Dispatches of The Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis Volume 8 Issue #04 (April 2026)
Did you miss recent Big Muddy events or want to check on some of the games played?
After Action Reports
Our After Action Reports are now being posted on our website:
WWW.BMHGA.COM
Check there for some great photos of the games you played in and the ones you might have missed.
📚Education Working Group
History Through a Different Lens Initiative
Visits St. Charles Community College
The Education Working Group was pleased to once again bring our “History Through a Different Lens” initiative to students at St. Charles Community College. On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, we partnered with US History 102 and Western Civilization classes to present an engaging evening of large-format historical board gaming.
Students who participated enjoyed more than just a break from routine. Along with the opportunity to earn extra credit—and enjoy midterm pizza and refreshments courtesy of their instructor, Mark Williams—they experienced history in an interactive and memorable way through tabletop gaming.
🎲 Games in Action
For the US History 102 class, an enhanced version of One Hour WWII by Worthington Games provided a fast-paced look at World War II strategy. Students were especially fortunate to have their instructor, Mark Williams, step in as Game Master, guiding them through the action.
Western Civilization students explored two immersive experiences. A stunning 3D version of 878 Vikings: Invasions of England by Academy Games—expertly constructed and run by Pat Lewis—offered a vivid look at the Danish incursions into England.
With St. Patrick’s Day then approaching, Brian Boru: High King of Ireland by Osprey Games was selected to highlight the political struggles of Ireland around the year 1000. An enlarged board and upgraded components enhanced the experience, while supplemental historical reference sheets—with curated links—helped students connect gameplay to their coursework and prepare their reports.
🙌 A Collaborative Success
This event was another great example of how tabletop gaming can deepen historical understanding while keeping students actively engaged.
Our thanks go out to all of the Game Masters and students who participated, and a special thank you to Mark Williams for the invitation and continued support of this initiative.
We look forward to future opportunities to bring history to life—one game at a time.
🎲Game Day West – April
Join us for our next Game Day West on Saturday, April 4 from 10:00am to 4:00pm, part of our regular first Saturday gathering. We’ll once again be hosted by Miniature Market – Rock Hill—a fantastic venue for a full day of tabletop gaming.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about historical gaming, Game Day West offers a welcoming environment, great games, and plenty of opportunities to jump in.
⚔️ Featured Tables
Table One: American Civil War – Vicksburg Maneuvers
An exciting group project brings the American Civil War to life, focusing on early operations around Vicksburg. Featuring Warlord Epic-scale miniatures and the new Flint Tactics ruleset, this game promises a visually striking and tactically engaging experience.
Game Master: Dave Schaffner
Table Two: Engagement at New Bridge Landing An AWI 250 Project Game
As part of our ongoing AWI 250 Project, this scenario drops players into a critical moment on November 21, 1776. With British forces pressing hard after the fall of Fort Lee, American troops must delay the advance at New Bridge Landing while General Washington’s army escapes.
Using the Muskets & Tomahawks rules, this game blends history and tension as players fight a desperate rearguard action along the Hackensack River.
Game Master: John Nozka
Table Three: One Hour World War II (Enhanced) A “History Through A Different Lens” Initiative Game
Experience the entire scope of World War II in a fast-paced strategic format with One Hour World War II by Worthington Games. Designed for 2–5 players, this enhanced version keeps everyone engaged through a dynamic system of actions and responses with minimal downtime.
Perfect for fans of grand strategy games, this session delivers big decisions in a compact timeframe.
Game Master: Mark Williams
🎮 Join Us!
Game Day West is all about community, history, and great gaming. Stop by, pull up a chair, and dive into one (or 🎲 Big Muddy Game Day East – April Gathering
Join us for Game Day East on Sunday, April 19 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, part of our regular third Sunday meetups. We’ll be hosted once again at Impact Gaming Center, a great space for an afternoon of exciting tabletop action.
This month’s lineup brings a mix of fantasy, fast-paced racing, and aerial combat—there’s something for everyone.
⚔️ Featured Games
Rattle & Rend – 10mm Fantasy Skirmish
Step into a brutal fantasy battlefield with Rattle & Rend, a 10mm skirmish game featuring fast, tactical clashes and dramatic moments. Expect tightly focused engagements, creative warbands, and a visually striking tabletop.
Game Master: Will Phillips
Speed Circuit – High-Octane Racing Action
Looking for something a little different? Speed Circuit delivers fast-paced racing excitement where players push their luck, manage speed, and outmaneuver opponents on the track. Easy to learn and full of tense decisions, this is a great pick-up-and-play experience.
Wings of Glory – Aerial Dogfights
Take to the skies with Wings of Glory, where players pilot World War I aircraft in thrilling dogfights. With accessible mechanics and cinematic gameplay, it’s a perfect blend of strategy and action as you outfly and outthink your opponents. Kevin Fitzpatrick GM
🎮 Join Us!
Whether you’re commanding fantasy warbands, racing for the checkered flag, or dueling in the skies, Game Day East is all about variety, fun, and community.
Come out to Impact Gaming Center and spend the afternoon rolling dice, meeting fellow gamers, and enjoying everything Big Muddy has to offer.
New players are always welcome—just show up and jump in!
No matter your experience level, there’s always a place at the table.
🎲Barracks Battles Returns at DieCon 2026!
One of the most anticipated traditions at DieCon 2026 is back—and it’s ready to bring the noise, the laughter, and the clash of dice once again. Barracks Battles returns as a centerpiece of organized play, offering fast-paced, competitive fun for gamers of all stripes.
📍 When & Where
Join us at the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville from June 5–7, 2026 for a full weekend of gaming excitement. With plenty of space, great amenities, and a vibrant convention atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for epic tabletop battles.
⚔️ What Is Barracks Battles?
Barracks Battles are designed to capture the spirit of convention gaming at its best: quick-to-learn, exciting-to-play, and full of memorable moments. These sessions feature a mix of skirmish-style encounters, tactical challenges, and scenario-driven conflicts, all packed into accessible time slots that let players jump in without a long-term commitment.
Whether you’re commanding a squad, leading a daring raid, or outmaneuvering your opponent in a tight tactical puzzle, Barracks Battles deliver high-energy gameplay with a competitive edge.
🎮 Built for Everyone
One of the strengths of Barracks Battles is its accessibility:
- New players can jump in and learn quickly
- Veterans can test their skills in tight, tactical matchups
- Observers will find plenty of action to enjoy
Games are structured to keep things moving, making them perfect for convention schedules where you want to experience as much as possible.
🏆 Compete, Conquer, and Connect
Barracks Battles aren’t just about winning—they’re about shared experiences. Expect:
- Friendly competition
- Unique scenarios crafted by talented Game Masters
- Opportunities to meet new opponents and allies
- Plenty of post-game stories worth retelling
Some sessions may even feature leaderboards, achievements, or bragging rights, depending on the event structure.
🧭 A Highlight of the Weekend
Set within the vibrant atmosphere of DieCon 2026, Barracks Battles embody everything that makes convention gaming special: variety, energy, and community. It’s the perfect place to try something new, sharpen your skills, or simply enjoy a great game with fellow enthusiasts.
🙌 Join the Battle
Whether you’re stepping onto the battlefield for the first time or returning for another round, Barracks Battles at DieCon 2026 promise action-packed sessions and unforgettable moments.
Grab your dice, rally your forces, and prepare for battle.
Special Event!
American War of Independence 250!
“An Underappreciated Victory” Bernardo de Gálvez’s Mississippi River Campaign Against the British in 1779
Saturday, July 25, 2026⋅1:00 – 3:00pm
Old St. Ferdinand Shrine School House
1 Rue Saint Francois St,
Florissant, Saint Louis, MO 63031-5126
An Underappreciated Victory
Meet Author Steve Kling as he introduces his new book about the American War of Independence in the West.
Bernardo de Gálvez’s Mississippi River Campaign Against the British in 1779
By Stephen L. Kling, Jr and Kristine L. Sjostrom
Gálvez’s Mississippi River campaign in 1779 during the American Revolutionary War is truly an unappreciated victory today. While brief, it was tremendously impactful. Not only did it secure the Spanish rear and permit the free flow of aid up the Mississippi River to the Americans, but it also paved the way for the Gulf of Mexico operations against Mobile and Pensacola. It has been largely overshadowed by the more spectacular sieges of Mobile and Pensacola where Gálvez had abundant military resources. However, considering the difficult circumstances and limited military resources for the Mississippi River campaign, it is much more impressive. Gálvez overcame terrain and weather difficulties, logistical challenges and British fortified positions, all with the knowledge that he had to strike swiftly and secretly before British superior forces converged on New Orleans. The almost negligible number of casualties weighed against the capture of several forts and posts and hundreds of prisoners in such a short period is as shocking today as it was to the British high command. Every military campaign needs a little luck, but Gálvez took a huge risk against considerable odds and ended victorious. The close examination of the campaign in this book reveals its brilliance.
In collaboration with The Historical Game Company, Historic Florissant Inc, The Florissant Valley Historical Society, Friends of The Old St. Ferdinand Shrine, The Reverend John Clark Chapter DAR and Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis.
This event is Free and Open to the Public but reservations are necessary. You may make a reservation by emailing info@bmhga.com
🛍️Support Your Local Game Stores
Local game stores are the backbone of our hobby. They’re more than just places to buy games—they’re gathering spaces where friendships are formed, new players are welcomed, and communities like the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance come to life.
From hosting weekly events to providing tables, terrain, and knowledgeable staff, these stores invest in us every time we walk through the door.
🎲 Why It Matters
When you support your local game store, you help:
- Keep gaming spaces open and accessible
- Grow the local player community
- Encourage events, demos, and organized play
- Ensure new gamers have a place to discover the hobby
These stores take a chance on hosting events, often dedicating valuable space and time so we can play.
🤝 How You Can Help
Supporting your local store doesn’t have to be complicated:
- Purchase games, supplies, or hobby materials locally when you can
- Participate in store events and game nights
- Invite friends and help grow attendance
- Be respectful of the space and staff
- Spread the word about upcoming events
Even small actions make a big difference.
🌟 A Shared Community
In the St. Louis area, we’re fortunate to have stores that actively support gaming groups and events. Their partnership helps make everything we do possible—from casual weeknight games to large-scale game days.
Discord
Plans are underway to launch a BMHGA Discord server in early 2026.
More details will be shared as they become available.
Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance Name Tags
We have received the test run of our new group name badges and they look very good. Those interested in ordering one contact info@bmhga.com You can estimate the price to be around $15.00 each. If we get a discount on the order it will be passed along.
🎲Game Masters Wanted: Help Power Our 2026 Game Days!
As our gaming community continues to grow, we’re gearing up for an exciting second half of the year—and we need your help to make it unforgettable.
From July through December 2026, we’re actively looking for enthusiastic Game Masters (GMs) to run events at our regularly scheduled Game Days and weekly gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned GM or someone who’s been thinking about running your first game, this is the perfect opportunity to jump in.
🌟 Why Volunteer as a GM?
Being a Game Master is one of the most rewarding ways to engage with the hobby. You’re not just running a game—you’re creating memorable experiences, building community, and introducing players to new worlds.
As a GM, you will:
- Bring your favorite historical eras, systems and scenarios to life
- Meet new players and connect with fellow hobbyists
- Help shape the local gaming scene
- Gain experience running games in a fun environment
🎮 What We’re Looking For
We welcome a wide variety of games and styles, including:
- Miniatures and skirmish games)
- One-shots, campaigns, demos, or experimental formats
Whether you prefer lighthearted adventures or tactical challenges,—there’s a table waiting for you.
📅 When Are Events?
We host events throughout each month, including:
- Weekly Tuesday and Wednesday night gaming sessions
- Semi Regular Retirees daytime events
- Monthly Big Muddy Game Days (West & East locations)
- Reindeer Wars (December 26 – 31) Our annual shop crawl across the metro area.
You can volunteer for a single session, a recurring slot, or anything in between.
🧭 What You Need to Bring
- A prepared game or scenario
- Any materials needed to run your session
- A willingness to guide players and keep things fun and inclusive
That’s it—we’ll help with the rest!
🙌 Ready to Run a Game?
If you’re interested in volunteering as a GM between July and December 2026, we’d love to hear from you. Let us know:
- What game(s) you’d like to run
- Preferred dates or locations
- Whether you’re looking for a one-time or recurring slot
No experience? No problem. We’re happy to support first-time GMs and help you get started.
Step up, take the reins, and help create amazing gaming experiences for our community. We can’t do it without you.
If you are considering running a game, please submit details to
info@bmhga.com
🇺🇸AWI 250 Project: A Call to Game Masters
With the 250th Anniversary of the American War of Independence, upon us our community has a unique opportunity to bring history to life in the best way we know how—through games.
We have launched the AWI 250 Project, a long-term initiative inviting our Game Masters to commemorate this milestone by recreating and exploring the conflict year by year at the tabletop.
🎲 The Challenge
We’re calling on GMs to dive into the American War of Independence (1775–1783) and chronicle the war through playable scenarios, following its progression across the years. From the opening shots to the final campaigns, each session becomes part of a larger living timeline.
This is more than just running games—it’s about telling the story of a revolution through strategy, decision-making, and immersive play.
⚔️ What Can You Run?
The scope of the project is intentionally wide to encourage creativity and variety. We welcome:
- Skirmishes and small-unit actions
- Raids and frontier engagements
- Large-scale land battles
- Naval encounters and privateer actions
- Campaign-linked scenarios or one-shot historical moments
From New England to the southern colonies, from the frontier to the high seas—all theaters of the war are in play.
📜 Build the Timeline
Each game session contributes to a broader chronological journey. Whether you choose to focus on a single year or revisit multiple points in the war, your games help build a shared narrative across our events from July through December 2026 and beyond.
Players won’t just be rolling dice—they’ll be experiencing the unfolding of history.
🌟 Why Participate?
- Explore a rich and pivotal period of history
- Challenge players with real-world-inspired scenarios
- Contribute to a unique, community-wide project
- Showcase your creativity as a Game Master
Whether you favor historical accuracy, cinematic storytelling, or a blend of both, there’s room for your style in the AWI 250 Project.
🙌 Answer the Call
If you’ve ever wanted to run a historical game—or are looking for a fresh theme to inspire your next session—this is your moment.
Join us in commemorating 250 years of history by turning battles into stories, and stories into unforgettable gaming experiences.
Take up the challenge. Build the timeline. Roll the revolution.
Weekly Gaming E-Update
To receive the weekly gaming update email info@bmhga.com.
Public events may be submitted for inclusion.
Central Illinois TableTop Warriors
A long-standing group meeting in Peoria, Springfield, Bloomington, and Champaign, IL. Their events are included in the calendar below.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/435910586619700
2026 Gaming Calendar
April 2026
04/01: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
04/04: Big Muddy Game Day West – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 10am
04/07: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
04/08: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
04/09: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
04/14: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
04/15: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
04/16: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
04/19: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm
04/21: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
04/22: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
04/23: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
04/28: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
04/29: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
04/30: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
May 2026
05/02: Big Muddy Game Day West – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 10am
05/05: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
05/06: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
05/07: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
05/12: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
05/13: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
05/14: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
05/17: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm
05/19: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
05/20: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
05/21: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
05/26: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
05/27: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
05/28: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
June 2026
06/02: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
06/03: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
06/04: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
06/05: Barracks Battles @ Diecon 2026 Gateway Convention Center Collinsville IL
06/06: Barracks Battles @ Diecon 2026 Gateway Convention Center Collinsville IL
06/07: Barracks Battles @ Diecon 2026 Gateway Convention Center Collinsville IL
06/09: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
06/10: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
06/11: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
06/16: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
06/17: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
06/18: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
06/21: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm
06/23: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
06/24: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
06/25: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
06/30: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
For all of the above events listed remember that you do not need to bring along anything to play as all items necessary will be on the table and ready to go.
Suggestions/Ideas/Articles?
If you have any suggestions for
Dispatches of The Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis
our Reddit Page, Facebook Page, Website or know of someone who would like to be included in our email listings please feel free to let us know.Just email info@bmhga.com
To have your event listed please email
Info@bmhga.com
no later than the 20th of the month preceding the event.
While we strive to be as accurate as is possible all events listed are subject to last minute changes, substitutions and/or cancellations.
In Memoriam
Our website page to acknowledge and remember the members of our gaming community who are no longer with us.
If you are aware of any names that should be corrected or added please email info@bmhga.com
🎲Get Involved with the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis
If you’ve ever been curious about historical gaming—or you’re already passionate about recreating the battles, campaigns, and stories of the past—the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis is your gateway to a welcoming and active community.
Whether your interests lie in ancient warfare, black powder battles, or modern conflicts, there’s a place for you at the table.
🧭 What Is Big Muddy?
The Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance is a group of hobbyists dedicated to tabletop historical gaming in all its forms. Members share a love of history, strategy, miniatures, and storytelling—bringing the past to life through engaging and interactive games.
From large convention events to casual weeknight sessions, Big Muddy provides opportunities for gamers of all experience levels.
🎮 Ways to Get Involved
There are plenty of ways to jump in, depending on your interests and schedule:
Join a Game Night
Weekly meetups offer a relaxed environment to learn new systems, meet fellow gamers, and get models on the table.
Attend Game Days
Big Muddy hosts regular “Game Day” events across the St. Louis area, featuring a variety of hosted games and open tables.
Try Something New
look outside your current interests into another era or historical period. A new scale, new game systems are always welcome.
⚔️ Become a Game Master
Want to take a more active role? Consider running a game. Game Masters are the heart of the community—bringing scenarios, rulesets, and enthusiasm to every event.
You don’t need to be an expert. If you have a system you enjoy or a historical moment you’d like to explore, you’re already on your way and our current GMs are happy to help you.
📝 Contribute Beyond the Table
Big Muddy isn’t just about playing games—it’s about sharing the experience with the whole community. Members are encouraged to:
- Submit after-action reports – Tell the story of your games and how they played out
- Send in photos – Showcase painted miniatures, battle setups, and memorable moments
- Help document events – Capture the spirit of the community for others to enjoy
Join our Communications Team to help with our E-Newsletter, Weekly Updates, current and future social media.
Help Organize Events
Behind every weekly, monthly game day or convention is a team making it happen. You can help coordinate schedules, recruit Game Masters and ensure events run smoothly. Join our Organizers Working Group that meets each month to plan events.
The Next Generation
Want to share your passion for history and historical gaming with the next generation? Consider joining our History Through A Different Lens Initiative that takes gaming into museums and classrooms, showcasing the hobby and helping to educate participants about our past.
These contributions help preserve and distribute the history we create at the table and inspire others to join in.
🏛️ Take a Leadership Role
For those looking to make a deeper impact, consider stepping into a leadership position. The Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance is member-driven, and volunteers are essential to its continued success.
Opportunities include:
- Running for board positions
- Helping guide the direction of the group
- Supporting long-term projects and initiatives
It’s a great way to give back and help shape the future of the organization.
🤝 A Community First
What truly sets Big Muddy apart is its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. It’s not just about competition—it’s about:
- Sharing knowledge and resources
- Encouraging creativity
- Building lasting friendships
- Celebrating a shared passion for history and gaming
🌟 Why Join?
- Explore history in an interactive way
- Learn new games and systems
- Meet a welcoming community of gamers
- Participate in unique events and projects
Whether you’re a seasoned grognard or just discovering the hobby, Big Muddy offers something for everyone.
Pull up a chair, roll some dice, and make history come alive. The table is waiting—and there’s more than one way to be part of the action.
Pull up a chair, roll some dice, and make history come alive. The table is waiting.
Big Muddy Historical Gaming
Alliance – St. Louis
***OFFICIAL NOTICES***
💰 Support Big Muddy – 2026 Donation Campaign
As we continue into a new fiscal year, the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance is asking for your support to help sustain and grow our community.
Our current fiscal year began on November 1, 2025, and with your help, we can ensure the financial stability of the organization while continuing to host and expand our full schedule of gaming events through 2026 and beyond.
🎲 Why Your Donation Matters
Big Muddy thrives because of its members. Your donation directly supports:
- Convention and event programming
- Venue partnerships and game days
- Community initiatives and special projects
- The continued growth of historical gaming in our area
Your contribution helps us keep the tables full, the dice rolling, and the community strong.
🗳️ Member Benefits
By making a donation for 2026, you become an active supporting member of Big Muddy and gain the ability to:
- Vote in officer elections (November 2026)
- Run for board positions
- Participate in organizational votes and initiatives throughout the year
The 2026 donation period runs through June 1, 2026, so be sure to participate and make your voice heard.
🤝 Built by the Community
Big Muddy exists because of the dedication and generosity of its members. Whether you contribute financially, volunteer your time, or participate in events, you are what makes this organization possible.
We are grateful for every level of support and remain committed to providing a welcoming and active gaming community.
🎩 A Tip of the Hat
The Board of Directors would like to recognize and thank the following members who have already contributed their 2026 donations:
Les Hostetler, Britt Eubanks, Dale Wentz, William Doelling,, Steve King , Patrick Connanghton, Mark Johnson, John Voelker, Les Hostetler, Jon Bancoft, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Mark Luechkenhoff, Eddie Mosley, Pete Palmer, Curtis Turner, Gregg Dieckhaus, Alex Gluck, Ray Gluck, Steffen Gluck, Keith Struckmeyer, Warren Burris, John Nozka, Ed Menefee, Richard Schumecher, Jim Broshot, Burt Campbell, Dave Harrison, Adam Jones, Tim Lalk, Edward Menefee, Benjamin Ash,Daniel Carter, Cliff Mudd
Board Elections 2026
Four-Year Terms
- Vice President – James Kantor (Incumbent)
- Treasurer – Bill Doelling (Incumbent)
Two-Year Term
- Member at Large / Director – Kevin Fitzpatrick (Incumbent)
Members in good standing interested in serving are encouraged to submit their name to Director@bmhga.com
Communications Received
Important Update to the Community
Recently, several comments were received regarding Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis events and related online content. We value feedback from our community and would like to share the steps that have been taken in response.
We have received from one Game Master/Member thoughts on the following topics
Game Postings on Social Media and Subsequent Feedback
He indicated that he will no longer submit photos or written reports from his games, citing limited response to one event on one of our social media platforms. While we regret this decision, we respect the GM’s choice. Game Masters who choose to continue submitting reports and photos will, of course, continue to be prominently featured in Game Day posts on the website and on our social media channels.
Quality of Game Presentations
Expressed concerns regarding the quality of some tabletop presentations at our Game Day events, particularly at Monthly Game Day West. In response, adjustments have been made to the event schedule. The Member described as having lower quaintly presentations in this case is voluntarily withdrawing his games from Barracks Battles and upcoming Game Day West schedules. He has indicated that he will limit himself to our weekly sessions and supporting Game Day East. These changes are intended to minimize concerns about presentation style or content while still providing opportunities for members who wish to participate. This may limit the number of player slots available as there will be no back up game on standby at our Game Day West events so early arrival is encouraged.
Campaign Games
Indicates that we as a group have moved away from the practice of campaign gaming and believes that it should be re-instituted. While certainly a few campaigns have been successful in the past, many more have been little more than a flash in the pan. A moment’s inspiration followed by large buys of models, hours of painting and a fizzled level of interest. Experience and conversations across our community support this viewpoint. Nevertheless it is not our goal to pour cold water on any suggestion, but rather to look for ways to make them work if that can be the case. With that in mind we now have in the works one, possibly two limited format campaigns that will be rolled out in the second half of the year using off the shelf components.
A new player participant of the overall gaming community raised these concerns.
Use of AI-Generated Images
A concern was raised about the use of AI-generated artwork in event advertisements, particularly regarding potential creative rights issues and its possible effect on the group’s broader appeal. In response, AI-generated images will no longer be used in future Big Muddy postings. While the use of AI was intended to lighten the workload on our all volunteer communication group. We are happy to report that a member of our Organizers Working Group has offered to pitch in and help with content creation. This may still slow the pace of updates due to the additional time required to produce content manually, but the change reflects our commitment to addressing this participant’s concerns.
Three Musketeers Game Report
Another issue involved the description used in the February 19, 2026, game report for a Three Musketeers session. The wording used in that report was viewed as inappropriate. The related posts have been removed from both the website and social media. Additionally, the previously scheduled Three Musketeers game at Barracks Battles @ DieCon 2026—along with two other planned games—have been withdrawn.
July 2025 Game Day East Incident
A concern was also raised regarding comments made by a participant during the July 2025 Game Day East event. The individual involved has been contacted and has expressed a willingness to improve their language and conduct moving forward.
These actions are intended to address the concerns that were raised and to support a positive and welcoming environment for all members of the gaming community.
Communication of concerns of issue.
As a reminder, questions or concerns about group activities are always welcome and can be directed to the organization through the main group email address info@bmhga.com. Direct communication—either through email or in person at Game Day events—helps ensure that issues can be addressed promptly and constructively.
We appreciate the continued participation and support of our members and look forward to future events together.
###
After Action Reports
Our After Action Reports are now be posted at our Website: WWW.BMHGA.ComCheck there for some great photos of the games you played in and the ones you might have missed.
We are now on Reddit at
r/BigMuddyHGA
Website, Facebook Page & Reddit
Are the places to check for the latest updates & news in our area.
Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis (BMHGA) strives to support and build the historical gaming hobby in the St. Louis Metro Area “By demonstration, presentations at conventions, schools. libraries, and other events, where the theme includes military or gaming.
For further information email: info@bmhga.com
