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StOoyLDIERThe World’s No. 1 Magazine for Collectors of All Stripeswww.toy-soldier.com MODEL FIGURE HUEY WINCUMO.SEUKDIANNIRCTGMSR&YY’SHEADHUNTERS FIGARTI RE-CREATES A HOT LANDING ZONE IN VIETNAM$8.50/£4.95 In this issue: 08 • World War I’s Fall of Eagles • Battle of York Bicentennial • Hartford Armory’s Toy Soldier Army • War of 1812 in Miniature • Hobbyists Forage at Valley Forge • Springtime in Paradise • British Model Soldier Society Annual Show • Plastic Collectors’ Conclave • Battle of Agincourt • Osen Takes Helm at W. Britain •Ancient Nile Papyrus Boats • Claudian Invasion War Elephants • Landsknecht Artillery •Revolutionary Iroquois • 1/6th Gurkha of the Falklands War9 771359 742033 NEW cONTEST:aTuOgYusStO2LD01IE3R:-AiUssGuUeS1T83

The Anubis Set Item Number: British 22nd Foot Standard British Grenadiers Firing Line Emperor Napoleon AE048 $119.00 Bearer AWI041 $74.95 - 16 in 4 poses BAR-BFL $21.95 NAP0409 $169.95 A Near French Run Thing Cuirassiers 27055 Charing $150.00 Bugler NA251 $109.00 British Naval Brigade Naval Officer, First Sudan War, 1884-1885 SRN-05 $39.00Figarti’s Spring 2013Releases Now flying in!



inside this edition FIGURE OF THE MONTH...............................................5 22 READERS: FIRE BACK! ....................................................6 OPENING VOLLEY...........................................................8 toy soldier showcase WORLD WAR I’S FALL OF EAGLES..............................14 BATTLE OF YORK BICENTENNIAL............................22 NEW METAL SHOWCASE.................... 40 WAR OF 1812 IN MINIATURE........................................24 This time Editor Stuart A. Hessney’s always HOBBYISTS FORAGE AT VALLEY FORGE..................26 eclectic reviews delve into both ancient and SPRINGTIME IN PARADISE.........................................32 18th-century Egypt, Roman war elephants HARTFORD ARMORY’S TOY SOLDIER ARMY...........34 from the Claudian Invasion of Britain, CENTERFOLD........................................................... 38-39 the medieval Battle of Agincourt, Renaissance KIT KORNER/BMSS ANNUAL SHOW..........................58 Age Landsknechts, the American Revolutionary BOOK REVIEWS.............................................................66 War, the Napoleonic period, and World War I. PRIZE EXERCISE............................................................70 PLASTIC PARADE................................. 52 Win World War II U.S. Army medics from Len Cooksey uncovers new releases at the 2013 King & Country Ltd. and Kings X Toy Soldiers. Plastic Warrior Show and a whole lot more. CALENDAR...................................................................... 74 1/6TH ARMY........................................... 56 58 Scott J. Dummitt inspects a soldier of the 1982 Falklands War inspired by the British Army’s56 32 1st Battalion, 7th Duke of Edinburgh’s Own Gurkha Rifles. 24bringing you this issueStuart A. Hessney Alison Smith Kelly Rud 14Sara Vix 34 EDITOR DESIGN DIRECTOR Sales & Marketing4 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

from the editorPUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Welcome to TS&MF, the world’s No. 1 magazine forAshdown Ltd. collectors of all stripes!Unit 5EPark Farm This month’s globetrotting edition is highlighted byChichester Road coverage of special events in Canada, Great Britain and theArundel, West Sussex United States.England, U.K. BN18 9EYTel: 01903 884988 Ontario Model Soldier Society President Scott J. DummittFax: 01903 885514 delivers a report on events staged in Toronto April 27,US OFFICE: 2013, to commemorate the Bicentennial of the Battle ofAshdown Inc. York, which took place during the War of 1812. Highlights68132 250th Ave. included the largest military parade mounted in CanadaKasson, MN 55944 since World War II. In addition, His Royal Highness PrinceToll-Free: 1-866-606-6587 Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, presented new colours to theFax: (507) 634-7691 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment.www.toy-soldier.com On a related note, Canadian contributor Scott Ryan takes a sneak peek at War of 1812 figures being made by W. Britain exclusively for the Scott J. Dummitt Presents shop inEDITOR: Ontario. Circa 1814 regimental standard-bearer and NCO figures depicting the BritishStuart A. Hessney Army’s 8th Regiment of Foot (The King’s) are in the [email protected] & MARKETING: TS&MF’s “Kit Korner” columnist Paul Newman and “Plastic Parade” reviewer Len CookseySara Vix chime in with reports on a pair of London events. Paul scopes out the traders and [email protected] entries at April 27’s British Model Soldier Society Annual Show. Len recounts new releasesDESIGN: unveiled at the 28th Annual Plastic Warrior Show May 4 in the British capital city.Alison SmithCONTRIBUTORS: Across the pond, A.J. Mergenthaler was on hand for the 72nd Annual Miniature FigureRaymond E. Bell Jr., Len Cooksey, Collectors of America Show & Mart May 10-11 at the Valley Forge Casino Resort inScott J. Dummitt, James H. Hillestad, King of Prussia, Pa. He explores the vendors’ wares and enthusiasts’ competition entries.Thor Johnson, Daniel P. Jones,A.J. Mergenthaler, Paul Newman, A number of hobbyists en route to Valley Forge stopped along the way at May 9’s ToyScott Ryan and Leo Winston Soldier Museum Open House in Cresco, Pa. Visitors were treated to a look at new dioramas and figures, according to a report from proprietor James H. Hillestad.SUBSCRIPTION MANAGERS:U.S.: Kelly Rud/ Elsewhere, The AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection’s Thor Johnson examines how events [email protected] surrounding the Great War led to the downfall of a trio of “Eagle Dynasties” in Europe.U.K.: [email protected] Figures of German, Austrian and Russian monarchs and military men by AeroArt and otherANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RATES: makers illustrate Thor’s intriguing article.U.K.: £69U.S.: $110 Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Raymond E. Bell Jr. and Daniel P. Jones have teamed up toCanada: $121 share an account of their visit to Loren Schave’s impressive toy soldier collection. Its museumEurope: $114 setting is in the imposing Armory of Connecticut’s First Company Governor’s Foot Guard inRest of World: $119 the state capital of Hartford. It’s the oldest military organization in continuous U.S. service.(U.S. funds only)AUGUST 2013 There’s lots more in store in this issue as usual, so please start turning the pages, enjoy and, as always, happy collecting!Postmaster: Send address correctionsto Toy Soldier & Model Figure, Stuart A. Hessney, editorAshdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave.Kasson, MN 55944 2nd Class Postage figure of the monthPaid. Canada Post InternationalPublications Mail - Sales Agreement The honors go to a magnificent mounted figureNo. 546038. All rights reserved. of England’s King Henry V. It heralds the launchReproduction in whole or part of a new medieval series from First Legion Ltd.without the written permission of the The focus is on the Battle of Agincourt, wherepublisher is prohibited. All editorial Henry’s heavily outnumbered army managed tocontributions in the form of articles, prevail despite overwhelming odds and slaughterletters and photographs (b/w or the flower of French nobility.colour print or transparencies) arewelcomed by Toy Soldier but cannotbe returned unless accompanied bya stamped addressed envelope. Allmaterial submitted to the magazine isaccepted on the basis that copyrightin the work will be vested in thePublisher who assumes all rightsworld-wide, in all forms and media.In any event the publisher canaccept no responsibility for lossor damage to contributions.© TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 5

FIRE BACK! n Win a prize by sending in a YOUR LETTERS letter on anything concerning the Sound off about the hobby or magazine toy soldier and model figure hobby. Each month a special surprise gift will be awarded to the Star Letter writer!ENJOYED WEST POINT COLOR PARTY PIECE Dear Editor:  I am enclosing a photo of the first cadet flag taken at the West PointLSETTATRER I greatly enjoyed reading Museum that did not make it into my Curtis Sleight’s article book. The cadet color was on a field of about the West Point white with the goddess Minerva, the Cadet Color Guard in Roman version of the Greek goddess Athena, one of the symbols of West Point. issue 181. I didn’t realize Her helmet is featured on the West Point crest. She is the goddess of wisdom and what a variety of color knowledge of the art of war.guards have been produced by toy The entire Corps of Cadets marched to Boston to receive the colors on Aug. 11,soldier makers through the years. As a 1821. They were also addressed by second U.S. President John Adams at his home ingraduate of the U.S. Military Academy Bainbridge, Mass., near Boston.at West Point, and the author of the Clyde Cocke Avon Lakerecently published book on cadets “Pass Ohio, USAin Review” from Osprey Publishing, I   Editor’s Note: I highly recommend Clydeappreciate the coverage of the color party. Cocke’s book “Pass in Review” to anyone interested in West Point history, traditionsThe photos of various color guards and cadet life.from Mr. Sleight’s collection affirm whatI stated in my issue 175 review of W.Britain’s new version -- that it is the mostaccurate set ever made. Previously producedsets did not make a correct escort. UnlikeW. Britain, they used a regular marchingcadet instead of a color sergeant with a red ABOVE: The first West Point flag presented to the Corps of Cadets in 1821.sash and color sergeant chevrons.LIBRARY DISPLAY, CADET ARTICLES OUTSTANDINGDear Editor:  small-sized color copies of related film I put in a piece made by Charles DuvalI thought I’d comment on two posters. For example, in a large medieval of Little Lead Men. It was a 1-inchunrelated but outstanding articles in battle scene, I used small posters depicting green footprint in snow intended toTS&MF issue 181. movies like “Knights of the Round Table.” reflect the 1933 cult film “The Invisible Man,” starring Claude Rains. Offered James H. Hillestad’s article on After the librarian at the Transylvania was a prize of two different figures topublic library toy soldier displays was County Library advised me that two the first person to correctly guess who itterrific, pointing out almost every facet middle-school history teachers brought was, never believing anyone would win.of setting them up, with emphasis their classes to see my display of knights,on scenes. I’ve done about a dozen of I started leaving dozens of two to three- The very next day, the librarianthem through the years, mostly in two page discussions of the subject matter for called and advised me that someone hadlarge county libraries near our former youngsters to pick up and study. won the prize. She went on to explainhome in the mountains of North that the film had been shown on theCarolina. The headline on Jim’s article, “Share Turner Classic Movies cable television the Hobby,” is a suggestion with which channel the previous night! A collector has many display I heartily agree. One way to expand asubjects to choose from, so kudos display’s reach is to get your local daily On an unrelated subject, I’d alsoare in order for Jim’s usual great job or weekly newspaper to give it some like to compliment Curtis Sleight onexploring this aspect. His background coverage. That helps to bring out viewers. his theme-collecting article about Westdisplay pieces are spot-on. You should be successful in getting a Point standard-bearers. I’ve never read a small article with a photo or two better brief article research job than this Many of us have tried to do the published. one. Well done, Curtis.same. Books related to the subjectmatter with colorful dust jackets Once, in a display in Cashiers, N.C., of Jack Matthewswere favorites of mine, together with several dozen 54-mm “personality” figures, Sarasota, Fla., USA6 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

BELOW: W. Britain’sDambusters set replicates awartime photo.WHERE’S THE REST OF THE BOMBER? ABOVE: Hobbyist Ted Hoppin changed his TS&MF Lincoln to have the figure holding theDear Editor:  for the Anglo-Zulu War range. So why Gettysburg Address.I have always enjoyed collecting W. give us only part of a plane?Britain’s products. But its 70th anniversary TOY FIGURE FAN“Dambusters” set (see TS&MF issue 181 If companies such as King & Country LIKES LINCOLNfor a review) gives me no choice but to Ltd. or Figarti Miniatures had made suchleave it out of my collection. a “Dambusters” set, they would have given   us collectors a whole Lancaster bomber in I don’t think I will be alone in asking all its glory. Dear Editor: the most obvious question about this I really like TS&MF’s newset No. 25017: Where’s the rest of the Another thing that puzzles me about subscription premium figureWorld War II British plane? It gives the W. Britain is why has it given the men portraying U.S. President Abrahamimpression that Bob the Builder has built entering the fuselage of the bomber the Lincoln created by Ted Deddens ofa brick wall through it. same faces? Were Royal Air Force 617 Tedtoy Miniatures. I had a great time Squadron all brothers or part of a cloning working with the casting. I drilled out Come on W. Britain, what were you experiment? between the legs and arms to modifythinking of when creating such a piece? the pose. I now have Lincoln holdingYou never gave collectors half a British All these questions regarding this the Gettysburg Address in one hand,gunboat in the “War Along the Nile” anniversary set could well be answered with a Bible tucked under his otherseries or half of a Rorke’s Drift storehouse in a future episode of a TV series like arm. It’s really a well-cast figure. My “The X-Files!” compliments to the craftsman. CONTACT US Chris Boswell Ted Hoppin We welcome readers’ Fire Back! feedback via Oxford Bainbridge Island, Wash., USA e-mail at [email protected]. In addition, letters can be sent via fax to 01903 885514 England, U.K. TS&MF IS ON or mail to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Ltd.,   FACEBOOK, TWITTER Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, The Editor Responds: W. Britain set out West Sussex, England, U.K. BN18 9EY. Letters to re-create a well-known photo from the Have you got something to say to the hobby can also be sent via fax to (507) 634-7691 collection of the Imperial War Museum world and you want to say it now?!? Then use or mail to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Inc., in London in 1:32 scale, and did just your computer mouse to click your way to 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN, USA 55944. that admirably, in my humble opinion. Toy Soldier & Model Figure Editor Stuart A. All correspondence must include your full Regardless, please rest assured that if any of Hessney’s Facebook page and become a “friend” name, address and daytime telephone number today’s makers thought a Lancaster bomber of the magazine. Enthusiasts can debate views, in case verification is needed. Letters may be would be commercially viable, they wouldn’t share hobby tips, spread news, post photos, edited for length or clarity. Anonymous letters hesitate to make one. Then you could enlist help each other identify figures, and more. It’s will not be considered for publication. animated character Bob the Builder, or a real your forum for fun! Also readers can now follow modeler, to construct a scale hangar for you to TS&MF on Twitter as we strive to park the huge aircraft in. keep collectors around the globe informed and connected.CONTEST: GET HAPPY IN YOUR HOBBY!To have a chance of winning a prize, enter the monthly “Get Happy in Your Hobby!” contest by submitting onephoto along with a couple of paragraphs relating how the toy soldier and model figure hobby makes you happy.Send your entry to Editor Stuart A. Hessney via e-mail at [email protected] or post it to the TS&MF GetHappy in Your Hobby Contest at either Ashdown Ltd., Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, WestSussex, England, U.K. BN18 9EY; or Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN, USA 55944. All entriesmust include your complete contact details. Enter as many times as you like. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 7

VOOPELNLEIYNG n Editor Stuart A. Hessney and latest news from the toy soldier hobby his worldwide team of intrepid correspondents track down the latest news and notes of interest to toy soldier and model figure enthusiasts.IT’S TEA TIME FOR MARLBOROUGH’S DURBAR TOY FIGURESIf you’re reading TS&MF, then toy soldiers respective regiment’s museum fund. The “As a result, we got talking about 2013must be your cup of tea. Well, now you can Suffolk Regiment’s Malabar Chutney, being the 110th anniversary of the 1903actually enjoy your hobby with a cuppa for example, is a spicy tomato recipe that Delhi Durbar and thought wouldn’t it bethanks to a stream of colorful collectible recalls the unit’s days in Imperial India. great to produce a set of 110 cards madecards being poured by Butterworth & up from old Indian postcards he has andSon and Marlborough Military Models of A second set of 18 picture cards my Durbar sets,” Brian recounted.England. reproduced in color traced the Suffolk Regiment’s uniforms and battles “Now every time I produce a Durbar Butterworth & Son is a family-run throughout history. A third series of cards set, I photograph it before it is sent off tobusiness based in Bury St. Edmunds, focused on steam railways in Suffolk. the customer,” the Marlborough proprietorSuffolk. Established in 1976, the company explained. “Then I send the photos tooriginally specialized in tea and coffee, then Data describing what is pictured Robert and he marries them up to abranched out into specialty food products. appears on the back of each card. postcard backdrop.” Butterworth & Son is believed to be the Collectible cards were once customary last company in England still including Besides being enclosed with packets ofaccompaniments with tobacco, tea, cereal picture cards with its tea to add appeal. Butterworth & Son tea, the approximatelyand other things -- much like bubblegum 3 by 4-inch cards are available individuallysports cards continue to be traded. Robert It turns out that besides being the from Brian at the discounted prices ofButterworth Sr., an avid local historian, editor of collectible card series, Robert either £1.50 each or in four sets of 25 andrevived the tradition by creating a dozen Butterworth is a toy soldier collector. This one set of 10 at £1 per card to make up theblack and white picture cards depicting led to his collaboration with Brian Hey of complete 110-card series. A folder is beinghistoric scenes of Bury St. Edmunds for Lancashire-based Marlborough. produced to keep the cards in. Of course,inclusion in every packet of Suffolk Special they’d also be perfect complements to toyBlend tea. The ball got rolling after Robert soldier collectors’ Durbar displays. ordered some 54-mm, painted metal sets Butterworth & Son’s tie-ins with from Brian’s expansive series based on the “If you like tea, you can also buyhistory have also included a series of 1903 Delhi Durbar in British India. Brian packets from me with a card in as well.Suffolk Maid brand regimental chutneys, also created a desktop diorama depicting You have to sell anything these days!”with 10p from each jar sold going to the three Indian women picking tea for Brian mused. Robert. It was kismet. --Stuart A. Hessney  ABOVE RIGHT: Card No. 2: “The Queen’s Own Corps of Guides. Pathan in Winter Dress.”   LEFT: Card No. 5: “Indian Musicians.”   BELOW LEFT: Card No. 7: “Officer, Kapurthala Lancers.”   BELOW: Card No. 14: “Camel Standard-Bearers, Kutch.”   BELOW RIGHT: Card No. 6: “Government Officer in Landau.”8 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

KEN OSEN TAKES THE HELM AT W. BRITAINKen Osen has taken up the reins as W. Britain’s new prosthetics, where a keen knowledge A Confederate infantryman and Union gunnersgeneral manager and creative director. of materials and engineering as well as sculpted by Ken Osen re-create Pickett’s Charge adherence to strict guidelines for dead-on at Gettysburg.Gifted sculptor Kenneth Osen is turning details and accuracy are vital.his hand to running W. Britain as its new model makers. Craig Appleton and Iangeneral manager and creative director. Aspects of this skill set have applied Knight serve as historical consultants. directly to Hudson & Allen Studio, a It’s a brilliant group of talent, yet Ken He succeeds Richard Walker, who business Ken founded 21 years ago and admirably still aspires to keep striving toparted company with parent firm First continues to operate with his wife, Ericka. ramp up accuracy and quality to the nthGear in late April 2013. Walker and Osen Their offerings include 25-mm to 60-mm degree.came aboard together when W. Britain buildings and scenic products. Hudson &was acquired by First Gear in 2005. Allen’s prime focus is consultant work and This year Britains is marking the 120th the research, design and construction of anniversary of producing its first toy “All of us at First Gear/W. Britain dioramas sought by demanding clients for soldier in England in 1893, a springboardare thrilled that Ken Osen has accepted both model miniatures and museums. that made the brand name synonymousthe position of general manager/creative with toy soldiers worldwide. Whiledirector of W. Britain,” CEO Richard Toy soldier dioramas produced by mindful of the company’s rich heritageKnight said. “His abilities not only as Hudson & Allen can be seen in places as he takes the helm, Ken looks forwardGM but as creative director are already such as the Museum of Alabama and to shaping great things to come in thefostering a new excitement. With Ken’s Michigan’s Monroe County Historical future like what else but a truly talentedknowledge and passion, I believe everyone Museum, where a re-creation of Custer’s sculptor undertaking his next great artisticwill be pleased with our new direction.” Last Stand is on display. The Osen family challenge. business was also behind full-scale, life- May 7 was Ken’s first day in his cast mannequins at the Pamplin Historical “W. Britain has a great product at greatnew multifaceted role at the toy soldier Park and the National Museum of the prices,” Ken noted. “We also already have acompany’s headquarters in Peosta, Iowa, Civil War Soldier in Virginia, as well great team that is very professional. We’reUSA. When I first caught up with him, as the River Raisin National Battlefield only going to get better!”he was in the midst of hitting the ground Park in Michigan, scene of the Battle ofrunning by picking up the telephone and Frenchtown during the War of 1812. --Stuart A. Hessney reaching out to everyone from sales andmarketing-related folks to production “Accuracy is incredibly important to Ken Osen’s personal favorite sculpts include thesefacilities, distributors, and dealers. He me,” Ken emphasized. “I always want to prototypes depicting wounded Union artillery Lt.was also making plans to relocate his get things right.” Alonzo Cushing being held up by 1st Sgt. Frederickfamily from Michigan to Iowa, and taking Fuger during the defense of Cemetery Ridge againsteverything right in stride. When it comes to our hobby, Ken’s Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg July 3, 1863. proven track record has included sculpting “I’ve been with First Gear and W. figures and designing accessories forBritain since day one and we resurrected companies such as Barzso Playsets,the brand from the dead,” Ken said. “I Corgi, Ertl, Old Northwest Trading Co.,already know the ropes, so dealers and Troiani Historical Miniatures and Valiantcollectors can rest assured that we’re going Miniatures. As W. Britain’s master sculptorto conduct business as usual while always for the past eight years, he estimates thatstriving to improve.” he has designed an impressive average of 140 figures yearly. It’s quite apparent that Ken is a walking encyclopedia of he loves the research and creativity thathistory and military uniform details right goes into each and every project.down to knowing how many buttons aparticular type of tunic should have. He is Asked if he plans to continue sculpting,also an avid living history enthusiast and Ken enthusiastically replied, “Absolutely!re-enactor. I’m a hands-on guy. I wouldn’t have taken this job if I couldn’t keep doing some His background includes serving as a sculpting.”police officer, where he says he gained alevel-headed understanding of the real Ken has been assigned a full-timeworld, how a chain of command works administrative assistant. In addition, sales,and discipline. He also worked in dental marketing and distribution staff are being hired in expansion moves at the company headquarters. “As promised, I have made a commitment to this brand,” Knight said. W. Britain’s parent company, First Gear, has an excellent reputation for making high-quality, die-cast replicas of vehicles. First Gear was founded in 1992 by Knight, who gained an appreciation of military miniatures while working for former U.S. toy manufacturer Louis Marx & Co. The creative team behind W. Britain includes sculptors Alan Ball and Graham Scollick. Master figures are painted by Ted Deddens, Wendy Rafalski, Chip Rembert, Dave Youngquist and Ken Osen. Allen Colclough and Chris Mrosco work as TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 9

K&C COLLECTOR FEATURES MEDICS, CAVALRY, HOME GUARD AND MORE U.S. Army Cavalry and medics, The cover features an illustration Had It Coming!” and “Fighting thetelevision’s “Dad’s Army,” and more of World War II U.S. Army medics in Longknives.”appear in King & Country Collector combat as well as a 1:30-scale, matt-No. 38/Summer 2013. finished replication of that artwork titled K&C’s recently released WWII “Blood Transfusion” (ref. DD210). It and British Home Guard figures star in anABOVE: The latest K&C Collector pays a companion set titled “The Rescue” (ref. article titled “The Blitz” and centered DD209) were expected to be unveiled at around the TV comedy series “Dad’stribute to military medics and more. the Texas 2013 Toy Soldier Show during Army.” Andy C. Neilson, company Memorial Day weekend. cofounder and creative director, related that several of the figures are dedicated These medic sets mark the launch to the show’s talented group of actors, of a series designed to benefit two creators and writers. charities that aid wounded veterans: Help for Heroes in Great Britain and History and K&C products are U.S.-based Operation Comfort. Both combined in several other WWII- sets are available exclusively from K&C’s era articles, including “Der Fuhrer’s own Kings X Toy Soldiers shop in San Wheels,” “Fifty Shades of Feldgrau,” Antonio, Texas, USA (see this edition’s “P51D-Day Mustangs” and “Arnhem.” “Prize Exercise” for more details and a Peeks into the past also spotlight chance to win them). ancient Egyptian papyrus boats, the Napoleonic French 7th Cuirassiers, and Kings X will also be the exclusive Australian Light Horse troops battling outlet for a half-dozen new releases based Ottoman Turks during the Great War. on the U.S. Cavalry of the Old West and film director John Ford’s “Cavalry Trilogy.” As usual, many of the toy soldier The dismounted figures, including an items are shown in wonderful diorama officer who closely resembles actor John settings created by Andy’s brother, Wayne, were also scheduled to debut at Gordon C. Neilson of the K&C the Texas show. Workshop. Free copies of the quarterly publication are available from the In a related vein, K&C cavalrymen and manufacturer and its dealers. Indians illustrate articles called “Custer --Stuart A. HessneyW. BRITAIN COMMEMORATES 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF DAMBUSTERS RAIDDetails about the British Royal Air Force’s The Memorial Flight performed in Iowa, a look at some auction results by“Dambusters” and other inspirations for another Derwent flypast to mark the raid’s David Brown and George Phillips’ reportW. Britain releases abound in the latest 70th anniversary May 16, 2013. on a club event staged in London duringedition of The Standard. December 2012. Elsewhere, expert James Opie marks My new product reviews in TS&MF the 120th anniversary of W. Britain toy Published quarterly, The Standard isissue 181 included “RAF 617 Squadron: soldier production by sharing the story the exclusive journal of the W. BritainThe Dambusters 70th Anniversary behind the very first British Life Guards Collectors Club.Commemorative Set, 1943” (ref. 25017). trotted out in 1893. This bit of hobbyIt comes with seven figures, the tail end of detective work, which was extracted from --Stuart A. Hessneya Lancaster bomber fuselage and a scenic his forthcoming book “The History anddisplay base. The fliers include a portrayal Handbook of Britains Toy Soldiers,” helps ABOVE: W. Britain commemorates the 70thof Wing Cmdr. Guy Gibson, who led the spotlight new commemorative cavalryWorld War II mission. replicas. anniversary of the “Dambusters” raid in The Standard. That set dovetails with an article in the Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col.February 2013 edition of The Standard Dick Camp provides historical contextpenned by retired Squadron Leader Stuart for W. Britain’s new Museum CollectionG. Reid, BSc RAF. He delivers a stirring figure in a green coat and gray trousers:account of the daring mission. Reid “U.S. Marine, 1833” (ref. 1833). Craigalso recounts how he personally piloted Appleton covers the World War I Germana Lancaster during a 65th anniversary MC08/15 and a circa 1916 machine gunflypast over England’s Derwent Dam to section set (ref. 23041).commemorate training sorties flown by617 Squadron bomber crews for their The Toy Soldier Museum’s James H.1943 raid into Nazi Germany. Hillestad marks the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War’s Battle of “Of all the events that I, as a pilot Chancellorsville in an article titled “Lee’sof the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Master Stroke” and illustrated with recentMemorial Flight Lancaster B1 PA474, figures. This is complemented by Colinhave participated, the commemorations Romanick’s account of a tour of theof celebrated major Allied operations battlefield in Virginia.that took place during the Second WorldWar are among the most important and Other highlights include Elijahpoignant,” Reid wrote. Collins’ essay about his summer 2012 internship at the W. Britain headquarters10 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE



One-hundred and twenty years ago No.18064 No.20123William Britain and his son decided tocraft a better metal toy soldier. They AMERICAN REVOLUTION ZULU WARmade it fully round, about 3” inchestall (it was a mounted Life Guard), Iroquois Warrior Standing “A Pistol Indeed” 24th Foot Privateand hollow. Not only was it a more Firing on the Move No.1 Firing Pistol andrealistic toy soldier, it was much moreeconomical to make. It did not take No.44062 Dead 24th Foot Officerlong for them to corner the market,pushing out the then dominate REDCOATSGerman makers. British Infantry King’s 8thFirst Gear is very lucky to have been a Regiment of Foot, Ensign withsteward of this great name for the lasteight years. We will continue to care King’s Colour, War of 1812for the brand and grow it in a mannerthat would have made William Britainproud. Thank you for the first 120years of playing with and collectingW. Britain figures.No.23031 No.31207 No.36112 WORLD WAR I AMERICAN CIVIL WAR NAPOLEONIC 1916 British Regimental Aid Post “Decisive Day” Confederate British 44th Foot Regiment Set No.1, Doctor, Orderly and Generals Lee, Ewell and Early with Battalion Company Ensign with Wounded Private Lee’s Headquarters Flag Regimental Colous No.1 The figures above are just a small sampling of historical ranges that W. Britain produces.The figures shown and the entire W. Britain product line can be purchased from the retailers listed below: Green’s Collectables Tedtoy Miniatures Chester’s Hunting The History Store Tel: 973-627-4961 Tel: 270-929-2876 & Fishing Tel: 740-775-7400 www.tedtoy.com 101 North Paint St. www.greenscollectables.com 1301 Walnut Street Tel: 631-738-6991 Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 46 Warren Trail e-mail: [email protected] www.thehistorystore.net Owensboro, Kentucky 42301 [email protected] Denville, New Jersey 07834 232 Ronkonkoma Ave. Hobby Bunker Ronkonkoma, New York 11779 Toy Soldier Shoppe Dutkins’ Collectables Tel: 781-321-8855 Tel: 414-302-1850 Tel: 800-LIL-ARM Fax: 781-321-8866 Treefrog Treasures Fax: 414-302-1851 (800-545-2769) www.hobbybunker.com Tel: 866-394-2418 Fax: 856-428-9640 33 Exchange Street www.toysoldiershoppe.net www.dutkins.com Malden, Massachusetts 02148 Outside U.S.: 1-507-545-2500 3775 S. 108th St. 1019 West Route 70 www.treefrogtreasures.com The Historian 248 Sandstone Drive NW Greenfield, Wisconsin 53228Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002 Tel: 717-685-5207 Eyota, Minnesota 55934 Sierra Toy Soldier 42 York Street Last Cavalry Hisorical For more information visit Tel: 408-395-3000 Gettysburg, PA 17325 Toys & Hobbies Fax: 408-358-3966 Tel: 855-527-8228 www.wbritain.com www.lastcavalry.com www.sierratoysoldier.com are registered trademarks of First Gear, Inc., Peosta, IA 29 N. Santa Cruz Ave. 1418 East Fourth Stree Royal Oak, MI 48067Los Gatos, California 95030 FIRST GEAR®, design, W. Britain®, andWBA1613 ©2013 FIRST GEAR, INC.

TEDTOY Sierra Toy Soldier Company MINIATURES This Summer in the San Francisco Bay Area (www.tedtoy.com) we have Toy Soldiers and the ‘America’s Cup’.New from John Jenkins Designs, What a perfect time to visit us! Eddie Rickenbacker’s SPAD We look forward to seeing you soon! TEDTOY MINIATURE FEATURES: Visit Our store, In person Or Online For The Largest Selection Of Toy Soldiers! Monarch Regalia, WBritain, First Legion,John Jenkins, Figarti, Collectors Showcase, 29 N. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030 del Prado and, of course, Tedtoy Toll Free (866) 869-7653 International (408) 395-3000 Fax (408) 395-3006www.tedtoy.com 107 W.3rd St. 270-929-2876 Owensboro, KY 42301 www.sierratoysoldier.com SOLD HERE Toy Soldier is available around the world Featuring Kronprinzfrom any of the specialist shops listed below NP 216 AVAILABLE IN Michigan Toy Soldier LUTZOW THE USA FROM: 1406 E. 11 Mile Road, FREIKORPS Royal Oak, MI 48067 CHARGING 1 Hobby Bunker 33 Exchange Street, The History Store NP 217 Malden, MA 02148 101 North Paint Street, LUTZOW Chillicothe, OH 45601 FREIKORPS Sierra Toy Soldier Co. CHARGING 215466 Los Gatos Blvd. #108, Toy Troops 7561 Center Ave. #17, Napoleonic Prussians • French • Bavarians Los Gatos, CA 95032 Huntington Beach, CA Russians • British • American Civil War Joseph Saine AVAILABLE IN Thirty Years War • Seven Years War • World War II 628 Dixie Highway, CANADA FROM: 35 Pilgrim Village Road, Unit 902, Taunton MA 02780 Rossford, OH 43460 Scott J. Dummitt Presents tel: 617-462-5431 email: [email protected] The Toy Soldier Shoppe 1754 Carmel Line, Bailieboro, 3775 S 108th St. www.mmtoysoldiers.com (HWY 100), Ontario, Canada K0L 1B0 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 13 Greenfield. WI 53228 Maitland Toy Soldier Shoppe 108 Victoria St. South, Troops of Time Goderich, Ontario 1602 Copeland Street, Canada N7A 3H9 Jacksonville, FL 32204If you wish to see Toy Soldier &Model Figure magazines in your area,please encourage your favorite shopto call and order at 1-866-606-6587 or507-634-3143.We are also available in all UK newsagents

Military history & miniaturesGermans from the studio of Andrey Vachrushev depict an adjutant of the 17th Brunswick Hussar Regiment, 1915; the King AugustGuards Grenadier Regiment, 1916; a lieutenant of 18th Dragoon Regiment, 1914; an “unteroffizier” of the 6th Bavarian Reserve KaiserWilhelm Konig Prussian Regiment, 1915 (a perfect representation of the sculptor himself); and Gross Admiral Prince of Prussia HeinrichAlbert Wilhelm Hohenzollern, 1914 (from left).World War I’sFall of EaglesThe AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection’s Thor Johnson examineshow events surrounding the Great War led to the downfall of atrio of `Eagle Dynasties’ in EuropeText: Thor Johnson  Photos: Lawrence WadbrookAugust 2014 will mark the 100th not only as a toy soldier collector and to me that in the same century of my anniversary of the outbreak of producer, but as a participant in the 20th “modern” life, a war was fought with World War I, which at the time was and 21st centuries -- living the bulk of my spiked helmets, plumes, more horses than motorized vehicles, and militarycalled the Great War. life in the second half of the 20th century. strategies that owed more to the 18th orI find this war and period fascinating, Consequently, it is almost inconceivableAeroArt German figures of an officer leading a charge by infantrymen from the Bavarian 112th Regiment in 1914.14 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Military history & miniaturesGerman military men, including a 3rd Regiment of Uhlans officer, 1915; an adjutant to Kaiser Wilhelm II, 1914; Gen. Erich vonFalkenhayem, 1915; a Schleswig-Holstein Uhlan Regiment lieutenant, 1914; and Vice Adm. Wilhelm von Souchon, 1914 (from left).These figures are from the studio of Andrey Vachrushev.19th centuries than the 20th. developments created new jobs. Lieutenant of The Great War and elements leading Political changes were also taking the German Fusilier Guardup to it are like plot lines from adventure place, with democratic movementsnovels such as “The Prisoner of Zenda” increasingly entering national governance.  holding hisor “The Four Feathers” and their movie Mauser pistoladaptations. It’s hard to imagine pristine Despite all the innovations, most and signaling hisand colorful uniforms running or riding European countries were still ruled by the men into action.into battle in 1914. Equally unbelievable great ancestral families in 1914. The most This figure waswas the rapid degeneration of the visible, flamboyant and vulnerable of these produced byconflict into a stalemate and a war of families were the “Eagle Dynasties,” soattrition which no one seemed able named for the eagle symbolism in their AeroArt.to halt. national and family identities.   In Germany, the Hohenzollern family ruled with their German Imperial eagle.1914: THE SETTING The two-headed eagle of the HapsburgIn the first decade of the 20th century, dynasty had governed Austria for fiveWestern Europe found itself at peace centuries.and bustling with new advances in everydirection. In Russia, a two-headed eagle borrowed from Byzantium had been the Automobiles, airplanes, paved symbol of the Romanovs for 300 years.roads and factories with machines thatcould make everything from fabrics to It is one of history’s great tragediesfurniture proliferated. Most importantly that at this critical time men of limitedto the ever-increasing population, these ability held national power positions in these three Eagle Dynasties. TheirAeroArt items depicting Germany’s 30th Field Artillery Regiment with a caisson and a 7.7-cm Feldkanone 96, the standard cannon used. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 15

Military history & miniaturesAeroArt figures of Crown Prince Wilhelm, the very able German soldiers by AeroArt portraying a 17thcommander of the German 5th Army in hussar uniform; and his Infantry Division general loading his Luger pistol andfather, Kaiser Wilhelm II, in field uniform in 1915 (from left). Field Marshal August von Mackenson (from left).individual shortcomings were major “Iron Chancellor.” Along with having Hohenzollern eagle had fallen. Germanycontributors to the imbroglio that led unified the various German states under was severely punished by the victoriousto the Great War. a Prussian King, he was also a strong Allied powers. counterbalance to the emerging power ofGERMANY’S KAISER the German army’s General Staff. In an   1890 test of wills, Kaiser Wilhelm firedEmperor of Germany and King of Prussia Bismarck and henceforth surrounded AUSTRIA-HUNGARYWilhelm II ascended the German eagle himself with toadies and sycophants.throne in 1888 upon the death of his father, Franz Joseph I, the Emperor of Austria,Frederick III (who had ruled a scant 90 During the ensuing years without King of Bohemia, King of Croatia anddays before dying of cancer). Wilhelm was Bismarck, the General Staff increased their King of Hungry, ascended the throne of29 years old when he became the Kaiser. power. By 1916, Field Marshal Paul von the polyglot Austro-Hungarian Empire inHe was impetuous, vainglorious, arrogant Hindenburg and Gen. Erich Ludendorff December 1848. An ardent monarchist andand obsessed with Prussian militarism. became the virtual military dictators protector of the status quo, Franz Joseph of Germany. The Kaiser was relegated devoted his entire life to the perpetuity of Wilhelm inherited a German Empire to the role of a figurehead through the the Hapsburg dynasty and empire.that had been unified and expanded by machinations of his generals.Count Otto von Bismarck during the reigns While ill-equipped for the modernof his father and grandfather. Bismarck was In 1918, with WWI lost by the world assaulting his ancient sovereignclearly the most brilliant, arrogant, cunning Central Powers, the Kaiser was forced to prerogatives, he also did not lack for tragedyand versatile statesman in German history. abdicate and accept exile in Holland. The in his personal life. His first child, a daughter, died in infancy. His son, Crown Prince Bismarck gained the nickname Rudolph, and his mistress committedAeroArt figures of Gen. Erich Ludendorf and Field Circa 1914 German figures from AeroArt of Gen. Alexander vonMarshal Paul von Hindenburg (from left). They Kluck, the competent commander of the 1st Army; and Countbecame the virtual rulers of Germany by 1916. Zeppelin, a general and airship industry innovator (from left).16 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Military history & miniaturesAustria’s army Chief of Staff Count Konrad von Hotzendorf Grenada Studio figures of Austrianand Colonel General Archduke Habsburg-Toskana (from left). infantrymen posed with a rifle andThese circa 1914 figures are from the Vachrushev Studio. drinking from a canteen.suicide in 1889.The Empress Elisabeth was Serbian anarchist in Sarajevo June 28, these mutual defense arrangements wouldmurdered by an Italian anarchist in 1898. 1914. The extreme response by Emperor adversely affect Austria given her militant Franz Joseph and his army Chief of the and unreasonable stand toward Serbia. To further contribute to Franz Joseph’s General Staff Conrad von Hötzendorf todistress was the humiliation his empire the tragic assassination in Bosnia provoked The old Austrian Emperor, with hissuffered at the hands of the German army and quickly proceeded into the Great War. myopic view of the world in 1914, was agewhen his forces were defeated in 1866. 86 when he died Nov. 21, 1916, with hisBismarck had provoked this conflict, It is hard to understand Marshal von army in tatters and his empire indenturedknown to history as the Seven Weeks’ Hötzendorf ’s desire to go to war, even with to his German ally. Franz Joseph wasWar, as another means of consolidating the concurrence of the German General succeeded by his nephew, Charles I ofthe German states into a national union. Staff, as he knew Austria was not ready Austria. As the last Emperor of AustriaBismarck finished the task of uniting nor equipped for such an undertaking. The and King of Hungary, he witnessed theGermany with the Franco-Prussian War multilingual Austrian army was still in the end of 500 years of Habsburg rule and theof 1870-71. These events caused a shift throes of its 1912 order for reorganization demise of the dynastic eagle.toward Prussian-led hegemony in the and modernization.German-speaking world, much to the  disquiet of Austria. Further Franz Joseph should have been aware of the many bilateral defense IMPERIAL RUSSIA The heir to the Austrian-Hungarian treaties and national self-interest elementsthrone, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and that abounded in this period in countries The 300-year-old Eagle Dynasty of thehis wife, Sophie, were assassinated by a on the periphery of his empire. All of Russian Romanovs was turned over to Nicholas Alexandrovich Romanov -- Czar Nicholas II -- in 1894.Russia’s Lt. Gen. Count Fyodor Keller from the Circa 1918 communist commissar bought by ThorGrenada Studio (left) and an infantryman by Johnson in a Russian outdoor market in 1992 and oneAndrey Bleskin. of the Czar’s bodyguards by Andrey Bleskin (from left). TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 17

Military history & miniatures Austrian hussar of 1914 by Grenada Studio. Czar Nicholas II presents a Faberge egg to Czarina Alexandra. This vignette was released by AeroArt in 1997. Circa 1914 The 26-year-old Nicholas was the son of based most of her recommendations to heraviation adjutant the stern and unyielding autocrat Alexander husband on advice from the malevolent II. He had counseled his son never to quasi-monk Rasputin, whom she believed to Austrian surrender any of his Czarist prerogatives had mystical powers and provided Emperor Franz or authority to the emerging trends toward infallible counsel.Joseph from the democracy. Seldom if ever, as historystudio of Andrey would confirm, was there a young ruler less When WWI came, it offered an equipped for the heavy responsibility that opportunity to correct past sins. The Vachrushev. Russia’s Nicholas II inherited. country as a whole came to support the Czar in the war with the Germans. Russia entering the 20th century was Patriotism was at an all-time high. seething with unrest. The task ahead of the Nicholas had a chance at reform. new Czar would have taxed the skills and powers of the most able of rulers, which The opportunity was lost. Corruption he clearly was not. Nicholas disliked and by military suppliers and governmental avoided life at court and dealing with the incompetence quickly brought ruin to myriad administrative requirements of the the brave Russian army. In 1915, upon nation. the advice of his strong-willed Empress, Nicholas replaced the very highly regarded Corruption in government was endemic. commander of the army, his uncle the When able politicians were encountered, Grand Duke Nikolai, with himself. they were invariably eliminated. Nicholas Nicholas was even less capable of being an was virtually incapable of selecting the right army commander than he was as a Czar. course for important decisions. By 1917, Russian military losses To further compound the difficulties were catastrophic. Food shortages were for the Russian ship of state, the Czar rampant. Where corruption didn’t exist, relied heavily on advice from his wife, the incompetence did. formidable Czarina Alexandra. She in turn Food riots in St. Petersburg becameGerman Imperial eagle artwork by Two-headed eagle of Austria’s Hapsburgs Artwork by Thor Johnson depicting theThor Johnson. as illustrated by Thor Johnson.  two-headed eagle of Russia’s Romanovs.18 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Military history & miniaturesmore volatile. The Czar, as he had in a   As our St. Petersburg Collection1905 insurrection, decided to turn the product line grew and flourished,military on the desperate and hungry HISTORY IN MINIATURE I commissioned a variety of paintedcitizens. The soldiers, instead, turned their metal miniatures from various timeguns on their officers and the country While working in Russia in 1992,  periods. One of the advantages of owningroiled into revolution. I initiated The AeroArt St. Petersburg a company that produces toy soldiers is Collection to develop and market a really the ability to have figures made that appeal The weak and incompetent Czar was fine product that I had encountered during to my personal interests.forced to abdicate, becoming a prisoner my tenure there: beautifully crafted toyof the revolutionaries. A provisional soldiers. Occasionally, however, personalgovernment was formed under Alexander interest figures do not respond to marketKerensky. This was followed by a second Throughout my many days of perusing demands. Such has been the case forrevolution led by Lenin Bolsheviks. the local marketplace looking for and at St. Petersburg Collection figures issued the variety of miniature figures emerging representative of the Great War. While The Romanov eagle had fallen. All that from the small, private studios, I found through the years we have cautiouslyremained to be done was the elimination many pieces from the WWI period released figures from WWI, they have notof the Imperial family. Nicholas, his wife as well as the subsequent communist enjoyed continuous robust sales despiteand five children were murdered by the revolution. Some of these 54-mm figures their beauty and accuracy.Bolsheviks in July 1918. are illustrated with this article. Miniatures from the war that virtually By 1918, the three legendary Eagle “Falling Eagle” illustration created modern warfare with its transitionDynasties were gone and their famous by Anna Novikova. of aircraft, tanks, machine guns andarmies melted into the fabric of the new automobiles have not yet achieved thenations that survived them. cachet and popularity of World War II or even the Anglo-Zulu Wars. Perhaps the Great War’s 100th anniversary will revive justified interest, emphasis and attention from collectors. n Stadden figure of the stern and autocratic Czar Alexander III, father of the ill-fated Nicholas II. about the writer Thor Johnson is a former vice president of Pan Am who started The AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection to apply his business acumen to his interest in history and connoisseur figures. His personal library reveals his passion for reading, aviation, art, coins, currency, Hollywood Golden Age films and more. One of his favorite sayings is: “Collections are a sign of a civilized man!”  TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 19

When Visiting Florida Make Sure You Stop By! A Toy Soldier Shop and Military Gallery SHOP OPENING HOURS: Monday - Friday 10:30am - 5:30pm Saturday by Appointment King & Country • John Jenkins First Legion • Thomas Gunn W. Britain... and a host of others!Minutes from I-10 and I-95 • 1602 Copeland Street • Jacksonville, Fl 32204Toll Free: 1-866-601-8192 • [email protected] • www.troopsoftime.com Get your tablet app! To download your FREE app today, simply search for ‘Toy Soldier and Model Figure’ in the Apple App store or on Google Play for the Android Market.20 HTaOlfYPaSgOeTLDSMIEFR_&PoMckOetDMEaLgAFIdG.iUndRdE 1 5/21/13 4:50 PM

Toy Soldier & ModelFigure now availablefor your Nook atBarnes & Noble’s For more information or to order, please visit www.craft-club.com Looking for Williamsburg, Virginia a way to promote Holiday Inn Patriot your business? 3032 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185If you’re seeing this ad, it’s working! Admission still only $5! A military extravaganza with something for everyoneYou cou4l3d028be here next issue... – kids, adults and collectors. make our readers your customers! Call 866-606-6587 Or Call: (703)639-7316 Email [email protected] 43034wA43l05a0lTloYAoobtykooiaTnprgrdro!ofoomprostae theSMoladTiioteylrSaonSlddhieorTMpoupyseeumYour business?ePrOdUCT CdEeaoSrmlCotrefIPHdTueInOBtN~ienagBudfooinrltlMMoMtouhunnuitteIsefdedaysdoin,ui’gtr’e~$$srP33er99sTwI.A.C99eIe8l8oerikn$P$S2i2rgA66nI..lC99e5ge5 ! Canada’s ptSloaeuecro.e.u. rwfoawrlwl-Tn.toehwye-twSoyeo-blssdoitliedeiarenrs.dc!ovmideoCOde Earl of Oxford $39.98 $26.9541089 $15.0041090 $14.50 41091 $14.50 17278 You could beLRoorydalCMoran7rwina5ellMi6s a1rchiCngenter Av$$11e88..5000$14.50 108 VOicnttoarrii•ao,S3Ct,ra0en0eat0dSasoNquut7haA,rGe3oHfed9eetriocfh,dazzling0 43028 here next issueOld WorldU.S. Marine Marching0 430345 43050 Scots Guard Colour Bearer -0 43081 QVueielnlsag$$11e88..0000 $16.00 Tel: (5d1i9sp) l5a2y4s-6a8n0d4 dioramas Blues & RoyalMs FaaSrkrieehr Moouopurntr1eed7ader$s20y.0o0ur customers! Less than two hourEsmail: in•[email protected] and banners $O$75rd50e..r00v11Ha--$$lu17ue15S0hn$ip1tp3CCi.in5ng0aAc$sghl1al0art9.g98roe52sa6n@66-4B6a7e0s$O$h6a11rd15-dec006r.ov0ah5an1wld-u8$,ea1S7nb5ho0i.vpocepirong.ec$uFh1mRa5krE.g9Eea5s il e Shipping charges fcPraholilmlaJiNdmeelwpHhYiilaolw.erskWtawardintedfwoorr .to•ytHosasonhodlwdsocimaeseerdysios.upcrlaocyomlfluercntiiotnure0 $6.9550 $8.95 (714) 883-0700 directions and hours. • Vintage prints and books (only available to US & Canada residents) 5C173r40es.3c6o2P,9aP.r7Aa2d12i87se32F6allHgs liogshs•ltyAEoduydtewhsteoaanrlitdilceiiaedVnricgsutaonfrolilifraeornrcmyoaslnq,ldeucatloitrys jimhill @ ptd.net medals and memorabilia. King & Country Thomas Gunn Britains GFerotnotnlinbeoard withmodel -rail r oad. t vkLiniWgtt&lBerLCiteoa&guiinonntmry anySoMtpomeonnS–rioRnFeugrreiehbn1ot0ousiOarrmWcse:l–rddo5i,pppmeNt,niSoea6ntw1ds0,aamyasS–nt4aadpmWr.teinekg!aJleoxhoVantBlndrJedliaaesnedcnmrwokiiknttrhigtonaaehycCwwdibSokreleo,s:saltisdgwinfeirttwe-ac:w3(Gs4l7wur1.7elbt4o5weo).n3wScywf0.io2et1al.-r0md1Tos8,8tooW5h$t0ypSIo-4st5T.s,3@r52iovg28eon( rUpuiszKp.ocnto£o.mnd2ea4ty)!www.model-railroad.tvand others. CHoTa Bai aNd www.toysoldiershoppe.net THE WaTER Boy [email protected] 4835 Hickory Valley Rd, Heiskell, TN 37754 Tel: 1 865 745 1080 Email: [email protected] www.somersetltd.com TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 21

Military history & ceremonyBattle of YorkBicentennialScott J. Dummitt delivers a report on Canadian commemorative events that included a visitby Prince Philip and a military paradeText: Scott J. Dummitt Photos: Guy ElliottAsunrise ceremony held by incurred when the British blew up the since 1953. He takes the responsibility descendants of First Nations gunpowder magazine at Fort York before very seriously. warriors kicked off various Toronto retreating to Kingston, Ont.events April 27, 2013, commemorating Prince Philip had arrived from thethe 200th anniversary of the Battle of American forces occupied the small United Kingdom in Toronto the previousYork. town for about six days. Before they day. The Duke was presented with the departed, they torched the Parliament Order of Canada and the Order of Garry Sault, an elder of the buildings and looted homes in York. The Military Merit by Governor GeneralMississaugas of the New Credit First British rebuilt Fort York. In retaliation, David Johnston.Nation, led the 6 a.m. ceremony staged they marched on Washington, D.C., andaround a fire pit at the Palais Royale, not burned the White House and U.S. Capitol  far from where American troops landed Aug. 24, 1814. MILITARY PARADE“Soldiers, sailors and Air Force personnel dressedin ceremonial uniforms, 13 military bands and a When ceremonies ended aroundmounted troop made up the largest military parade 11:30 a.m., a military parade began toseen in Canada since the Second World War.” honor the Battle of York Bicentennial and those who died in the clash. Theon the Canadian shore of Lake Ontario ROYAL COLONEL 1,700 marchers included men and womenApril 27, 1813, during the War of 1812. serving in both regular Canadian Forces A “dynamic military display” began at units and reserve establishments from all The invasion force consisted of 14 9 a.m. on the south lawn of Queen’s Park, over the Province of Ontario.vessels, 1,800 soldiers and 800 Marines. site of the Ontario Legislative Building.In a six-hour battle, they overwhelmed the For an onlooker, it took aboutdefenders of York, as Toronto was known It was followed an hour later by the 40 minutes for the impressive parade toback then, including about 90 tribesmen presentation of a new set of regimental pass by. The participants marched along awho fought alongside 300 Upper Canada colours to the 3rd Battalion, The Royal 5-kilometer route through the city frommilitia and 300 British Army troops. Canadian Regiment, by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of BELOW LEFT: The 3rd Battalion, The Numbers vary depending on the Edinburgh. The military ceremony Royal Canadian Regiment, on parade aftersource, but the British side suffered about included a 21-gun salute. the presentation of new colours by Prince201 killed, wounded or missing. American Philip.casualties totaled 321, with many of them The 91-year-old Duke has been the   honorary colonel-in-chief of the regiment BELOW RIGHT: Royal Canadian Regiment soldiers were resplendent in ceremonial white Wolseley helmets with scarlet puggarees, scarlet tunics and blue trousers.22 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

RIGHT: Mounted troop of the Governor Military history & ceremonyGeneral’s Horse Guards. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 23BELOW RIGHT: Band of the GovernorGeneral’s Horse Guards.Queen’s Park, down University Avenue,across Richmond Street and downPortland Street past the War of 1812monument. Soldiers, sailors and Air Forcepersonnel dressed in ceremonial uniforms,13 military bands and a mounted troopmade up the largest military parade seenin Canada since the Second World War. Some of the units representedincluded the Royal Canadian Regiment,Governor General’s Horse Guards, 48thHighlanders of Canada, Toronto ScottishRegiment, Royal Canadian Navy (HMCSYork), Royal Regiment of Canada, Essexand Kent Scottish, Lorne Scots, Queen’sOwn Rifles, Queen’s York Rangers, andToronto Signals. A Royal CanadianArtillery contingent was accompanied by atractor-drawn 105-mm howitzer in placeof colours in accordance with tradition. The parade culminated at Fort YorkArmoury, which houses the Queen’s YorkRangers Museum; and the adjoininghistoric Fort York, where military vehicleswere on display and ceremonies honoringFirst Nation people who fought for theCrown were conducted. The parade was a toy solder andmilitary enthusiast’s delight as theceremonial uniforms represented the bestof both the present and past of Canada’smilitary. nRIGHT: Governor General’s HorseGuards personnel march through Toronto. BELOW RIGHT: The 48th Highlandersof Canada help commemorate the Battleof York Bicentennial.about the writer Scott J. Dummitt has been TS&MF’s “1/6th Army” columnist for a number of years. He retired from the Royal Canadian Navy after 25 years of service. He is an avid collector of action figures and toy soldiers. He is also the proprietor of Scott J. Dummitt Presents, which sells 1/6th- scale action figures and accessories. In addition, he produces 54-mm toy soldiers representing Canadian units. Scott serves as president of the Ontario Model Soldier Society. He was preceded as OMSS president by photographer Guy Elliott.

History & collectingWar of 1812In MiniatureScott Ryan takes a sneak peek at W. Britain figuresin the works exclusively for a Canadian dealerText: Scott Ryan Photos: W. BritainIwas recently fortunate enough to get during the American Revolutionary ABOVE: Prototype of a sneak peek at prototypes of British War. It was engaged in the Battle of The a British 8th Foot ensign soldiers from the War of 1812 being Cedars in May 1776 and the attack on with the regimentalproduced by W. Britain exclusively for Fort Stanwix in August 1777, plus various colours being madethe Scott J. Dummitt Presents shop in other clashes throughout the Mohawk exclusively for Scott J.Bailieboro, Ont., Canada. Valley, Ohio Valley, Great Lakes and St. Dummitt Presents. Lawrence River regions. Proprietor Scott J. Dummitt wanted RIGHT: W. Britain’sto be able offer figures that would find The 8th Foot returned to Britain in prototypes include aa common interest with collectors in 1785. But was sent back to Canada in British 8th Foot NCO.Canada, the United States and Great 1809 as tensions rose between GreatBritain. His solution was to come up with Britain and the United States. When about the writersomething representing the War of 1812. War of 1812 hostilities commenced, the regiment’s 1st Battalion was garrisoned Scott Ryan is a Canadian Army   at Quebec while the 2nd Battalion was sergeant with 34 years of military stationed in Halifax Nova Scotia. experience. He has served throughoutPICKING THE UNIT Canada, on several United Nations “The King’s” did not see action until deployments, in Germany and inBicentennial events are currently being the winter of 1812-13, when 150 men Afghanistan. He is a member of theheld throughout the eastern areas of of the regiment were part of a force that Ontario Model Soldier Society. He isCanada and the United States recognizing crossed the frozen St. Lawrence River a keen collector of 54-mm figure toythe significance of the war in both nations’ at Prescott, Upper Canada, and soldiers by W. Britain and 1/6th-scalehistories and the lasting peace between successfully attacked the American figures. His main interests are Britishthem since the end of that conflict. Scott’s defenses at Ogdensburg, N.Y. The North America from 1755 to 1812only problem was choosing a regiment to regiment also saw action at York and the American Civil War.replicate in miniature. (Toronto), Fort George, Stoney Creek, Beaver Dams, Chippawa, Lundy’s Lane W. Britain had already produced and Fort Erie.wonderful British 27th Regiment of Footfigures in 2012 for the Military History For its exemplary service while inWeekend (regimental colour ensign) and Canada, the 8th Foot was granted thethe W. Britain Collectors Club’s London battle honour “Niagara” to be displayedevent (King’s colour ensign), plus two on its regimental colours. Both battalionsadditional figures for club members. As a returned to Great Britain after the war inresult, Scott asked then W. Britain General 1815.Manager Richard Walker if the same groupcould be used to portray the 8th Regiment  of Foot (The King’s) circa 1814. CLASSIC REDCOATS Growing up as a youngster in Toronto,Scott had seen re-enactors representing Scott currently serves as president of thethis regiment at Fort York. It was one Ontario Model Soldier Society. He hopesof the first British regiments to wear to unveil his pair of exclusive toy soldiersthe Belgic shako in North America. A at the 2013 On Parade, the organization’sdecision was made to go with 54-mm annual show and competition scheduledpainted metal figures of an NCO and an for Sept. 7 at Fort York. Scott plans to sellensign with the regimental colours. the NCO for $25 and the standard-bearer for $35 CDN.   In addition, Scott’s exclusive pieces areNO STRANGER expected to be reinforced in an upcoming W. Britain catalog by 8th Foot figuresFirst formed as Princess Anne of of an officer, private and ensign with theDenmark’s Regiment in 1685, the regiment King’s colour. All of these figures werewas eventually named the King’s Regiment designed by new W. Britain Generalin 1715 in honor of British King George I. Manager and Creative Director KennethIn 1751, the regiment was redesignated as Osen. They will be attractively painted inthe 8th Regiment of Foot, but held on to its the traditional gloss style as part of theearlier title of “The King’s.” brand’s Redcoats Classic Collection. n No stranger to North America, theregiment was first garrisoned in Canada24 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

King & Country- Opel MaultierFlakwagen –LW032Store Hours: King & Country • WBritainTuesday – Friday Little Legion • John Jenkins Design10am – 5pm Alexander Toy Soldier • First LegionSaturday Black Hawk and others.10am – 4pmClosed: www.toysoldiershoppe.netSun & Mon Come Visit Our Store! 3775 S. 108th St., Greenfield, WI 53228 (414)302-1850 [email protected] TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 25

Show reportHobbyists ForageAt Valley ForgeA.J. Mergenthaler covers the 72nd edition of the two-day event spotlighting military miniaturesText and Photos: A.J. MergenthalerIt was May 10th and 11, 2013, and that imaginativeness of competition entries well as hobbyists’ exhibits entered in the meant it was time for the 72nd Annual continue to go to a new and higher level competition for coveted “Gold,” “Silver” Miniature Figure Collectors of America with the passing of each year. and “Bronze” medals awarded in junior(MFCA) Show & Mart at Valley Forge. and advanced levels.   The extravaganza was held in the In addition, there are always a numberValley Forge Casino Resort in King TRADERS & EXHIBITS of special guests, events and seminars heldof Prussia, Pa. This yearly show and during the two days of the show.competition is a perennial favorite I have been attending these shows as aamongst toy soldier and model figure collector and/or vendor for more than 40 Come with me now as we stroll downenthusiasts. years. I have always been impressed with the aisles of the vendor mart. the MFCA organizers’ desire to improve, The vendor mart has grown along expand and grow with the times.  with the size of the space devoted to theexhibition area. The quality, diversity and I do miss one thing, however, that VENDOR MART was a feature for many years. Space was formerly set apart for a “flea market.” It Since TS&MF is a magazine “for collectors was a small area earmarked for collectors of all stripes,” I thought it would be to swap, sell or acquire that missing piece appropriate to lead off with Daniel P. Jones. or information someone was looking for. He is a collector/vendor who attends many of the shows in the Northeast. Dan had six In many instances, great friendships tables literally crammed with old and new were forged in the flea market while Britains as well as figures by France’s CBG enthusiasts shared collecting war stories Mignot, Gustave Vertunni and Madame with like-minded hobbyists and hunters. Fernande Metayer for sale. With 180 tables and 55 vendors, Bob Zwald had a number of high-end plus a large exhibition area, the hall was once again chock full of figures, vehicles, LEFT: Matt Murphy of Hobby Bunker had accessories, dioramas and all things military. much to smile about with very active sales.    This show report is really only the BELOW: Minutemen Toy Soldiers literally proverbial tip of the iceberg when it comes fielded an army of Napoleonics. to covering all the traders’ offerings as26 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Show reportABOVE: Part of Nicholas Cameron’sPeninsular War diorama with figures byJohn Jenkins Designs. BELOW: Overall view of the PeninsularWar diorama displayed by Crown MilitaryMiniatures. ABOVE: Paper flags for all occasions were available from Crown Military Miniatures. ABOVE: These Roger BELOW: A wide variety of toy Berdou Napoleonics were soldiers were available to tempt bringing top dollar. collectors and drain their wallets.ABOVE: A sampling of new additions tothe King & Country Ltd. series coveringancient Egypt.BELOW: “Chuda Emma,” an Austrian30.5-cm heavy gun by Metal Shed. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 27

Show reportRIGHT: AeroArt’s Thor Johnson had a goodreason to be smiling since sales were great.FAR RIGHT: Collector/vendor Dan Jonesmans his stand. figures by Roger Berdou as well as Conrad Elastolin, Lineol and others. Collectibles’ great displays of vehicles,and Carrano one-offs models of great variety. Matthew Murphy of Hobby Bunker artillery and aircraft made by Metal Shed’s Bruce Hebron. These are all beautifully It seems that during the last few years unveiled the latest ancient Egyptian handcrafted in metal and include figures.there has been an increased interest in pieces by King & Country Ltd., including What Hebron is able to do with sheets oftoy soldier items by Trophy Miniatures papyrus boats. He also had his usual vast metal is just incredible.of Wales Ltd. Vendor Alan Gwinn had a selection of soldiers from several makers.pristine American Civil War sidewheeler One of the Metal Shed pieces thatgunboat with 13 crew members by Trophy. Not to be outdone, George Guerriero especially attracted my attention wasNamed “The Eagle,” this unique and large of Minutemen Toy Soldiers had by far the “Chuda Emma.” It’s a model of a massivevessel was offered for $2,900. largest selection of Napoleonic and World 30.5-cm Austrian Skoda heavy gun from War II soldiers at the show, including WWI, with figures of course. As I continued on my journey of dozens of Del Prado mounted figures andexploration, I came upon show regular various items from First Legion Ltd. The AeroArt St. PetersburgAlbert Green and his Green’s Collectables Collection’s Thor Johnson once againtables. What a selection! Beau Geste, W. Other vendors such as Treefrog dazzled attendees with new additions toBritain, Tommy Atkins, Frontline Figures Treasures, The Little Tin Soldier, James his growing range of Japanese samuraiand Steadfast Soldiers were all represented Molenaro, Historical Sculptures by Ron warriors.in profusion. Tunison, Gettysburg Toy Soldier, and Belle and Blade all had tempting displays There was so much more to see and to Regulars such as Quartermaster Corps, for people of all interests. report about traders’ wares. But I think it isLead Army, Red Lancers, Picacho Peak not possible to scratch more than just theCollectibles and Tedtoy Miniatures were Nicholas Cameron of Crown Military tip of the iceberg of this iconic, yearly show.overflowing with old and new merchandise Miniatures had a terrific selection of flagsfrom a multitude of manufacturers. for various historic periods and countries. THE COMPETITION He also had a very nice Peninsular War With the ever-increasing numbers diorama depicting French Imperial Guard I don’t know if it is just me, but it seemedof plastic collectors, there were several Grenadiers storming a building defended like there were fewer pieces on exhibit inspecialized sellers on hand. For example, by Spanish irregulars. This display featured comparison to previous years. In addition,Rick Eber of Marx Playsets had recent figures by John Jenkins Designs. there were fewer larger-scale dioramasplastics, plus a number of old and complete than in the past.boxed playsets for sale such as Zorro, Fort Doug Dearth of Order of BattleApache, Fort Mohawk and Ben Hur. showcased his new releases and some older That having been said, however, please pieces. His vehicles of World Wars I and let me assure readers that the quality and Dealer Joseph Saine always has varied II as well as small diorama bases attracted diversity of the entries on hand for theitems -- usually in good or better condition a great deal of attention. The quality is competition were simply staggering. The-- on his tables. Show after show Joe seems first-rate on all of his items.to offer excellent German-made tinplatevehicles and weaponry to complement a I am never disappointed by Joelarge selection of composition soldiers from Remson of Remson’s ExecutiveBELOW: Del Prado mounted figureswere trotted out in profusion.RIGHT: Greg Cihler’s “Berlin” depicteda 1945 encounter between Soviet andGerman troops.28 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Show reportABOVE: “The Eagle,” an BELOW: Medieval diorama featuring terrific ABOVE: Plastics are always well-ACW gunboat by Trophy. animation and detail in 25-mm scale. represented at the show. BELOW: Doug Dearth shows off his Order of Battle merchandise, including WWI British armored cars.BELOW: “Sandy One” by Bill Hollis was an example of aviation modeling at its best. ABOVE: More of Bruce Hebron’s fabulous metal workmanship. BELOW: Thomas Vassilikos’ “In Front of the Great Temple, Conquistadors, 1520.” TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 29

Show reportABOVE: French Grenadiers à Cheval Conquistadors, 1520,” in 54-mm scale that minidiorama. It was quite nice.trumpeter by Jason Whitman. was exceptionally well-executed. Another standout individual figure was ABOVE RIGHT: Lydie Queyroi’s superb, An interesting and offbeat multifigure a French Napoleonic Grenadiers à Chevalscratch-built French and Indian War canoe offering by Greg Cihler was titled “Berlin.” trumpeter by Jason Whitman.diorama. It was animated by German and Soviet Red Army soldiers in various action poses It is very difficult to capture the trueskill, imagination and presentations amaze from Jaguar and Verlinden Productions. essence of a large diorama in a singleme year after year. How it is possible to picture, but Guy De Lillio’s 1:72-scale,improve the quality and creativity from For those who crave action dioramas, mini-masterpiece titled “Meet Me atyear to year is astounding. Ron Meise provided that facet with his 54- Cafe Gondree!!” was an exceptional piece mm “Zama” utilizing Andrea Miniatures of workmanship and skill. This awesome Lydie Queyroi scratch-built a French kits. Michel Zeller deployed 25-mm WWII presentation had a scratch-builtand Indian War piece titled “Voyage Trois Valdemart Miniatures to create a fabulous bridge and building, Airfix vehicles, andRivieres” that was simply outstanding. little medieval diorama full of action. Mark Airfix and Britannia figures.It depicted a large war canoe full of Soltez beautifully modeled the Golden18th-century French soldiers and Hind in 1:50-scale with meticulous detail. Jim Richy’s Korean War “ChosinCanadian woodsmen. Reservoir” was an eye-catcher as well. And I always like to include an aircraft entry finally, “T.E. Lawrence” by Jim Lynne was Then there was Thomas Vassilikos’ “ in my Valley Forge show reports. This time an impressive treatment of an Andrea kit.In Front of the Great Temple, a model by Bill Hollis titled “Sandy One,” It depicted Lawrence of Arabia mounted with a scratch-built diorama base and using on a camel during the Great War.BELOW: Jim Lynne’s excellent “T.E. kits from Tamiya, Verlinden and Eduard,Lawrence” exemplified modeling at its best. had many little details that enhanced the Well, that completes my report on the overall impression. 2013 edition of the MFCA show. If youBELOW MIDDLE: Frozen in time is this have never attended one, you are reallygrouping titled “Chosin Reservoir.” My favorite flat was by Dee Moore missing one of the great events on the  and depicted a Confederate cavalry bugler annual show calendar. Whether you are aBELOW RIGHT: Composer Johann of the ACW. This piece demonstrated the collector or a modeler, you will be amazed,Sebastian Bach was the subject of a great painting skill required to achieve a enthralled and captivated by this once-a-charming minidiorama orchestrated by greater dimension on a flat surface. year event.John Carglena. On a somewhat different note (pun Until next year, Lord willing, I’ll sign intended), John Carglena composed off: A.J. Mergenthaler reporting from a scratch-built “J. Sebastian Bach” Valley Forge. n30 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Show report ABOVE: Dee Moore’s Confederate bugler was a wonderful example of high- quality flat painting. LEFT: The Golden Hind by Mark Soltez. BELOW: The “Zama” diorama by Ross Meise.ABOVE: High-quality tinplate vehicles and artillery in excellent condition were available.BELOW: Guy De Lillio’s superbly designed and executed WWII diorama in 1:72 scale. about the writer A.J. Mergenthaler was a co-owner of TBC Graphics, a typesetting and printing company, in New York City and Rockland County, N.Y., USA. After the business was acquired by Bowne & Co., he became vice president and sales manager of Intergraphic Technology and Action Graphics. The retiree is a longtime toy soldier and model figure collector. He has also contributed articles to several hobby and history-related publications through the years. In addition, he was one of the founders of the Military Historical Society. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 31

Hobby event English King Henry VSpringtime at AgincourtIn Paradise by AeroArt.The Toy Soldier Museum’s James H. Hillestad hostsan open house highlighted by new itemsText and Photos: James H. HillestadThe Toy Soldier Museum’s spring accessories from Patrick Willis of Sarum Freeman’s Farm Sept. 19, 1777. open house May 9, 2013, provided Soldiers was unveiled. These are welcome There was also a spectacular vignette the perfect platform for new releases. complements to decorate displays of his On display was a 30-inch by 60-inch British “Mess Dress” series of figures. The from The AeroArt St. Petersburgdiorama of 1757’s Battle of Leuthen, accessories include picture frames, mirrors, Collection portraying English King Henrycomplete with a breached wall and 3-D candelabras and handsome oriental carpets.  V with his defenders during the Battlemodel of the historic church. More than of Agincourt against the French in 141550 of John Jenkins’ splendid Prussians Martin Ritchie of U.S. Military during the Hundred Years’ War.populated the display. These will soon be Miniatures previewed the new Commander-joined by Austrians, who will man the in-Chief ’s Honor Guard of the American All in all it was a gala and eventfulwalls for the Seven Years’ War clash.  Revolutionary War. The Continental day. More than 35 collectors, including soldiers are posed presenting arms to George five from Canada, visited my museum A new range of 54-mm furniture and Washington,Thaddeus Kosciuszko, the on Paradise Valley Road in Cresco, Pa., Marquis de Lafayette, Friedrich Wilhelm USA, the day before the Miniature FigureBELOW: Figures from John Jenkins von Steuben and Horatio Gates.The glossy Collectors of America Show & MartDesigns re-create the Battle of Leuthen. set will serve as an eye-catching centerpiece began in King of Prussia, Pa. Good food for American history buffs.  and conversation amid a riotous springBELOW RIGHT: ARW Battle of Saratoga garden canopy made for a perfect day. diorama featuring W. Britain figures. W. Britain was represented by figures in a new ARW diorama that I built. The The fall open house is scheduledBOTTOM LEFT: Figures, furniture and scene depicts the Battle of Saratoga’s clash for Saturday, Nov. 2, the day before theaccessories from Patrick Willis. between British and Colonial forces at East Coast Toy Soldier Show & Sale in Hackensack, N.J. n about the writer James H. Hillestad is the proprietor of The Toy Soldier Museum and shop in Cresco, Pa., USA. ARW Washington’s Honor Guard by Martin Ritchie.32 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

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Museum VisitHartford Armory’sToy Soldier ArmyRay Bell and Dan Jones share an account of their visit to Loren Schave’simpressive toy soldier collection housed in an imposing settingText and Photos: Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Raymond E. Bell Jr. and Daniel P. JonesThe Armory of Connecticut’s First at the rear of the Armory. At first, there was property. In the meantime, he was free to Company Governor’s Foot Guard no answer. Banging had achieved nothing. fill display cases aligned along the walls of in the state capital of Hartford is the meeting room.an imposing edifice. It is the assembly Then slowly the door opened. Greetinghall of the oldest military organization in us was the museum’s curator, Maj. Loren MINIATURE FORTRESSEScontinuous service in the United States. W. Schave, a U.S. Air Force veteran and the owner of a magnificent collection of The natural thing to do during our visit Organized in October 1771, the Foot toy soldiers. was to start in the room designated as theGuard’s original purpose was to protect museum. It was a fascinating beginning.and escort the colony’s governor and its We did not know quite what to expectGeneral Assembly. as we gathered around him. He therefore On the walls are framed documents explained what the collection was doing in and military memorabilia relating to the Barring the Armory’s main entrance is the basement of the Foot Guard’s Armory. history of the First Company. At onea formidable iron gate and grill. The starknature of the building does not encourage Loren started collecting toy soldiers ata casual visit. age 4 ½ and is now well into his eighties. As the years went by, he needed a place to But appearances can be deceiving display his extensive collection.because within the red brick structure is amuseum containing a toy soldier collection At first, a natural fit was the one-roomthat an enthusiast is not going to see in museum under the Armory’s drill hall.any other armory or similar building in But as the number of figures on displaythe country. increased, it soon became necessary to expand into a larger basement meetingCURATOR’S COLLECTION room. So, a sort of compromise was reached with the Foot Guard’s Board of Governors.It was the day after Christmas 2012 whenwe, Tim Dillon and the Stamos family As the museum’s curator, Loren wouldknocked on a narrow steel basement door take care of and enhance the company’s memorabilia while being allowed toBELOW: Sign at the entrance to the display his collection. Since he had noFirst Company Governor’s Foot Guard one to pass the collection on to when hemuseum. died, it would then become First CompanyABOVE RIGHT: Museum curator andtoy soldier collector Loren W. Schave witha manikin uniformed as a soldier of theBlack Watch.RIGHT: French Foreign Legion band withplastic figures by Starlux.34 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Museum VisitABOVE: Old Britains figures of for several French Foreign Legion bands, horseback and foot, including a band.Venezuelan Military School Cadets. including one of Starlux musicians, and This is a concise presentation providing legionnaires in combat poses. The fort’s a great picture of Canada’s well-knownABOVE MIDDLE: The Scottish Highland defenders include Britains Deetail plastic national police force.Brigade at the battle of Tel el-Kebir. figures and legionnaires from the Britains painted metal set No. 1711 that have been Around the corner from the RCMPABOVE RIGHT: Britains and other skillfully integrated into the display. display is a glass case containing Britainsmakes of French Foreign Legion soldiers toy soldiers of Her British Majesty’sdefend the desert fort. Leaving the museum room with its county infantry regiments as well as First Company displays and vignettes, we cavalry units. Tags identify each groupend, is a colorful collection of postcards entered the meeting hall to be greeted by of figures.showing uniforms of various countries’ a massive model of Fort Ticonderoga inmilitary forces. upstate New York. Loren imaginatively has As one makes one’s way around the the Black Watch manning the ramparts meeting hall, a visitor travels through Manikins fully dressed in the uniforms posed to repel enemy attacks during the Canada and Great Britain militaryof American and British soldiers stand French and Indian War. Festooned with formations, ending up with displays ofin the middle of the room. One depicts cannons, the fortress appears impregnable American-made toy soldiers.an American cavalry trooper. A British with its brightly clad Highlanders.Grenadier Guards drummer and a First, there is an extensive CanadianScottish Black Watch Highlander stand CANADIAN Army display of figures above which isat attention. CONCENTRATION mounted a board with the shoulder tabs of all World War II Canadian military Loren traces his family heritage Opposite Fort Ticonderoga is a display organizations, including the Chaplainback to the Black Watch, so Scotland’s case devoted to the Royal Canadian Corps.Highland regiments occupy a special Mounted Police (RCMP). Headgearplace in the museum. He assembled the and badges accompany various figures on Having served in Labrador while inuniforms by making frequent forays to the U.S. Air Force, Loren retains a specialshows and shops selling military items. interest in the Canadian armed forces. A corner of the room is occupied by aplastic, desert fort built in 54-mm scale thatwould command the attention of any toysoldier collector. It serves as the garrisonBELOW: Band of Royal CanadianMounted Police.RIGHT: The Black Watch Highlandersgarrison Fort Ticonderoga. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 35

Museum VisitABOVE: Italian infantry and Greek “Loren traces his family heritage back to theEvzones by Britains (from left). Black Watch, so Scotland’s Highland regiments occupy a special place in the museum.”BELOW: The U.S. Army 3rd InfantryRegiment Fife and Drum Corps in ARW- USA & BEYOND Fife and Drum Corps in their Americanstyle uniforms. Revolutionary War period uniforms. It should be noted, however, that Loren’sBRITISH MILITARY collection is not just about Great Britain Two display cases brought back and the Commonwealth countries. memories of Ray’s childhood before theNext is a board containing British Army world of W. Britain toy soldiers entered it.regimental uniform shoulder tabs and cap One display case is devoted to nationsbadges of WWII formations. such as Greece with its Evzones (old The first even predated his 1940s Britains set No. 196) and Italian line collecting. Several cloth tents in excellent Ray was intrigued by the cap badges as infantry in service dress (Britains set No. condition along with Manoil and Barclay toyhe looked for one he wore on his beret as 1435). South America is represented by soldiers really fascinated him.These figuresan Army cadet at Westminster School in the Venezuelan Military School Cadets were produced before WWII put a crimpLondon, England, in 1952. Unfortunately, with a national standard-bearer (Britain’ssuch a badge was not to be found on the set No. 2098). BELOW LEFT: British Highlanderimpressive and extensive board. uniform of the Great War.. Then there are the display cases showing Glass-fronted cases contain old U.S. armed forces.The Marine Corps, for BELOW: Large-scale, 19th-centuryBritains Royal Marines standing next to example, is well-represented. So are unique dragoon of the U.S. Army.Queen Elizabeth II’s Royal Foot Guards. Army formations such as the 3rd Infantry’sBands of each of the regiments are ondisplay, including the relatively rarely seenWelsh Guards Fife and Drum Band of setNo. 2108. Next is a grand display of ScottishHighlands and Lowlands regiments. Oneimpressive exhibit shows the HighlandBrigade, including the Black Watch, at theBattle of Tel el-Kebir against Egyptianforces in 1882. Thus, Loren continues hisinterest in the regiment of his Scottishmilitary heritage.36 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

Museum Visitinto the manufacture of metal toy soldiers. STILL COLLECTING ABOVE LEFT: U.S. Marines, including The second display case was of 90-mm figures by Series 77. Loren’s collection is still being added to.special interest to Ray as it brought back He has painted a lot of the figures himself, ABOVE: French Foreign Legion drumsmemories of paper and cardboard soldiers, but admits that those days have passed. and bugles by Frontline Figures, followedwhich replaced metal ones during the war by a special Tradition of London Ltd. setyears. He had a large collection of such Of note is that Loren has emphasized from Christmas 2004 depicting sapeurstroops, which ended up in a wastebasket the “toy” aspect in his collecting of figures. and drummersafter they got wet while on maneuvers in But he has embraced realism in large-the Bell family basement in Oregon when scale figures too, such as his U.S. Army can be contacted at the Armory by callingit was flooded by a storm. dragoons of the 19th century. (860) 522-1337 or by e-mailing him at [email protected]: WWII D-Day display of The foreboding appearance of the1/6th-scale soldiers. home of the First Company Governor’s If you are in the Hartford area, please Foot Guard is not a deterrent to the make an effort to visit his toy soldierBELOW RIGHT: Loren’s collection warmth found within the Armory’s walls. wonderland in the First Companyincludes a British Royal Air Force display. Due to Loren’s interest and diligence, it is Governor’s Foot Guard Armory. n really worthwhile to contact him and enjoy the fruits of his collecting labors. Loren about the writers Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Raymond E. Bell Jr. has been collecting toy soldiers, primarily Britains, since boyhood. He is a regular contributor to military history and toy soldier publications. The New York state resident is a 1957 graduate of West Point and taught German and Central European history at the U.S. Military Academy. American Daniel P. Jones is a graduate of Columbia College and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.The former newspaperman now works as a communications officer at the Yale University School of Medicine. The Connecticut resident has been collecting since childhood, with a particular focus on Mignots and Lucottes. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 37

(Photo Courtesy of Peter Wang, Figarti Miniatures) 18338 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

LIKE LIGHTNING STRIKING from the sky, a thunderous Huey delivers “Headhunters” from the U.S. Army’s1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry, to a hot landing zone during the Vietnam War. This dramatic, 1:32-scale combat scene isanimated by a chopper and soldiers produced by Figarti Miniatures. --Stuart A. Hessney TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 39

NEW METAL n Editor Stuart A. HessneySHOWCASE reviews some of the latest items from around the globe to land in the marketplace.THE LATEST TOY SOLDIERS MARCH IN REVIEWANCIENT ROMAN WAR ELEPHANTSBY THE COLLECTORS SHOWCASEReviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney during the reign of mad Emperor Caligula. emulating and surpassing Caesar by invading   After he was assassinated in 41 A.D., the and conquering Britain. All the pretext the elite Praetorian Guard hauled his Uncle new Emperor needed came from allied KingThe Collectors Showcase (TCS) has Claudius out of hiding. He thought they Verica of the Atrebates, who pleaded formarched out a pair of powerful pachyderms were going to slay him. Imagine his shock Roman help against neighboring tribes.to punctuate Imperial Rome’s shock and when they instead hailed him as Emperor.awe tactics during the conquest of Britain.   Claudius was scholarly, so he was These splendid sets are new additions bright enough to know his coronation was CRACK LEGIONSto the maker’s “Rome 43 A.D.” series of highly unlikely. He had been born in Gaul,legionnaires and Celtic warriors based on not Italy like all before him. He limped, The Emperor’s ambitious amphibiousthe Claudian Invasion. The war elephants’ was hard of hearing, stuttered and tended expedition stirred extraordinary awe amongpassengers include a portrayal of none other to drool. He lacked experience in military Romans because it entailed sailing acrossthan unlikely Emperor Claudius himself. matters and governing. Since no one had Oceanus beyond the known world to the regarded him as a threat worth killing in mysterious barbarian island of Britain. But   previous purges, he qualified for the throne it seems quite apparent that Claudius was because he was the Imperial family line’s nobody’s fool. He didn’t intend to take anyUNLIKELY EMPEROR last adult male survivor. chances. Failure was not an option!The first Roman military incursions into To keep his royal job and his head, Aulus Plautius, the accomplished andBritain were spearheaded by Julius Caesar Claudius needed to muster militaryduring the Gallic Wars. He established prestige to secure the legions’ loyalty. In BELOW LEFT: An Imperial war elephant (ref.a beachhead in Kent, England, in 55 the political arena, creating a distraction CS00706) is designed to carry Emperor Claudius andB.C. The following year Caesar handed for the Senate would be useful too. Gen. Aulus Plautius. The howdah passengers are notterritory taken to his allies, gained pledges included.of tribute and left. Nearly a century of As an avid student of history, Claudiusprofitable trading and tribute payments understood the propaganda value of BELOW: Roman pilum throwers sold separatelyfollowed in his wake. go into battle on their pachyderm’s fighting tower (ref. CS00707). Scenery is not included. Rome made new plans to invade Britain40 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

reliable governor of Pannonia along the Channel to Britain. ABOVE LEFT: The Roman pilum throwers haveDanube River, was tapped to general the Spearheading the conquest of Britain removable bases (ref. CS00709).campaign. His command included fourcrack legions: Legio II Augusta, led by was perceived as Claudius' greatest ABOVE: Diorama animated by TCS figures, includingthe future Emperor Vespasian; Legio IX accomplishment, though Judaea, Lycia, Roman war elephants for steamrolling opposition.Hispana, Legio XIV Gemina and Legio Noricum, Pamphylia and Thrace were alsoXX Valeria Victrix. Their aggregate total added to the Empire during his reign. He BELOW: Emperor Claudius (left) and Gen. Aulusof 20,000 disciplined legionnaires was turned out to be an effective administrator Plautius (ref. CS00708).bolstered by as many as 30,000 auxiliary and built a number of aqueducts, canalstroops, including archers and cavalry. and roads. so the men can either stand on their own or become pachyderm passengers. They would be opposed by Britons Claudius’ 13-year reign ended with hisbrought up in a warrior culture. They death at age 63 in 54 A.D. Some scholars Personality figures of Emperorwere renowned for their physical stature, think he died of natural causes. Others Claudius and Aulus Plautius (ref.strength and ferocity. But the Celts' think he was poisoned -- perhaps by his CS00708) compose a set that costs $69.70.rivalries and disunity left them with no wife. Claudius was succeeded as Emperor Claudius holds a baton symbolizing hischance against the Roman war machine. by his grandnephew and adopted son, Nero. Imperial power. TCS’s Plautius figure looks stern and redoubtable like the real Plautius' troops landed in the vicinity   general must have been.of modern Richborough, England, inJuly 43 A.D. Their relentless advance was ELEPHANTINE SPLENDOR The fourth set sells for $67.90 andhighlighted by the defeat of King Caratacus features a varied pair of legionnairesof the Catuvellaunni and his brother, TCS President Brian Levy has issued throwing pilums. These versatile figures inTogodummus, in the Battle of the Medway. four different 1:30-scale, matt-finished metal helmets and armor look good either sets that would add up to visual splendor atop the battle beast or afoot. With the campaign going swimmingly. of elephantine proportions in any ancientPlautius sent to Rome for the Emperor as warfare collection. Like Emperor Claudius in the past,planned. By the time Claudius arrived in it seems that today’s TCS has set out toBritain in September, the stage was already Two of the limited production sets inspire shock and awe with war elephants.set for him to lead his vastly superior come with mahouts driving pachyderms The maker has succeeded admirably. nforces in a mop-up operation. and are priced at $165 apiece. The elephants are made primarily of polyresin,ONE-UPMANSHIP with some metal trimmings.Claudius was aware that Caesar had The version meant to be the Emperor’sbrought one large pachyderm to Britain. As jumbo ride (ref. CS00706) has the mosta result, Claudius’ retinue included not just elaborate trappings. Praetorian blue,one but five war elephants for the sake of six-sided shields are hung on the sides ofone-upmanship, shock and awe. Their sheer its royal howdah. The other elephant (ref.size and frightening, alien appearance must CS00707) is a fighting platform for troopshave been intimidating. Any warrior brave and carries red, rectangular shields on theenough to try to stand his ground could be howdah.bowled over by the beasts’ swinging tusksand trampled underfoot. The mahouts are modeled as Romans in armor, which seems unlikely but looks The Emperor's progress across the striking. The elephants are charming toylandscape must have been more like a figures made with separate heads for easevictory parade than a military campaign. He of shipping. This twist (pun intended) isaccepted the surrenders of a dozen tribes. He a bonus because a collector can rotate thealso took credit for capturing Camulodunum heads into varied positions.(Colchester), which became the first Romanprovincial capital of Britannia. Two sets of figures have been conceived to enhance each style of After only 16 days in Britain, Claudius elephant. They come with removable bases,headed home to Rome to enjoy his laurels.He was accorded the title “Britannicus” bythe Senate. Triumphal arches were erectedin his honor in Rome and in Gaul wherehe had embarked for the voyage across the TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 41

RENAISSANCE PERIOD LANDSKNECHT ARTILLERY & ARQUEBUSIERSBY FIRST LEGION LTD. “Landsknecht who reigned from 1493 to 1519, formed ADMIRED & SCORNED Noble Artillery the first regiments of Landsknechts. Commander” The Landsknechts’ combat record ranged (ref. REN021). No matter whose side they were from exceptional to embarrassing. fighting on, they became RenaissanceReviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney period Europe’s most redoubtable soldiers A sterling example of their discipline   for hire. Starting in the late 15th century and valor unfolded Feb. 24, 1525, at Pavia, and throughout the 16th century, they the decisive battle of the Italian War ofArtillery and arquebusiers are reinforcing were involved in nearly every major 1521 to 1526, and the inspiration for Firstthe laudable legion of colorful Landsknecht military campaign for better or for worse. Legion’s figures.figures from First Legion Ltd. Most Landsknechts hailed from French King Francis I was in personal The latest releases reinforce a flock of Alsace, Flanders, the Rhineland and command of his army when it was attacked60-mm, matt-finished pikemen, standard- Swabia, and they are most closely in the great hunting preserve of Mirabellobearers, mounted figures and more designed identified with Germany in general. But by a Spanish-Imperial force and theto re-create the formidable mercenaries their regiments mustered men from all garrison of the Italian town. The Frenchwho fought on either the Imperial or over Europe. army was divided and vanquished in detailFrench sides at the Battle of Pavia. during the course of the four-hour clash.   Landsknechts employed in the battle on   both sides fought to the death, even those COLORFUL & CONSPICUOUS whose French allies had vamoosed.MERCENARY PIKEMEN Their main military tools were long pikes Many of France’s chief nobles wereThe word “Landsknecht” stems from the deployed in square formations originated among the heavy casualties suffered by theGerman words for “land” and “servant” by the Swiss. They also carried a short losing side. Prisoners taken included Kingor “knight.” Peter von Hagenbach has sword called the “Katzbalger” that came to Francis I himself, who was captured bybeen credited with coining the term to symbolize the Landsknecht. Halberds and Spanish troops.distinguish mercenary pikemen and other two-handed swords used to hack off thefoot soldiers from the Swabian region of heads of enemy pikes were utilized too. After being imprisoned by Kingthe Holy Roman Empire from the Swiss Charles V, the humiliated French monarchfighting men who served as their role As the value of gunpowder weapons was compelled to sign the Treaty ofmodels. gained appreciation, men were armed with Madrid and cede lands to his jailer. The the arquebus and later on heavy muskets. Imperial triumph at Pavia ensured the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I, The number of Landsknechts equipped ensuing 200 years of Spanish Habsburg with firearms eventually expanded from domination in Italy. “German Landsknecht one-eighth to one-quarter of a formation’s Arquebusier Standing ranks. However, on other occasions Loading” (ref. REN029). Landsknechts drew scorn as their There was no mistaking whether a man discipline and courage came under fire was a Landsknecht at a glance. Emulating for being somewhat lacking. Spain’s the Swiss as was their wont, they donned Duke of Alba reportedly never intended elaborate dress at first, then developed their to deploy them in battle. He only hired fashion sense to a flamboyant extreme. the unreliable mercenaries for the sake of Doublets were deliberately slashed at the increasing the size of his army, and more front and back. Then their shirts and other importantly to keep them from working garb were pulled through the holes to create for his Dutch foes. a style known as “puffed and slashed.” After the Imperial army defeated the Landsknechts also wore multicolored French in Italy, 34,000 soldiers mutinied hose, jerkins and broad flat shoes. Their because they didn’t get paid. As a result, flat, beret-like hats became larger and about 14,000 Landsknechts joined 6,000 larger, and were adorned with feathers. Spaniards and some troops from Italy in They easily rank among history’s most the infamous Sack of Rome in May 1527. colorful and conspicuous soldiers.     “German Landsknecht Arquebusier Ready” (ref. REN028). “Landsknecht “Landsknecht “Landsknecht Artillery Artillery Gunner Artillery Gunner With Igniter” Gunner (ref. REN024). Aiming Gun” With Stone (ref. REN022). Ball” (ref. REN025).42 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

“Landsknecht “LandsknechtArtillery Gunner Artillery GunnerWith Rammer” Covering Ears”(ref. REN023). (ref. REN026). “Landsknecht Cannon & Accessories” (ref. REN027).CRACKERJACK COMPONENTS REN022), with a rammer (ref. REN022), bag of powder. with an igniter (ref. REN024) and holding Also new are German LandsknechtFirst Legion’s most recent highly detailed a stone ball (ref. REN025). The sixthLandsknechts include a cannon and a member of the crew wisely covers his ears arquebusiers posed either at the readysix-man crew. The crackerjack components (ref. REN026). (ref. REN028) or standing loading (ref.are sold separately, so it would cost REN029). Priced at $69.96 apiece, they’d$469.95 U.S. to collect the complete A brass cannon with an iron-edged perfectly complement pikemen previouslygroup. wooden carriage is the centerpiece of the released by First Legion to re-create the fieldpiece set, which retails for $79.95. mercenaries garishly clad in a kaleidoscope The finely hand-painted figures are For scenic effect, this set is enhanced by of colors who enlivened many a militarypriced at $64.95 apiece. They include a the inclusion of accessories such as a campaign during the Renaissance’s Age of“noble” commander (ref. REN021) and chest, a stack of stone ball ammo and a Pike and Shot.artillerymen posed aiming the gun (ref.NAPOLEONIC PERSONALITY FIGURESBY FIRST LEGION LTD.Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney entranced by a trio of magnificent Empire commanded the 100,000-man   equestrian figures recently released by Polish 5th Corps of Napoleon’s Grande My toy soldier and model figure First Legion Ltd. as part of its expansive Armee during the failed invasion of Russia range covering the Napoleonic Wars. in 1812.collection is peppered with specialtygroups. For example, I like to track They include a 60-mm portrait The most stirring pose is struck by adown everything I can find relating to a of French Emperor Napoleon I (ref. figure of French Gen. Antoine LaSalleparticular conflict, country or regiment. NAP0409) wearing a green chasseur coat (ref. NAP0408). Known as the “Hussar and mounted on what looks like Marengo, General,” he was a brilliant cavalry Personality figures are a favorite his favorite gray Arabian. commander who always led from theof mine too. I have pieces portraying front. He also became famous for exploitseverything from British Royalty to Also new is a figure portraying such as sneaking behind enemy lines topoliticians, generals and their staffs, and Polish hero Prince Josef Poniatowski spend a night with a noblewoman.more. Montcalm and Wolfe, Winston (ref. NAP0407). He was born in ViennaChurchill, and Napoleon and Wellington and served as an Austrian field marshal Priced at $169.95 U.S. apiece, thesefigures by various makers form just a few before becoming the Duchy of Warsaw’s beautifully rendered personality figuresof my cameo collections. minister of war and head of its army in would be assets to any collection of 1807. The field marshal of the French characters. n Thus, it’s only natural that I’m Prince Josef Gen. Antoine LaSalle Emperor Napoleon Poniatowski (ref. NAP0408). (ref. NAP0409). (ref. NAP0407). TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 43

MEDIEVAL BATTLE OF AGINCOURTBY FIRST LEGION LTD.Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney managed to destroy the French army and “King Henry V   take control of Northern France at the of England” cost of only 112 dead. But the Lancastrian (ref. MED001).First Legion Ltd. has launched a “Medieval monarch ultimately failed in his quest toWars” series starting with 1415’s Battle conquer France. more, according to First Legion partnerof Agincourt, where English firepower Matthew Pavone.prevailed over French horsepower.   “As with all of our ranges, we will   FIGHTING ENGLISH cover Agincourt in extreme depth and already have nearly 40 figuresST. CRISPIN’S DAY First Legion’s foray into the Middle Ages ready to be produced,” Matt has been spearheaded by a batch of nine stated. “With the superlativeThe Hundred Years’ War clash was figures, all depicting English fighting sculpting and painting thatprecipitated by English King Henry V’s men. Leading the charge are magnificent we've become renowned for,cross-Channel invasion to lay claim to mounted figures of Henry V (ref. this promises to be a trulyFrench King Charles VI’s throne. The MED001) and his standard-bearer, Sir spectacular figure range!” nEnglish army captured Harfleur Sept. 22, John Codrington (ref. MED002), priced at1415. But it became wracked by hunger, $179.95 each. “Thomas Stricklandexhaustion and dysentery. Esquire, “Standard- Personality figures on foot include Bearer of St. George” It was St. Crispin’s Day, Oct. 25, Thomas Strickland Esquire, the standard- (ref. MED003).1415, when Henry V’s retreating army bearer of St. George (ref. MED003) listedwas brought to bay near the French at $74.95; as well as Richard de Vere,village of Agincourt. His 900 knights the Earl of Oxford (ref. MED005); andand men-at-arms and 5,000 archers were Edward, Duke of York (ref. MED006),vastly outnumbered by as many as 30,000 which cost $69.95 apiece.knights and men led by Constable ofFrance Charles d'Albret. The English side is also bolstered by a trumpeter (ref. MED004) and men-at- The English army took a defensive arms with either a spear (ref. MED007),stance against the understandably halberd (ref. MED008) or ax (ref.overconfident French. As things played MED009). Expect to pay $64.95 for each.out, however, the massed firepower ofEnglish longbows and a muddy quagmire These stunning 60-mm figures wereof a battlefield proved to be the downfall designed in Russia and made in China.of mounted French knights’ superior Their proportioning and animationhorsepower as they were funneled down a are excellent, as is the detailing of thenarrow front, then slaughtered. matt-finished heraldry, arms and armor. Collectors can look forward to lots Seemingly miraculously, Henry V “English Man-at-Arms “English Man-at- With Halberd” Arms With Spear” (ref. MED008). (ref. MED007).“King's Standard- “Richard de Vere, “EnglishBearer Sir John Earl of Oxford” Man-at-Codrington” (ref. MED005). Arms With(ref. MED002). Ax” (ref. “Edward, MED009). “English Duke of York” Trumpeter” (ref. MED006). (ref. MED004).44 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

WORLD WAR I BRITISH & GERMAN SOLDIERSBY W. BRITAINReviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney The German “light” machine gun set “British Infantry   (ref. 23041) is a limited edition of 750. Waiting to Go Over the TopHistory’s heaviest “light” machine gun “British Infantryand a metal trench sign are the stars of W. Standing Firing on No. 1” (ref.Britain’s latest World War I releases for re- the Move No. 1” 23050).creating circa 1916 action in miniature. (ref. 23047). “German Officer Advancing The Allies and Central Powers’ machine No. 1” (ref. 23048).guns tended to be quite hefty, needed a The WWI British trench signweighty tripod and required a full crew of (ref. 51800) is 11 by 14 inches. “German Infantrygunners at the onset of the war in 1914. Running No. 1”However, the British and French developed “British Infantry Advancing (ref. 23049).relatively lightweight and portable machine No. 3” (ref. 23046).guns serviceable by two-man teams during TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 45the course of 1915 and 1916. The German mainstay MG 08 Maximwas reliable and accurate. However, boththe big machine gun and the sledge itwas mounted on were extremely difficultto move along rugged ground to supportan infantry assault. Faced with beingoutgunned by Allied troops armed withlight machine guns, the Germans needed acountermeasure and they needed it quick. Their solution was the MG 08/15.Fully loaded with ammunition, it weigheda hair under 50 pounds (22 kg), making itthe heaviest “light” machine gun sent intobattle. But it could lay down devastatingfire and it was considered more reliablethan its Allied counterparts.  SIGN OF IRONY?W. Britain has produced a three-piece set(ref. 23041) depicting two Germans usinga tree stump for cover while setting up aMG 08/15 in a patch of no man’s landalong the mucky Western Front. This set isa limited edition of 750. Please expect topay £69.99 U.K./$80 U.S. The machine gunners could be set upin a display providing covering fire for newGerman figures of an officer with a Lugeradvancing (ref. 23048) and a dynamicsoldier running with a bayonet fixed to hisrifle (ref. 23049). British reinforcementsinclude Tommies posed advancing (ref.23046), standing firing while on the move(ref. 23047) and pensively waiting in atrench to go over the top (ref. 25050). The single figures sell for £26.49/$32.All of these 1:32-scale, matt-paintedsoldiers’ individualized characterizationsand authentic details are enhanced byartful shading and highlighting.In a brilliant touch, W. Britain is alsomaking it possible for collectors toenhance their displays with a reproductionof a British trench sign warning, “Do NotStand About Here” (ref. 51800). Sizedat 11 by 14 inches, it should fit nicely oncollectors’ shelves, and the price is a ratherreasonable at £15.99/$20. This bullet-riddled red sign is going to look poignant,ironic and perhaps even funny surroundedby a bunch of toy soldiers and theircollector admiring them. n

AMERICAN REVOLUTIONARY WAR IROQUOIS & CONTINENTALSBY W. BRITAINReviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney “Continental “Iroquois Warrior   Infantry 1776-77 Attacking With Charging No. 1” Tomahawk No.1”A fine figure of famous Mohawk Indian (ref. 18058). (ref. 18063).Chief Joseph Brant is among the sevenlatest additions to W. Britain’s American Johnson took Joseph under his wing as a Iroquois during the Revolution.Revolutionary War range. protégé. Brant became a gifted translator. He Brant was a key political and military When Brant was about age 15, he was appointed department secretary withleader of the Iroquois Confederacy based began fighting for the British against the the rank of captain for the new Britishin present-day upstate New York. As French during the course of the French Indian superintendent in 1775, just beforefar as Americans and the British were and Indian War (Seven Years’ War). He the ARW erupted.concerned, he was the best known Indian was one of 182 Indians awarded a silverof his time. The numerous notable Anglo- medal for his service. In November of that same year, GuyAmericans he met included everyone Johnson took him to London to solicitfrom British King George III to first U.S. Johnson made arrangements for three government support for the war effortPresident George Washington. Mohawks, including Brant, to be enrolled and underscore Iroquois concerns. Brant in Eleazar Wheelock’s Moor’s Indian received rock star treatment. Though he   Charity School in Connecticut in 1761. usually dressed in the English style at Brant learned to speak, read and write home, he wore traditional Mohawk garbSIR WILLIAM’S PROTEGE English, and studied other academic in public in Britain. He was interviewed subjects at the school, which was a by James Boswell and received by KingBrant’s Wolf Clan hailed from the vicinity forerunner of today’s Dartmouth College George III, who personally gave Brant aof Canajoharie, N.Y., in the Mohawk in Hanover, N.H. While there, he met Masonic ritual apron.Valley. But he was born somewhere along Christian missionary Samuel Kirkland,the Cuyahoga River in the Ohio Country whose influence would sway most Oneidas  during a hunting expedition in 1743. to take the Patriot side against their fellowBrant’s Mohawk name, Thayendanegea, ‘MONSTER BRANT’can mean either “two wagers (sticks) “Iroquoisbound together for strength” or “he who Warrior – Chief A bitter and bloody civil war inflamed theplaces two bets.” Baby Brant would have Joseph Brant” New York frontier as the ARW unfolded.been a good bet for future fame. (ref. 18062). In the Mohawk Valley, relatives and neighbors took sides and took up arms His family had close ties to the British against each other.(his grandfather was one of the “FourMohawk Kings” who visited England in Brant led Iroquois warriors and1710), especially Sir William Johnson. Colonial Loyalists against the rebels.He was a rich trader and landowner Though historians have credited Brantwho served as the influential British with being a voice of compassion andsuperintendent of Northern Indian Affairs. restraint, Americans at the time blamed him for atrocities such as the November Brant’s older half-sister, Molly, 1778 massacre at Cherry Valley, N.Y. Theydeveloped a relationship with Sir William. called him “Monster Brant.”This led to young Joseph staying withMolly and the baronet at his Johnson Hall A month earlier, Brant’s own homemansion in what is now Johnstown, N.Y. base at Onaquaga near present-day Windsor, N.Y., was raided and burned “Continental Infantry by local militia and Continental soldiers 1776-77 Charging while the Mohawk chief and his NCO No. 1” volunteers were away. (ref. 18060). The American commander later described Onaquaga as the “finest Indian town I ever saw. On both sides of the river there was about 40 good houses, square logs, shingles and stone chimneys, good floors, glass windows.”46 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

“Continental Infantry Niagara, where Brant spent the winter of braids was left on the back crown of1776-77 Charging No. 2” 1779-80. their heads. Rather than being a mistake,(ref. 18059). I suppose that these military miniatures He spearheaded raids into New with Mohawk haircuts are simply a case The chickens really came home to roost York during 1880. He burned his own of giving the public what they wouldfor Brant in 1779, after the British learned hometown of Canajoharie because it had expect and demand.of American plans for the Sullivan-Clinton been occupied by American settlers. WhileExpedition aimed at striking a mortal blow teaming up with Butler’s Rangers and Instead of the usual blue coats,against the Iroquois Confederacy. Brant, the King’s Royal Regiment of New York, W. Britain has produced early-warwho was commissioned as a colonel at this Brant was wounded in the heel at the Continental infantry of 1776-77 in brownpoint, managed to beat Colonial militia at Battle of Klock’s Hill in the neighborhood coats with red facings. It was a relativelythe Battle of Minisink in New York July 22, of St. Johnsville, N.Y. common color combination for militia1779. units that evolved into Continentals. In August 1881, Brant was wounded The troops include a NCO (ref. 18060) However, Brant and the Iroquois in the leg while soundly thrashing a and two privates (refs. 18058 and 18059)were defeated at the Battle of Newtown, detachment from George Rogers Clark’s posed charging.N.Y., Aug. 29, 1779, the Sullivan- expedition, quashing an AmericanClinton campaign’s only major clash. The threat to Fort Detroit. Brant strived to All of the aforementioned figuresContinentals crushed Iroquois resistance keep Indian nations loyal to the Crown cost £25.99 U.K./$30 U.S. while a newwhile burning their villages, crops and before and after the British surrender at Continental standard-bearer (ref. 18061)food stores. Many Indians fell back to Fort Yorktown in October 1781, as well as the is priced at £36.99/$48. He carries a flag formal end of the war in 1784. But the design attributed to Christopher Gadsden, a “Iroquois Warrior Indians couldn’t keep fighting without statesman and general from South Carolina. Standing Firing on the British support and supplies. A rattlesnake that came to symbolize American ideals and the 13 Colonies Move No. 1” In the wake of the ARW, Brant and appears on a yellow field with the stirring (ref. 18064). most of his people relocated to the Six words “Liberty” and “Don’t Tread on Me.” Nations Reserve in Canada. He continued to play a prominent role as a leader until Overall, I am most taken by the his death at age 64 in his home (a half- personality figure of the intriguing Brant scale version of Johnson Hall) at a site that and his Iroquois compatriots in this batch. became the City of Burlington, Ont. I hope W. Britain makes more! n The City of Brantford and County of “Continental Infantry Brant in Ontario were built on part of his 1776-77 Charging land grant and named after the chief. He Flag Bearer No. 1” is one of Canada’s 14 foremost military (ref. 18061). figures commemorated at the national Valiants Memorial in Ottawa dedicated in 2006. A portrait of Brant painted by George Romney during his first trip to England 1775-76 hangs in the National Gallery of Canada in the capital city.   WARRIORS & SOLDIERS W. Britain’s striking figure of Chief Brant (ref. 18062) wears traditional attire and is posed cradling a musket while pointing a tomahawk to direct his men. Complementary new Iroquois warriors are posed charging with a tomahawk (ref. 18063) and standing firing while on the move (ref. 18064). These 1:32-scale figures are nicely proportioned and suitably animated. Marvelous matt painting with shading and highlighting breathes a sense of realism into the superb sculptures. However, all three Indians sport Mohawk haircuts, a historical anachronism attributable to Hollywood’s 1939 movie “Drums Along the Mohawk,” starring Henry Fonda, not tribal traditions in the valley. Ancient Scythian warriors, Pawnee Indians, Russian Cossacks, U.S. paratroopers, punk rockers and others around the world throughout history have shaved both sides of their heads, leaving a strip of hair down the middle of their heads. But not the Mohawks. Historically they and the rest of the Iroquois plucked out their hair until only a 3-inch square of hair with three short TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 47

ANCIENT EGYPTIAN PAPYRUS BOATS & MOREBY KING & COUNTRY LTD.“The Anubis “The Papyrus Boat Set” (ref. AE049).Set” (ref.AE048). “Baskets & Jars” (ref. SP059).Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney how he had already purchased these hippo “The Fishermen” (ref. AE050).   hunters and some related figures along with a Build-A-Rama river scenic mat from This batch of releases is rounded outA long time ago in a galaxy far, far away Treefrog Treasures to presto-jingo conjure by grain and fruit-filled “Baskets & Jars”… Oh wait, oh drat -- that’s the opening up a delightfully dramatic diorama. (ref. SP059). They are six pieces in variousfrom the “Star Wars” films. What I really styles and sizes designed to add details tomeant to say is that a long time ago right   either these papyrus boats, village buildingshere on good old planet Earth my adult previously released by K&C, or whateverchildren, Zachary and Emily, were once LOVELY LADY other settings hobbyists manage to imagine.little kids, and they loved playing the game These 1:30-scale, matt-finished itemsHungry Hungry Hippos. It’s no Cleopatra’s barge, but “The Papyrus – especially the flotilla of papyrus Boat Set” (ref. AE0409) comes with a boats – punctuate how the Nile was the The object of the game is for each very lovely lady lounging in a seat while civilization’s lifeblood. They would bechild to control a brightly colored hippo’s an attendant steers the watercraft. This set great additions to any collection centeredjaws to devour the most white marbles in costs £117.95/$119. around life and death in lively andeach crazed melee. As the marbles rattled wondrous ancient Egypt. nto and fro, my kids would laugh and squeal One Egyptian steers while his spear-with glee while controlling the repetitive toting partner tries to add to their basket fullclatter of the plastic hippos’ jaws. I would of the catch of the day in “The Fishermen”nearly lose my marbles from all that set (ref. AE050). These appealing anglersnerve-wracking noise! can be hooked for £122.95/$125. By now, some readers must be starting Collectors’ displays can be enhancedto scratch their heads and wonder what the further by the unmanned “Small Papyrusheck the Hungry Hungry Hippos game Boat” (ref. AE052). It’s priced at £38.95/$39has to do with the toy soldier and model and perfect for parking along a riverside.figure hobby? Well, I was reminded of it by a“Hunting the Hippo!” set (ref. AE501), just Also new is “The Anubis Set” (ref.one of a half-dozen releases from King & AE048), which costs £117.95/$119. ItCountry Ltd. re-creating everyday life along portrays a pair of Nubian slaves carrying athe Nile River in ancient Egypt. It's just one likeness of the jackal-headed god mountedof four new sets featuring papyrus boats. on a golden casket. Anubis was associated with the afterlife and mummification in These hungry hippo hunters include Egyptian religious rituals. This statue wasa seated Egyptian trying to keep the boat based on an effigy uncovered in King Tut’ssteady while a muscular Nubian stands up tomb, according to K&C cofounder andto try to spear one of the dangerous beasts Creative Director Andy C. Neilson.as it rears its massive head out of the waterwith its menacing jaws wide open.This eye- “Hunting the Hippo!” (ref. AE051).catching set sells for £127.95 U.K./$129 U.S. Right at the same time I wascontemplating writing this review, Icoincidentally received an e-mail from myfriend and fellow collector Gerhardt C.Muench. He attached a photo illustrating“SmallPapyrusBoat” (ref.AE052).48 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

NAPOLEON IN EGYPT “Standing The French Mameluke “DemiBY KING & COUNTRY LTD. Brigade With Flag The French Musket” Bearer” “Standing (ref. NE025). (ref. Guide” (ref. NE033). NE022).Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney the Pyramids at that point, and would go on improvised havelock to protect the back of   to achieve more victories on land while his his neck from the desert sun. “Victim of the entourage of experts documented amazing Sun” (ref. NE023; $85) is a poignant vignetteNow that we’ve visited the ancient Nile discoveries about ancient Egypt. But the depicting a soldier trying to summon helpcivilization, let’s climb aboard the King naval defeat trapped the French army. for a forlorn comrade felled by sunstroke.& Country Ltd. time machine of wide-ranging products to travel ahead in time to Instead of sharing his men’s grim fate, The most eye-catching Frenchmen areNapoleon Bonaparte’s ill-fated campaign in Napoleon sailed for France Aug. 24, 1799. the “Donkey Cavalier” (ref. NE027; $109)Egypt and Syria between 1798 and 1801. This set in motion a chain of events that holding both a musket and an umbrella for led to his eventual election as first consul some shade and the “Demi Brigade Flag The young general's objectives and coronation as Emperor. Bearer” (ref. NE033; $50) with a ratherwere to gain military glory, establish a nicely done standard.powerful French foothold in the Middle MAMELUKES & MOREEast, threaten British India and snuff Also new are a \"Mounted Mameluke\"out Britain’s meddling in the French Now K&C has unveiled a half-dozen (ref. NE024; $109) and a “StandingRevolutionary Wars. 1:30-scale, matt-finished additions to Mameluke With Musket” (ref. NE025; its colorful and dramatic “Napoleon in $43). These aren't K&C’s first renditions of A convoy safely delivered Napoleon’s Egypt” series. Four French troops are the flamboyantly dressed Mamelukes whoexpeditionary force to Egypt July 1, 1798. modeled in an authentic hodgepodge of fought both against Napoleon and laterHowever, most of the French ships were Revolutionary-era uniforms and bicorns. for him. But these exotic-looking figuresdestroyed by a British Royal Navy fleet are both standouts. The foot soldier wouldcommanded by Rear Adm. Sir Horatio For instance, the “Standing Guide” look fantastic collected in numbers andNelson during the Battle of the Nile at attention (ref. NE022; $43 U.S.) wears lined up in a company.Aug. 1-3, 1798. boots, a red uniform with a green jacket and an impressively plumed bicorn with an Also coming soon from K&C are Bonaparte had already won the Battle of six more Indians on foot or mounted for The French re-creating Custer’s Last Stand in 1876. “Mounted “Donkey Collectors who specialize in World War Mameluke” Cavalier” II can look forward to an American (ref. NE027). Mustang fighter plane and pilots, British (NE024).  paratroopers to reinforce the fledgling “Pathfinders” series of more finely modeled and painted premium figures, a Normandy pillbox, and German soldiers backed up by a Sd.Kfz 251 halftrack. n “Victim of the Sun” (ref. NE023) vignette. TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 49

Subscribe & be entered into theGettysburg Diorama drawing! Resaet1hed4i-pms1a9iogsresoesuf,e!Hudson & Allen Studio, W.Britain, Tedtoy Miniatures, and TS&MFare closing ranks like soldiers clad in the Blue or the Gray to give readers*a chance to win a complete Battle of Gettysburg diorama worth over $2,100. Subscribing today with not only give you the convenience of having your favorite toy soldier magazine delivered right to your door each month, but you will also receive the specially commissioned casting or beautifully matt-painted figure of Abraham Lincoln. PLUS, your name will also be placed in the drawing for the one-of-a-kind American Civil Way diorama that has been expertly crafted by Kenneth and Ericka Osen of Hudson & Allen. In addition, the winner of the diorama will receive 22 figures specially selected by W. Britain General Manager, Richard Walker. The figures included will depict the 114th Pennsylvania Infantry. These exotic- looking figures filled with authentic details were sculpted by Ken Osen for W.Britain. The 1:32-scale **troops feature action-packed poses enhanced by the matt-painted shading and highlighting. Don’t miss the chance to have your name put in the drawing for this incredible giveaway. Subscribe or renew today!* No purchase necessary to be entered into the drawing. Simply send your contactinformation to: TSMF – Diorama Drawing 2013, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 ** Actual figures provided to the winner might vary from those pictured here in the diorama.