Members Please see the Official Notices at the end of this E-Newsletter
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.
14 Game Days per Month
Did you know that Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis runs an average 14 game days each month?
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week with a Monthly Game Day West and Game Day East featuring multiple presentations. Check the calendar for details.
There are lots of opportunities to get into a game. Don’t miss out!
September Monthly Game Day Previews
July brings a full slate of gaming on both sides of the river, with a mix of historical depth, fast-play systems, and a bit of cinematic chaos. Whether you prefer brigade-level maneuver, naval engagements, or something a little more… toothy, there is a table waiting for you.
Game Day West
Game Day West
Saturday, September 5⋅10:00am – 4:00pm
Miniature Market – Rock Hill
9755 Manchester Rd, St. Louis, MO 63119, USA
Table One: Gettysburg Morning
Heth’s Confederate Division has deployed for battle astride the Chambersburg Pike, having pushed Union cavalry back beyond a ridge just ahead……..the fight for the Herbst’s Woods and McPherson’s Ridge now begins! We’ll play this iconic action on a new, custom-made game mat, displaying all the important fences and features from the battlefield, using Warlord’s Epic 13.5mm minis, for 4 players, and hosted by Dave Schaffner.
Table Two: Pub Battles Gettysburg
In this game, you will lead an army through a key historical battle in the musket era. Unlike most games, you won’t have God like knowledge and control of everything. Like real generals, you will often not know what the enemy has, where they will attack from, when they will move or even when your own troops will move. Tom Vielott GM
Come help evaluate this game fro our Education Working Group that takes historical gaming to school classrooms helping students see History Through a Different Lens.
Table Three: SKIRMISH AT LITTLE FERRY AWI 250 Project
After landing a 5000-man force in northern New Jersey, the British proceeded to capture Fort Lee in the early morning hours of November 20, 1776. However, the Continental forces retreated prior to that capture and General Washington is leading them in a withdrawal to the south. The British, needing to cutoff the Continental Army’s retreat, move to secure the ferry crossing on the Hackensack River on November 21st. The Continentals are trying to escape via the ferry and then disable it to prevent its use by the British.
Rules: Muskets & Tomahawks
Miniatures: 25mm John Nozka GM
Join the Big Muddy Historical Game Alliance – St. Louis for a public educational historical-gaming demonstration exploring the American Revolution and Civil War.
Using miniature figures, terrain, maps, and historical research, this scenario examines leadership, terrain, strategy, and command decisions.
Visitors are welcome to observe, ask questions, and participate . No prior gaming experience is required.
Game Day East
Game Day East
Sunday, September 20⋅12:00 – 4:00pm
Impact Gaming Center
49 Ludwig Dr, Fairview Heights, IL 62208, USA
Table One: Sharpe’s Occult By Tom Vielott
Richard Sharpe must once again set out on a dangerous mission, this time not only dealing with the French, but with creatures of magic and terror. Set during the Napoleonic Wars of the “Sharpe” books by Bernard Cornwell, but with a gothic horror twist. Merciless Game Rules.
Table Two: Speed Circuit by Dennis Hill.
Race the Indy 500 in this expanded and enhanced classic board game by Avalon Hill.
Table Three:The Battle of Fort Riviere Haiti 1915
Skirmish Action during the American Intervention in Haiti November 1915
US Marines take on the native Caco forcers in a historic action of the Banana Wars. Kevin Fitzpatrick GM
Help prepare this game for our Education Working Group that takes historical gaming to school classrooms helping students see History Through a Different Lens.
🎲
Our Games Are Being Seen
Following August Game Day West, we received game reports from the GMs who ran tables during the week of August 3–8. Posted in roughly chronological order, these reports gave our community a chance to revisit games they played in, catch up on games they may have missed, and see the remarkable variety of historical gaming taking place across the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance.
They also gave us an opportunity to see what attracts attention across our website and social-media platforms. Direct comparisons between individual games are not possible—or especially useful. Each report was shared in different groups and at different times, and the ever-mysterious social-media algorithms add another layer of variables. A higher number for one post does not mean that one game was “better” than another.
Every game presented by one of our GMs is a labor of love. Each table makes its own contribution to the larger BMHGA effort, and it is that collective effort that matters most.
With BMHGA currently supporting approximately 14 gaming events, featuring roughly 19 tables at five locations each month, our individual games, GMs, hosts, and organizers all help build something larger than any one event. The following figures, recorded as of Sunday, August 9, 2026, offer a snapshot of that wider impact.
| Game Report | Website Views | Facebook Reach | Reddit Response |
| Game Report | Website Views | Facebook Reach | Reddit Response |
| August Game Day West: Warmaster | 25 | 253 | Not available |
| August Game Day West: Grand Tactics—ACW | 43 | 413 | 38 upvotes; 1,900 views |
| Tuesday Night Gaming: Cruel Seas and SPQR | 41 | 1,200 | 16 upvotes; 1,300 views |
| Semi-Regular Retirees Game: Heat and Wings of Glory | 38 | 837 | 53 upvotes; 2,700 views |
| Game Day West: Viking Raid | 21 | 597 | 10 upvotes; 878 views |
| Wednesday Night Gaming: Full Thrust | 30 | 67 | 12 upvotes; 1,300 views |
| St. Louis Post-Dispatch article | — | 217 | 156 upvotes; 19,000 views* |
*The Post-Dispatch article reached approximately 21,000 Reddit views within its first 48 hours.
Combined Reach
Across these reports and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch article, BMHGA recorded:
- More than 3,500 Facebook post reaches
- More than 27,000 Reddit views
- More than 30,000 total views and reaches across the platforms tracked during this period
These numbers do not tell the whole story, but they do tell us something important: people are noticing what BMHGA is doing. Our after-action reports, photographs, game descriptions, and ongoing outreach are helping introduce historical gaming—and our welcoming local community—to people who may not otherwise know we exist.
The response has already produced tangible results. Immediately after the Post-Dispatch article appeared, a local gamer contacted us about attending an event and bringing friends along. The same week, new players joined us at Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday gaming events.
In the weeks leading up to Game Day West, we also welcomed visitors who traveled from Sioux City, Iowa; Bloomington, Springfield, and East Peoria, Illinois; and Hannibal, Missouri, to join our game days.
That kind of interest does not happen by accident. It grows from the work of every GM who prepares a table, every host who opens a venue, every volunteer who helps welcome newcomers, and every member who shares a photo, report, or invitation. Our outreach is working—and every game is part of the reason why.
Although we rely heavily on our website and emails to get out information to the members of our gaming community Facebook remains a critical means of communication for us as we post upcoming events and game reports. It is also a great source of hobby ideas, free rules, terrain building tips, painting advice and community for table top gamers of all ilks.
We have found that such groups as as Historical Wargaming Miniatures, Super Cheap Wargaming, Naval Wargaming, The Official Wings of Glory, Central Illinois Tabletop Warriors, S.A.G.A. and more show the range of content available to players today.
In a hobby built on shared imagination, these pages function as modern gaming tables—places where ideas are tested, armies are shown off, and the next game is always being planned
Upcoming Conventions / Events
Game Nite’s Gamer Garage Sale
Saturday, September 12·10:00am – 2:00pm
8380 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63119
September 12th, from 10:00am until 2:00pm, come on by and see what hidden gems you can find. If you are interested in purchasing a table to sell with us, please contact the store, but there is never a charge for shopping.
Fractured Realms
Fest
September 12th & 13th 2026
1420 Moss Ave. Peoria, IL
Fall-Con 2026
September 25-27, 2026
Oakley-Lindsay Center
Quincy, IL
Contact: QuincyFallcon@gmail.com
Archon 49
October 2nd – 4th, 2026
Doors open at 9AM
Gateway Convention Center, Collinsville, Illinois, USA
gaming@archonstl.org
Be Kind
Wargaming is about history, tactics, dice, terrain, and—hopefully—a lot of fun. But at the heart of the Big Muddy Historical Gaming Alliance – St. Louis is something more important than any game we play: the people around the table.
Lately, a number of our members have been dealing with things that have little to do with wargaming. Some are facing health issues. Others have recently experienced changes or difficulties with employment. Some may simply be having a difficult time and could use someone willing to listen. And sometimes, none of us really knows what another person is carrying with them when they walk through the door.
That’s why we’d like to remind everyone of something simple:
Be kind.
A gaming group should be a place where people can come, relax, laugh, roll some dice, and spend a few hours with friends. It should also be a place where someone who isn’t having a great day can still feel welcome.
Maybe that means asking someone how they’re doing—and actually listening to the answer. Maybe it’s inviting someone to join your game, helping a new player learn the rules, or simply sitting down and having a cup of coffee and a conversation. Sometimes a little friendship can mean considerably more than we realize.
And let’s remember that everyone has a bad day occasionally. A bad roll, a questionable tactical decision, a rules disagreement, or losing a favorite unit is usually not worth turning into more than it really is with someone you’ve come to the club to enjoy spending time with.
We don’t have to solve each other’s problems. We don’t need to know all the details of what someone may be going through. But we can make sure that nobody feels like they have to face everything alone while they’re part of our gaming community.
So over the coming weeks, let’s make a little extra effort.
Check on your fellow gamers.
Invite someone into your game.
Give someone an ear when they need to talk.
Offer a little encouragement.
And, above all, be kind.
The armies on the tabletop may be fighting battles, but we’re all on the same side when it comes to looking after the people who make Big Muddy what it is.
See you around the gaming table—and take care of one another.
Help Wanted
BIG MUDDY NEEDS YOU!
Yes, You. Put Down the Dice for a Minute.
Big Muddy doesn’t run itself.
We’re looking for members to help with two important committees: Membership and Activities.
Membership Committee
The mission is simple: get more gamers around the table.
Help welcome new members, spread the word about Big Muddy, and make newcomers feel at home. If you’ve ever told someone, “Hey, you should come play with us,” congratulations—you already have the necessary qualifications.
Activities Committee
Have an idea for a game, campaign, special event, convention game, or something completely ridiculous?
This is where you turn “Wouldn’t it be cool if…” into “Here’s the table setup.”
You don’t have to run everything yourself. We need people with ideas, people who can help organize, and people willing to lend a hand.
No Lifetime Commitment Required
We’re not asking you to quit your job and move into The Intergalactic Big Muddy headquarters. With the jacuzzi and open bar but, a little help makes a difference.
Big Muddy is about more than miniatures and dice. It’s about the people around the table—and keeping those tables full.
So if you’ve been thinking about getting more involved, now’s the time.
Talk to one of the officers at a game day or email director@bmhga.com
Bring your ideas. Bring your enthusiasm. Bring your dice.
Reindeer Wars 2026
We are pleased to announce that Reindeer Wars 2026 planning is underway. The locations are set and we are looking to expand with different ideas, some multi session and mullet location game days in the mix.
Expect to see some old holiday favorites and some new scenarios this year.
Saturday 12/26: Reindeer Wars – Game Nite Bolt Action Tournament
Sunday 12/27: Reindeer Wars – Game Nite Bolt Action Tournament
Sunday 12/27: Reindeer Wars – Impact Gaming Center Combined with Game Day East
Monday 12/28: Reindeer Wars – Miniature Market Rock Hill
Tuesday 12/29: Reindeer Wars – Game Nite Combined with Tuesday Night Gaming
Wednesday 12/30: Reindeer Wars – Fantasy Books & Games Combined with Wednesday Night Gaming
Thursday 12/31: Reindeer Wars – Miniature Market Cave Springs Combined with our Semi Regular Retirees Game
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.
Weekly Gaming E-Update
To receive the weekly gaming update email info@bmhga.com.
Public events may be submitted for inclusion.
2026 Gaming Calendar
September 2026
09/01: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
09/02: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
09/03: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
09/05: Big Muddy Game Day West – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 10am
09/08: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
09/09: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
09/10: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
09/12: Gamer Garage Sale – Game Nite 10am
09/15: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
09/16: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
09/17: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
09/20: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm0
9/22: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm0
9/23: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
09/24: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
09/29: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm09/30: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
October 2026 Gaming Calendar
10/01: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
10/03: Big Muddy Game Day West – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 10am
10/06: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
10/07: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
10/08: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
10/13: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
10/14: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
10/15: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
10/18: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm
10/20: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
10/21: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
10/22: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
10/27: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
10/28: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
10/29: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
November 2026
11/03: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
11/04: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
11/05: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
11/07: Big Muddy Game Day West – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 10am
11/10: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
11/11: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
11/12: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Rock Hill – 11am
11/15: Big Muddy Game Day East – Impact Gaming Center – 12pm
11/17: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
11/18: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
11/19: Semi Regular Retirees – Miniature Market Cave Springs – 11am
11/24: Tuesday Night Gaming – Game Nite – 6pm
11/25: Wednesday Night Gaming – Fantasy Books & Games – 6pm
11/26:Thanksgiving Day
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.
Big Muddy Historical Gaming
Alliance – St. Louis
***OFFICIAL NOTICES***
Notice of Annual Membership Meeting
The Annual Membership Meeting will be held in conjunction with November Game Day West and Command Con Lite on
November 7, 2026
At
Miniature Market – Rock Hill
9755 Manchester Rd, St. Louis, MO 63119, USA
Agenda
As required by the By-laws Article IV section e
- The business of each meeting shall proceed in the following order:
- Proof of Notice
- Reading of minutes
- Receiving and circulation of communication
- Officers reports (as appropriate)
- Committee chair reports (as appropriate)
- Other old business including membership resolution at presented by the Executive Committee.
- Election of Officers for the offices of Vice President, Treasurer and Member at Large
- viii.New business and scheduling of next Executive Board Meeting.
- Adjournment
Board Elections 2026
Four-Year Terms Announced Candidates
- Vice President – Tom Vielott
- 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
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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
