tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70037182330821156512024-03-05T16:30:28.570-08:00Tales From The Grand Duchy of Humpersteinjoppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-70772318845265165362024-02-11T08:59:00.000-08:002024-02-12T00:26:57.052-08:00The End of an Era - Closing Down.<p> Looking at my current hobbies/activities I have decided that I do not have time or space for all of them. Unfortunately one of the things that has to go is the 18th Century era of the Duchy of Humperstein. To this end I shall be disposing of my little lead mountain for that period, and have already put a few items on e-bay. Among the latest is a batch of civilian figures from various makers, which have languished in a half-started unpainted manner for nearly 10 years. If you want to check them out they are item number 176234587939, and at what I think is a reasonable price.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkFIto8vxaYSVtZPf321Sd96nk7H4UuLxiQba7eraWDYmOUtn-tZVXrIpPeJmu18rMSkYo0nQKyccP6d6IxmwBThyphenhyphenucyWfyTAkVn1HHbyLLBc-8fJNwTSl7fmcactI5h3k8RdU4WTSe4Y4Q47Icc5U0DZUnXx6M-ngmyssGlHAdIbFVy9AaCs2tg6TA/s4288/P2110005.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3216" data-original-width="4288" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkFIto8vxaYSVtZPf321Sd96nk7H4UuLxiQba7eraWDYmOUtn-tZVXrIpPeJmu18rMSkYo0nQKyccP6d6IxmwBThyphenhyphenucyWfyTAkVn1HHbyLLBc-8fJNwTSl7fmcactI5h3k8RdU4WTSe4Y4Q47Icc5U0DZUnXx6M-ngmyssGlHAdIbFVy9AaCs2tg6TA/s320/P2110005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll be sorting out the various (all unpainted) regiments over the next few weeks, and then must make a decision about the 19th Century version, as the troops are more extensive and mainly painted. </div></blockquote></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>update - 12/2</div>Well, that was quick. Less than 10 hours on e-bay and item sold. <br /><p><br /></p>joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-89642450725501165092016-11-03T04:38:00.002-07:002016-11-03T04:38:40.542-07:0033rd Middlesex Rifle VolunteersFinally, getting back into the swing of things. To prove it, here's a new unit for the armies of Humperstein and affiliates, though I haven't decided where it goes yet.<br />
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Proudly showing off their new uniforms the unit marches onto the parade ground in front of the barracks, and is inspected by the commanding officer.</div>
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These are Perry Bros 'British Intervention Force figures from sets BIF7 Line Infantry Command marching with 1855 pattern shako, and BIF8 Line Infantry marching with 1855 pattern shako.<br />
I was unable to use the standard bearers, as the standard poles are part of the moulding and very fragile (I snapped them both off in the basing process). They were painted for me by Neil Wilson in Norfolk and he's made a good job as usual.<br />
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The trouble is, I promised myself no new purchases till my current pile is cleared, but as the Perrys do such a delightful range in of the BIF, including cavalry and artillery, I can't resist just a small army in this style.<br />
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Note, the photo of the barracks is actually an old picture of the Victorian Workhouse in Boston Lincs, and I think it looks appropriate to my purpose. Most of the original building was knocked down long ago, and only the front block remains now.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-60694007519428520722015-05-01T03:31:00.002-07:002015-05-01T03:31:55.286-07:00First Regiment on new basingAs mentioned some time ago, I've started re-basing my infantry figures individually, from the group bases I'd been using. This is to bring them into line with my other figures, cavalry, artillery, and staff, who are already individually based, and give them a more 'old style' look. I blame 'Charge' and the lovely pictures myself. Now that our families new addition is here and I've finished making a cot I can catch up with all the projects I had put on hold, and the first regiment is finished, with a second well on its way.<br />
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This is the 47th Humperstein Regiment of Foot, part of the 2nd Brigade, (the 1st Brigade is the Guards, naturally) with the other two being the 41st and 49th regiments. They parade here for the first time in their new regalia for the official photographs and portrait by Rembrandt Veneer, the Court artist.</div>
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They have also been issued with brand new standards as the old ones were rather faded. These are only used for parade purposes, or on campaign to mark unit headquarters, they are not carried in action.</div>
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A 3rd Brigade is currently being recruited and fitted out by Messrs Perry Brothers, those well known military suppliers, as the Grand Duke couldn't resist their new BIF uniforms, in spite of his inner treasurer telling him he already had more than enough troops. Ah well, beans on toast more often, I suppose.</div>
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<br />joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-53994983360629066792015-03-26T05:29:00.001-07:002015-03-26T05:29:38.631-07:00The start of a long job.This is exactly what it says. Starting in a couple of weeks time, after our Easter trip away in the caravan, I shall be rebasing my 28mm infantry figures. I reckon it will last me through this year and most of next, as funds for the new bases become available, (I have to budget in all my other interests as well).<br />
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Up to now, my units of infantry have been stuck on oblongs of timber, in groups of six figures, (four companies plus a command stand), with light troops in fours. These in turn were loose fitted into movement trays for convenience. A lot of meditation, and a desire for 'Charge' style working led me to the bases supplied by Sally 4th, and I ordered a sample batch to try out.<br />
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I had already based a few individual skirmishers (1p coins and polyfilla ((other makes of filler are available !!) so it was a fairly speedy job to do the one base. This shows the size difference in area taken up by one group between the old and new style.</div>
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This means that I still have the figures as units to move about en-bloc, but they can be lifted out of the trays and used individually whenever I so desire. As I usually (probably a couple of times a year) play myself, then I can take as long moving figures as I want/need to, without a supper deadline of an opponent having to go home.</div>
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So, lots of work removing figures from stands, sticking to coins, filling and painting, getting block bases prepared, and away we go. I think one regiment at a time, while there's rubbish on tv through the summer, though the troops will have to fight for table space with various model railway bits and pieces. I'll let you know when the first one is ready.</div>
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<br />joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-47700189928843350962015-02-26T01:46:00.000-08:002015-02-26T01:46:02.638-08:00New Post on Another PageJust to tell you that I've put a long-winded post on my steamsteelandtorpedoes.blogspot.com blog about current progress in my army make-up and usage. As it roughly applies to Humperstein as well it could be worth a visit. Thanksjoppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-65109811899670680872015-01-10T09:23:00.001-08:002015-01-10T09:23:26.105-08:00Plans for 2015After a fairly downbeat posting on my main blog ( steamsteeland torpedoes.blogspot.com ) last week I have made a few resolutions for this year, trying to choose projects that can be finalised in the twelvemonth period. Basically I have chosen to complete some of the current projects and only taking on one new one with a bit of jiggery-pokery with some of the figures already in play.<br />
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The current projects will be the continuation of the units needed for the various armies needed for the Grand Duchy and its neighbours. The figures are all stored at the bottom of my wardrobe ready to be dealt with as I can afford the painting.<br />
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The new project is really a carry on from the above. Although I have all the neccessary figures, I just cant resist the new Perry Bros range for the British Intervention Force. Today I receive notice that they have released the artillery, with cavalry to come, so I shall be able to make up a little combined force. (And I promised myself "no more buying this year").<br />
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The jiggery-pokery I spoke of involves some slight rebasing of some of the individual figures that represent the more important personages of the various nations. I've taken an idea from another blog, whose writer uses clear plastic bases for some of his figures, rather than the built up old pennys or</div>
counters the rest of us use. Initially I'm going to work on the Grand Duke and his immediate coterie, then I can use the figures in any situation.<br />
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The other major project for the 19th century Humperstein is the building of a Palace (the Kappelhof, if you recall) for the Grand Duke. This will probably be done through the summer, when I can spend evenings in the shed.<br />
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Other things will happen on my main blog, and there are other non-related projects needed by family members, especially as we have a daughter's wedding and a son/partner's baby coming along. MrsJ celebrates her 60th this year, along with her twin, and her other sister is coming over from Australia for a few months over the summer. I'll just keep my head down and go along with arrangements.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-1805885077175248652014-09-03T10:11:00.002-07:002014-09-03T10:11:47.407-07:00The Dowager Duchess at PlayA piece has appeared in the Humperstein Tagesblatt with an accompanying engraving. This shows the Dowager Duchess in the grounds of her small (!!) cottage, enjoying a spot of clay-pigeon shooting. She is accompanied by her grand-daughter, two ladies-in-waiting, and her faithful manservant Johann Braun.<br />
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It's taken me nearly three months to paint this little group, and I finished them just before MrsJ and I came away on holiday last weekend. The photo languished in the camera, and as I've just dowloaded the lot into the computer I thought it could go on the blog. The figures have been around for a while, and I'm not too sure whose they are, though Foundry certainly get a look in.<br />
<br />joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-50079248664998106612014-02-04T02:24:00.000-08:002014-02-04T02:25:34.173-08:00News from Humperstein<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've finally managed to get the better of my misbehaving computer, which has been refusing to upload pictures into my blogs. How long this will last is anybodys guess, so here goes while I have the chance.</div>
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Here are my latest cavalry units, both painted for me by Neil Wilson in Norfolk, who does all my 28mm military figures while I deal with the civilians. As is my wont they use British Victorian yeomanry regiment uniforms.First is a unit of Midlothian Yeomanry, which are Old Glory figures from their American Experience ranges, and are Mexican Light Cavalry (set TMX8, I think).Eventually there will be three regiments of these figures, all in different uniforms.</div>
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Next we have the Northamptonshire Yeomanry, which are Foundry heavy dragoons from their British Crimean War range.</div>
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Finally, to round this selection off, a gentleman who should be present on every battlefield. I've mentioned him before, when I bought a few of the Discworld models, and have just got round to painting him. An enlarged photo shows just how badly. As he should be, he is larger than the other figures, coming out at about 35mm tall. Eventually I'd like to have a scenic base for him, with skulls, broken weapons, etc., but that will have to wait.</div>
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joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-15068846273736865922014-01-01T03:07:00.002-08:002014-01-01T03:07:26.466-08:00The Year AheadCan it really be 6 months since I put something on this blog? It appears that real life and other projects have run away with time and I only managed about a third of those things I intended to do in 2013. So- memo from inner headmaster "must do better, and could if he would apply himself to the task in hand rather than get distracted".<br />
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Here we have an old map of Humperstein (large lump with coastline to the top right) and the surrounding states. The one in the middle is the Principality of Schwartzstein-Holweg, and is the source of the current (1850s style) problems. For some reason there are no town names of geographical features on the map.<br />
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Basically, the old prince has popped his clogs, leaving no male heir, his granddaughter is only 18, and the various rulers and potentates of the surrounding states all have claims, for one reason or another, some legitemate others less so, to the throne. There will be further details on this later.<br />
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At the moment there are rumours of an influx into the principality of a large number of bird-watchers, lepidopterists, walkers, etc., from the surrounding areas, all with notebooks and pencils.<br />
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The army has been called to exercises, and an artistic representation of the event by the local landscape painter Rembrandt Veneer is enclosed.<br />
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This cosists of two infantry regiments, two cavalry regiments, and two batteries of artillery. The army is slightly old fashioned and still uses uniforms worn back in the times of Napoleon.<br />
(<em>The figures are all Perry Brunswickers)</em><br />
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Here we see the artillery (<em>The trivial pursuit pieces in front of them are for gaming purposes and represent the ammunition supplies), </em>while behind them are the command figures.<br />
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While the army is away from the capital, the Town Guard, last seen unpainted some time ago, have now mustered in the square for inspection by local worthies. Polly the pot-maid stands by with refreshments ready, and no-one notices the lurking 'bird watcher,.<br />
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In other news from the area, the notorious highwayman Ted Welly has succeeded in escaping after another daring exploit. <br />
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While Grand Duke Theoderic's brother, Duke Rupert, has been spotted riding a peculiar contraption down the High Street in pursuit of his 'secretary' Mademoiselle Belle Visage, who appeared to be somewhat strangely dressed for a foray along one of the main thoroughfares in the town.<br />
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<em>I know the High Street looks very similar to the town square, but I forgot to alter the arrangements. The figures in the last two photos come from the lead pile, and I think they are Eureka originally)</em><br />
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So there we have it, a basis for this year. I refuse to promise anything, but will try to get the campaign going soon.<br />
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Have a very pleasant, productive, and enjoyable 2014, and please keep me entertained reading your various blogs. I do read them, even if I don't always comment on the entries.<br />
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joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-88423407077703432212013-07-24T05:47:00.001-07:002013-07-24T05:47:28.154-07:00High Command, at last.Here we have a picture of the Humperstein Army General Staff, under the command of Hagen Von Tronek, High Constable of Humperstein. Taken from an illustration in the 'Daily Messenger' by the celebrated military artist Rembrandt Veneer. From left to right we have Lietenant General Albrecht Lieferant Lebensmittel, the Quartermaster-General, then Unter Feld-General Erich von Stalhein, the Adjutant-General, and finally Graf Hagen von Tronek himself, in his favourite white 'battlecoat'.<br />
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<em>Actually it took me a while to decide on suitable figures for these three, as I had a particular vision of their appearance. The figures are the Perry PN2 Napoleonic Prussian Command set with Blucher as von Tronek. They are painted for me by </em>Wilson's Miniatures<em>, who is doing all my 19th century Humperstein 28mm figures for me, and I asked him to give Blucher a white coat similar to that as being worn by Hugh Gough shown on the Osprey 'Victorias Commanders' cover. I think it has come off very well. Far better than my poor paint jobs which you can see over on the 18th century Humperstein blog (and will see some efforts on here eventually).The way thing are going I should be able to get some action going on the tabletop come autumn. </em><br />
joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-72487166874823795432013-07-16T03:23:00.001-07:002013-07-16T03:23:43.244-07:0018th Century GossipThere is a new post of current happenings in my other blog, duchyofhumpersteinintheageoflace . Feel free to visit.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-15522050135784251412013-04-25T03:19:00.001-07:002013-05-03T00:50:57.546-07:00Plans for the PastOriginally I had planned my 18th century escapade to be the War of Welsh Independence, similar to the AWI but closer to home. I can't seem to get my head around this and it seems to me that it would be more a matter of minor skirmishes, ambushes in the passes and British excesses, so I dropped the scheme. Instead I am taking a look back at the history of Humperstein, back in the days of Grand Duke Hudibras Alberich Theoderich von Amelungwho reigned from 1738 to 1778, and had considerable trouble from various relatives and nobles from the regions of his Dukedom that would eventually be ripped away by Napoleon and the cause of trouble later in the 19th century.<br />
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Also, by building up a selection of forces I will be able to take advantage of all the wonderful figures available from the armies of Britain, France, Prussia et.al that can be obtained from Minden, Fife n Drum, Jackdaw, Willie, Tradition, and so on. Accordingly I drew up an OOB for three equal forces, basing my plan on the original Sittingbad forces in 'Charge' , with minor alterations.<br />
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Eventually I shall have Force A made up of British and Hanoverians, Force B of Prussian and Austrian, and Force C of French and American. There will also be a free ranging two units of Highlanders who will fight for anybody, even each other if there's no one else. If the French can have the 'Wild Geese' then I can have the 'Celtic Rangers'.<br />
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So, three armies, each containing:-<br />
Command Unit<br />
1 unit Light Cavalry<br />
2 units Heavy Cavalry<br />
1 unit Light Infantry<br />
4 units Line Infantry<br />
2 batteries of artillery<br />
1 unit of Engineers<br />
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I shall be using units of 48 infantry (24 Light) and 24 cavalry. This will let me split the units into two should I need to.<br />
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To this end I have, over the last few months, started accumulating the various figures, and am about half-way to my goal. Note to self - stop getting sidetracked by new releases or extra units - stick to plan. I hope (ha!) to paint these myself and expect it to take a couple of years to complete, by which time I shall be fed up of the sight of a paint brush.<br />
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That's the plan. Keep your fingers crossed. This post will also be appearing on the new 18th century page, to keep continuity.*<br />
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*<em>As I've been having difficulty getting entries onto the new page I've gone even further overboard by starting a brand new blog - The Grand Duchy of Humperstein in the Age of Lace - to cover this period. This means I now have one for each of my periods/projects, though I'm sure there may be some overlapping at times.</em>joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-44490667872274073212013-04-08T01:27:00.001-07:002013-04-08T01:27:40.639-07:00Of Jabberwocky and preparationsIn response to a recent request, here is a photo of the Palace's pet Jabberwock being taken for exercise in the grounds by its keeper, a man of many parts and the only one willing to take on the job. The Jabberwock uses this time to top up its regular diet by hunting rabbits, and foxes, and deer, and anything that happens to be about at the time really, which is why the exercise times are published daily. We don't want any nasty events like the one last August, do we? Then again, they were foreigners who couldn't be bothered to talk to the locals, apart from demanding chips and brown sauce with every meal.<br />
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Some time ago I came into possession of a replicated old book of paintings done during the siege of Ladysmith, and the cover picture took my fancy,.<br />
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I had a look through the figures in my 'waiting' pile and found a selection of civilian poses to do my own version of this scene. Its not an exact copy, but close enough. Over the weekend I started on the painting. Quickly finding out that I'd left the top of my Humbrol matt white I undercoated in what I call dark flesh but Humbrol list as number 82, Orange Lining. Then a repeat dose followed by a dry brushing with number 61, Flesh. That's as far as I've got but I shall carry on during the week.</div>
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That's all for this morning. MrsJ has gone off to earn the shekels leaving me with a mountain of jobs to do about the house, so I'd better get on with them.</div>
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joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-69694213584715526012013-03-30T06:20:00.000-07:002013-03-30T06:20:47.957-07:00Back Again Good Grief! Is it really four months since I posted on here? Well, I have the excuse that real life and assorted periods of lethargy and sickness, all hopefully now in the past, got in the way. In the meantime the basics of the Duchy have altered and continue to be adjusted. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImo4mX4MoEnP6FL4ifVeBh3i5YtCAuw71wwLGkzTgZNayhODMGFY5HF_C1D1DmzecvS_gc4fkbwGcbQ4XO8yNMLafxXu9DdZ-wUA_eD4FrojQG60bv-n4OBsE9jsCKfgRalxPu7DWV5I/s1600/Lincolnshire_flag_svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImo4mX4MoEnP6FL4ifVeBh3i5YtCAuw71wwLGkzTgZNayhODMGFY5HF_C1D1DmzecvS_gc4fkbwGcbQ4XO8yNMLafxXu9DdZ-wUA_eD4FrojQG60bv-n4OBsE9jsCKfgRalxPu7DWV5I/s1600/Lincolnshire_flag_svg.png" /></a></div>
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<em>The National Flag of Humperstein</em></div>
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The Duchy is no longer between Belgium and Holland, but has moved up the coast slightly, taking over the area marked as Friesland, and now falls between Holland and Denmark.On the southern border are the other four small countries of Rubovia, Borsovia, Corvonia and Schwartzstein-Holweg. It is currently the latter (a small principality the size of Rutland) that is causing the trouble.</div>
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Theoderich, the Grand Duke, is going to be the villain of the piece, plotting the acquisition by fair means or foul, of the other countries. These were originally part of Humperstein, but during the Napoleonic Wars Napoleon split them off, giving them to various 'lucky' generals as rewards. Their indepence was recognised at the Congress of Vienna but Theoderich, as the direct Heir of the line intends to bring the combined Duchies back under a unified governement (him!).<br />
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As Humperstein has the largest army of the group he has a considerable advantage. The others can either stand alone and probably fall, or unite and hope to succeed. As the King of Rubovia is vaguely related to the Sovereign of England he hopes, if push comes to shove, that an appeal the British governement may produce some help.<br />
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At the moment it is a bit of a cold war, everyone holding their breath, preparing for the worst, and busy spying on each other while trying to negotiate. The current, old and ailing, ruler of Schwartzstein-Holweg is at death's door. He is childless and the succession is in doubt. The borders are rumbling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBkdyETOG79ZdJ_TZ4oE60mA0IJMbFMxyvM0Q574UwiVTyq7-XfqOVJoQhOpXoVVMlK_a4qHfRepu_9TMgyH1zZYAVD0zKs26rfu5MLZiuM_HyXwTGBByIe5FNBATVgvpTEYxEBPNFSU/s1600/hooksfarm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBkdyETOG79ZdJ_TZ4oE60mA0IJMbFMxyvM0Q574UwiVTyq7-XfqOVJoQhOpXoVVMlK_a4qHfRepu_9TMgyH1zZYAVD0zKs26rfu5MLZiuM_HyXwTGBByIe5FNBATVgvpTEYxEBPNFSU/s320/hooksfarm.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em>On the border of Humperstein and Schwartzstein-Holweg</em></div>
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The first contact will be on the borders of Humperstein and S-H, where the whole forces of S-H, amounting to little more than a brigade each of infantry and cavalry, with a couple of batteries of artillery, will try to hold back the advance forces of Humperstein. </div>
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<em>This action is due to take place as soon as I have finished the required scenic items, and will follow the broad precepts of H.G.Wells' Battle of Hook's Farm. The outcome of that action determines where I go next. I have a farmhouse complete, a church nearly so, and am busy painting MDF shapes for contours. Hope to have the action sometime in April.</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3MRqguKcP4g2FjEBSFEfd1najiv4RbEyo5QJ5EJ-9o_HuVu0BC_Z7gtV9lLsUSxj3bnTDx8dN66_0mF4wZLCyjccB-uGEWXmQVBbi_tXzwuWxuJmZ7ZBB777PoRNzQHd8f1ciuARDZ9U/s1600/101_0525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3MRqguKcP4g2FjEBSFEfd1najiv4RbEyo5QJ5EJ-9o_HuVu0BC_Z7gtV9lLsUSxj3bnTDx8dN66_0mF4wZLCyjccB-uGEWXmQVBbi_tXzwuWxuJmZ7ZBB777PoRNzQHd8f1ciuARDZ9U/s320/101_0525.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em>Hook's Farm</em></div>
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The scenic view is actually taken somewhere along the A14 in Suffolk, and though you may not be able to see it, there is a church on the horizon to the right, and a farm to the left.</div>
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That's it for now, next time, - the church (St.Ivel's) finished and some of thr troops taking part. I'll try not to be so long over it though.</div>
joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-89781686568339208132012-11-26T04:18:00.001-08:002012-11-26T04:18:41.646-08:00New mini tableTrying to fit in a busy hobby life with the real thing has been a pain of late. I can't see it clearing much before New Year, either. A quick review of the shed reveals - one 3foot sailing yacht needing complete renovation, one 1/72nd scale Flower Class Corvette wooden kit half built, one 1/24th scale model railway diorama in an Ikea storage box to finish off, assorted buildings in various stages of completion for wargames to finish, a small writing slope to construct as a birthday gift next year, a cabinet to strip, patch veneers and refinish for use as a TV stand, and MrsJ ajust announces that 'as you have all this spare time you can make me a pair of proper bedside tables to replace the old chipboard ones'!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNq67epdqqqlUoSHL8vbSU4lPotanplCFO4I8LaKtA4XRkhwrcym0AMCqJhbymuGmN9mazPAwi3hWp9cUXzwIFeJPUwIRc2LXyhdwUGsvwXeTenkvPYN7OgBvwONUHylUkwRaqa38KaM/s1600/new+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNq67epdqqqlUoSHL8vbSU4lPotanplCFO4I8LaKtA4XRkhwrcym0AMCqJhbymuGmN9mazPAwi3hWp9cUXzwIFeJPUwIRc2LXyhdwUGsvwXeTenkvPYN7OgBvwONUHylUkwRaqa38KaM/s320/new+table.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have, however, managed to cobble together a small table top for game use. This is 3foot by 2foot, mdf on 3x2, and painted my base green colour. I also made a 'sit-on' edge piece which you can see in the above photo. This is supposed to represent a distant horizon. I think that, once it's tarted up with trees and buildings it could be useful, if anly for taking photographs. The infantry regiment gives some idea as to size.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbTvSe8QkBHhq4NYRc81k9XhoIPIhsM0dH-fxrn81uRS3Q9aE8i8b8a-6JJoxprvYjJQ5eIUKBaTpyr9_1oJv02RSS0tUf6f7GmQoNZvuJbGVrjpnsGw4L5WPmcosQw8Jpiyb19JxgmU/s1600/bengal+horse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxbTvSe8QkBHhq4NYRc81k9XhoIPIhsM0dH-fxrn81uRS3Q9aE8i8b8a-6JJoxprvYjJQ5eIUKBaTpyr9_1oJv02RSS0tUf6f7GmQoNZvuJbGVrjpnsGw4L5WPmcosQw8Jpiyb19JxgmU/s320/bengal+horse.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've also received my latest units from Niel Wilson's painting service. These are three guns and crews of the Bengal Horse Artillery from Foundry's Sikh War range. A pity they don't seem to have limbers available. I originally made 82mm triangular stands for these. The intention being that the figures would represent the battery guns, with one removed when a gun was destroyed. For this reason I wanted them based individually (See the crew nearest camera), but when I did this they won't fit the base, so I'll have to make them slightly larger. <br />
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Nearly finished buildings for a 'Hook's Farm' style scenario, so you may see these next time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHCxJqtd1kkyO-PQP6tn3OXvoZi0a6dTWvgvGpQ5ajY4J4U4Bc_2TiRmxIaO_5NRuy__1dx5Ga7j2EWSQOp3WcIBdjFICLjaoFc0HeKrFiqSkwpfhxM9xsFzrwOHO7Qn8x_lyOdkDE90/s1600/101_0510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHCxJqtd1kkyO-PQP6tn3OXvoZi0a6dTWvgvGpQ5ajY4J4U4Bc_2TiRmxIaO_5NRuy__1dx5Ga7j2EWSQOp3WcIBdjFICLjaoFc0HeKrFiqSkwpfhxM9xsFzrwOHO7Qn8x_lyOdkDE90/s320/101_0510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-10544554038679134292012-10-23T11:28:00.001-07:002012-10-23T11:28:32.376-07:00More CavalryHere we have the second of three lancer regiments that are due to appear. This one is the Duchess' Regiment of Horse in their french blue and mauve livery. The usual 12 troopers plus 3 horse command, all individually based.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPYMYvqAKH3h0R8UYSPPqG0x4bP3TZj1k7HRrVQz_ltVU6TwXAvWsZjRq8S3AF3-WNhFNSfn8BRxe0azTkMcfi5Jy9a7bA4t5IG7Sk06hAiB0Z2YnuLTkcAxaCFd-YiwHqtpge52nWdU/s1600/rough+riders+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" oea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPYMYvqAKH3h0R8UYSPPqG0x4bP3TZj1k7HRrVQz_ltVU6TwXAvWsZjRq8S3AF3-WNhFNSfn8BRxe0azTkMcfi5Jy9a7bA4t5IG7Sk06hAiB0Z2YnuLTkcAxaCFd-YiwHqtpge52nWdU/s320/rough+riders+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The figures are Foundry British Crimean lancers, painted with an adapted version of the uniform worn by the City of London Yeomanry (Rough Riders) The base is only labelled on one side which can be used in my 'Heptarchy' scenario.<br />
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Over the last couple of months or so, during my mothers final illness and its aftermath, I have been pondering where my plans should be going. To this end I have been listing my metal mountain and working out where the gaps are. I've been trying to get this all down in writing, and will share my thoughts later. Comments and suggestions will be welcome.<br />
joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-51584406841985428882012-10-01T06:18:00.000-07:002012-10-01T06:18:09.273-07:00Progress, or the lack thereofIn spite of ten days in Wales with my Humperstein reference project I seem to have got nothing done. Didn't even open my briefcase! I'm trying to work out the bordering countries affiliations and type of governments, as well as decide on suitable troops to use. It's a long winded job. Meanwhile here is my first painted small scale figure for a long time. He is a 30mm Willie figure of Sir Hugh Gough, though I have given him a sword from somewhere, otherwise he looked as though he were giving a particular salute. Although to the wrong scale, here he represents Her Brittanic Majesty's Military Attache to the Court of Humperstein, one Sir John Ravenscroft. Wearing his white (?) coat on the battlefield in order to be recognised as an observer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7Obfvsof0z-GDbLNsgnulZO8BWvknLDEYRkumVKV86FX6g9kD4ecDIdW2xvF_FjWVT9zC_gjpDwI8AkqLSj0DCgAwhpDZCHD0yUlAwjfYEeof0NEOhKwlTMZ9cAvO9XDxzTFHdHOgWY/s1600/sirjohnravenscroft.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7Obfvsof0z-GDbLNsgnulZO8BWvknLDEYRkumVKV86FX6g9kD4ecDIdW2xvF_FjWVT9zC_gjpDwI8AkqLSj0DCgAwhpDZCHD0yUlAwjfYEeof0NEOhKwlTMZ9cAvO9XDxzTFHdHOgWY/s320/sirjohnravenscroft.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The colour scheme is taken from the front cover of the Osprey ' Victoria's Commanders', but the casting wears a sun helmet rather than the hunting cap of the picture.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-48596401063648615582012-09-12T12:15:00.001-07:002012-09-12T12:15:50.694-07:00Two new unitsHere are pictures of the first two units of the Humpersteinian army. Both ably painted for me by Wilson's Miniatures just up the road in Norfolk. The first is the Ist Guard Regiment, or Ducal Guard, with National Standard and Regimental Ensign. <br />
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and they are actually Wargames Foundry British Crimean Coldstream Guards. I am taking many of the units from their Crimean range as the basis for my Humpersteinian army, and am casting about round the same time period (give or take a few decades) for the other little nations in the area. For example, one of them will be Napoleonic Brunswickers, while another will be the Mexicans from the various Mexican/American wars.</div>
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Next up we have the Household Cavalry, the Duke's Life Guard. These are Lancers from the same range. Painted, as is my wont with cavalry units, in Yeomanry uniforms. In this case the green and white of the Lincolnshire Yeomanry. (The Duchess's Horse Guard cavalry [ note, she doesn't get 'life' guards] will be lancers again)'.<br />
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This unit isn't quite complete yet, as I've got to devise a suitable guidon for the standard bearer, and the bases need painting. I've put these figures on individual bases rather than groups like the infantry, but they will still have a unit movement tray when I can get round to it. The bases are taken from strips of venetion blind, originally IKEA I think. Trim about 3mm of one edge, sand to match. One strip does about three quarters of a cavalry regiment.<br />
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So there you have them. The painting schedule is well under way and I should be able to have a small shindig early in the new year.<br />
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More exerpts from 'The White Book' coming soon, giving details of the allies and enemies surrounding Humperstein.<br />
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joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-67072872086881103182012-09-04T04:58:00.002-07:002012-09-04T04:58:32.995-07:00Book of the MonthApologies for being away so long. If you pop over to my other Blog <br />
steamsteelandtorpedoes.blogspot.com you'll understand why. Now that I'm trying to get back to normal.<br />
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Here is a book I recently got hold of.<br />
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A thin volume of about 90 pages, it covers the Swiss Civil War of 1847 (as it says on the cover), and details the campaign itself, strengths, organisation and uniforms of each Canton's units, and the major battle of the war at Gisikon. It also has potted biographies of some of the leading figures, many of whom served in foreign armies earlier in the century.<br />
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I've not had time for a full read as yet, but as the timeline of my Duchy is around this period I think it will be extremely useful. It also gives me a chance to slip in a few Napoleonic uniforms into my various units. I really must get down to some more planning of the oponents I need.<br />
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I note that my copy, when it arrived, has a note inside saying that it is number 308 of a 500 copy limited edition, so if you want one get in soon!joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-49588354304445464852012-05-28T07:04:00.000-07:002012-05-31T08:02:56.003-07:00Introducing the Grand DukeThe ruler of the Grand Duchy of Humperstein is Grand Duke Theoderich, known as 'The Great', not for any grand political deeds, military feats or philosophical writings, but purely because of his size. At 6 feet 7 inches and some undisclosed weight he is one of the largest men in his little realm. Also known by his contemporaries as the 'potato king' because of his extreme interest in agriculture and his efforts to improve the diet of his people away from the local delicacy of cabbage soup. Son of Grand Duke Bladed, Theoderich came to power suddenly and unexpectedly having just received his majority and having begun a grand tour, he was called back by the tragic demise of his father who, being a very forward thinking and ingeneous man, experimented with numerous mechanical contrivances. Being an interested follower of early ballooning and the theory of flight he finally constructed a pair of wings (after the style of a design by Leonardo da Vinci) and launched himself from the tower of the castle at Pilz. Not having the muscle power required he fell and suffered severe injuries from which he died.<br />
Theoderich was an enlightened young man determined to improve the lot of his people during a period of great upheaval. The Duchy, which had suffered much through recent wars, (mostly involving hostile armies of the Great Powers trampling through the country in one direction or another simply to get at the enemy), so much effort was spent social building, better roads and a small shipbuilding industry. Reforms included the introduction of a police force by the simple expedient of taking the High Constables Guard regiment and changing them from a military unit to one with police and revenue officer powers.<br />
Known to be 'tetchy' his diplomatic skills varied and relationships with neighbouring states veered from amicability to animosity and back again, sometimes more than once in the same day.He finally succumbed to old age at 81, and was ucceeded by his daughter Grand Duchess Gloriana.<br />
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Here's the picture that should have appeared yesterday. Why I can upload now and not then is one of those technological mysteries that pass me by.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-33881675118641249972012-05-11T01:28:00.001-07:002012-05-11T01:28:14.039-07:00The First TroopsI know I promised to introduce the Grand Duke this time, but I'm trying to track down a suitable picture, so you'll have to be patient a little while. In the meantime, I have made a decision that life is too short to fit everything in, and having to paint my 54mm armies and the new 30mm figures as well as the woodwork and model ships to work in to the routine as well, then I'm going to farm out my 19th century Grand Duchy armies to be painted for me. An indulgence I know, but as I said, time isn't extendable. The first sample batch has arrived back from Wilson's Miniatures just up the road in Norfolk, <a href="http://www.wilsonsminiatures.co.uk/">http://www.wilsonsminiatures.co.uk/</a> <br />
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and are a Wargames Foundry British Crimean Command Group. There should be a mounted figure of Lord Cardigan as well, but he's currently otherwise occupied. I'll be putting suitably Humpersteinian names to this group in the fullness of time.<br />
Already I have sent of the next batch, a regiment of Guards which will be painted as Coldstreamers but referred to as 'The Grand Duke's Guard'.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-35719992874099792982012-05-04T11:20:00.003-07:002012-05-04T11:20:28.194-07:00Geography and a Little Politics<em>The Grand Duchy of Humperstein is situated slightly to the east of Belgium and West of Holland, in a fold in the European geographical time continuum, very similar to that occupied by the famous village of Brigadoon, adjacent to the Kingdom of Rubovia to the south, Borsovia to the east, and Corvonia between them.</em><br />
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<em>With an area of 2,687 square miles and a population of 1,021,600 the Duchy is ruled by Grand Duke Theoderich and split into 9 adminastrative districts each controlled by a Constable (usually a member of the local aristocracy) answerable to the High Constable and Privy Council. The Grand Duchy has no parliament as such, but is run by the Grand Duke as a benevolent dictatorship in conjunction with the Privy Council, consisting of the High Constable, his nine subordinates, the Lord Chamberlain, the Seneschal and the Ducal Legate, at monthly meetings. If there are matters of importance to discuss on which they need guidance, then the Duke and Council call in national 'experts' for their advice.</em><br />
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<em>The economy is based on agriculture, growing large amounts of wheat, barley, sugar beet, and oilseed rape. In the western area the soil is particularly suitable for the growing of potatoes, for which the Grand Duchy is famous. The local variety 'Humperstein Blue', as bred by the Grand Duke, has won many prestigious awards. Dairy cattle are a mainstay of the southern areas.</em><br />
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<em>The country is relatively low lying with coastal area subject to flooding, and the land rises slowly to a range of low hills towards the south.</em><br />
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<em>Apart from the capital city of Pilz towards the south there are few major urban areas, though the large town and port of Birne is adminastative centre for the western half of the country. Many of the smaller towns hold weekly markets and the two centres hold annual fairs. Because of the rural nature of the country pace of life is generally slower than the surrounding countries. Sunday is still a major day of rest and, due to the large distances between towns, many villages have remained self-contained with industrialisation passing them by. Much of the work is done in traditional ways using large amounts of manual labour.</em><br />
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<em>The capital city of Pilz is built on a hill overlooking the surrounding area. The city is dominated by the cathedral of St.Hugh and the neighbouring Kappelhof, or Palace. Just across the Cathedral Square is the Old Castle, much remodelled and now the site of the governmental offices, as well as the city prison. The area around the cathedral is the trading area of the city, containing numerous shops and small workshops. The nobility traditionally have town houses in the cathedral precincts while having their family homes throughout the Duchy. The rest of the hill, down to the river Pilzensuppe is covered by the homes of the middle classes and hovels of the poor, often in close conjunction. The pool at the bottom of the hill is a busy inland port with many wharehouses and barge moorings.</em><br />
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<em>The monetary unit of the Duchy is the Roial, split into 100 Larines.</em><br />
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<em>The language is Humperstein Deutsch, a mixture of German, Dutch, and French.</em><br />
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<em>The official religion is Calvinist, with 45% of the population. 39% of the rest are Roman Catholic, with most of the balance as Lutherans.</em><br />
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Sorry about being so long winded, but that's only the introduction to the guidebook! It will appear a bit at a time. The reality is a map of Lincolnshire, turned 90 degrees and then flipped. This gives me a country on the coast (I'm hoping for some Naval coastal defence games eventually) with a ready built geography. The only thing that bothers me is the the capital is too close to the southern border. The picture above shows some of the references used to flesh the bones out. All the towns and rivers have names pinched from a Germann/English menu translater.<br />
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Next, I'll introduce the Grand Duke, his family and Privy Council.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7003718233082115651.post-9291319016274672042012-05-03T01:45:00.001-07:002012-05-03T01:45:14.357-07:00Introduction - The RealityThis blog is an offshoot to my 54mm blog 'Steam Steeel and Torpedoes', and will cover the adventures, misadventures, and happenings in the my Imagi-Nation of the Grand Duchy of Humperstein. It will include snippets from the geography, history, political shennanigins, bits of biography, and anything else I can think of. I will be putting in information about how the Duchy evolves along with details of reference material used, and how I manage to instill a little life into this non-existent nation. Entries will be sporadic, and probably at long intervals.<br />
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I shall actually be covering a couple of time periods. The first will be the mid-1700's, and the armies involved will be 30mm (mainly Minden and Old Glory, with a few Willie and Stadden figures thrown in) while the second will be 1850 to 1870 - 'ish', with Wargames Foundry British Crimea figures as the Humperstein army while I still search out suitable opponents/allies.<br />
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The Duchy itself is situated between Belgium and Holland (I know Belgium, as a country, wasn't around for some of the time, but it's my imagination that's at work here) with three other fictional countries of Rubovia, Borsovia and Corvonia on the southern borders. A map has been discovered, and when it has been suitably restored I'll post it. <br />
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My alter-ego Hagen von Tronek has finally found his home and proper position. You'll find out more as the blog progresses properly, so I hope you enjoy the read.joppyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06334867727613848852noreply@blogger.com3