I'm rather pleased with this latest find in a charity shop. Its an earthenware model of an early industrial building. At a loss to understand why it was made, perhaps to hold an internal light? Its well crafted, and looks perfect with 28mm figures. Originally buff-coloured, I gave it a prime, and painted it in more realistic colours. I've also covered the original foliage with more authentic tree scatter material. Not bad for £4.
MGB
This model had been laying dormant for about two years. The fragile plastic masts had broken off, the ship's wheel was out of scale, the guns were missing, the paintwork was poor. I was seriously thinking about converting it into a prison vessel, as it certainly wasn't seaworthy. Pleased I decided otherwise, the strong wooden masts, rigging and sails, and new paintwork has made this something I'm keen to use The RN Ensign was added today.
MGB
Have recently set up my third wargaming blog, devoted to larger scale figures. I must admit its been an enjoyable and nostalgic journey working with toy soldiers I remember from my childhood. Here are a few photos from recent posts.
MGB
(VISIT https://wargamingwith54mmtoysoldiers.blogspot.com)
I have cross-posted this from my other blog SCIMITAR & CRESCENT WARGAMES, as it is also an 18th century subject, something which I do occasionally post on this page. Some time last year I picked up a small treen pot for 50p in a charity shop. Thought I might be able to make something interesting out of it. Today I have de facto completed my Efim Nikonov submarine, originally designed in 1721. I point out it was only designed that year as it failed all its testing, and the Russian government scrapped its funding for this project. Hope you agree, however, if it had worked, it would have been a useful weapon against the Ottoman fleet operating in the Black Sea....... and I hope to find out soon! MGB
A few nights ago I watched this movie once more, and it really is a superb production. Set around the issues that caused the Spithead Mutiny in 1797, it lacks for nothing in its portrayal of a naval action against a French vessel. Starring Alec Guinness, Dirk Bogarde, Anthony Quayle, and many more fine British actors, nothing more needs to be said on that matter. I can confirm that the uniforms are not to be mocked, and particularly nice to see the Corps of Marines with 1796-7 coats, as it would have been far easier to supply them with just Napoleonic outfits from a theatre store. Do make an effort to find and view this film. MGB
As a follow-on to the last post on policing, my 18th century Revenue Service has been strengthened. I made this vessel out of plastic-card quite a few years ago but I was never quite happy with it. The masts and deck layout have now been improved, and it has acquired a fixed light cannon and four swivel guns. And the whole model has been repainted.
MGB
Despite my recent absence from wargaming some general maintenance did take place to my Georgian town. Thought it was also time the civil authorities had some ability to keep the peace without having to call out the Local Volunteers. The foot police are Trent Miniatures, the mounted are some converted Hinchliffe figures. I include some photos of new wagons, and another of His Majesty King George the Third inspecting some vintage artillery, these old pieces may date back to the 1930s?, and they can still fire matchsticks. Hope my paintjob has given them new life.
MGB
Late last year my kidney disease moved up a level and it became necessary to devote time and effort towards other issues. From about March this year my health seems to have improved. It is now my hope to return to posting on several blogs, and to increase the actual number of wargames I stage. Regards, MGB
