Albanians of the area around Patra, and the Nafplioton raised from Nafplio and Argolida. The marine regiment, Pezonauton was primarily raised from the Ionian dominions of the Prince. The Prince, also did away with the adhoc formations of Sipahis and Pronoia clavary, and created a regiment of Anatolian Sipahis raised from his Muslim subjects , and one of Greek lancers. He also raised two regiments of dragoons from German and Italian immigrants.

Princess Maria Louisa

This army co-existed with the ad-hoc Greek and Albanian war-bands, up to the great 1680-1686 rebellion. Maria-Louisa smashed the ad-hoc element and destroyed it, forcing most war-bands to enter permanent service as armatoli militia paid and belonging to the Prince. At that time, she changed the Hungarian Guard Cavalry regiment to a Cuirassier regiment. She also expanded the Janissary Orta and dragoon regiments. At about that time the uniforms and tactics of the army emulated those of France, except for the Anatolian and Hungarian regiments, and the armatoli that kept an exotic dress.

Prince Michael II

The next great change came during the reigns of Michael II and Theofilia. Michael III changed the coat colors of his infantry from Bourbon white to the current yellow-brown. He also added a new territorial regiment, raised in Apulia, the Duca di Apulia. Furthermore he raised a Huguenot, the La Rochelle regiment, from protestant refugees from France and Hungary and an Irish regiment, Keltikon, from Irish immigrants. Finally he formed a robust artillery train and raised the Pezonauton regiment to 3 battalions. At that era, The Hungarian cavalry regiment and the Nafplioton infantry regiments took black as their color in mourning of the death of Michaels son, Basil, who had died leading these units at the Battle of Bari on 23^rd April 1709.

During Theofilias early reign, Carl XII during his 3 year sojourn in the principality made major changes to the uniform and tactics of the army. First he divided the infantry into Territorial and Foreign elements. He introduced the Swedish uniform to the non-catholic foreign regiments (Vaggaron, La Rochelle) and a French uniform pattern to the catholic (Duca di Apulia, Keltikon) and a Russian patterned one to the orthodox regiments (Territorial). Theofilia decided to give a Swedish uniform also to the Latinikon regiment as a sing of her affection for Carl. Also the Vaggaron regiment took the blue and yellow coat colors of Sweden. Carl also created two squadrons of hussars for the Hungarian cavalry, and introduced Swedish dress for the Dragoons. Theofilia resisted changes to the colors of the uniforms, which remained the same as in Maria-Louisa’s army. Carl also introduced Swedish tactics to the army.

Theofilia later raised three more territorial regiments in 1718, the Ellinikon, raised from Greeks of Agean holdings, the Attikon raised from Greeks and Vlachs of Attika, and the Halkidaion, raised from Euboea. In preparation for the War of Polish Succession she also took into permanent service a Swiss Regiment, the Elbeton. She also had the territorial regiments retrained to fire-power tactics, while keeping Swedish tactics for the foreign regiments. Currently the Principality is fielding two field armies. One in Apulia, and the other in Attica.

The current (1739) strength and postings of the army are given in the table below

Jannisary Orta	350 men in 2 Ortas	Mystra 350	Princely Guard
The Old Regiement	1 Battalion 650 men	Mystra	Princely Guard
Hungarian Calvary	1 Squadron Cuirassiers 100 men, 2 Hussars 150 men	Cuirassier Squadron at Mystra, 2 Hussar Squadrons in Apulia	Princely Guard
Pezonauton	3 Battalions 1500 men	1 Battalion at Monevasia, 1 Battalion at Bari, 1 Battalion dispersed in the fleet.	Marine Regiment
Maniaton	2 Battalions of 650 men 1300 men	1 at Monevasia 1 at Taranto	Territorial, Army of Apulia
Arkadon	2 Battalions 650 men 1300	1 at Tripoli 1 at Attica	Territorial, Army of Attica
Albanikon	1 Battalion 650 men	At Attica	Territorial, Army of Attica
Attikon	1 Battalion 650 men	At Attica	Territorial, Army of Attica
Nafplioton	1 Battalion 700 men	At Nafplio	Territorial
Halkidaion	1 Battalion 700 men	At Attica	Territorial, Army of Attica
Ellinon	1 Battalion 700 men	At Corfu	Territorial
Vaggaron	2 Battalions of 600 men, 1200 men	2 Battalions at Corfu	Foreign
Latinikon	2 Battalions of 500 men, 1000 men	1 Battalion at Apulia, 1 at Cephalonia	Foreign, Army of Apulia
Duca du Apulia	2 Battalions of 450 men, 900 men	1 at Apulia, one at Taranto	Foreign, Army of Apulia
Keltikon	1 Battalion 700 men	At Messinia	Foreign
La Rochelle	1 Battalion 580 men	At Apulia	Foreign, Army of Apulia
Elbeton	1 Battalion 700 men	At Apulia	Foreign, Army of Apulia
Andronicus Lancers	500 men	At Attica	Army of Attica
Sipahi Lancers	500 men	At Apulia	Army of Apulia
Michael Dragoons	2 Squadron of 150 men, 300 men	At Apulia	Army of Apulia
Constantine Dragoons	2 Squadrons of 150 men, 300 men	At Attica	Army of Attica

Current Artillery Numbers: Siege Train 20 18pounder guns, Field Artillery 30 8 pounders, Battalion guns 15 4 pounders. Army of Apulia: 15 Siege, 15 Field, 9 Battalion. Army of Attica: 5 Siege guns, 10 fields, 6 Battalion. The rest are in reserve in Mystra.

Army Strength 1739: 13580 Infantry and 2050 calvary, plus 500-1000 amartoli

Princely Flag. Every regiment carries one such flag.

Recruitment:

The soldiers of the principality are recruited primarily by a volunteer system supported by conscription. Volunteers take up the colors for up to 10 years, with the ability to rise to the rank of captain. Conscripts are brought in to fill up battalions and serve for a maximum of 5 years. They are also taught an art or craft, as well as reading and writing as compensation for their conscription. Those conscripts, who after finishing their tour of duty, wish to remain, can do so for another ten years. Same goes for volunteers.

Veterans of war and invalids receive a small pension, as well as if they want to, a plot of land or fishing boat.

Soldiers of the Territorial regiments must be Orthodox or Catholic (Unites), and come form the home area of the regiment.

Soldiers of the Foreign regiments must be Protestant for the Vaggaron and La Rochelle, and Catholic for the Duca di Apulia, Keltikon, and Latinikon. The Swiss regiment’s composition is left to the contracting Cantons.

The only special cases are the Janissary orta, Sipahi lancers, and the Hungarian Calvary units of the Princely Guard. The Janissary orta is a hereditary unit raised from the Egyptian expatriates of Morea. All members must either be Bektashi Muslims or become so on entrance. Janissaries serve for 30 years. The Sipahi lancers are raised from the Muslim population of the principality and serve for 10 years. This is the only service required of them. Brave or smart Sipahis might be inducted in the Jannisay Orta, if they wish so. The Hungarian Calvary is raised by Hungarian expatriates, to which later where added Poles. Troopers serve for 20 years as well.

All soldiers take a sacred oath to obey the Prince or Princess of Morea. They also spill wine on the ground as a sing of consummating their oath. This older, pagan ritual is used to signify the fact that their oath is not to their gods but to the Prince or Princess.

The tactical doctrine of the principality relies on the three regiment brigade. A foreign regiment is brigaded with two territorial regiments. They all then march to firing range with the enemy. All three fire two volleys. Then the Foreign regiment charges forward, while the two territorial regiments continue firing. If it breaks the enemy the foreign regiment holds its ground and covers the advance of the territorial regiment. If it fails, it falls back under cover of the territorial regiment’s fire. The territorial regiments will charge only to support the foreign regiment if it is caught in a melee, attacking earthworks, or in danger of annihilation. This tactical doctrine has lead to a higher number of Grenadiers in the foreign regiments (at least 1/5^th of the men) than in the territorial regiments (1/10^th of the men). The territorial regiments fire by platoon. The Foreign regiments by volley.

Calvary tends to attack using cold steel, with hussars and lancers used also for harassing and scouting.

To follow is a unit by unit look at the army.