In the heat of August 1861 which was described by a reporter from Iowa as somewhere between 80 and 2000 degrees near Clever, Missouri in the Southwest part of the state, Union and Confederate Armies met at Dug Springs. Just prior to the Battle of Wilson’s Creek the Armes were both jockeying for position and trying to keep the opponent at bay. So set the stage for our 6mm game using Black Powder rules by Warlord games.
Historically the battle consisted of some 500 troops on both sides mostly skirmishing, so fairly evenly matched. Both sides had a little cavalry and the Union brought along a couple of pieces of artillery which were deployed on a hill overlooking the battlefield.
Ravi & Mark L teamed up to take the Union forces screening Lyon’s army off table.
We converted to Centimeters from Inches for the game allowing it to fit very nicely on a 4×4 mat. The terrain had woods and scrub on both sides historically so we used some trees to narrow the field on both sides of The Wire Road. Above we see the Rebels advancing in line with the cavalry in the center. Each stand represented about 25 men. Mark L has deployed his Union Right in skirmish order to help minimize hits and thereby losses. His cavalry is being held behind the infantry. Ravi has his guns in action, but has seen on of his line units falling back due to losses and morale.
Our Confederate Commanders (Pat L and Mark W) plan a move forward putting pressure on the Union line. Above it is easy to see just how well this small battle fits onto the table allowing plenty off room for charts and dice on the Game Toppers of Miniature Market.
The Rebels took some bold moves and above are just about to the Union Battery having double teamed an infantry unit pushing it back. In doing so they also exposed their flanks and initiative went to the Union in the next turn.
And things went South for the South as the dice rolls just were not in their favor, making the bravery of their troops for naught. In short order the CSA Cavalry and the entire Confederate right collapsed with a combination of hits and failed morale rolls.
Thanks to the players who explored this little known Missouri ACW action on our November Game Day West and Thanks to the fine staff at Miniature Market Rock Hill for their continued support.
