Toy Soldier and Model Figure 193 June 2014 - Superunitedkingdom

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IN THIS ISSUE:• The Borgias • Kinder Eggs Metal Figures • Making Your Own Figures• Prince Valiant • RAF Ace Sandy Johnstone’s Spitfire • ACW Union Iron Brigade• Great War Centenary Releases • Ancient Roman Cavalry • Italian Manned Torpedo

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toy soldier showcase

inside this edition

4 TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE

14

bringing you this issue

Stuart A. HessneyEDITOR

Kelly JohnsonDIRECTOR

Sara VixSALES & MARKETING

Ann PavlishDESIGN

NEW METAL SHOWCASE......40Editor Stuart A. Hessney inspects the latest releases ranging from ancient history to the Middle Ages, the Texas Alamo, the American Civil War and the Anglo-Zulu War. � e 100th anniversary of the beginning of World War I is being marked with camel riders, infantry and personality fi gures. World War II items include everything from an Italian manned torpedo to a very special British Spitfi re.

PLASTIC PARADE……56Reviewer Len Cooksey is on hiatus for a spring break.

58

FIGURES OF THE MONTH ............................................5READERS: FIRE BACK! ...................................................6OPENING VOLLEY ..........................................................8KINDER EGGS METAL FIGURES.. ..............................14THE BORGIAS ...............................................................20MAKING YOUR OWN FIGURES ...................................28PRINCE VALIANT ..........................................................32CENTERFOLD ..........................................................38-39KIT KORNER ..................................................................58BOOK REVIEWS ............................................................66PRIZE EXERCISE ...........................................................70Win a hair-raising set from W. Britain’s “Clash of Empires” series depicting an Eastern Woodland Indian scalping a Colonial militiaman.CALENDAR .....................................................................74

32

28

20

14

50

40

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Welcome to TS&MF, the world’s No. 1 magazine for collectors of all stripes!

Eric Bryan kicks things off this issue with a look at how you might have to crack some chocolate eggs to make a collection of Kinder fi gures. He explains how when Italy-based Ferrero created its Kinder Surprise Eggs in the early 1970s, many of the hollow confections contained fi gures.

� e metal fi gures came in either 35-mm or 40-mm sizes and varied fi nishes. Eric examines examples of the wide-ranging themes covered by collectible Kinder fi gures. Hmm. � ink about it – what could be better than the combination of toy fi gures and chocolate!

Elsewhere � or Johnson, the creative force behind � e AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection’s exquisite Russian-made fi gures, recounts the controversial and fascinating family history of the European Renaissance period’s powerful Borgia family.

� e Catholic Church in Rome was headed by Pope Alexander VI, who was formerly known as Rodrigo Borgia, in the early 16th century. � or explores how the pope most certainly wielded tremendous infl uence, but his children Giovanni, Cesare and Lucrezia were no slouches either. Naturally, this article titled “� e Borgias” showcases a spectacular array of miniature masterpieces conceived by AeroArt.

Also American craftsman Aaron Bowers shares his expertise in an article called “Making Your Own Figures.” He supplies great advice for anyone interested in getting started on do-it-yourself soldiers. His article includes insights about selecting materials, molds and casting equipment.

In addition, Steve Rhea illustrates how numerous toy fi gures have been inspired by “Prince Valiant in the Days of King Arthur,” a comic strip originated by Hal Foster in 1937. � e collector surveys character fi gures produced through the years by various makers. Steve also pays tribute to the enduring popularity of the strip, which continues to appear in full color in more than 300 U.S. newspapers every Sunday.

As usual, there’s lots more in store in this edition, so please start turning the pages, enjoy and, as always, happy collecting!

Stuart A. Hessney, editor

from the editor

TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 5

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PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY:Ashdown Ltd.Unit 5EPark FarmChichester RoadArundel, West SussexEngland, U.K. BN18 0AGTel: 01903 884988Fax: 01903 885514

US OFFICE:Ashdown Inc.68132 250th Ave.Kasson, MN 55944Toll-Free: 1-866-606-6587Fax: (507) 634-7691

www.toy-soldier.comEDITOR:Stuart A. [email protected]

SALES & MARKETING:Sara [email protected]

DESIGN:Ann Pavlish

CONTRIBUTORS:Louis Badolato, Aaron Bowers, Eric Bryan, Doug Dearth, Hans Hedrich, Thor Johnson, A.J. Mergenthaler, Paul Newman, Grant Peterson, Steve Rhea and Leo Winston

SUBSCRIPTION MANAGERS:U.S.: Kelly Johnson/ usoffi [email protected].: [email protected]

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JUNE2014

Postmaster: Send address corrections to Toy Soldier & Model Figure, Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave. Kasson, MN 55944 2nd Class Postage Paid. Canada Post International Publications Mail - Sales Agreement No. 546038. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. All editorial contributions in the form of articles, letters and photographs (b/w or colour print or transparencies) are welcomed by Toy Soldier but cannot be returned unless accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. All material submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis that copyright in the work will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights world-wide, in all forms and media.

In any event the publisher can accept no responsibility for loss or damage to contributions.

figures of the month� e Collectors Showcase has created a killer composition depicting an ancient Roman cavalryman who has grabbed a Celtic foe around the neck. � e horseman lifts the barbarian right o� the ground with his left arm while winding up his sword arm to deliver a death blow in this dynamic, matt-� nished vignette.

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SOUND OFF ABOUT THE HOBBY OR MAGAZINE

■ The place where you can sound off about your views about anything to do with this hobby, or this magazine.

FIRE BACK! YOUR LETTERS

SOUND OFF ABOUT THE HOBBY OR MAGAZINE

FIRE BACK!YOUR LETTERSSOUND OFF ABOUT THE HOBBY OR MAGAZINE

FIRE BACK! YOUR LETTERSYOUR LETTERS


GUIDE TO BANDSTRIGGERED TEARS

GREENWOOD WARE MAKER OF FIGURES

STARLETTERBELOW: Pipes &

Drums of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment, crafted and properly arrayed by TS&MF contributor Scott J. Dummitt.

GET WRITING!Win a prize by sending in a letter

on anything concerning the toy soldier and model � gure hobby. Each month a special surprise gift will be awarded to the Star Letter writer!

BELOW: Greenwood Ware has been identified as the maker of these figures purchased in Bermuda during the 1970s.

Dear Editor: I’m in tears right now. I hope the water-

fall pouring from my eyes doesn’t blot the ink too much as I pen this letter to you.

I’m bawling because I just read Scott J. Dummitt’s “I Love a Parade!” article in TS&MF issue 191. He made me cry tears of both despair and joy.

I was entranced by Mr. Dummitt’s bril-liant article because my collection of mostly glossy toy soldiers includes 21 bands by various makers. I love the ceremonial splen-dor and musical pageantry represented by miniature brass bands and pipe bands.

However, reading his article made me weep because it revealed that many of my military music formations are set up incorrectly. � e writer explained how some confusion might arise due to a military unit’s country of origin, regimental traditions and other factors.

And, as you so clearly underscored in your own editor’s introduction to TS&MF issue 191, “one major � y in the ointment is that some manufacturers’ promotional pho-tos, which naïve collectors like me naturally use for guidance, actually show bands lined

up incorrectly!”� anks to Mr. Dummitt, now I’ve discov-

ered that I am one of those “naïve” collectors too. Boohoo!

After using this letter to mop up my initial puddle of tears, I thought about my predicament for a moment. � en another salty � oodtide erupted, but this time it was tears of joy!

My happiness stemmed from the sudden realization that thanks to Mr. Dummitt and TS&MF, I now have a great guide for properly arranging all my bands. And, more to the point, nothing makes me hap-pier than my occasional moments of bliss when I can put pour a wee dram of Scotch, play a CD of military music and enjoy the pleasure of painstakingly setting up some toy soldiers.

� anks so much for setting me and my bands straight, and giving me an excuse to enjoy hours of fun!

Michael ZimmermanBirmingham

England, U.K.� e Editor Responds: Many thanks for your heartfelt, salty and soaking wet letter!

Dear Editor: In TS&MF issue 192, A.J. Mer-

genthaler asked for more information regarding two � gures he purchased in Bermuda during the 1970s. � e � gures were made by Greenwood Ware in Great Britain.

Early � gures had wooden bases, but the later ones had plastic bases made to look like wood. � is company made pip-ers from Scotland’s many clans and, with regards to Canada, the provincial tartans. Greenwood Ware also produced Robin Hood characters and other British icons such as a London bobby.

I have � ve � gures in my collection made by Greenwood Ware. � ey include a bobby, Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) and three pipers (Maple Leaf Tartan, Nova Scotia Tartan and McDu� Tartan).

I purchased them in the early 1980s, so I am not sure if the company is still in existence. However, every once in a while I have seen the � gures in small stores sort of forgotten and waiting for someone to take them home.

� e last time I visited Halifax, N.S., there were a couple of Robin Hood characters still sitting on a store shelf where they had been 20 years earlier when I was stationed there while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy.

Scott J. DummittBailieboro, Ont.

Canada

Win a prize by sending in a letter

TSJUN14_p006-007.indd 6 3/31/14 9:50 AM


CONTACT US

KIT EXPERTISEDRAWS PRAISE

LEARNED A LOTABOUT BANDS

ARTICLE AMUSEDON A TUESDAY

We welcome readers’ Fire Back! feedback via e-mail at [email protected]. In addition, letters can be sent via fax to 01903 885514 or mail to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Ltd., Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, West Sussex, England, U.K. BN18 0AG. Letters can also be sent via fax to (507) 634-7691 or mail to Fire Back!, TS&MF, Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN, USA 55944. All correspondence must include your full name, address and daytime telephone number in case veri� cation is needed. Letters may be edited for length or clar-ity. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication.

ABOVE: Au Plat d’Etain owner Patricia Hebert with a typical red box of Mignot figures.

ABOVE: The Confederate cavalry captain kit built and painted by Paul Newman.

Dear Editor: As usual, TS&MF issue 191 was

terri� c!One of my favorite sayings is: “If

you are not careful, you can learn something every day.”

� ank you for Scott J. Dummitt’s “I Love a Parade!” article and his details about how to set up bands. Boy, did I learn a lot. I too love bands, but who knew where everyone belonged. I do now and am in the process of getting my bands in order. � ank you Scott!

James H. Hillestad’s “Queen Victoria in Miniature” was extraordinary too!

Don WilkensGladwyne, Pa., USA

Dear Editor:I’ve been spurred to write this letter

after reading the TS&MF issue 191 “Kit Korner” written by columnist Paul Newman. In this case, he reviewed, built and painted an American Civil War Confederate cavalry captain model figure kit from SK Miniatures. I think this installment is just the latest ex-ample of the great work the columnist has been sharing with fellow hobbyists every single month.

I always look forward to reading how he puts the kit at hand in its historical context. Mr. Newman’s descriptions of kits’ contents and their pros and cons are also illuminating.

Most of all, I must commend how well his words and photos take the reader through the process of assem-bling, painting and displaying a figure from start to finish. It seems like Mr. Newman is all too modest about his modeling skills. But I am only a begin-ner, so I think he’s brilliant!

My thanks to both TS&MF and Mr. Newman for sharing his expertise with fellow enthusiasts. I truly appreciate it. Please keep up the good work!

Ray BobbinNew York, N.Y., USA

Dear Editor:I wish to salute retired U.S. Army Brig.

Gen. Raymond E. Bell Jr. for his engross-ing article in TS&MF issue 191 titled “Never on Monday!”

I am one of your readers whose month-ly magazine arrives “always on Tuesday” (kidding!), so his article made me chuckle. He also provided some good advice about when and where to go hunting for toy soldiers in Paris.

My wife, Amy, and I dream of traveling to France some day soon. As a result, I look forward to having a chance to follow in Gen. Bell’s footsteps on one of the days the French capital’s toy soldier shops are usually open.

� e article also cemented my plans to visit Au Plat d’Etain to explore its treasure trove of toy soldiers by makers such as Lucotte and CBG Mignot, and enjoy the hospitality extended by owner Patrice Hebert.

I’m wondering whether someone read-ing this letter has toured the toy soldier shops of Paris when most of them were

open and could share their experiences and insights in a future article?

In the meantime, I always enjoy read-ing about fellow collectors’ hobby-related travels in the pages TS&MF. Please keep them coming!

William MonahanBoston, Mass., USA

TS&MF ON FACEBOOK, TWITTERHave you got something to say to the hobby world and you want to say it now?!? � en use your computer mouse to click your way to Toy Soldier & Model Figure Editor Stuart A. Hess-ney’s Facebook page and become a “friend” of the magazine. Enthusiasts can debate views, share hobby tips, spread news, post photos, help each other identify � gures, and more. It’s your forum for fun! Also readers can now follow TS&MF on Twitter as we strive to keep collectors around the globe informed and connected.

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LATEST NEWS FROM THE TOY SOLDIER HOBBY

■ Editor Stuart A. Hessney and his worldwide team of intrepid correspondents track down the latest news and notes of interest to toy soldier and model figure enthusiasts.

OPENING VOLLEY


LAST JAPANESE HOLDOUT IN PHILIPPINES DIES

World War II veteran Hiroo Onoda died at age 91 at a Tokyo hospital Jan. 16, 2014. He was notable for being the last Imperial Japanese Army soldier

in the Philippines to surrender -- more than 29 years after the war ended.

Born March 19, 1922, Onoda was trained as an intelligence o� cer in the commando class “Futamata” of Nakano School. � e second lieutenant was sent to Lubang Island in the Philippines Dec. 26, 1944. His orders were to do everything within his power to hamper Allied attacks on the island. His orders also stated that he should not surrender nor commit suicide under any circumstances.

American, Filipino and Commonwealth forces landed on Lubang Feb. 28, 1945. In

a short time, all but Onoda and three other Japanese soldiers had either been killed or surrendered. � e survivors took to the hills and rebu� ed ongoing e� orts to convince them that Japan had surrendered and the war was over. � ey survived on stolen food while carrying out guerrilla activities, killing about 30 Filipinos and engaging in several shootouts with police.

One man walked away from the others in 1949 and spent six months alone before surrendering to Filipino forces in 1950. Another Japanese soldier was killed by a search party in 1954. A third man from the group was killed by local police in 1972.

Onoda’s former commander traveled from Japan to personally convey orders relieving him from duty. Dressed in patched fatigues, the � nal holdout emerged from the jungle to surrender his sword, dagger and Arisaka Type 99 ri� e March 9, 1974. Onoda’s tenacity was only surpassed by Teruo Nakamura, a Japanese private arrested in Indonesia Dec. 18, 1974.

� ough Onoda was responsible for killings and other crimes, the fact that he thought the war was still ongoing was taken into consideration when Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos granted him

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERYANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIONS

Arlington National Cemetery’s sesquicentennial will be commemorated with special events during the spring of 2014.� e 624-acre cemetery is located in Virginia across the Potomac River from the U.S. capital Washington, D.C. � e grounds were for-

merly occupied by Arlington House, the estate of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee’s wife, Mary Anna Custis Lee.� e American Civil War was still raging when the Federal government acquired the property in a dubious tax sale in 1864 because it

needed a burial ground for Union soldiers killed in the Battle of the Wilderness. Custis Lee, the son of Robert and Mary Anna, successfully sued the government to regain the property in 1882. � en he sold it back to the government for $150,000 – the equivalent of about $3.2 million in today’s dollars.

Sesquicentennial events are scheduled to be kicked o� May 13 with a wreath-laying ceremony at the grave of Union Army Pvt. William Christman. He was the � rst soldier buried at Arlington on that same date back in 1864.

More than 400,000 wartime dead and deceased veterans have been interred at Arlington, including nearly 400 Medal of Honor recipi-ents. Presidents William Howard Taft and John F. Kennedy are also buried in the cemetery, which has been expanded through the years.

Commemorations will also include an anniversary book release reception May 13 and an “Arlington at 150” observance June 13. A wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns will conclude the 150th anniversary events June 15, marking the date Arlington was designated as a national cemetery. � e tomb is guarded by sentinels from the Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment (� e Old Guard).

--Stuart A. Hessney

a pardon.After he returned to Japan, Onoda

released a ghostwritten biography titled “No Surrender: My � irty-Year War.” � e Japanese government o� ered him a large sum of back pay, which he declined. He donated money received from well-wishers to the Yasukuni Shrine.

Onoda was reportedly unhappy about the amount of attention he received, so in 1975 he followed his older brother Tadao to Brazil to raise cattle. Hiroo got married in 1976 and took on a leading role in the local Japanese community.

In 1984, Onoda returned to Japan and founded an educational camp for young people after reading about Japanese teenager who had killed his parents. He revisited Lubang and donated $10,000 U.S. for the local school in 1996. His wife, Machie, became the leader of the conservative Japanese Women’s Association in 2006.

Onoda’s will to survive drew praise from Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga in the wake of his Jan. 16 death, which was attributed to heart failure complicated by pneumonia.

—Stuart A. HessneyABOVE: Circa 1944 photo of Japanese 2nd Lt. Hiroo Ononda.

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FIRST W. BRITAIN MODEL FIGURE SYMPOSIUM IN GETTYSBURG

ZULU WAR & MORE IN W. BRITAIN STANDARD

� e inaugural W. Britain Model Figure Symposium has been scheduled for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 8-10, 2014, at the Wyndham Hotel in Gettysburg, Pa.

“� e symposium’s focus will be the American Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg,” W. Britain General Manager and Creative Director Kenneth A. Osen explained. “Gettysburg is the beating heart of U.S. history. � e whole town seems to focus on history and entertaining.”

“Gettysburg also has the great distinction of having more toy soldier shops in it than any other town in the world!” he added.

� e ACW 150th anniversary event will be kicked o� with registration and an informal reception starting at 6 p.m. Friday. Saturday will feature a luncheon sandwiched between a series of morning and afternoon

seminars.Presenters will include Robert

Bradley, curator of history for the Alabama Department of Archives and History in Montgomery, Ala. He will cover the history and pres-ervation of Confederate � ags.

Patrick Craddock has degrees in military history from U.K. and U.S. universities, and he has been active in ACW living history for many years. His topic will be “By Squad, Company, Regiment and Brigade: How Armies Move.”

Roderick Musselman, educa-tion supervisor at the Carriage Hill Historic Site in Dayton, Ohio, will discuss the “19th-Cen-tury Agricultural Landscape and Its Impact on the Army.”

“Civil War Artillery & Gettys-burg” will be addressed by Charles Tarbox. He is a retired Silicon Valley attorney and owner of Get-tysburg’s Tarbox Toy Soldiers.

He is also a descendant of Iron Brigade Sgt. Albert E. Tarbox of

� e Anglo-Zulu War and lots more are covered in the February 2014 edition of � e Standard, the quarterly journal of the W. Britain Collectors Club.

� e cover photo shows a brand new set titled “Overrun!” that depicts an ambulance during the � nal moments of the Zulu attack against the British Army’s main encampment at Isandl-wana Jan. 22, 1879. In a corresponding article titled “Horns of the Bull,” expert Ian Knight exam-ines how the powerful Zulu army was organized.

James H. Hillestad’s “Frontier Raids” article focuses on the Wyoming Massacre in his home state of Pennsylvania during the American

Revolutionary War July 3, 1778. Woodland Indians from W. Britain’s newly inaugurated “Clash of Empires” series and other � gures animate a lifelike diorama that Jim crafted to help illustrate the article.

Since July 28, 2014, will mark the 100th anniversary of the begin-ning of World War I, two articles examine aspects of the con� ict. Craig Ap-pleton contributes a look at frontline food while Colin Romanick surveys helmets of the Great War. � e latter also shares a tour of the Virginia War Museum.

Expert model maker Dave Youngquist, who paints matt master � gures for the maker, o� ers some great advice about repair-ing “wounded” military

miniatures.� e Standard also includes an announce-

ment of a WWI centenary partnership between W. Britain and the Royal Armour-ies � agship museum in Leeds, England. � e museum is going to start stocking W. Britain � gures in its retail shop for the � rst time and both parties are making plans to team up for special events. For example, a special WWI-themed evening for members of the Collectors Club is being planned for Friday, April 25, 2014, with Appleton and U.K. Brand Manager Malcolm Watson on hand. A “retail launch weekend” will follow Saturday and Sunday, April 26-27.

For more details, contact Ellie Wadsworth of the museum sta� in Leeds or W. Britain, which is headed by General Manager and Creative Director Kenneth A. Osen.

--Stuart A. HessneyLEFT: The Standard’s latest cover pictures a British Army ambulance coming under attack by Zulu warriors.

ABOVE: W. Britain’s Ken Osen at the Sherfy farmhouse on Emmitsburg Road. During 1863’s Battle of Gettysburg, the 50-acre farm encompassed the famous Peach Orchard, Devil’s Den and both Big and Little Round Tops.

painting workshop under the tutelage of Dave Youngquist. His talents are enlisted by W. Britain for master � gure painting, such as the new Sgt. Tarbox piece. More examples of Youngquist’s expert work will be show-cased in new � gures and dioramas displayed throughout the weekend.

Participants are being o� ered the � ex-ibility of registering for the entire weekend or sampling the activities on an à la carte basis. Please contact the folks at W. Britain for additional information.

--Stuart A. Hessney

Company K, 6th Wisconsin Regiment. � e Union soldier is the subject of a special event � gure skillfully sculpted by Osen. � e sergeant was killed as the battle began July 1, 1863, and buried in the national cemetery.

A Saturday evening banquet will feature a presentation by Osen outlining how W. Britain develops � gures from start to � nish. In addition, rare preproduction samples and one-of-kind conversions will be made available in a silent auction.

On Sunday, participants can either go on a guided battle� eld tour or enjoy a toy soldier

BELOW: Ken Osen sculpted the special event figure depicting Iron Brigade Sgt. Albert E. Tarbox, who was killed on the first day of fighting at Gettysburg.

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OBITUARY: LAWRENCE LO (1961-2014)

Collector Lawrence Lo, 52, succumbed to cancer Feb. 6, 2014, leaving his beloved wife, Annie; and their two children, Christophe and Chloé; along with dozens of bereaved friends within this hobby worldwide.

Larry nursed his beloved Annie through her own battle with cancer for several years before his diagnosis in early September 2013.Born July 29, 1961, Larry was a successful restaurateur. He owned Tse Yang, the highest-rated Chinese restaurant in New York

City, according to the Zagat Survey.Larry was especially well-known in the military community for his longstanding support of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. He

provided military personnel with free meals and tickets to sporting events, particularly during Fleet Week in New York City. One of Larry’s fondest memories was of being � own to the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan as the “Guy in Back” of an F-14 Tomcat, and announced when he landed as “Admiral Lo.”

In the hobby, Larry was known as one of the cofounders and sponsors of the annual New York Toy Soldier Symposium, one of the coauthors of a series of volumes on King & Country Ltd. toy soldiers, and as one of the biggest collectors of items produced by K&C and Trophy Miniatures of Wales Ltd.

Larry generously gave of both his time and money planning and funding the eight annual New York Symposia. � e magni� cent four-course spread he provided for manufacturers, dealers and collectors alike, including the city’s best Peking duck, provided the perfect backdrop for fascinating discussions of everything from military history to the future of the hobby. He provided both his extensive knowledge and unfettered access to his comprehensive collection of early K&C glossy toy soldiers to permit publica-

tion of several volumes on the history of this industry leader.Shortly before being diagnosed with cancer, Larry ful� lled his dream

ABOVE: Lawrence Lo and Hans Hedrich (from left) at the 2006 symposium at the home of Louis Badolato. (Photo by Kevin Elliott)

‘BAND OF BROTHERS’ VETERAN DIES

William “Wild Bill” Guarnere, one of the World War II U.S. Army veterans who gained fame from the book “Band of Brothers” and its HBO adaptation, died at age 90 March 8, 2014.

The South Philadelphia native served in Easy Company of the 101st Airborne Division’s 506th Parachute Regiment. He fought with the “Screaming Eagles” in some of the war’s biggest battles in Europe.

In 1944, Guarnere parachuted into Normandy the night before D-Day. He also helped hold the key Belgian town of Bastogne while it was besieged by German forces during the Battle of the Bulge.

The war ended for Wild Bill at Bastogne, where he lost a leg while trying to help a wounded comrade. His medals included the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts.

Guarnere was active in various veterans organizations. He also traveled widely to tell the story of Easy Company, which became famous after historian Stephen Ambrose authored “Band of Brothers” about the soldiers’ wartime experiences. HBO turned the book into a popular television miniseries in 2001.

“Wild Bill” and another veteran who hailed from South Philly, Edward “Babe” Heffron, published the 2008 bestseller “Brothers in Battle, Best of Friends.”

--Stuart A. Hessney

ABOVE: Collectors Showcase figure depicting a paratrooper from the 101st Airborne Division, the outfit the late Wild Bill Guarnere of “Band of Brothers” fame served in.


of creating one of the great man caves by purchasing a second apartment in the building where he and his family lived to house his enormous collection, previously consigned mostly to storage.

Larry’s magni� cent collection contained many rare, sometimes one-of-a-kind items, including prototypes and paint masters. � ey were obtained through his friendships with manufacturers, such as Andy C. Neilson of K&C and John Jenkins, as well as his unique ability to network. Larry’s passion for obtaining rare toy soldiers was tempered by the breadth of his generosity -- he frequently gave fellow collectors rare items they desperately sought to complete a range.

Even during the last week of his life, Larry never lost the thrill of the hunt. � ose who loved him were happy to see Larry still bidding on rare toy soldier items on eBay days before his passing.

Larry will always be best remembered for his infectious grin and his sharp, sometimes wicked and always hysterical sense of humor. He also loved to wear his “FNG” U.S. Navy � ight jacket – a gift from an appreciative naval air wing.

Heartfelt online posts commemorating and celebrating the life of Law-rence Lo on the Treefrog Treasures Toy Soldier Forum are a � tting tribute to this wonderful man, and our dear friend. Larry will be sorely missed by the

innumerable persons whose lives were touched by his generosity and humor.--Louis Badolato and Hans Hedrich

TSJUN14_p008-010 OP.indd 10 4/4/14 10:50 AM

TSAPRL14_p011 AD.indd 11 3/27/14 10:34 AM

Clash of Empires is W. Britain’s newest collection featuring fi gures inspired by the events that took place on the Frontiers of Colonial North America from the 1750s to the 1790s. The historical

appearance of European soldiers and settlers and the native people are accurately rendered in every detail. Look for exciting new fi gures and scenic accessories later this year. All of our fi gures are researched to refl ect historically accurate weapons, uniforms and equipment and reproduced in 1:30 scale, or about 2½” in height. These historical miniatures are cast in metal and hand painted in a matte fi nish with shading and highlighting for a pleasing fi nish. These Clash of Empires, and other great fi gures are available from your authorized W. Britain dealers.

WBA0614 ©2014 FIRST GEAR, INC.

Tedtoy MiniaturesTel: 270-929-2876 www.tedtoy.com

1301 Walnut StreetOwensboro, Kentucky 42301

Hobby BunkerTel: 781-321-8855 Fax: 781-321-8866

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www.toysoldiershoppe.net3775 S. 108th St.

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The History StoreTel: 740-775-7400

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Treefrog TreasuresTel: 866-394-2418

Outside U.S.: 1-507-545-2500www.treefrogtreasures.com248 Sandstone Drive NWEyota, Minnesota 55934

Sierra Toy SoldierTel: 408-395-3000Fax: 408-358-3966

www.sierratoysoldier.com29 N. Santa Cruz Ave.

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Dutkins’ CollectablesTel: 800-LIL-ARM

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www.mmtoysoldiers.com 35 Pilgrim Village Rd. Unit #902

Taunton, Massachusetts 02780

are registered trademarks of First Gear, Inc., Peosta, IAFIRST GEAR®, design, W. Britain®, and �

When buying Toy Soldierssee that they are W. Britain

The fi gures above are just a small sampling of the Clash of Empires collection that W. Britain produces.The fi gures shown and the entire W. Britain range can be purchased from the retailers listed below:

WBA0614 TSMF_193.indd 1 3/24/14 4:15:42 PMTSJUN14_p012.indd 19 3/27/14 10:40 AM


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TSJUN14_p013 ad.indd 13 3/27/14 11:34 AM

Kinder Eggs Metal Figures


Collecting toy figures

Eric Bryan explains how you might have to crack some chocolate eggs to make a collection of Kinder figuresText: Eric Bryan Photos: Courtesy of gone-vintage

W hen the Italian company Ferrero created its Kinder Surprise Eggs in the early

1970s, many of the original occupants of these hollow chocolate confections were a myriad of small-scale metal figures.

Made in 40-mm or 35-mm sizes, the figures were released in various

finishes such as brass, copper or iron. The miniatures were made in Italy, Germany, France and other countries.

From figures of ancient Egyptians and Greeks and Romans to those of characters of the American West, the range is broad.

Many of the figures with thick bases have an identifier cast into the front

ABOVE: Geronimo in copper finish, figure No. 7 from the first series of American Indian chiefs series.

of the base such as “SCOT 1”, “SCOT 2,” “HUN 1,” “HUN 2” and so forth. However, a lot of original Kinder figures have no markings. Others have “SCAME” cast into the base.

Ferrero has released many series of metal figures through the decades since the dawning of Kinder Surprise Eggs.

ABOVE: French musketeer in gold finish, figure No. 1 from the first musketeers series.

TSJUN14_p014-17.indd 14 4/4/14 9:56 AM


of cowboys and Indians, the bulk of Kinder ’s Western-themed figures are those representing famous people of history. There are two series of eight figures each of 40-mm Indian chiefs which include Red Cloud, Crazy Horse, Sitting Bull, Cochise and Geronimo. Some of these wear a full headdress. Most grasp a rifle and/or a tomahawk.

Two series of eight figures each of 40-mm “Western Men” (gunfighters and lawmen) include Wild Bill Hickok, Wyatt Earp, Davy Crockett, Jesse James, Kit Carson and Butch Cassidy. All of these figures are suitably armed, with most of them drawing their pistols. Others hold their rifles at the ready.

ANCIENT WORLD Ancient Greece and Rome have been a rich source of inspiration.

Kinder has a series of four


AMERICAN HISTORYNorth American and Old West themes have been covered by Kinder.

It released two series of four figures each of 40-mm American Revolutionary War soldiers. These included a Patriot drummer, officers, a musketeer, a corporal and infantrymen. For the British side, Kinder had one series of four 40-mm figures: a sergeant major, a musketeer, a second lieutenant and a commissioned officer. Most of the ARW pieces are posed simply standing or on the march, rather than in action poses.

For the American Civil War, Kinder had two series of four 40-mm figures each. Each series -- one Confederate and one Union -- consists of a captain, a sergeant and two infantrymen. These figures are posed standing, not in fighting positions.

Besides two series of four each

40-mm Greek warriors. Each of these figures is armed with a “xiphos” (sword) and all carry the characteristic round shield but for one, who holds an ax. Three of the figures stand at the ready while a Spartan is battle-posed with sword aloft. (Another Greek fighter appears in the Kinder “Knights” series, otherwise made up of Frankish and other knights and a harquebusier.)

There are three series of 40-mm Romans. Two total four figures each and one is made up of six figures. Amongst this total of 14 figures collectors will find legionnaires, centurions, legates, gladiators and aquilifers. These are in standing positions, most of them in relaxed or at ready postures, with just one swinging a short sword. The figures in the series of six were also made to 35-mm size.

ABOVE: Inca warrior in brass finish, figure No. 4 in the Inca series.

ABOVE: Ancient Egyptian priest in iron finish, figure No. 6 in the Egyptian series.

ABOVE: Chrome-finished figure No. 5 in a Swiss Guards series.

TSJUN14_p014-17.indd 15 4/4/14 9:56 AM



EUROPEAN THEMESKinder had a series of six 40-mm Viking figures, carrying round shields and armed variously with broadswords and the feared battle-axes. These Norsemen also wear fanciful Wagnerian horned or winged helmets. All the Kinder Vikings are standing in repose or at the ready — none of them appear to be in the midst of mortal combat. The Viking figures were also

released in the 35-mm size.Scotland has been represented by

two Kinder series, one of six and one of four figures. The figures of both series were made to 40-mm, while the figures of the series of six were also released in the 35-mm size.

The series of six figures represents

a time period of 1850 to 1908. These Scots include a dragoon, general officer, bagpiper, corporal, training officer and drum major.

The second series of Scots is comprised of four 40-mm figures circa 1743. They include a corporal, bagpiper, drum major and infantryman. All of the Scots stand at the ready. The bagpiper from the second series appears to be playing.

Kinder’s Northern European series consists of four 40-mm figures. These include a Danish warrior with a long shield and sword, and two Teutonic-looking characters with winged helmets -- one with a sword; the other with a two-headed battle-axe and round shield.

“Made in 40-mm or 35-mm sizes, the figures were released in various finishes such as brass, copper or iron. The miniatures were made in Italy, Germany, France and other countries.”

ABOVE: Scottish bagpiper in gold finish, figure No. 3 from the second series of Scots.

ABOVE: Samurai in browned finish, figure No. 4 in first samurai series.

ABOVE: Ancient Roman retiarius gladiator with trident and net in browned finish, figure No. 2 in the second Romans series.

BELOW: American mountain man Jim Bridger in gold finish, figure No. 1 in the second “Western Men” series.

TSJUN14_p014-17.indd 16 4/4/14 9:56 AM



about the writer

Eric Bryan is a freelance writer originally from Burlingame, Calif., USA. He grew up enjoying playing with Britains Deetail and Herald knights and other figures. His articles have been published in magazines and newspapers throughout the United Kingdom and North America.

The Kinder Gauls series is made up of six 40-mm figures. They depict a tribune, horn blower, standard-bearer and various fighters. The figures stand in repose or at the ready.

The Huns are a series of four 40mm figures, with one armed with a sword and the others with a variety of axes. These figures all stand in generally relaxed postures.

EGYPTIANS & INCASKinder’s Egyptians are a series of six figures made in both 40-mm and 35-mm sizes. The characters include pharaohs, priests, dignitaries and royal guards.

South America’s Incas are depicted by a series of four 40-mm figures consisting of warriors, guards and one religious representative.

The Egyptian and Inca figures stand in fairly relaxed but expectant postures.

MUCH MOREOther series of Kinder metal figures include soldiers of the 14th to 16th and 18th to 19th centuries. There are Prussians, Napoleonics, musketeers, 18th-century French soldiers, the famed Swiss Guard, Mongols, figures of British India, Japanese samurais, pirates, Chinese warriors and Tartars.

There is a thriving collector’s market for Kinder metal figures, especially for those of earlier vintage. Some vintage Kinder metal figures can be had for about £1 U.K./$1.50 U.S. apiece, or you might even pay that for a trio. Examples of the rarer figures commonly sell for £3/$5 to £10/$16.50 or more.

ABOVE: ARW soldier, figure No. 4 in the Union Army series.

ABOVE: Wild Bill Hickok in silver finish, figure No. 5 in the first “Western Men” series.

ABOVE: Indian temple guard in iron finish, figure No. 6 in the 35-mm British India series.

If you decide to start a Kinder metal collection, please be aware that copies made by other companies exist. Many of these are easily detectable because of a different finish used, such as pewter, or by alternate markings. However, some of the copies are also highly collectible! n

“There is a thriving collector’s market for Kinder metal figures, especially for those of earlier vintage.”

TSJUN14_p014-17.indd 17 4/4/14 9:56 AM


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The BorgiasAeroArt’s Thor Johnson delves into the influential Borgias’ fascinating family history and fine figures from the Renaissance they’ve inspired Text: Thor Johnson Photos: Courtesy of AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection


History & Collecting

For history buffs, the first decade of the 16th century is loaded with treasure. “Treasure” in this case refers to the European Renaissance’s abundance of interesting personalities as well

as developments in warfare, weapons and strategies that evolved during this period.

To mention some of the players on the historical stage at this time, we have: Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I of Austria, King Henry VIII in England as well as France’s greatest knight Bayard and King Francis I. Sitting at the pinnacle of the great and powerful Catholic Church in Rome was Pope Alexander VI, who was formerly known as Rodrigo Borgia.

RENAISSANCE DRAMAThe Borgia family’s rise to power and fall is one of the most rivet-ing of Renaissance dramas.

The Borgias have been accused of being merely a family of miscreants and scoundrels, venal and corrupt. However, history tells us that they were no better nor worse than their predecessor or successors.

It is, of course, the winners who write history. However, it is worth noting that five centuries later, it is the Borgias that we

LEFT: The final model selected: a clean-shaven Cesare with the prominent Borgia bull emblem displayed on the horse’s barding and his armor.

RIGHT: Before we settled on our final specifications for Cesare Borgia, we produced a variety of trial pieces, including this version with blue barding for the horse. We even tried four figures with a beard.

RIGHT: Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I of Austria, who ruled at the time of the Borgias.

TSJUN14_p020-26 Borgias.indd 20 4/4/14 9:57 AM



study, not their contemporaries. In just the last few years, there have been two television series about the Borgias, two documentary films and several books adding to the voluminous existing books, manuscripts and pictures.

My own interest in the Borgias developed when I was in the U.S. Air Force and read Samuel Shellabarger’s best-selling novel, “Prince of Foxes.” I clearly recall seeing the 1949 film from 20th Century Fox of the same name which starred Tyrone Power and presented Orson Welles as Cesare Borgia in an unforgettable performance.

Many books followed, culminating in the exquisitely detailed figures recently introduced by our company’s AeroArt St. Peters-burg Collection. Three principal introductions are Rodrigo, Cesare and Lucrezia Borgia. Additional supplementary figures are waiting in the wings — subject to sales reports.

POPE & OFFSPRINGThe Borgias were a Spanish-Italian family who came to consider-able power and influence in the 15th and early 16th centuries.

The family’s rise to prominence was through the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church. Rodrigo Borgia was elected Pope Alexander VI in 1492 by the Conclave of Cardinals. For their favorable determination of his candidacy, the voting cardinals were rewarded money and favors — not a unique practice at the time.

Ascending the papacy, Rodrigo brought three objectives with him: The first, to live well and extend his personal wealth. The second, to enhance the careers and circumstances of his four chil-dren. The third, to regain control of the Papal States and repair the physical properties of the church. If Rodrigo had a fourth objec-tive, it would have been to please the Almighty with his words and deeds.

For many years, the monarchs of Europe had worked to dimin-

RIGHT: The first of three paint pattern experiments for the figure of Rodrigo Borgia as Pope Alexander VI.

RIGHT: The second trial piece portraying Pope Alexander VI. We thought the blue was too “clinical” for this flamboyant personality.

RIGHT: The final paint scheme selected for Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI) is shown.




ish the power of the Catholic Church. Alexander VI planned to reverse that trend. Th e pope would use all of the traditional tools of statecraft: obfuscation, propaganda, deception, intrigue, payoff s and, where necessary, armed intervention. He was resolved to build an ever-stronger church state, and he planned to use his sons in the achievement of his goals.

Rodrigo had plans for all his sons, beginning with the two oldest. Giovanni was the pope’s favorite, and next was Cesare. Th e youngest son, Jaff re, did not as yet fi gure into the pontiff ’s schemes.

Daughter Lucrezia would command a major role in his machi-nations through a series of arranged marriages of convenience to the state. In the course of these, a vicious, unsavory and untrue cloud of gossip ensued in Rome which followed Lucrezia for much of her life.

MURDER MYSTERYAlexander VI was able to arrange an “inheritance” for Giovanni — a duchy in Spain, Gandia. Th us Giovanni Borgia became the Duke of Gandia. At the same time, Pope Alexander promoted his son to captain general of the papal army, a role for which he was totally unsuited.

A series of military defeats and embarrassments in the fi eld of battle ensued for Giovanni and his papal forces. But he refused to accept blame.

Giovanni was back in Rome in June 1497. One evening he had dinner with his brother Cesare. He left the dinner early to meet with a lady and was not seen alive again. His corpse -- over-whelmed with nine stab wounds -- was later found in the Tiber River.

Th e disconsolate pope initiated a host of investigations to dis-cover the culprit behind this foul deed, but to no avail. Th e murder was never solved.

RIGHT: The prototype figure of AeroArt’s Lucrezia Borgia.

RIGHT: The general paint pattern set for Lucrezia. We varied the colors to create variety for her costume.

RIGHT: We modified the paint pattern on Lucrezia to enhance the elegant patterns on her gowns.




Almost a year after Giovanni’s death, tongues in Rome began to wag that perhaps the ruthless force that Cesare exhibited led him to murder his brother. While that was highly unlikely, the rumors persisted.

RUTHLESS CESARECesare was appointed archbishop of Valencia in 1492 at age 18 and appointed as a cardinal in 1493. He was tall, straight, strong, handsome, intelligent and a stranger to fear.

In 1498, Pope Alexander appointed Cesare to the position his brother had held: captain general of the papal army. Th is as-signment fi tted him perfectly, as though Cesare was born to serve in this capacity.

After Cesare shed his ecclesiastical titles and devoted himself to the papal military, his victories and successes multiplied. A natural leader, he was much admired by all who served him. With his new title, Duke of Valentino, he set about the reconquest of all lands that he believed belonged to his father’s church.

On the darker side, Cesare was ruthless and impatient at any

obstruction to his objectives. When occasions arose where he realized a person or persons blocked his way, he would call on his right-hand man and “executioner,” the Spaniard Miguel de Corella, to remove the obstacles. Corella remained with Cesare for many years.

On Aug. 5, 1503, Pope Alexander and his son Cesare attended a dinner with Cardinal Adriano Castellesi at the latter’s villa outside Rome. Th e following day their host, along with the pope and Ce-sare, were violently ill. Poisoning? Pope Alexander died Aug. 18. Cesare was extremely ill, but alive.

With the sudden demise of Rodrigo Borgia and Cesare’s near-death situation, the Bor- gias’ enemies moved in. Who would have imagined that Cesare and his father would both be incapacitated at the same time?!

Th e most virulent and powerful of the Borgias’ enemies, Cardi-nal Giuliano della Rovere returned to Rome from his 10-year exile. Later in 1503, Cardinal della Rovere assumed the papacy as Pope Julius II. Cesare was doomed as Julius hated Cesare as much as he detested Pope Alexander VI.

Cesare fl ed to Spain. Th en the new pope arranged with the

ABOVE: A contemporary, friend and admirer of Lucrezia Borgia was France’s greatest knight, the Chevalier de Bayard.

BELOW: Landsknecht mercenary musicians by AeroArt. Cesare Borgia’s army marched through many cities and duchies that he reconquered for his father’s papacy.




King of Spain to have Cesare imprisoned. As he eventually returned to health, Cesare managed to escape his prison and fl ed to Navarre. Th is was where his faithful and neglected wife, Charlotte d’Albret, was liv-ing with her brother, Jeanne d’Albret, King of Navarre.

At the time of Cesare’s arrival, the King was engaged in confrontation with one of his vassal nobles. Cesare joined his brother-in-law’s confl ict, assuming command of a cavalry unit. Cesare was killed in battle fi ghting with one companion while his cavalry deserted them March 12, 1507. He was 31 years old.

COMPLEX CONTRADICTIONSTh e Borgia family histories are rife with inconsistencies.

Corrupt and self-indulgent Rodrigo was by all accounts a capable administrator and in many ways he advanced the power of the Catholic Church.

Cesare was vain, cruel and excessively ambitious with a dark side to his character. Alternatively, he was a brilliant military leader and an able ruler. He was considered by many to be a remarkable man because his ability to learn the arts of leadership, negotiation and war so quickly was excep-tional.

Cesare’s rule of Italy’s Romagna region was deemed the fairest possible, creating the most prosperous peace it had enjoyed in centuries. He was the model on which Niccolo Machiavelli based “Th e Prince,” his

History & CollectingHistory & CollectingHistory

RIGHT: The Spaniard Miguel de Corella, Ceasre Borgia’s right-hand man and deadly enforcer, might have been attired like this.

BOTTOM RIGHT: During the reign of Pope Alexander VI (1492-1503), knights’ armor was approaching its apex in quality, strength and ornate beauty.




timeless primer for power politics, in 1519.Lucrezia, who had been the victim and

target of every scandal-monger in Rome, was cruelly and unjustifi ably maligned. Her fi nal marriage to the Duke of Ferrara, which encompassed half of her 39 years of life, was happy and produced many children.

Lucrezia was beloved and admired by all who met her. She was considered by the people of Ferrara to be the model of femi-nine virtue. Lucrezia died after the birth of her last child June 24, 1519.

PERFECTING FIGURESFor perhaps half of AeroArt’s 22 years producing fi ne painted metal collector fi gures, we at Th e St. Petersburg Collection have approached the subject of the Borgias many times. Our fi rst 54-mm fi gure of this period was Cesare.

Many prototypes were initiated, both standing and mounted. Originally, I envisioned a mounted fi gure of Cesare based on Orson Welles’ appearance in the “Prince of Foxes” fi lm. All these forays were abandoned.

Next, with the steep recession in the United States, I switched to seeing Cesare as a standing fi gure. But this again was dis-satisfying as the images failed to transmit the force of this tremendous personality.

After leaving the subject for several years, I personally created a sketch of a mounted Cesare with a list of items I thought were necessary embellishments of this man. Th e result is fi gure No. 6301 -- Cesare Borgia, which is pictured in this article.

Also pictured is No. 6315 -- Rodrigo Borgia, with the likeness from a compila-tion of several portraits of the pope. No. 6316 -- Lucrezia Borgia was developed from the colorful 15th-century costumes found in August Racinet’s 1888 book “Le Costume Historique.”

Also shown on these pages are the vari-ous paint samples that we used to develop what we felt would be the most expressive depictions of the Borgia family’s principal members.

In creating Cesare, for example, we assessed the various colors for his horse’s barding, as well as his face with or without a beard. For Pope Alexander VI, we went through several costume colors before set-tling on the yellow and red version.

We produce Lucrezia in several dress colors. Occasionally her hair is painted a little darker than the expected blonde hue.

Pictured within this article are several additional connoisseur-quality fi gures made in Russia for AeroArt that relate to the period of late 15th and early 16th cen-turies, potentially for service for and against the Borgias.

We do plan to expand the Borgia time period, but that’s tomorrow’s project! ■

In creating Cesare, for example,

LEFT: Mounted officer in armor from the papal army commanded by Cesare Borgia.

RIGHT: Despite the advent of gunpowder armies in the 16th century, tournaments and the appearance of their competing knights became increasingly extravagant.




about the writer

� or Johnson is a former vice president of Pan Am. He started � e AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection to apply his business acumen to his interest in history and connoisseur � gures. His personal library reveals his passion for reading, aviation, art, coins, currency, Hollywood Golden Age � lms and more. One of his favorite sayings is: “Collections are a sign of a civilized man!”

ABOVE: Cesare Borgia’s forces were increasingly gunpowder armies as illustrated by this artillery unit by The AeroArt St. Petersburg Collection.

BELOW: AeroArt figures of Renaissance period mercenaries who would fight for a prince, for a price. Cesare Borgia’s armed forces were primarily paid mercenaries, as were most armies of the era.


TSJUN14_p027.indd 27 3/27/14 11:58 AM

Making YourOwn Figures


Toy Soldier DIY

Aaron Bowers shares his expertise on getting started on do-it-yourself toy figuresText and Photos: Aaron Bowers

M ore and more these days, lots of people are getting into collecting toy soldiers or military

miniatures.For some of us, it’s a return to

something we did when we were younger. I grew up in the era of the Marx plastic � gure playsets sold by Sears and I had plenty of them.

Back then, in an age of less safety awareness, a child could buy a kit to melt lead and cast their own 54-mm � gures from metal molds. I did this on our kitchen stove, which is a pretty scary thought now. How I didn’t burn the house down or give the whole family lead poisoning I’m not sure.

Making your own � gures can be a great hobby, and give you the chance to create exactly what you want for your collection. But it does take some time, e� ort and space to do it.

So, if you’ve ever thought about getting into it, let’s talk about some of the things you should think out before getting started.

SELECTING MATERIALS� e � rst decision you’ll have to make is what materials do you want to work with? � is will depend on:

1) What kind of � gures do you want to end up with? 2) How detailed do you want them to be? 3) What are you going to do with them? 4) What’s your budget? I use lead because it has a relatively low

melting point and it is a very forgiving metal. It is easily shaped and sculpted with ordinary tools.

� e down side is that � gures made of lead are easily bent or damaged. Also, they are obviously not suitable for children or for gaming for the most part.

Tin, printer’s lead and pewter are much harder and more durable materials, but not as easily sculpted. I have found that

TOP: Aaron Bowers checks a project in his casting work space. (photo by Daphne Stevens)

ABOVE: Custom-made mold with a casting and an ACW figure that has been assembled and primed for painting.

TSMAY14_p028-30.indd 28 3/31/14 5:19 PM


Toy Soldier DIY

with these materials, you pretty much need to have them come out of the mold the way you want them to look because they are otherwise too hard and brittle to easily fashion into the e� ect desired.

MELTING METALLead and other low melting point metals can be prepared in pots with external or internal heat sources.

I’ve seen people use all kinds of ways to melt lead, from a hot plate to a self-heating ladle. But I � nd these harder to work with because you either have to pour or dip the molten lead from them. I have learned the hard way (and more than once) that molten lead is best handled or transferred as little as possible.

Now I use a self-contained unit which melts the lead in a raised pot, then dispenses it from a tap underneath directly into whatever mold I’m using. � is kind of pot usually costs a couple of hundred U.S. dollars, and requires a bit more maintenance.

� ere are also melting pots that serve as their own ladle. � ey work well and are less expensive. But again, they add a step to the transfer process that can sometimes end badly.

CHOOSING MOLDS� is brings us to the choice of molds.

� ere are several companies that sell vulcanized rubber molds to make various sizes of � gures. � ese molds give a lot more detail than metal molds, but they don’t last as long.

You can also make your own molds through a process called room temperature vulcanization (RTV). I’ve done this and it has some advantages. But it’s a pretty messy process. It involves several steps over a period of time, and you only have one shot at doing right. Once it’s set, there is very little you can do to � x or change them. If any step is o� – sometimes by just a little bit -- you end up with a hunk of rubber you can use as a doorstop or just throw away.

� ere are companies that will make a vulcanized mold from your pattern, which is my choice most of the time. � ese molds will last longer than those made with RTV. As you establish your own style, you’ll get a feel for how much detail you want.

Custom molds I have made are usually without arms, belts or equipment because I like to add them to each individual � gure.

Molds you buy will usually be the least expensive, followed by making your own (assuming you don’t have many failures). � e most expensive are custom vulcanized molds.

ABOVE: Sculpting and painting are under way on the writer’s workbench.

ABOVE: A raised melting pot is used to dispense molten metal directly into molds.

CASTING TECHNIQUESAll of these are called “gravity molds” because they depend on the weight of the material to fill all the space in the mold. With gravity molds, sometimes you’ll get gaps or hollow places in the finished casting.

The alternative is centrifugal casting for metal or injection molding for plastic or resin. These methods are not

usually very practical for home use and can be pretty expensive.

Once get the hang of casting your own figures, you can move to sculpting and adding details and personality to your figures. Also, you’ ll be able to fashion tools specifically for the kind of work your doing. But those are discussions for another time. ■

TSMAY14_p028-30.indd 29 3/31/14 5:19 PM


about the writer

American Aaron Bowers has been casting and painting military miniatures since he was 14 years old. He is an amateur historian who is particularly interested in the American Civil War. He is a Vietnam War veteran and currently hosts a TV talk show in Macon, Ga.

Toy Soldier DIY

RIGHT: Castings and a homemade mold created by Aaron Bowers.

BELOW: Paintbrush in hand, Aaron Bowers painstakingly finishes a figure.

get in touch

HAND CRAFTED MILITARY MINIATURES

Aaron Bowers3445 Osborne PlaceMacon, GA 31204

Phone: (478) 718-2676Email: [email protected]: www.aaronbowers.com

TSMAY14_p028-30.indd 30 3/31/14 5:19 PM

TSJUN14_p031.indd 31 3/27/14 12:03 PM

Prince ValiantSteve Rhea illustrates how toy figures have been inspired by Prince Valiant, the popular comic strip hero created by talented storyteller and artist Hal FosterText: Steve Rhea Photos: Steve Rhea and Michigan Toy Soldier Co.


Collecting Toy Figures

N umerous toy fi gures have been inspired by characters from newspaper comic strips

and comic books. My favorites in this genre are fi gures based on the “Prince Valiant in the Days of King Ar-thur” comic strip created by Hal Foster in 1937.

Th e strip continues to appear in full color in more than 300 Sunday news-papers in the United States, according to distributor King Features Syndicate. Foster’s work has inspired books and fi lms, including the 1954 “Prince Val-iant” movie starring Robert Wagner in the title role.

In years gone by, the comic strip’s characters have served as models for plastic fi gures from makers such as Hausser/Elastolin of Germany, where the popular character is known as “Prinz Eisenherz” (Iron Heart); and Louis Marx & Co. of the United States.

Collectors can also fi nd 7-cm painted resin fi gures made in Germany by Janetzki Arts, which obtained the Preiser/Elastolin license for producing Prince Valiant items.

Reamsa has made 60-mm plastic cop-ies of Elastolin fi gures, but the Spanish company does not offi cially call them Prince Valiant items.

TOP: “Prince Valiant” strip by the team of Gianni and Schultz from a Sunday newspaper.

ABOVE: Elastolin Viking and man-at-arms. The figure on the right is from the Elastolin catapult set, but has been provided with a pole arm here.

FAR LEFT: Elastolin’s second version of Prince Valiant was made to resemble actor Robert Wagner, star of the 1954 movie.

LEFT: Hal Foster’s Prince Valiant character debuted in 1937.

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HAIL HAL FOSTER!Harold Randolph “Hal” Foster was born in Canada in 1892. He worked at vari-ous jobs in his early years, but in 1921 he left Manitoba for Chicago. He stud-ied at the Art Institute of Chicago and later at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.

Foster demonstrated a fl air for sketching and graphic arts. He went to work drawing cartoons and comic strips.

In 1928, he was contracted to draw illustrations for the “Tarzan” newspaper comic strip. Although Foster apparently disliked Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Tarzan character, his interpretation was well-received and he was persuaded to draw the strip for the Sunday papers.

Th e vividness of Foster’s Tarzan char-acterization impressed many people, among them newspaper tycoon Wil-liam Randolph Hearst. He hired Foster and allowed him to develop his own comic strip that he would own, a privi-lege which was almost unheard of at the time.

Foster drew on some earlier sketches and conceptions and came up with “Prince Valiant.”

ARTHURIAN BRITAIN Th e comic strip was set in Arthurian Britain, though it eventually encom-passed the known world of that time.

Prince Valiant is the son of King Aguar of Th ule. He is deposed by Sligon, who is aided by the traitor-ous Black Knight. Th e King and Queen, along with Valiant, fl ee to the Fen Country of Britain, where they seek shelter with the local tribal leader.

Valiant eventually makes his way to the court of King Arthur, where he becomes Sir Gawain’s squire. Eventu-ally, Valiant gets revenge on Sligon and recovers the kingdom of Th ule. Valiant returns to Britain where he later be-comes a knight of the Round Table.

Th e early comic strips tell this story and introduce the other main characters whose adventures have enthralled read-ers for 77 years.

SINGING SWORDIn one story line, Valiant acquires the “Singing Sword” forged by the maker of Excalibur. His blade owes its name to the ringing sound it makes when strik-ing an enemy’s weapon.

He also meets and marries Aleta, the Queen of the Misty Isles. Th rough the years they produce fi ve off spring: Prince Arn, the twin princesses Karen and Valeta, and Princes Galen and Nathan.

Four years into the comic strip, Foster introduced Boltar the Viking,

ABOVE: Reamsa’s plastic copies of Elastolin figures. The figure in the closed helmet replicates the Elastolin Prince Arn. The one in the middle with the Red Stallion crest on his shield could be another Prince Valiant variation.

ABOVE: Marx 54-mm character figures circa 1954 include Boltar, Aleta, Prince Valiant, Sir Gawain and the Black Knight (from left).

ABOVE: Foot knights from Marx’s Castle Fort, Prince Valiant and Robin Hood playsets.

TSJUN14_p032-037.indd 33 4/4/14 9:58 AM



who befriends Valiant and be-comes his co-adventurer in many episodes.

Foster’s illustrations are reasonably historically accurate. The arms and armor are true to what is known of the period.

The knights wear mail coats and helmets typical of the time. The Wagnerian opera-style Viking horned helmet, which has never been verified by archaeological re-mains, is -- unfortunately -- a fre-quent headgear. But this is one of the small lapses.

Also, many of the castle fortresses, such as Camelot, resemble castles of the High Middle Ages more than they do the Dark Age fortresses that would have been the norm in King Arthur’s time.

VALIANT’S TRAVELSMany familiar personages appear in the strip besides King Arthur and various knights of the Round Table.

Merlin, Mordred, Morgan le Fay and other Arthurian figures show up from time to time.

Foster also introduced actual historical figures occasionally. For example, one story arc deals with Valiant foiling the expansionist campaigns of the Byzantine general Belesarius.

The various characters also have adventures that take them west into the Atlantic to Iceland, Greenland and the New World of Vinland. They also journey eastward to Palestine and most of the lands bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

The Misty Isles, of which Aleta is Queen-in-absentia, are never posi-tively identified, but lie somewhere in the eastern Mediterranean.

Valiant ’s home kingdom of Thule is similarly obscure. Since Greenland had not been discovered in Arthurian times, it is probably not the Norse domain of Thule in Greenland.

It is recorded that Foster visited Norway once, and traveled to the northern regions near Trondheim. It is probable that the scenery there inspired his depictions of Valiant ’s homeland.

The heraldic device of the ruling family is the Red Stallion of Thule, which is prominently emblazoned on Valiant ’s shield.

The story lines intersect with his-tory periodically. In a 1940 install-ment of the strip, the fall of Raven-na, Italy, to the Huns is mentioned, placing the action in the A.D. 450s.

In episodes published in 1941, there are references to the fall of Rome (A.D. 455), and the Battle of Badon Hill, where Arthur and his knights face the Saxon invaders in a dramatic clash.

FILM MERCHANDISINGMany toy figures have been generat-ed as tie-ins to movies and television programs. The “Prince Valiant” comic strip is no exception.

Elastolin introduced 7-cm and 40-mm plastic figures based on the comic strip during the early 1950s. They included character figures of Valiant, Prince Arn, a “Castle Lady” damsel who is sometimes identified as Queen Aleta, and Sir Gawain.

In 1956, the facial features of Elastolin’s Valiant figure were slight-ly altered to make him more closely resemble movie actor Wagner.

The German company ’s products included a 7-cm hybrid set that came with plastic figures of Valiant, the “Castle Lady” and Sir Gawain

ABOVE: Ideal knight showing the stallion head crest on the shield.

RIGHT: Ideal’s “Prince Valiant” knight.

ABOVE: The most authentic-looking Marx Viking is the chieftain from the castle playset of 1959-1960.

BELOW: Marx 60-mm Vikings from the 1960s “Warriors of the World” series.

TSJUN14_p032-037.indd 34 4/4/14 9:59 AM



combined with a pair of mounted knights made of composition. Their “Prinz Eisenherz” box opens to reveal a lovely castle backdrop.

Elastolin marketed its Prince Val-iant figures along with an extensive line of Vikings and Normans that have great action poses and are nicely painted. They are also historically accurate in terms of weapons and armor.

I have seen some of the old Elas-tolin character figures command very good prices at hobby shows. The German company ’s original, pre-Wagner version of Prince Valiant is considered very rare.

Preiser reissued the Elastolin plastic figures starting in 1985. Its Wagner version of Valiant stayed in production until 2005, when the maker chose not to renew its licensing.

In 2002, 200-mm resin figures of Valiant, the “Castle Lady” and Sir Gawain were issued. Only 50 of each figure were produced. Elastolin had made molds for these figures during the 1960s, but didn’t put them into production.

Janetzki Arts bought the license for Germany and continued to release 7-cm, Prince Valiant-themed figures.

ABOVE & BELOW: An Elastolin “Prinz Eisenherz” (Iron Heart) box from the 1950s opens up to reveal an attractive castle backdrop for its hybrid set of 7-cm figures. This set mixes a pair of composition mounted knights with plastic figures of Prince Valiant, the “Castle Lady” and Sir Gawain. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

BELOW: An Elastolin “Prinz Eisenherz” (Iron Heart) box from the 1950s provides a backdrop for 200-mm resin figures produced in 2002. They include Prince Valiant, the “Castle Lady” and Sir Gawain holding his helmet. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

TSJUN14_p032-037.indd 35 4/4/14 9:59 AM



ABOVE: Queen Aleta and our hero meet a Woodland Indian in the “Prince Valiant in America” set produced by Janetzki Arts. The limited edition of 60 sets was inspired by a comic strip story arc that landed Prince Valiant in North America. These figures are 7-cm scale. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

ABOVE: Prince Valiant variants made in three different scales: 200-mm, 7-cm and 40-mm (from left). The middle figure is Elastolin’s original version. After the “Prince Valiant” movie starring Robert Wagner in the title role was released in 1954, Elastolin changed the figure’s head to make it resemble the actor. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.) ABOVE: Beautiful illustrations and great storytelling have made the “Prince Valiant” comic strip popular for nearly 80 years.

MARX VALIANT PLAYSET As usual, the champion of movie tie-in toy fi gures was New York City-based Marx.

Marx introduced the Castle Fort playset consisting of a tin lithograph castle with plastic accessories, 14 foot knights in seven poses, and six mounted knights in three poses in 1953.

Th e next year the manufacturer re-issued the castle as its Prince Valiant playset. It was exactly the same, but also contained fi ve character fi gures: Valiant, Aleta, Sir Gawain, Boltar and the Black Knight.

Th e character fi gures are faithful to the comic strip when it comes to period detail. However, the Prince Valiant play-set’s other knights are armed more in the style of the 14th century. Th ey wear plate armor with either closed or visored helmets and most of them have triangular shields.

Boltar wears the Viking horned helmet. His sword has always seemed to me to be a bit short for the conventional Viking weapon.

Marx produced a diff erent version of the castle in 1959-1960. Th is time there were both knights and Vikings in the set, though there were no character fi g-ures. Th ese were made in both 54-mm and 60-mm scales.

Th e Vikings are not very well de-signed. One is attacking brandishing a dagger. Some of them carry triangular shields, which as far as I know were never used by the Norse raiders. Th e one excep-

tional fi gure is a Viking chieftain in a winged helmet carrying a long sword. Th at one is an excellent pose.

Marx did one more bit of recycling the Prince Valiant fi gures in the late 1950s. In-stead of its usual soft plastic fi gures, the manufacturer issued a line of 54-mm hard plastic painted knights that were not made in the United States.

Th e very fi rst ones were made in the Netherlands. Later versions were made in West Germany and then in Hong Kong. Th ese “Warriors of the World” fi gures have the country of manufacture stamped on the underside of the base, which makes them easy to identify.

All of the 54-mm foot knights were reissued, including the Black Knight and Valiant

TSJUN14_p032-037.indd 36 4/4/14 9:59 AM



about the writer

Steve Rhea began buying toy soldiers in � ve-and-ten stores in Beaumont, Texas, USA, in 1954. He is semiretired from working as a petroleum geoscientist for 41 years and is enjoying a second childhood as a collector. Steve’s primary interests are metal toy soldiers portraying the post-Waterloo to pre-World War I period, pirates, and pre-1960s spacemen and aliens. He has contributed more than 20 articles to TS&MF and other hobby publications. He lives in Houston, Texas, and loves visiting his in-laws in England and Ireland.

pose, although this time the Prince Valiant fi gure was fi tted with a helmet and closed visor. Also, the Red Stallion crest on the shield and surcoat was changed to a cross, which is green in most paint versions.

MORE VALIANT VERSIONS Another fi gure worth mentioning is a plas-tic 7-cm fi gure made by the Ideal Toy Co. in 1957 or 1958. Th is one is often called Prince Valiant because his round shield has a horse head device on it.

Th is fi gure was part of a small set of Ideal fi gures that contained two mounted knights with lances and shields, two knights in mail hauberks with swords and round shields, a Crusader-type knight in mail with a surcoat emblazoned with a cross, a maiden in a fl owing gown, and a herald with trumpet. Some sets also included an armored knight with a hand-gisarme, or cleaver-bladed ax.

Reamsa has issued plastic medieval fi gures based on Elastolin’s Prince Valiant items in recent years. Among these is a Valiant-style fi gure in a nice action pose fi ghting with a sword and round shield that bears the Red Stallion crest. A Prince Arn-

strip in 1971.Foster continued to write the plots and

scripts for the episodes until 1980. He died in 1982.

Murphy retired in 2004 and was suc-ceeded by the team of illustrator Gary Gianni and writer Mark Schultz. Th e strip has featured Schultz’s scripting and artwork by Th omas Yeates since April 2012.

Th e tale has continued much as usual through more than 4,000 installments. Th e characters age, but not in real time. After all these years, Valiant has only a touch of gray at the temples and King Arthur still rules in Camelot.

Valiant’s fairly recent adventures have seen him held prisoner in the great ring fort of Dun Angus in Ireland. He has also bat-tled a plesiosaur-like monster in a Scottish loch.

Galen has quested for the Holy Grail as far afi eld as Jerusalem. Th e other characters continue to engage their readers in a rich Arthurian saga.

I eagerly look forward to each new episode! ■

ABOVE: Janetzki Arts figure of Boltar the Viking. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

BOTTOM LEFT: A 200-mm figure of Prince Valiant. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier

BOTTOM RIGHT: The original 7-cm plastic version of Prince Valiant by Elastolin. (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

ABOVE: ”The Three Friends,” a limited edition of 120 sets made by Janetzki Arts, features figures of Tristan, Prince Valiant and Sir Gawain (from left). (Photo Courtesy of Michigan Toy Soldier Co.)

like fi gure wears a closed helm and carries a triangular shield.

FOSTER SIGNS OFFHal Foster continued to produce the Print Valiant com-ic strip writing the story lines and doing the original drawings until 1971.

He had three assistants who did the fi nal inking and coloring before the strip went to print. One of Foster’s assistants, John Cullen Murphy, took over the actual drawing of the

postscript

Only when I began looking for supple-mental information for this article did I realize what a wealth of ”Valiantiana” is available on the Internet. Many fans of the Prince Valiant character maintain Websites. If you are interested in the Elas-tolin � gures, search the Web for a reference to Elastolin � gure pictures by Jan-Mi-chael Mau. You will be rewarded with a visual feast of Prince Valiant � gures photographed by a true fan of this genre.

TSJUN14_p032-037.indd 37 4/4/14 9:59 AM

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TSJUN14_p038-39.indd 38 3/31/14 4:11 PM


W. BRITAIN DIORAMA featuring the dramatic new “Overrun!” set. It depicts a British Army ambulance and its occupants in the final throes of the Anglo-Zulu War’s Battle of Isandlwana Jan. 22, 1879. An army of 20,000 disciplined Zulu Warriors enveloped, overwhelmed and destroyed the poorly deployed defenders of the main British encampment. Out of about 1,000 British soldiers and 750 black auxiliaries on hand, as many as 1,350 of them were slaughtered. –Stuart A. Hessney

TSJUN14_p038-39.indd 39 3/31/14 4:11 PM

THE LATEST TOY SOLDIERS MARCH IN REVIEW

New Metal on the March


n Editor Stuart A. Hessney reviews some of the latest items from around the globe to land in the marketplace.

ASSORTED NEW RELEASESBY KING & COUNTRY.

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney Dynamic fi gures designed for storytell-

ing and packed with loads of personality and are included in the latest monthly batch of 24 new releases from King & Country Ltd.

Th e 1:30-scale pieces included in-tricately detailed fi gures on foot and horseback, a tank and a very special Spitfi re fi ghter plane. Th ese items' histori-cal backdrops range all the way from the ancient world to the Middle Ages, the Texas Revolution and World War II.

ANCIENT PERSIANSK&C has fi nally gotten around to issu-ing 10 ancient Persians on foot to aff ord some eye-catching opposition to its appealing Greek warriors. Th e newcom-ers represent the era of King Darius the Great, who ruled the Persian Achaeme-nid Empire at its peak from 550 to 486 B.C.

Darius held sway over vast swaths of Asia, Africa, the Balkans, the Aegean Islands and Th race. But the Persians’ fi rst invasion of Greece ended with a defeat

at the hands of a mostly Athenian army of heavy infantry at the Battle of Mara-thon in 490 B.C.

K&C’s version of Darius’ army is led by a fi erce-looking offi cer (ref. AG016) holding a sword and shield. He is dressed in a gold-embossed helmet and layered scale armor. He can be comple-mented in a command group by an ax-wielding standard-bearer (ref. AG017) carrying a striking scarlet banner em-blazoned with an eagle. Th e offi cer costs £48.95 U.K./$49 U.S. while the fl ag-toting fellow goes for £54.95/$55.

Persian “Army of Darius Officer" (ref. AG016).

"Persian Standard Bearer"(ref. AG017).

"Persian Warrior With Ax" (ref. AG018). “Persian Archer Ready" (ref. AG019).

TSJUN14_p40-55.indd 40 4/4/14 9:51 AM


Th e colorful contingent in varied headgear also includes warriors with an ax (ref. AG018), brandishing a sword in a stabbing motion (ref. AG022), throw-ing a spear (ref. AG023), standing ready with a spear and shield (ref. AG024), and holding a sword overhead as if to slash downwards (ref. AG025). Th ey are sold singly at the same pricing as their offi cer.

Persian archers with composite bows posed either at the ready (ref. AG019) or fi ring (ref. AG020) retail for £46.95/$47 apiece, as does a warrior using both hands to grip his long spear (ref. AG021).

MEDIEVAL SARACENSA trio of Saracens on horseback are led by a stunning fi ghting fi gure of none other

than Saladin (ref. MK109), the fi rst Sultan of Egypt and Syria and the founder of the Ayyubid Dynasty. K&C has aptly captured how Saladin led from the front as his Muslim forces opposed European Christian Crusaders in the Levant.

Troops under Saladin’s personal com-mand defeated the Crusaders in the deci-sive Battle of Hattin in 1187. Th is victory paved the way for the Muslim recapture of Palestine, though the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem held out a bit longer in the Holy Land.

Th e Sultan and a bodyguard (ref. MK114) both hold scimitars and round shields. Th ey cost £122.95/$125 apiece.

“Saladin may have been brave, but he was not foolhardy!” Andy C. Neilson, K&C cofounder and creative director, mused. “A troop of mounted bodyguards

always rode with him.”Saladin is accompanied by his personal

standard-bearer (ref. MK115) priced at £136.95/$139. Th e mostly green banner is triangular and carries a religious verse from the Koran.

TEXAS ALAMOK&C’s own Kings X Toy Soldiers is one of the shops located in the historic Menger Hotel located right across the street from the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas. So it’s no wonder that Alamo-themed items have proven to be perennially popular for the manufacturer.

Th e latest painted metal additions to the “Remember the Alamo” series portray Mexican Lt. Col. Jose Enrique de la Pena (ref. RTA071; £46.95/$47) and John McGregor (ref. RTA072; £51.95/$52).

"Persian Archer Firing" (ref. AG020). "Persian Warrior With Spear" (ref. AG021).

"Persian Warrior With Sword" (ref. AG022). "Persian Spearman Throwing" (ref. AG023).

"Persian Spearman Standing Ready" (ref. AG024).

"Persian Fighting Swordsman" (ref. AG025).

TSJUN14_p40-55.indd 41 4/4/14 9:51 AM


Andy related, “Colonel de la Pena was one of the most interesting `personalities’ of the Battle of the Alamo because he took part in the battle and wrote a record of it. Contained in his record was the fi rst re-port of the execution of the few survivors of the siege, which might have included Davy Crockett.”

“Much controversy surrounds the authenticity of de la Pena's book,” Andy added. “However, the majority of Alamo experts are convinced that it is genuine.”

K&C’s evocative fi gure depicts de la Pena in Toluca Battalion uniform mak-ing notes in his journal as he observes the besieged mission.

Th e McGregor fi gure is K&C’s second version of the Alamo defender, but the fi rst to portray him playing the bagpipes. Born in Scotland in 1808, he was living in Texas in 1836 when the Texians rebelled against Mexican dictator Santa Anna.

“It is said that during the siege McGregor engaged in `musical duels’ with the fi ddle-playing Davy Crockett to entertain their fellow defenders,” fellow Scot Andy recounted. “Alas, his ultimate fate was the same as all the rest.”

OLD HONG KONG“Lullaby” (ref. HK225) is the latest addi-tion to K&C’s long-running “Streets of Old Hong Kong” series paying a miniature homage to its hometown. Th is vignette de-picts a Chinese mother singing a soothing folksong to her infant son resting content-edly in a rattan basket.

Th is set costs £83.95/$85. It is available painted in either a gloss fi nish or in matt like the rest of the items covered here.

SPECIAL SPITFIRESales demands and sentiment delivered a one-two knockout punch that resulted in K&C’s latest WWII MKI/II Supermarine Spitfi re (ref. RAF066).

Andy stated, “After we retired the previous two Spits, we kept being asked in both our Hong Kong shop and our San Antonio store, `Do you have a Spitfi re in the Battle of Britain color-scheme and markings?’”

“Th en when some dealers requested the same thing we thought, `Maybe we should do a small rerun to satisfy the obvious de-mand for this classic warbird,’” he added.

Th is time K&C decided to re-create one of the most famous Royal Auxiliary Air Force Spitfi res from No. 602 (City of Glasgow) Squadron as fl own by Alexander “Sandy” Johnstone. He became an ace during the war and went on to have a long and very distinguished career in the RAF.

“We also chose 602 Squadron and Sandy Johnstone for personal reasons,” Andy explained. “Many moons ago – 1962 to be exact – my brother Gordon and I lived right next to Royal Naval Air Station Sanderling.”

He continued, “Today it’s Glasgow’s international airport. Back then it was a military airfi eld and every year they held a Navy Day air show. In 1962, the guest of honor was Air Vice Marshall Sandy

"Fighting Saladin" (ref. MK109).

Saracen "Mounted Bodyguard" (ref. MK114).

Mexican Lt. Col. Jose Enrique de la Pena (ref. RTA071).

Alamo defender John McGregor (ref. RTA072).

“Lullaby” (ref. HK225) is the latest addition to K&C’s long-running “Streets of Old Hong Kong” series.

WWII German "Smoking General" (ref. WS277).

“Saracen Flag Bearer” (ref. MK115).

K&C’s new model of the Spitfire piloted by Sandy Johnstone during the Battle of Britain (ref. RAF066).

TSJUN14_p40-55.indd 42 4/4/14 9:51 AM


Johnstone, and we two small boys actually met him and got his autograph!”

“K&C is proud to honor this great pilot and the aircraft he fl ew to help protect our country during its darkest days,” Andy said.

A pilot sits in the cockpit of the authentically modeled fi ghter. Only 250 of this special edition have been pro-duced. Collectors can “fl y” it home for £245.95/$249.

WWII GERMAN ITEMSCollectors who specialize in WWII items can also look forward to a Panzer 35(T) (ref. WS259) representing one of the 434 light tanks seized when Nazi Germany took over all of Czechoslova-kia in March 1939. Th ey were consid-ered obsolete by 1942, but saw action in Poland, the Netherlands, France and the Operation Barbarossa invasion of the Soviet Union.

Priced at £166.95/$169, this weath-ered Panzer 35(T) is painted in typi-cal German fi eld gray. It comes with a black-uniformed commander fi gure and a removable aircraft recognition fl ag to lay across the back of its hull.

Last month I reviewed eight new releases centered around a German fi eld hospital on the Eastern Front. K&C’s source of inspiration was the German television miniseries “Unsere Mütter, Unsere Väter” (German for “Our Moth-ers, Our Fathers”). Also known as “Gen-eration War,” the production follows the lives of fi ve age 20-something during the

course of WWII.“Th e release of the German fi eld hos-

pital ambulance, medics and wounded has had a fantastic response from dealers and collectors alike around the world!” Andy enthused. “I am happy to say here are some extra additions.”

Th e new pieces include an Opel blitz ambulance driver (ref. WS275) taking a break to drink a bottle of beer and have a smoke. A general (ref. WS277) also holds a cigarette while being briefed by an offi cer with a map (ref. WS289). An aide-de-camp (ref. WS279) peers through binoculars while a watchful

NCO (ref. WS280) serves as a body-guard. Th ese authentic military minia-tures cost £44.95/$45 apiece.

Also new is a stretcher-bearer set (ref. WS276) priced at £136.95/$139. A casualty is carried by medic in a steel helmet painted white with a red cross and another Wehrmacht soldier.

Please check with the maker and/or your favorite dealer for the availability of all of these new items. n

WWII German “Stretcher Set” (ref. WS276).

Czech-built Panzer 35(T) light tank (ref. WS259) in German service.

WWII German “Ambulance Driver” (ref. WS275).

WWII German "Officer With Map" (ref. WS278).

WWII German "Aide-de-Camp With Binoculars” (ref. WS279).

"NCO Bodyguard" (ref. WS280).

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CIVIL WAR UNION IRON BRIGADE & CONFEDERATE GENERALSBY FIRST LEGION LTD.

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney First Legion Ltd. is observing the

American Civil War sesquicentennial by issuing 21 figures centered around the Battle of Gettysburg and the Union’s celebrated Iron Brigade.

Eighteen of the figures represent the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment. It was part of the original Iron Brigade along with the 6th and 7th Wisconsin, the 19th Indiana, and Bat-tery B of the 4th U.S. Light Artillery. The 24th Michigan joined the outfit later.

This batch of new releases also includes a portrayal of private citi-zen John L. Burns, who took up arms against the Rebels at Gettysburg. Mounted figures portray Confederate Gens. Robert E. Lee and James Long-street.

'MADE OF IRON'The all-Western brigade gained its notable nickname at the Battle of South Mountain Sept. 14, 1862. While watching the determined foot soldiers advance along the National Road and push Confederate forces back through Turners Gap, Union Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan commented, “They must be made of iron.”

Thus the Iron Brigade nickname was born and stuck. They were also known as the “Black Hat Brigade” because they wore the black 1858 model Hardee hats

issued to Army regulars instead of the ubiquitous blue kepis of most Union units.

The reliable Iron Brigade took tremendous pride in its designation as the 1st Brigade, 1st Division, I Corps, under highly respected Maj. Gen. John F. Reynolds, who turned down com-mand of the Army of the Potomac. First Legion has underscored this point of honor by detailing the red circle cap badge of that division on its new figures.

'TAINT NO MILITIA!'Lee hoped to concentrate his forces

and destroy the Union’s main field army when elements of the Blue and the Gray first clashed at Gettysburg July 1, 1863.

A Northern cavalry division led by Brig. Gen. John Buford initially defended low ridges northwest of the little village. His dismounted troopers managed to hold out for a while.

But they came within a hair’s breadth of being overwhelmed by the Confed-erate infantry brigades of Brig. Gens. James J. Archer and Joseph R. Davis from Maj. Gen. Henry Heth’s division as they bulldozed forward through the countryside along the Chambersburg Pike. The Rebels expected to enjoy a cakewalk against the heavily outnum-bered Yankee cavalrymen and outclassed local militia.

However, Reynolds and the crack vanguard of the I Corps infantry arrived just in the nick of time and immediately counterattacked. As the senior regiment, the 2nd Wisconsin marched at the head of the Iron Brigade column and it was the first to reach McPherson’s Ridge.

“Forward men!” Reynolds shouted from horseback. “Forward for God’s sake, and drive those fellows out of the woods!”

As soon as the men from the “Badger State” reached the crest, a line of Arch-er’s Tennesseans and Alabamans un-leashed a “most murderous volley” that tore “great gaps” in the Union ranks, according to Lance J. Herdegen, author

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Advancing No. 1” (ref. ACW074).

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Captain” (ref. ACW070).

RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Drummer” (ref. ACW072).

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Standing Firing No. 1” (ref. ACW076).

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TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 45TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 45TOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURETOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURETOY SOLDIER & MODEL FIGURE 45 45 45

of the new book “The Iron Brigade in Civil War and Memory: The Black Hats From Bull Run to Appomattox and Thereafter.” Bloodied but unfazed, the Iron Brigade forged forward.

“Charge men, I mean charge!” urged 2nd Wisconsin Col. Lucius Fairchild, who lost an arm at Gettysburg.

“There are them damned black-hat-ted fellows again!” one Southerner was

heard to yell.Another shouted, “Taint no militia,

it ’s the Army of the Potomac!”

SAVING THE UNIONRight about the moment the opposing lines collided, Gen. Reynolds tumbled out of his saddle with a mortal head wound. The Iron Brigade, including Sgt. Philander Wright carrying the national

flag and an unidentified corporal with the blue silk regimental flag, went on to repulse the initial Confederate as-sault through Herbst’s Woods. Many of Archer’s men were taken prisoner.

The exhausted Archer himself was captured by Pvt. Patrick Mahoney of the 2nd Wisconsin, who ran out of a cloud of gun smoke and collared the general. Archer gained the dubious

distinction of being the first general officer captured since Lee had taken com-mand of the Army of North-ern Virginia in early 1862. Mahoney’s moment of glory was cut short when he was killed later that same day.

The Iron Brigade’s last regiment to reach the bat-tlefield, the 6th Wisconsin, combined with 100 men of the brigade guard to become famous for making a furious charge on an unfinished railroad cut located just north and west of Gettys-burg. They took hundreds of

RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Sergeant Standard-Bearer” (ref. ACW071).

RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Advancing No. 2” (ref. ACW075).

RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers NCO” (ref. ACW073).

BELOW: First Legion’s new Iron Brigade figures are joined by private citizen John L. Burns in forming a battle line at Gettysburg.

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Rebels prisoner and captured the flag of the 2nd Mississippi.

As the first day of the battle pro-gressed, two more Confederate corps joined the fray and launched fresh as-saults on Union forces (ironically, these Southerners attacked from the north and northwest). After the Yankees’ hast-ily formed lines collapsed, they retreated through Gettysburg’s streets to high ground just to the south and west of the village.

Union forces formed a fishhook-shaped defensive line that extended from Culp’s Hill to Cemetery Hill and along Cemetery Ridge with their left flank anchored on Round Top. Because the Army of the Potomac was able to hold this key high ground and ultimate-ly prevail in the decisive battle, the Iron Brigade has been credited with playing an important role in saving the Union.

COSTLY VALORHowever, the Black Hat Brigade’s valiant stand came at a high cost. Out of the 1,885 Iron Brigade soldiers that Brig. Gen. Solomon Meredith led into action at Gettysburg, 1,185 or 61 percent became casualties. Of those, the 24th Michigan suffered 80 percent casualties and the 2nd Wisconsin 77 percent.

In the entire war, those totals were only surpassed by the 1st Minnesota’s 82 percent casualty rate on the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Propor-tionately, the Iron Brigade suffered the most casualties of any brigade fielded in the ACW.

First Legion is remembering the sacrifices of these determined soldiers with iron wills and nerves of steel with 60-mm, connoisseur-style figures designed in Russia with details hand-

somely hand-painted in matt colors and shading in China. The characterizations capture the attitude of grim combat veterans who mean business and know their business.

A 2nd Wisconsin command group can be made up of a color sergeant with a bullet-riddled national flag (ref. ACW071) priced at $79.95 and a young drummer (ref. ACW071) that costs $69.95. They can be comple-mented with a sword-carrying captain (ref. ACW070) and gesturing NCO (ref. ACW073) which retail for $59.95 apiece.

The same pricing applies to the rest of the single foot figures in nicely varied advancing, firing, loading and charging poses perfect for forming a battle line

or launching an attack. A two-figure vignette (ref. ACW086) priced at $119.95 depicts walking wounded men helping each other to the rear.

CITIZEN/SOLDIERFirst Legion is reinforcing the Iron Bri-gade with a personality figure of civilian John Lawrence Burns. I look forward to receiving readers’ e-mails and letters if I’m wrong on this point, but to the best of my recollection this is the first time this feisty character has been commer-cially immortalized in miniature.

George Washington was still president when Burns was born Sept. 5, 1793, in Burlington, N.J., to a fam-ily who claimed Scottish poet Robert Burns as an ancestor. He served as an enlisted man during the War of 1812 and fought with U.S. forces in several battles, including Lundy’s Lane.

Burns volunteered to rejoin the army for both the Mexican-American War

day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Propor-

most casualties of any brigade fielded in

battles, including Lundy’s Lane.Burns volunteered to rejoin the army

for both the Mexican-American War

and the Civil War. Due to his advanced age, he was rejected for combat duty in the ACW. But the gray-haired cur-mudgeon served a hitch as one of the teamsters supporting the Union cause until he was ordered home against his will to Gettysburg.

Many people might not realize that July 1863 was not the first time Con-federates descended on Gettysburg. The village was previously occupied by Maj. Gen. Jubal A. Early’s division. As the town constable, the 69-year-old Burns obstinately tried to assert his civil au-thority in resisting the Rebel army. He

BELOW: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Kneeling Firing No. 1” (ref. ACW077).

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Charging No. 1” (ref. ACW079).


LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Standing Loading No. 1” (ref. ACW078).

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was jailed for his trouble June 26, 1863.The Confederates pissed off the

wrong man. After Early’s force depart-ed, Burns was freed from jail and started arresting Southern stragglers until he was relieved by Buford’s cavalry.

As the first day of the battle got under way the morning of July 1, Burns grabbed his flintlock musket and powder horn and strolled through town toward the sound of the guns. While en route, he encountered a wounded Union soldier who gave Burns his more mod-ern Enfield rifle and cartridges.

The senior citizen approached Maj. Thomas Chamberlain of the 150th Pennsylvania and asked if he could fall in with the infantry regiment? First Legion’s Burns figure reflects Chamber-lain’s description of the old man. The major recounted how Burns’ some-what peculiar dress “consisted of dark trousers and a waistcoat, a blue `swallow tail’ coat with burnished brass buttons, such as used to be affected by well-to-do gentlemen of the old school about 40 years ago, and a high black silk hat, from which most of the original gloss had long departed, of a shape to be found only in the fashion plates of the remote past.”

The bemused major referred Burns to Col. Langhorne Wister, the regi-mental commander. He sent the elderly fellow into Herbst’s Woods next to the McPherson farm, thinking it would afford Burns the best available shelter from the summer sun and Confederate gunfire. But Burns sought action, not cover.

He fought alongside the Iron Bri-gade throughout the afternoon — first the 7th Wisconsin and later the 24th Michigan. Burns acted as a sharp-shooter, knocking at least one charging Confederate officer off his horse.

As the Union line began to buckle and the troops fell back to the Lu-theran Theological Seminary, Burns was wounded in an arm, a leg and his chest, and left behind. Despite being dog-tired and shot up, the tough old cuss managed to bury his ammo and crawl away from his rifle.

Burns was spared from summary exe-cution as a non-uniformed bushwhacker because he was able to convince Con-federates that he was a noncombatant who got caught up in the action while seeking aid for his invalid wife. South-ern surgeons dressed his wounds.

After his narrow escape, Burns crawled to the cellar of the nearest house. He was later carried to his own home and treated by a doctor.

The aged veteran became a national hero following the battle. Timothy H. O’Sullivan, an associate of Mathew

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Standing Firing No. 2” (ref. ACW082).

RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Standing Loading No. 2” (ref. ACW084).

LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Kneeling Firing No. 2” (ref. ACW083).

BOTTOM LEFT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Wounded Vignette” (ref. ACW086).

BOTTOM RIGHT: “2nd Wisconsin Volunteers Advancing Loading” (ref. ACW080).

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Brady, photographed Burns recuperat-ing at his home and spread the word about his story in Washington, D.C.

President Abraham Lincoln made a point of meeting Burns when he came to town to deliver his memorable Get-tysburg Address during the dedication of the Soldiers National Cemetery in November 1863. Burns’ fame grew after Bret Harte published a poem about his exploits in 1864.

Burns lost his wits during the last two years of his life. Consequently, friends could not prevent his aimless wander-ing around the country, according to “Appleton’s Cyclopedia of American Biography.” He was discovered in a state of destitution on a cold winter’s night in December 1871 in New York City. He was sent home to Gettysburg and cared for, but died of pneumonia Feb. 4, 1872.

A monument depicting Burns car-rying his borrowed rifl e and defi antly shaking his clenched fi st at the Rebels was dedicated on McPherson’s Ridge July 1, 1903, on the 40th anniversary of the battle. First Legion’s tribute to Burns (ref. ACW087) is reminiscent of the statue’s pose and costs $59.95.

CONFEDERATE COMMANDERS

Burns and the Iron Brigade aren’t First Legion’s first foray into the ACW and Gettysburg. Painstakingly detailed figures of Union artillery, Buford’s cav-alry and infantry of the Confederacy’s 13th Alabama and 55th North Carolina Regiments have been marched out in the past.

Now the maker has unveiled the first two mounted personality fi gures for

its ACW range. Th ey portray Gen. Lee (ref. ACW087), who failed to cement the Southern states’ secession with a victory at Gettysburg; and his “Old War Horse” Lt. Gen. James Longstreet (ref. ACW088), who disagreed with Lee’s tactics but reluctantly oversaw the cata-strophic Pickett’s Charge July 3.

Th ese equestrian fi gures are good examples of First Legion’s fl air for equine

anatomy and proportioning. Lee rides his favorite horse — the iron gray Traveller. Longstreet has saddled up Hero, the horse he rode throughout the Battle of Gettysburg.

Longstreet is posed snapping off a salute while Lee waves his hat. These stunning painted metal portraits on terrain-covered bases retail for $164.95 apiece. n

LEFT: “Confederate Lt. Gen. James Longstreet (ref. ACW089).

LEFT: “Private Citizen John Burns” (ref. ACW087).

LEFT: “Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee” (ref. ACW088).


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WORLD WAR I BRITISH IMPERIAL CAMEL CORPS BRIGADEBY BEAU GESTE

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney

Th is is no mirage! A well-designed and beautifully painted patrol of camel riders is loping over the desert horizon from Ana Donzino and company at Beau Geste.

Four glossy gems make up this new set replicating the World War I British Impe-rial Camel Corps Brigade (ICCB). Made in Argentina, the khaki-clad mounted infantry fi gures in pith helmets depict troops who opposed the Ottoman Empire in the Middle East.

MOUNTED INFANTRYTh e British had some prior knowledge of the value of camel-mounted troops from experi-ences in India and the 19th-century Mahdist Wars along the Nile River. Th e British also raised the Somaliland Camel Corps to help quell an uprising in 1912. However, British Army forces posted in Egypt lacked their own camel formation when the Great War erupted in 1914.

Th e ICCB’s origins can be traced to Janu-ary 1916 in Egypt, where some Australian troops from the disastrous Gallipoli campaign were formed into four company-sized units. Th ey were deployed on long-range patrols in the Sinai Desert and along the vital Suez Canal.

Th eir fi rst camels were provided by the In-dian princely state of Bikaner, whose famous Bikaner Camel Corps has inspired toy fi gures by many a maker. However, the Indian camels were relegated to pack train service after relatively lighter Egyptian camels became preferred for riding. A soldier aboard one of these “ships of the desert” could cover about 3 mph at a walk and 6 mph at a trot.

Each company totaled 130 men with a small headquarters and four sections divided

into seven groups of four men apiece as represented by this Beau Geste set. Th ey were armed with Lee-Enfi eld rifl es. As their role evolved from patrolling to combat, each com-pany was reinforced by a 15-man machine gun section with three Lewis guns in August 1916.

A company was expected to be able to op-erate independently, with its men dismount-ing to fi ght foes. At fi rst, their fi repower was reduced by 25 percent because one out of four men was detailed to hold the camels. How-ever, the Brits, Aussies and New Zealanders composing the companies soon found that compared to horses, camels remained rather calm under fi re. As a result, when the troops dismounted for combat, only one fellow was required to babysit a dozen or more humped beasts.

Th e ICCB was formally established Dec. 19, 1916, under the command of Victoria Cross recipient Brig. Gen. Clement Leslie Smith. Eventually, the brigade’s strength grew to approximately 4,150 men and 4,800 camels. Support units included a squadron of eight Vickers machine guns, a mountain artillery battery manned by soldiers from the

fought in a number of clashes during the Senussi Campaign, the Sinai and Palestine Campaign, and the Arab Revolt. Th e brigade suff ered a total of 246 men killed by the war’s end.

Th e brigade was disbanded in May 1919. A monument to the ICCB was unveiled in 1921 on the Th ames Embankment in London.

FAITHFUL FIGURESTh e Beau Geste camel corps set (ref. 377) includes a bugler and men posed either hold-ing binoculars, pointing or shading their eyes from the desert sun. Th ey combine the charm of traditional gloss painting with an out-standing application of authentic details that faithfully replicate how the real troopers, their kit and steeds appear in period photos.

Th is superb 60-mm set is priced at $316 U.S. by Shannon Reuss of Treefrog Treasures, Ana’s friend and American distributor.

Collectors can look forward to some ad-ditions to Beau Geste’s 1903 Delhi Durbar series next. n

British Indian Army, a Royal Engineers troop, a signal section, Australian fi eld ambu-lance and dental units, a mobile veterinary section, and a logistics corps to haul supplies and ammo. Th e ICCB must have been quite a spectacle to see on the march!

As part of the Egyptian Expedition-ary Force, the ICCB

The British brigade eventually grew to 4,150 men and 4,800 camels.

Beau Geste’s new camel riders combine glossy charm with authentic detailing.

BELOW: A bugler and three other figures in varied poses make up the ICCB set.

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ANCIENT ROMAN AUXILIARY CAVALRYBY THE COLLECTORS SHOWCASE

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney Th is might sound odd, but I give

Superman all the credit for creating my interest in the Roman Empire and ancient history in general.

Starting at around age 5 or 6, I became an avid fan of the 1950s television series “Adventures of Superman.” It starred George Reeves as the Man of Steel and his secret identity Clark Kent, a reporter for the Daily Planet. I’ll never forget how whenever the newspaper’s cantankerous Editor-in-Chief Perry White (portrayed by John Hamilton) was irked or surprised, his catchphrase was “Great Caesar’s ghost!”

Perry’s outbursts made my young mind wonder, “Who is this Caesar guy and how did he become a ghost?”

Th us began a my quest for knowledge and youthful forays into collecting ancient warriors. Th ey were mostly 1:72 or so scale plastics by Giant and Airfi x, but also a few 54-mm Hong Kong copies of Timpo’s classic plastic Romans. As an adult, I’ve collected painted metal ancients by various makers, but horsemen have always seemed to be in relatively short supply.

As a result, I have to say, “Hail Brian Levy of Th e Collectors Showcase (TCS)!”

for adding fi ve cavalry pieces to his ongo-ing series based on glory-seeking Roman Emperor Claudius’ conquest of southern Britannia in A.D. 43.

PLAYED VITAL ROLEAfter seeing these fi gures for the fi rst time, I decided to do some quick refresher research by turning to my bookshelf to fi sh out my copies of “Th e Roman Army,” a basic but informative booklet written by John Wilkes; and Osprey Publish-ing’s “Roman Auxiliary Cavalryman A.D. 14-193” by Nic Fields, with superlative illustrations by Adam Hook.

I learned that despite all their military prowess, the Romans of Italy were not great horsemen. Most Roman cavalrymen were actually auxiliaries recruited from the provinces. Th ey played a vital role, but there was one very big drawback: the Romans and their foes had not discovered the stirrup.

Th is meant great balance and skill was required for a trooper to control his mount in the heat of battle. In addition, a horseman could not put his entire weight behind his weaponry, whether he was slashing with his long “spatha” (Latin for a type of sword) or using one of three iron-

tipped “lancae” (spears) typically carried for throwing or stabbing.

However, the Romans used a four-horned saddle harnessed in a manner so when the rider sat down, his weight caused the horns to close around his thighs. Th is gave him enough of a grip and stability so he could lean to either side to strike a foe without spilling to the ground.

Consequently, Roman auxiliary cavalry-men could make a charge to good eff ect. And, of course, they were also extremely handy for reconnaissance, patrolling and pursuing enemy forces after they were bested by the legions’ heavy infantry, mis-sile troops and artillery fi re.

Cavalry “alae” (units) came in two basic sizes. A 500-man “ala” probably was prob-ably divided into 16 squadrons with about 32 men apiece. Th e larger version would have 24 squadrons with each made up of 42 riders.

Each troop was led by an offi cer called a “decurion.” A “praefectus” commanded an ala.

Exceptional offi cers might be placed in charge of a 1,000-man regiment called an “ala milliaria.” But these formations were rather rare because it was quite costly to maintain them and replace horses.

TCS diorama featuring Roman Emperor Claudius riding a war elephant while his cavalry screen clashes with Celtic warriors.

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“Roman Mounted Commander” (ref. CS00733). Scenery is not included.

“Roman Mounted Slashing” (ref. CS00734).

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KILLER COMPOSITIONTh e Roman cavalry fi gures include a “com-mander” (ref. CS00733), troopers wield-ing swords posed either “slashing” (ref. CS00734) or “charging” (ref. CS00735), and a winged eagle standard-bearer (ref. CS00736). Th ey are priced at $75.90 U.S. apiece.

A piece titled “Roman Mounted Di-orama With Barbarian” (ref. CS00737) is a killer composition depicting a cav-alryman who has grabbed a Celtic foe around the neck. The horseman lifts the barbarian right off the ground with his left arm while winding up his sword arm to deliver a death blow. This dynamic and creative creation costs $109.90.

All five pieces feature a good degree of authentic detailing. For example, the mounts appear smallish and chunky as they should be in this era. Also stirrups have been wisely omitted from the horse tack.

The soldiers reflect how auxiliary cavalrymen would have worn short-sleeved coats of mail or scale armor over long tunics, knee breeches, and stand-ard “caligae" military footwear. Their flowing red cloaks add a nice touch of melodramatic fashion flair.

All four troopers wear good rendi-tions of period cavalry’s iron plate hel-mets topped by thin bronze skull pieces. Admirably, the maker has even captured how this type of helmet’s bronze sheet was embossed with stylized human hair. The officer’s helmet is topped by a fore-and-aft crest that would have distin-guished a decurion.

Three of the troopers carry flat, oval shields that would have been made of plywood. The “commander” seems in-correct in that he lugs a large, rectangu-lar “scutum” shield of the heavy infantry that would have weighed between 16 and 20 pounds. But I can imagine that after losing his own shield in combat, he could have taken one from a fallen legionnaire for the sake of protective expediency.

I think these 1:30-scale figures are a bit of a letdown in the weaponry depart-ment. The swords appear to me to be a tad too short and broad. They look more like the 2-foot “gladius” stabbing sword of the infantry than the longer spatha used by cavalry.

Perhaps the designer envisioned that these chaps have come to grips with the enemy and drawn their swords for close-quarters combat. Still I am stunned that not a single one of these auxiliary cavalrymen is posed holding a spear.

Hopefully, the maker will keep this in mind, if and when he gets around to reinforcing these rather vigorous and fine, matt-finished figures. n

“Roman Mounted Eagle” (ref. CS00736).

“Roman Mounted Charging” (ref. CS00735).

“Roman Mounted Diorama With Barbarian” (ref. CS00737).

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WORLD WAR II ITALIAN MANNED TORPEDO & DIVERSBY THOMAS GUNN MINIATURES

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney Th omas Gunn Miniatures (TGM) has launched a marvelous 1:30-scale model of a World War II Italian manned torpedo

and Gamma assault swimmers to go with it. Production was limited to 130 of each set.A British designer, Cmdr. Godfrey Herbert of the Royal Navy, received a patent for a human torpedo in 1909. However, the

War Offi ce dismissed his concept as being too impractical and dangerous during World War I.It was left to Italy’s “Regia Marina” (Italian for Royal Navy) to pioneer the design and deployment of electrically propelled

torpedoes ridden astride like a horse by two specially trained crewmen in diving suits. Manned torpedoes were transported to within striking distance of their targets by a mother vessel, ideally a submarine, before embarking on missions under the cover of darkness.

Th e fi rst notable success was achieved by Raff aele Paolucci and Raff aele Rossetti of the Regia Marina Nov. 1, 1918, shortly before the Great War ended. Th ey rode a primitive torpedo nicknamed the “mignatta” (leech) into the Austro-Hungarian naval base at Pula along the Adriatic Sea in what is now Croatia. Th ey planted limpet mines that sank the battleship Viribus Unitis and the cargo ship Wien. But they had to keep their heads above water because they lacked breathing apparatuses, so they were spotted and captured.

Th e Second Italo-Abyssinian War (1935-36) was under way when a new type of manned torpedo was developed and dubbed “siluro lenta corsa” (slow speed torpedo), or SLC for short. It was nicknamed as the “maiale” (hog) because it was hard to steer. About 11 of them were available by mid-1939.

A new generation designated as Series 100 went into production in 1940, followed by the enhanced Series 200 in 1941. Th e latter type is apparently the inspiration for TGM’s very nicely detailed maiale painted black and resting on a wood-style stand. It is priced at about £70 U.K./$89 U.S.

ELITE FROGMENTh e maiale was based on a standard 533-mm torpedo with adaptations, such as the replacement of its two propellers with just one that was enclosed to help it avoid snagging on nets. A superstructure housing controls and two seats for crewmen was also added. Flotation tanks that could be emptied or fl ooded were used to adjust the submersible’s attitude and buoyancy.

Starting in 1940, the Italian frogman school developed specialized assault tactics. Th e program was highly selective and the 10-month training course was extremely diffi cult to pass. Only about 50 of these elite Gamma assault swimmers saw ac-tion during the war. Th eir role was to carry explosive charges and fasten them to the hull of an enemy ship so they could be detonated using a timer — after the brave Italians had safely ridden away on their torpedo.

TGM has created a two-fi gure set of Axis divers that costs approximately £55/$70 to display with the manned torpedo. Both matt-fi nished fi gures are modeled in rubberized water-proof suits invented by Angelo Belloni. One man sits on the ground in a relaxed pose while the other has swim fi ns on his feet and zips up his suit in preparation for a mission.

Real swimmers might apply black cream to their faces and put nets made to look like seaweed over their heads and shoul-ders during a nighttime operation. Th e re-breather apparatus, which included two high-pressure cylinders of pure oxygen, was designed to keep any tell-tale bubbles from rising to the surface.

Th e innovative and intrepid Italians suff ered a string of deadly failures in attempted attacks on British shipping har-

TOP: The highly detailed maiale is painted black and rests on a stand.

BOTTOM: TGM’s new Italian manned torpedo and diver duo are sold separately.

bored in Malta, Gibraltar and Alexandria, Egypt. Th eir successes included an attack launched by three maiali against the port of Alexandria Dec. 19, 1941. Th ey sank the battleships HMS Valiant and Queen Elizabeth along with a tanker in shallow water, putting them out of commis-sion for months. Italian manned torpedo crews also sank a half-dozen Allied merchant ships at Gibraltar May 6 and June 10, 1943.

About a dozen nations have used manned torpedoes. For example, after the British became aware of Italian maiale operations during WWII, they came up with copies called “chariots" that were painted green. TGM proprietor Simon Th omas Gunn plans to release a British version in April 2014. n

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ANGLO-ZULU WAR OF 1879BY W. BRITAIN

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney

A sensational set of epic proportions titled “Overrun” highlights new additions to W. Britain’s matt-painted range based on the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879.

The nine-piece “Overrun” set (ref. 20150) depicts an ambulance wagon and its occupants during the final desperate moments of the Zulu assault that nearly wiped out the main British encampment at Isandlwana Jan. 22, 1879.

One Zulu grabs the reins of the pair of skittish horses hitched to the canvas-covered wagon. Another warrior winds up his muscular frame to launch a spear. The ambulance’s occupants include a seated driver, an orderly trying to mount a defense with a bayonet-tipped rifle and a wounded Redcoat of the 24th Foot on a stretcher. A terrain-covered base underpins and helps enhance this dynamic group-ing.

“Overrun” is a limited edition of 500 sets, according to company General Manager and Creative Director Kenneth A. Osen. It will retail for £303.40 U.K./$420 U.S.

Collectors could possibly use this ambulance as a medical complement to previously released British stretcher-bearers or even repur-pose a set depicting an orderly tending to a casualty during the evacuation of the hospital at Rorke’s Drift.

The cinematic ambulance vignette is one of four sets just unveiled in the manufacturer’s 2014 Spring & Stock Catalogue. The others are all dramatic, hand-to-hand combat sets pitting black Africans against soldiers of the 24th Foot in scarlet tunics with green facings.

In “Overwhelmed” (ref. 20148), a downed soldier is about to be clubbed by a Zulu’s knobkerrie. A prostrate British soldier’s life must be flashing before his eyes as a Zulu towering over him brings a spear to bear in a two-piece set titled “No Quarter” (ref. 20149). These sets each cost £61.70/$72.

Lastly, “Thrust and Block” (ref. 20146) depicts a Zulu with a spear and cowhide shield down on one knee in the face of a soldier using his Martini-Henry rifle as a club. This set is a limited edition of 450. Priced at $69, it’s available exclusively from U.S. dealers Myszka and Mike Hall of Sierra Toy Soldier Co. in Los Gatos, Calif.

These figures are splendid supplements to a great 1:30-scale/58-mm series. By my reckoning, nearly 100 different items made by W. Britain might be currently available to re-create the Zulu War, including buildings, tents, fortifications built of biscuit boxes or mealie bags, ox wagons, and a whole lot more. n

BELOW: A downed soldier is about to be clubbed by a Zulu’s knobkerrie in “Overwhelmed” (ref. 20148).

ABOVE: A Zulu prepares to spear a prostrate soldier in “No Quarter” (ref. 20149).

BELOW: W. Britain created the “Thrust and Block” set (ref. 20146) exclusively for Sierra Toy Soldier Co.

ABOVE: The “Overrun” set (ref. 20150) depicts a British ambulance during the final moments of the Zulu assault at Isandlwana.

TSJUN14_p40-55.indd 54 4/4/14 9:52 AM

WORLD WAR I TROOPS & PERSONALITIESBY TRADITION OF LONDON LTD.

Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney The outbreak of World War I in

1914 was like a deadly game of domi-nos that claimed the lives of 9 million combatants by the time the Armistice was signed Nov. 11, 1918.

Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was assassinated along with his wife, Archduchess Sophie, in Sarajevo June 28, 1914. It was part of a con-spiracy fomented by Serbian military officers, who hoped Austria-Hungary’s south-Slav provinces could be ampu-tated and stitched into a Greater Serbia or Yugoslavia.

Austria declared war after it issued an ultimatum that was for the most part ignored by the Kingdom of Serbia. As an invasion of Serbia got into gear July 28, 2014, Austro-Hungarian troops fired the first shots of what quickly escalated into WWI.

The Russian Empire mobilized in support of Serbia. The German Empire sided with Austria as one of the Central Powers, then invaded neutral Belgium and Luxenbourg en route to threaten-ing France. The United Kingdom sided with the Allied Powers and declared war against Germany Aug. 4, 1914.

Now Tradition of London Ltd. is marking the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of WWI by adding a compos-ite set and a trio of character figures to its 54-mm toy soldier series.

CENTENARY FIGURESTh e eight-fi gure set (ref. 818) is evenly divided between British Tommies and German soldiers, who clashed for the fi rst time in the Battle of the Mons in Belgium Aug. 23, 1914. Th is group was composed by enlisting fi gures from pre-existing sets that combine excellent design work by Tradi-tion’s former production director David Scheinmann with top-notch painting in glossy colors.

Th e toy soldiers replicate how the volunteers who formed the small but highly professional British Expeditionary Force went to war in stiff ened peak caps, 1902 Pattern Service Dress tunics and trousers dyed khaki, webbing equipment, puttees and ammunition boots. Th e quartet of “Old Contemptibles” includes an offi cer rush-ing forward with his revolver drawn and rifl emen posed standing fi ring, loading and advancing.

Th eir German foes include an offi cer pointing forward with his right hand while using his left hand to hold his sword, a bugler and privates posed advancing and fi ring. Th ey lug backpacks like their foes and are dressed in 1910-style fi eld gray uni-forms with red trimming, leather jackboots and pickelhaubes with canvas covers.

Magnus Lindstrom of Tradition has also marched out a trio of fi gures portraying some of the Great War’s key personalities. Th ey include Britain’s Lord Kitchener in his fi eld marshal uniform (ref. 819), France’s Marshal Ferdinand Foch (ref. 820) and German Kaiser Wilhelm II (ref. 821).

Th ough these fi gures are painted in the traditional toy style, they all have an im-pressive level of detailing that’s a delight to behold. Th e set costs £104.75 and the single fi gures £19.75. In accordance with Tradi-tion custom, castings are also available. n

LEFT: France’s Marshal Ferdinand Foch.

TOP RIGHT: Lord Kitchener in British field marshal uniform.

RIGHT: German Kaiser Wilhelm II.

BELOW: British and German troops clash in Tradition’s new set marking the WWI centenary.

TSJUN14_p40-55.indd 55 4/4/14 9:52 AM


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THE LATEST MODEL FIGURE KITS AND MORE

■ Paul Newman nails down news about the latest model figure kits and more.

KIT KORNER

BRITISH RIFLE BRIGADE PRIVATE OF THE CRIMEAN WARBY MITCHES MILITARY MODELS


THE LATEST MODEL FIGURE KITS AND MORE

KIT KORNERKORNER

Reviewed by: Paul Newman

H i again. � is month I am bringing TS&MF readers a new Crimean War British Ri� e Brigade private

by Mitches Military Models.I’ve made many model � gures based

on this regiment in the past, usually of the Napoleonic period when they were the 95th Ri� es of “Sharpe” fame. Indeed, it was the historical � ction series authored by Bernard Cornwell and television adap-tations of his books which kept inspiring me to make those and other Napoleonic Wars models in the past.

What inspires you to make a model? Is it either a particular regiment, family ties with someone or something else? Is it an article in a magazine (hopefully this one will!), a � lm or TV show?

Often for me inspiration comes from just seeing an example of a � nished model on display at a hobby show which says to me, “I must make that!”

� en when I go to make the purchased � gure, I will start reading up on facts and stories about the regiment which add greatly to the enjoyment of making it. � is process might further inspire me to � nd more models to make on closely related subjects.

For instance, the three regiments which merged in 1966 to form � e Royal Green Jackets were � e Oxfordshire and Buck-inghamshire Light Infantry, � e King’s Royal Ri� e Corps, and � e Ri� e Brigade. I live in Buckinghamshire, England, so I will be looking for models to make of regiments associated with the county in the future!

ABOUT THE MODEL� e talented Maurice Corry sculpted this 120-mm � gure for U.K.-based Mitches Military Models. � e resin kit costs £35.

It comes in a fairly plain box, with just a black and white picture of the front of the model. � e parts are kept safe in a plastic wallet, but with no foam to prevent the model being damaged in transit. � ere

weren’t any parts missing or broken, which must prove that the packaging works!

� ere are a lot of parts. � ey have been beautifully sculpted, especially the 1853-pattern long En� eld ri� e and the model’s face.

� ere are also a lot of large resin blocks on the parts. Some of them were quite tricky to remove, especially those with raised detail, such as the top of the legs, the right arm and the water bottle.

� e model is portrayed in a casual pose with his left arm resting on the ri� e, held lightly in his right hand. For headgear, he is wearing an undress Kilmarnock bonnet in Ri� es green with a black woollen ”Torrie.”

and sick. However, because all these things were new, troops still went into war in their bright red and blue parade ground uniforms, which for the mod-eler and military enthusiast adds color to our hobby!

That said, of course, this particular regiment was dressed in a dark green, a color first chosen when it was formed as the Experimental Corps of Rifle-men in January 1800. Given rifles from the outset, these troops were trained to fight and act in ones and twos, find cover and shoot from a prone or crouching position and retire to the main infantry body, if needed.

� ere are no painting in-structions with the kit. � is was a bit of a problem be-cause most books picturing details of the Ri� e Brigade in the Crimea do not show the soldiers from the back. So, a bit of digging around was necessary.

PERSONAL INTERESTThis is the second 120-mm figure by Mitches Military Models that I have reviewed for “Kit Korner.” Unlike the previ-ous World War II U.S. Army Airborne Division figure, this one is of a pe-riod and regiment which I have had a long interest in.

The Crimea War -- like the American Civil War -- was a period of changes from short-range muskets to long-range rifles, from long lines of walking soldiers to quick-dash running lines, and advancements in the treatment of the wounded

ABOVE: A black and white photo of the figure appears on the top of the kit’s box.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 58 4/1/14 11:28 AM


CRIMEAN CONFLICTFor at least 200 years prior to the Crimean War, Russia sought to expand its empire southwards and gain access to the Medi-terranean Sea. � is was a constant cause for concern for both Britain and France.

Russia an-nexed the Crimean Peninsula, including the Black Sea port of Sevastopol, in 1783. However, the Ottoman Empire, continued to control passage through the

On July 16, Lord Raglan received a dispatch dated June 29 from the Duke of Newcastle, the secretary of state for war in London, directing him to capture Sevas-topol and to seize or destroy the Russian � eet.

� e Crimean War is probably best remembered for the bungling of the senior sta� and commissariat. Even at this stage, there was no invasion plan, logistic short-comings abounded, cholera was prevalent (a� ecting about one-tenth of the force by early August), and there was little time to achieve success before the onset of winter.

Nevertheless, and contrary to his bet-ter judgment, Lord Raglan felt bound to comply. On Sept. 14, some 63,000 French, British and Turkish troops started to dis-embark in Kalamita Bay at a spot 30 miles north of Sevastopol.

Not anticipating a long campaign, the supply, transport and medical arrange-ments woefully broke down. Before peace settled over the hills, valleys and shattered remains of Sevastopol in March 1856, ap-proximately 22,000 British troops, 80,000 French, possibly 10,000 Turks, 2,000 Sar-

dinians and more than 100,000 Russians had perished.

� e Ri� e Brigade’s 1st and 2nd Bat-talions, as per usual for the regiment, were one of the � rst British units landed in the Crimea.

Each battalion, on departure from Eng-land, numbered nearly 1,000 o� cers and men organized in eight service companies. During the campaign the establishment of each battalion was increased: � rst to 12 companies; then to 16. By the end of the war, they had fought at the Battles of Alma and Inkerman and the Siege of Sevastopol. Eight Victoria Crosses were presented to members of the brigade -- more than any other regiment.

FIGURE ASSEMBLYAlthough this is a large-scale � gure, I would class this as a model for the more experienced hobbyist to make, rather than a � rst-timer. � e reasons are that the large blocks on the model are di� cult to cleanly cut away, there are (intentionally) missing parts like the connecting straps for the water bottle, the information needed to build it must be researched and a fair bit of work is needed to put it together.

As mentioned before, there are large resin mould blocks to be removed, which I did with a scalpel on small parts and a razor saw for the larger blocks. On the water bottle, the di� erence between the block and the part was not obvious until I had removed the block, by which time I realized I had cut o� a bit of the part! Fortunately, it was on the underside and I was able to rectify this later with some modeling putty. Please note that cutting resin with a saw should be done in as much open space as possible.

On � rst inspection, there were hardly any mold lines on the � gure. I found that Super Glue held the resin together. Where needed, a bit of “blue tack” held parts in position, such as attaching the right arm.

� e joint between the ankles and the bot-tom of the trousers was pinned and glued to aid with keeping the � gure strong and secure.

� e bottom of the rolled-up trousers is a straight edge. � is would work on a small � gure, but at this scale it looks odd, as if the soldier used an iron to � nish o� rolling up his trousers! � erefore, I added some modeling putty (the two-part epoxy putty commonly known as Green Stu� ) to the bottom edge, then shaped it so that there was an undercut for the tops of the ankles.

Due to the � nish left over after cutting away the blocks, as well as having to � ll a few joints between the arms and the body, I had to do a fair bit of tidying up on the join between the body and the legs. I

Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits. Turkey, dubbed the “Sick Man of Europe,” seemed ripe for invasion by 1852.

In July 1853, Russia occupied Moldavia and Wallachia, two provinces in modern Romania, which were then possessed by the Ottoman Turks. Turkey declared war against Russia Oct. 23, 1853.

� e presence of Russian warships in the Eastern Mediterranean posed a threat to Britain and France’s trade, particularly with India. Warships were ordered to the Dardanelles. On Jan. 3, 1854, Brit-ish and French � eets entered the Black Sea. Preparations were also made to send troops should further diplomatic e� orts fail to avert con� ict.

� e � rst members of the British Ex-peditionary Force (BEF) commanded by Lord Raglan left England for Malta Feb. 22. Britain declared war on Russia March 28, 1854. France had done so the day before. Britain, France and Turkey then signed treaties of alliance committing each to act in concert with the others against Russia, but with their forces remaining under independent, national command.

TOP: The rifleman’s face features superb sculpting by Maurice Corry..

LEFT: Green Stuff was used to enhance the turn-ups at the bottom of the trousers.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 59 4/1/14 11:28 AM


started by adding a thin piece of plastic card cut to a size slightly smaller than the underside of the torso. � is gave the Green Stu� used to � ll the joint something to stick to. I � nished o� with a wipe of acrylic � ller (Plastic Putty by Vallejo Model Color), which I applied with a moist brush so that it � lled in the gap and left a smooth � nish with just a brush with a sander.

After the water bottle was glued to the � gure, it was “suspended in midair” and needed to have straps added. I cut them out of thin plastic card and glued them in place.

� e bayonet, or “sword” as the Ri� e Brigade termed it, comes in a scabbard with a small part -- the bayonet plug -- separately. A hole for the thin part of the plug needs to be drilled in the top of the scabbard, then glued in place.

� e position of the scabbard is up for debate! It is attached to the belt, but where? In pictures, it is often shown underneath the meal bag on the left hip with just the top and bottom showing or in front of the bag. To � t the part in either of these positions would have required considerable conversion work on either the scabbard or the front of the trousers.

I decided instead to put the scabbard next to the rear of the bag on the � gure’s back. In real life, putting it there would require the ri-� eman to reach around behind his back, angle the scabbard slightly and pull the bayonet out without catching either the bag or himself ! At least the model is not wearing a backpack, so he would have some room to maneuver. And, in reality, he would have some time to � x

FAR LEFT: Plastic card was placed between the torso and legs to correct the join.

LEFT: Green Stuff putty was used to smooth the join between body and legs.

BOTTOM LEFT: Joins on the left side of the figure were smoothed with modeling putty.

BOTTOM MIDDLE: Green Stuff and a bit of sanding smoothed joins on the rifeman’s right side.

BELOW: After the water bottle was glued to the figure, it needed straps.

the bayonet when an order to do so was given.

� e ri� e does not have a sling, which I believe is needed because it is really an integral part of the weapon. As a result, I made a strap with thin strips of plastic. I used my � ngers to thinly roll out two-part putty to re-create the metal hardware for the sling.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 60 4/1/14 11:28 AM


ABOVE: Straps were cut out of plastic card, then added to the water bottle.

BELOW: The bayonet scabbard was placed toward the back of the figure.

ABOVE: The face was undercoated in plain, flesh-colored acrylic.

ABOVE: Acrylic paints were used for the eyes and to add highlights and shading on the face.

ABOVE: The face was finished with oil paint to add blending on the riflemen’s features.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 61 4/1/14 11:28 AM


PAINTING PROCESS� e completed � gure was held with pins in the feet to connect them to a handmade holder for painting.

I gave it a wash in a washing up bowl to remove any mold-releasing agent left over. I toyed with undercoating the � gure in black since it would be mainly a very dark green and black. But I’ve had di� culties before building up the color, and it doesn’t help much with painting of highlights and shadows. As a result, I applied an undercoat of gray primer. � e left arm and ri� e were sprayed separately.

� e face was undercoated in a plain � esh color, with the whites of the eyes done in an o� -white. Once this dried, I painted in details of the eyes and eyelids in acrylics with a � ne paintbrush. I also added some highlights and shadows to the face with acrylics. After this was dry, I used oil paint to achieve a smoother blending of the facial details and ears.

I then went on to paint the rest of the � gure dark green and black, including the food bag pouch and strap (the pouch was normally white/light brown, but I have seen other Ri� e Brigade pictures showing it could also be black). � e only exception to the color scheme on the top half of the � gure was the brown leather strap and the gray-blue water bottle.

� e green was mixed with black for the shadows. I did not apply any highlights. � e dark green paint chosen was as light as I wanted to go, as the uniform of all Ri� e regiments has always been made of a very dark, almost black green material.

� e leather straps, belt, pouches, buttons and shoes were

ABOVE: Front view of the green jacket and black leather after painting.

TOP RIGHT: Back view of the green jacket and black leather following painting.

RIGHT: Off-white lettering finished the water bottle.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 62 4/1/14 11:29 AM


painted in a satin acrylic black. Again, I did not apply any highlights to these as I wanted to emphasize the darkness of the uniform.According to my references on Ri� e Brigade uniforms, this � gure represents the summer of 1855 on. � is is because the model’s

double-breasted tunic replaced the coatee in 1855. � e � gure is also modeled in linen “sandbag” trousers issued as working dress in the summer of 1855. � is coarse material was replicated on the sculpted model by the addition of rough stitching down the seams. After painting the main part of the trousers, I went over the stitching in thin paintbrush strokes of alternating dark and light shades of brown.

� e socks were painted in a dark gray. I’m not sure what color they actually were in the � eld, but a dark gray seemed to � t the bill.

ABOVE: Putty was added around the left arm to correct the join.

LEFT: Putty was added to fill a gap under the left arm that became evident when it was attached.

ABOVE: Plastic card and Green Stuff were used to fabricate a sling for the rifle.

ABOVE: The Enfield rifle was undercoated in dark brown for the wood and gloss black for the metal components.

ABOVE: Painting techniques re-created the rifle’s wood grain and metal finish.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 63 4/1/14 11:29 AM

about the reviewerPaul Newman is a keen modeler whose main interest is the Napoleonic Wars, particularly British cavalry. He is a longtime member of the British Model Soldier Society and serves as its treasurer while his wife, Julie, is its secretary. Paul’s memberships have also included Planetfigure and The Basement. In addition, the Newmans operate Name It! providing engraved nameplates to model figure enthusiasts. They can be found manning their stand at many major European shows.

� e weapon is a “three-band” En� eld ri� e with a black leather sling. I painted it in my usual manner with a dark brown undercoat for the wood and gloss black for the metal parts. Once that dried, I applied lighter and darker “U” shaped stripes on the wood to represent the grain. � e metal components were dry brushed.

� e water bottle was � nished with some o� -white lettering -- an up arrow between “BO” with “1RB” below, and then some letters to identify the individual it was issued to.

I chose to paint the � gure with the left arm unattached to make the painting of the body and face easier. I thought all I would have to do is glue the arm on, with perhaps a couple of amendments for ensuring the right hand and left arm connected together. However, when I went to put the limb on, it revealed the underarm area was very thin. Although this was not obvious from most angles, it was to me. Consequently, it needed � lling with epoxy putty as well as a touch-up to � nish it.

I purchased a suitably sized base and made groundwork from plaster wall � ller (the powder and water mix is useful as you can get di� erent con-sistencies for added e� ects). Once the plaster was dry, I painted the surface of the groundwork with a PVA/water mix and sprinkled it with some “dirt” (a mix of sand, bits of grit and gravel). � e groundwork was painted in dark brown, then dry brushed with a light tan to bring out the details and the “drier” high ground.

A name plate telling the viewer information about the model � nished the � gure for display.Overall, this was a tricky model � gure to put together. But the painting more than made up for it. � e great face really brings the model to life!If you want to have a go at a larger-scale � gure, then as long as you are prepared to put in some e� ort in the early stages, this ri� eman kit will

reward you with a nice model to add to your collection. ■

ABOVE: Closeup view of the finished rifleman. ABOVE: The finished figure was placed on a base with groundwork and a name plate.

ABOVE: Back view of completed figure.

TSJUN14_p028-64.indd 64 4/1/14 11:29 AM

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TSJUN14_p065.indd 37 3/28/14 10:31 AM

READ ALL ABOUT IT...

■ Reviews of books of interest to history buffs as well as toy soldier and model figure enthusiasts.

Book REVIEWS

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Book BookREVIEWS


Author: Lance J. HerdegenPublished by: Savas BeatieISBN: 978-1-61121-106-1Price: £25/U.K. $39.95 U.S.Reviewed by: Leo Winston

THE IRON BRIGADE IN CIVIL WAR AND MEMORY

Lance J. Herdegen, who is regarded as the foremost expert on “those damned black hats,” brings the fabled Union unit to life in a comprehensive

new book.Herdegen is an award-winning

journalist, the former director of the Carroll College Institute of Civil War Studies in Wisconsin and he has authored several previous books about Midwestern states’ contributions during the American Civil War. A lifetime of research and study was poured into this magnus opus titled “The Iron Brigade

in Civil War and Memory: The Black Hats From Bull Run to Appomattox and Thereafter.”

Herdegen draws from primary sources such as previously unpublished letters, journals and photos. Insights gleaned from these materials put faces on the soldiers who gathered around campfires, marched through all kinds of condi-tions and fought like hell to preserve the Union.

The infantry brigade was originally composed of the 2nd, 6th and 7th Wis-consin (the 2nd Wisconsin is the inspiration for new figures by First Legion Ltd. reviewed elsewhere in this same edition), the 19th Indiana, and Battery B of the 4th U.S. Light Artil-lery. The volunteers gained attention for being the only all-Western outfit serving in the Eastern Theater and for wearing the distinctive Hardee-style felt dress hat of the regular Army. That’s how they gained the “Black

Hat Brigade” nickname.The author traces how they experi-

enced combat at Gainesville (Brawner’s Farm), Second Bull Run (Manassas) and South Mountain (where Un-ion Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan claimed to have nicknamed the stead-fast unit as the “Iron Brigade”) and Antietam. After being reinforced by the 24th Michigan, the Black Hats fought at Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville.

The Iron Brigade was one of the war’s most storied units, primarily due to its costly but dogged stand on the first day of battle at Gettysburg, Pa., July 1, 1863. It was there that unit im-mortalized a railroad cut and helped save decisive high ground, but teetered on the brink of being destroyed.

After the bloodbath at Gettysburg, the brigade was split up by various duties, expired enlistments and military reorgani-zations. But some of its regiments fought on through the Wilderness, Petersburg and the Confederate surrender at Appo-mattox.

� ough this 696-book is a scholarly work brimming with details, Herdegen’s lively writing makes the narrative enjoy-able reading. Fifteen maps and 124 black and white photos illustrate this de� nitive and action-packed true story of ordinary Western boys whose heroics helped save the Union.

My only complaint about this book is that its only color images are paintings by Don Troiani and Keith Rocco on the cov-er. It would have been nice if that artwork was also reproduced inside the book along with illustrative plates and/or photos of re-enactors in authentic uniforms to show how the Iron Brigade really looked in living color. ■

Do you have a non-fiction book of interest that you’d like to review in TS&MF? Then please get in touch with Editor Stuart A. Hessney about requirements via e-mail at [email protected].

WRITE A BOOK REVIEW!

TSJUN14_p066-68.indd 66 3/26/14 5:07 PM


Author: Nathaniel PhilbrickPublished by: Penguin BooksISBN: 978-0-143-11960-9Price: £10.99/U.K. $18 U.S.Reviewed by: A.J. Mergenthaler

THE LAST STAND

With the plethora of books, articles and movies written or produced about Custer’s Last Stand, do we really need another recounting of this now legendary confrontation? � e answer is a resounding, de� nite yes!

� is relatively small clash between the U.S. Cavalry and Indians pales in comparison to the catastrophic casualties su� ered during the period’s recently fought Civil War and Franco-Prussian War, but it is steeped in Americans’ national identity. � e Battle of the Little Bighorn is perceived as a heroic and courageous engagement fought by a small band of numerically overwhelmed troopers and their commander. It’s a very romantic notion, but far from the unvarnished truth concerning its causes and inevitable end results.

In “� e Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn,” author Nathaniel Philbrick takes great pains to be as nonpartisan as possible while clearly stating the facts surrounding this iconic part of U.S. history. � is is a 496-page paperback reprint of a book � rst published in 2010.

What happened on that fateful day of June 25, 1876, has been debated and analyzed over and over again. � ere are di� erent accounts and interpretations of

the events as they unfolded.From the very beginning of the campaign,

and indeed well before it, there was an under-lying tension in the 7th Cavalry Regiment’s o� cer corps. Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer was disliked by several of his subordi-nates. An atmosphere of jealousy and backbit-ing permeated his command.

Custer had rocketed to fame and the brevet rank of major general while � ghting for the Union Army during the ACW. � e “Boy General” had a reputation for courage and impetuosity that rankled many of his contem-poraries. His tendency toward recklessness was in no small measure a contributor to the disastrous results of that deadly day in 1876.

Custer’s command was one of several parts of an organized e� ort to take what was Indian territory by force of arms after gold was found in the Black Hills. Today we would call this action an unprovoked military invasion of an independent nation.

� e other major character amongst all the Indians involved was Sitting Bull. When younger, he had been a brave warrior. He had emerged at this time as the leader of the Sioux and Cheyenne alliance.

Custer and Sitting Bull were two men from dramatically di� erent cultures, but both were true warriors. Truth be known, both of them would probably have preferred a peaceful resolution if negotiations could have avoided the coming confrontation.

Before that fateful day, Custer organized his 12 companies into three units (battalions). His battalion consisted of approximately 215 men of Companies C, E, F, I and L. Maj. Marcus Reno commanded Companies A, G

and M totaling 131 troopers and 35 scouts, guides and interpreters. Capt. Frederick Benteen led Companies D, H and K with 115 men. Company B, headed by 1st Lt. Edward Mathey, guarded the pack train and amounted to 120 men and 11 civilian packers.

Custer’s Last Stand is really about two last stands. One was the fabled death of Custer and his immediate command. � e other was staged by the Reno and Ben-teen’s combined forces about four miles away. � ey were able to withstand warriors’ relentless attacks through that afternoon and night until the next day.

In the appendix section of the book, there is a company-by-company breakdown of the o� cers and men of the 7th Cavalry. A similar breakdown covers the various Indian tribes and their leaders.

� is is a very informative book that puts into perspec-tive the causes, actions and results of that iconic battle, which took place just prior to the July 4, 1876, U.S. centen-nial celebra-tion of the nation’s birth. ■

into perspec-tive the causes,

results of that iconic battle,

VERCORS 1944: RESISTANCE IN THE FRENCH ALPS

Author: Peter LiebIllustrator: Peter DennisPublished by: Osprey Publishing, Campaign 249ISBN: 978-1-84908-698-1Price: £14.99 U.K./$21.95 U.S.Reviewed by: Grant Peterson

A relatively little-known but vicious World War II campaign is covered in “Ver-cors 1944: Resistance in the French Alps.”

After the Allies’ D-Day invasion of Normandy June 6, 1944, the French Resistance fully mobilized on orders issued from London. � ey posed a serious threat to the German lines of communication.

� e British Special Operations Execu-tive (SOE) and U.S. O� ce of Strategic Services (OSS) had poured a great deal of resources into the Resistance movement spearheaded by the French Forces of the Interior (FFI). It was hoped that diversion-ary attacks by the FFI would disrupt the

Germans’ supply lines and erode enemy morale.

� e main Maquis sanctuary was the Al-pine plateau of Vercors, located southwest of Grenoble. Armed with British and U.S. weapons delivered by airdrops, they de-scended into valleys and attempted to challenge Axis occupying forces.

� e Nazis did not take things lying down. � ey launched a serious of major counter-opera-tions by mid-June.

� e Maquis made the mistake of trying to make a valiant stand against 8,000 German troops on the Vercors plateau. FFI � ght-ers were encircled and destroyed. � en the Ger-mans carried out brutal

reprisals against the local populace.In this 96-page paperback, author

Peter Lieb chronicles how the Battle of Vercors was the largest German operation launched against the FFI. He underscores how the crushing defeat triggered trau-

matic and bitter memories that persist for the French to this day 70 years later.

Rare photos, maps and some great color plates by Peter Dennis illustrate this book. My favorite painting shows German airborne troops disembarking from a glider at Vassieux in the heart of the plateau July 21, 1944. Fallschirmjägers mopped things up in the village within an hour in a striking example of ruth-less German e� ciency. ■

that persist for the French to this day 70 years later.

and some great color plates by Peter Dennis illustrate this book. My favorite painting shows German airborne troops disembarking from a glider at Vassieux in the heart of the plateau July 21, 1944. Fallschirmjägers mopped things up in the village within an hour in a striking example of ruth-less German e� ciency.

TSJUN14_p066-68.indd 67 3/26/14 5:07 PM


RUSSIAN SECURITY AND PARAMILITARY FORCES SINCE 1991

Author: Mark GaleottiIllustrator: Johnny ShumatePublished by: Osprey Publishing, Elite 197ISBN: 978-1-78096-105-7Price: £11.99 U.K./$18.95 U.S.Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney

� e XXII Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, were taking place in Febru-ary 2014 as these lines were being written. Despite a terrorism threat, the Olympics were staged incident-free. � at is most likely attributable to the “ring of steel” thrown up by tens of thousands of troops and police of the sort spotlighted in “Russian Security and Paramilitary Forces Since 1991.”

Author Mark Galeotti points out that Russia has a long history of violent politics in which internal security forces have often played a pivotal role. � ey have been king-makers and king-breakers, suppressors of revolution, the state’s spying eyes and enforc-ers, and agents of ideological factions from the time of medieval Rus princes’ “druzhina” (armed personnel) to Czar Ivan the Terrible’s 16th-century “streltsy” (shooters) and the former Soviet Union’s NKVD secret police.

Since the partition of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Russian Federation’s regular military has shrunk while the state’s security and paramilitary forces have disproportion-ately ballooned in in� uence and importance. Many of these units are the products of

bureaucratic rivalries. � ey have been at the spearpoint of conducting counterinsurgency campaigns in Chechnya and dealing with terrorist attacks at home in Russia.

Under the autocratic regime of President Vladimir Putin, a former KGB o� cer, they have proliferated and appear to be ensconced as Russia’s most active armed agencies for the foreseeable future. Many of them operate in a shadowy realm where private and gov-ernment interests intersect. Some paramili-tary “private armies” act like vigilantes with tacit Kremlin consent.

Personnel like these made headlines in Sochi Feb. 19, when at least 10 Cossack militiamen hired for law enforcement used horsewhips and pepper gas on members of the controversial Russian punk rock band Pussy Riot. � e musicians were performing under a sign advertising the Olym-pics in conjunction with protesting that the Putin regime is “authoritarian” and it has turned Russia into a “police state.”

Galeotti is a lead-ing international expert on this subject. � e author has penned a

concise overview of o� cial, semio� cial and uno� cial armed units, ranging from the 200,000-strong Interior Troops to police and other independent departments, as well as private security � rms.

� ey are distinctly organized, trained, equipped, uniformed and tasked. Many sport the latest combat gear. One striking and colorful exception is the Moscow-based Presidential Regiment Parade Company, which wears ceremonial uniforms replete with shakos reminiscent of the 19th-century czarist Imperial Guard.

Because this 64-page paperback covers modern forces, it greatly bene� ts from being

illustrated by a plethora of color photographs. � ey are complemented by outstanding color plates by Johnny Shumate. � e artist has captured details of a myriad of equipment, insignia and uniforms.

� e relatively brief history of these contem-porary units is re� ective of the story of Putin’s rise to a stranglehold on power and the resurrec-tion of the Russian bear’s claws. Intriguing insights make this book well worth reading. ■

THE CHESAPEAKE CAMPAIGNS 1813-15

Author: Scott S. SheadsIllustrator: Graham TurnerPublished by: Osprey Publishing, Campaign 259ISBN: 978-1-78096-852-0Price: £14.99 U.K./$21.95 U.S.Reviewed by: Stuart A. Hessney

� e War of 1812 between Britain and the United States lacked traction when it came to attracting popular support on both sides of the Atlantic.

Some Americans hoped to conquer Canada. But many others, especially in New England, opposed going to war

of 1812 got under way, the British primarily relied on the Royal Navy to exert military force in North America. � e cornerstone of their strategy was to blockade ports to choke o� commerce and bring the Americans to their knees.

A key focus of British attention was Chesapeake Bay. � at strategic region was where one of the war’s most hair-raising campaigns unfolded after British Army troops steeled by combat in the Peninsular War became available for deployment in America.

U.S. forces had previously sacked Upper Canada’s provincial capital York (present-day Toronto) April 27, 1813. Partly in response to that indignity, the British decided to launch a strike against Washington, D.C., the � edging nation’s capital city.

A brigade of veteran troops led by Maj. Gen. Robert Ross was landed, defeated U.S. forces in the Battle of Bladensburg in Mary-land Aug. 24, 1814, and went on to capture Washington. � ey torched public buildings, including the White House.

Cheered by this triumph, the British next set their sights on Baltimore, Md., a thriving seaport that then ranked as the third largest U.S. city with a population of 50,000. How-ever, the Battle of North Point claimed the

life of Gen. Ross and compelled Redcoat ground forces to withdraw.

A Royal Navy � eet’s ensuing overnight bombardment of Fort McHenry failed to reduce the bastion Sept. 13-14, 1814, sparing Baltimore from sharing Washing-ton’s fate. Witness Francis Scott Key was inspired to pen “� e Star-Spangled Ban-ner,” which became the national anthem.

� ese dramatic events are concisely but vividly recounted in “� e Chesa-peake Campaigns 1813-15: Middle Ground of the War of 1812.” � e 96-page paperback is brightly illuminated by author Scott S. Sheads’ quarter-century of research and his experience as a ranger-historian at the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine.

Pro� les of the opposing sides and details of their orders of battle are complemented by numerous images, including paintings, sketches and maps. � e highlights are several superb full-color illustrations that demonstrate the artistic talent of Graham Turner.

� is book is a great source of back-ground on events that will be marked with 200th anniversary commemora-tions during the course of 2014. ■

against Britain because it would disrupt lucrative trade.

To the British, the con� ict in North America was just a sideshow. � ey were focused on � ghting French Emperor Napo-leon I’s forces in Europe.

As the War

TSJUN14_p066-68.indd 68 3/26/14 5:07 PM

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TSMAY14_p031.indd 69 3/27/14 2:42 PM

n W. Britain and TS&MF team up to give readers a chance to win a great prize!

WIN SCALPING SET

TS&MF MONTHLY COMPETITION

PRIZE EXERCISE


This month TS&MF readers have a chance to win a hair-raising set from W. Britain’s “Clash of Empire” series.

This range is the brainchild of Gen-eral Manager and Creative Director Kenneth A. Osen. He is spearheading the development of figures based on conflicts that shaped North America between 1754 and 1794.

“Clash of Empires” is a pet project for the enthusiastic executive/histo-rian/sculptor because of his own roots in the Old Northwest Territory. It encompassed the modern U.S. states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and a slice of Minnesota in the 1700s. Much of the fighting took place in the Ohio Valley and the Great Lakes, bringing history close to home for someone like Ken who grew up in Michigan.

The vast region was home to Indian tribes from two main language groups: the Iroquoian and Algonquian. They

fought amongst themselves and either for or against encroaching Europeans.

In the meantime, the virgin land-scape rich in resources became a battleground for Britain and France as they jockeyed for domination of North America. The Great Lakes, major riv-ers and other waterways were the only practical means of transporting goods. Forts and outposts sprang up to lay land claims and exert some control.

The “Clash of Empires” will arm collectors with figures of Eastern Woodland Indians, Colonial militia and regular troops for re-creating fighting from the French and Indian War, Pontiac’s Rebellion, and the American Revolutionary War. Other conflicts that took place during the range’s timeline include the fledg-ing United States’ humiliations in the Harmar Campaign in 1790 and St. Clair’s Defeat of 1791.

As the crisis escalated, President George Washington handed command of the new Legion of the United States to ARW hero “Mad” Anthony Wayne in 1793. He led his troops to a decisive victory over an Indian confederacy in the Battle of Fallen Timbers Aug. 20, 1794, the final clash of the Northwest Indian War.

The matt-finished “Clash of Em-pires” series debuted in W. Britain’s 2013 Fall/Winter Catalogue with six releases pitting Eastern Woodland

Indians against militia in 58-mm scale. More recently, a half-dozen addi-tions to this awesomely authentic and action-packed series were unveiled in the 2014 Spring & Stock Catalogue.

Ken’s quest for vivid realism and painstaking details has been punctu-ated by his personal efforts, such as serving as a model for the victim in a set depicting an Indian scalping a downed militiaman (ref. 16009). That dynamic, two-piece set is this month’s competition prize.

It retails for £59.99 U.K./$70 U.S. But TS&MF readers can have a chance to win one by sending in the correct answer to the following question.

A key incident that precipitated the French and Indian War happened near present-day Uniontown, Pa., May 28, 1754, when Virginia Regiment troops and allied Indians ambushed a French scouting party. The 15-minute battle was a British victory. But after withdrawing to Fort Necessity, the Colonials were compelled to surrender to French forces July 3. British Whig Parliamentarian Horace Walpole described the incident as a “volley fired by a young Virginian in the backwoods of America that set the world on fire?” Who was the 21-year-old lieutenant colonel behind the controversy?: A. Thomas Jefferson B. Enoch Poor C. George Washington D. Daniel Morgan

This month’s competition prize is W. Britain’s “Eastern Woodland Indian Scalping Colonial Militia Hand-to-Hand Set” (ref. 16009).

TSJUN14_p070-71.indd 70 3/26/14 5:08 PM

All entries must be submitted in writing with your complete contact details, including an e-mail address if available. Entries can be sent via fax to 01903 885514 or mail to Issue 193 Prize Exercise, TS&MF, Ashdown Ltd., Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road, Arundel, West Sussex, England, U.K. BN18 0AG. Entries can also be sent via fax to (507) 634-7691 or mail to Issue 193 Prize Exercise, TS&MF, Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN, USA 55944. All entries must be received by June 30, 2014.

HOW TO WIN!


PREVIOUS WINNER ANNOUNCED

Next month in TS&MF issue 194 readers will have a chance to win a majestic mounted fi gure of Macedonian King Alexander the Great courtesy of First Legion Ltd.

NEXT TIME WIN

PREVIOUS

WINNER!Congratulations to the very lucky winner of TS&MF issue 189’s “Prize Exercise” featuring a fi gure of Santa Claus on skis specially produced by King & Country Ltd. in celebration of Christmas 2013.

K&C launched a holiday tradition by producing a set for Christmas 2002 depicting Santa checking his list of good and bad children while sitting with a satchel of toys under a gaily decorated tree. Charming, evocative and collectible Christmas releases have followed every year since.

Th e latest installment in the seasonal series was the “Skiing Santa” (ref. XM013-01).

“Every now and then Mr. Claus has to forego his sleigh and reindeer and take to his skis to make a special delivery,” K&C cofounder and Creative Director Andy C. Neilson mused. “Here the man of the moment has a sack full of toys and gifts for some very good little boys and girls!”

Th is very nicely modeled piece

depicts the jolly old fellow leaning forward on his skis with extra red-faced eff ort. It looks as if he is trying to muster as much downhill speed as possible to make all his deliveries in time. Marvelous matt painting complements the details on this 1:30-scale piece generously provided as a competition prize by the fi ne folks at K&C.

“Skiing Santa” retails for £79.75 U.K./$59 U.S. But a free example of this festive fi gure is being added to the collection of U.S. reader Michael Mele of Jacksonville, Fla. He correctly answered that Edward Asner was the actor who portrayed Santa in the 2003 comedy movie “Elf,” which starred Will Ferrell in the title role.

Kudos to the issue 189 “Prize Exercise” winner, and many thanks to all of the other readers who entered. Please keep on trying because you’ve got to be in it to win it!

K&C’s “Skiing Santa” races downhill to make deliveries to good boys and girls.

PRIZE

PREVIEW

Cartoon by Doug Dearth

TSJUN14_p070-71.indd 71 3/26/14 5:08 PM

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‘SCOTT J. DUMMITT PRESENTS’

CANADA’S LARGEST SELECTION OF MILITARY ACTION FIGURES

FEATURING: Vintage GIJOE, Vintage Action Man, Adventure Team, DRAGON, IGNITE,

bbi, Elite Brigade, Ultimate Soldier, DID, 54mm Canadian Toy Soldiers,

William Britain Ltd., Armies in Plastic, Del Prado and more!

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Ontario, Canada K0L 1B0Phone: (705) 939-1028

Business email: [email protected] through Monday 10am to 5pm

www.gijoecanada.com

The Toymaker of Williamsburg

757-229-5660 www.toymakerofwilliamsburg.com

AEROART INTERNATIONAL ... 27

AG FARM TOYS ...................... 57

BRUNTON’S BARRACKS ...... 73

COLLECTORS

SHOWCASE (THE) .................... 3

CROWN MILITARY

MINIATURES ........................... 73

DUTKINS

COLLECTABLES ................ 57, 73

FIRST GEAR INC. .................... 12

FIRST LEGION USA INC ........ 11

GREEN’S COLLECTABLES ..... 57

HOBBY BUNKER ...................... 2

HOWARD WOODS ................. 18

IVANHOE FIGURES ................ 73

KING & COUNTRY-HK ..... 31, 76

MICHIGAN TOY

SOLDIER CO ............................ 73

MINUTEMEN TOY

SOLDIERS ................................ 13

NAME IT .................................. 73

ORDER OF BATTLE ................... 7

PETER NATHAN

TOY SOLDIERS ........................ 56

RODNEY’S

DIMESTORE GALLERY ........... 19

SCOTT DUMMITT

PRESENTS ............................... 73

SIERRA TOY

SOLDIER COMPANY ........ 13, 57

TARRANT’S TOY SOLDIERS ... 73

THE HISTORY STORE ............. 57

THE TOY SOLDIER

MUSEUM ................................. 56

THE TOY SOLDIER

PATROL BASE LLC ................. 56

THE TOYMAKER OF

WILLIAMSBURG .................... 73

THE TREASURE BUNKER...... 73

THOMAS GUNN

MINIATURES ........................... 65

TOY SOLDIER SHOPPE .... 13, 57

TREEFROG TREASURES.... 73, 75

TROOPS OF TIME ................... 13ORDER OF BATTLE ................... 7

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shows and clubs


Toy Soldier Calendar May to July 2014

Event organizers are invited to submit information for inclusion in the Toy Soldier Calendar.

Event organizers are invited to submit information for inclusion in the Toy Soldier Calendar.

MAY

Sat., May 3, Ontario Model Soldier Society’s 52nd Annual On Parade, Old Fort York, 100 Garrison Road, Toronto, Ont., Canada. 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The show will feature vendors, displays and an open competi-tion. Admission to the hobby event is free with paid en-try to the fort. Contact: Chairman Tom Elliot, tel: (905) 542-2393; e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]; Website: www.omss.ca.

Sat. and Sun., May 3-4, South West Model & Hobby Show, Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England, U.K. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admis-sion family ticket £31, adults £13, children under 15 £5 and children under 5 free. Organized by Nationwide Exhibitions Ltd. Contact: tel: +44 (0) 117 907 1000, fax: +44 (0) 117 981-1399, Website: www.swmee.co.uk or e-mail: [email protected].

Sun., May 4, Ohio Toy Soldier Show & Sale, Gal-axy Restaurant & Banquet Center, Wadsworth, Ohio, USA. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission $6; children under 12 free. Contact: John Stengel of The Marx-Man, tel: (718) 418-9439; Website: toysoldiershowpromo.com.

Thurs., May 8, The Toy Soldier Museum Open House and Cellar Sale, 5459 Paradise Valley Road, Cresco, Pa., USA. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: James H. Hillestad, tel: (570) 629-7227; Website: www.the-toy-soldier.com or e-mail: [email protected].

Fri. and Sat., May 9-10, 73rd Annual Miniature Figure Collectors of America Show & Mart, Valley Forge Convention Center, 1160 First Ave., King of Prussia, Pa., USA. Noon to 5 p.m. Friday. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Admission good for both days is $15; children under 12 free. The event features exhibitions, competitions and vendors. For vendor information, contact: Dennis Sosna, e-mail: [email protected]; for exhibit information, contact: Dennis Levy, tel: (856) 665-8909 or e-mail: [email protected]; Web-site: www.mfcashow.com or e-mail: [email protected].

Sat., May 24, 29th Annual Plastic Warrior Show, Harlequin Suite, Winning Post Inn, Chertsey Road, Whitton, Twickenham, London, England, U.K. TW2 6LS. Opens at 10:30 a.m. Admission £3. Contact: PW Editor Paul Morehead, tel: +44 (0) 1483 722778, fax: +44 (0) 1483 772723, Website: www.plasticwarrior.com or e-mail: [email protected].

Sat. and Sun., May 24-25, 8th Annual Texas Toy Soldier Show, Menger Hotel, 204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas, USA. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission $7 per family. 3rd Annual Toy Soldier Dinner and Symposium at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the hotel. Sponsored by Kings X Toy Soldiers and King & Country Ltd. Contact: Organizer Martin Vasquez, e-mail: [email protected]; or Kings X, tel: (210) 226-7000, fax: (210) 226-7117 and Web-site: www.kingsx.com.

JUNE Fri. and Sat., June 20-21, 16th Annual Marx Toy

& Train Collectors National Convention, Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum, 144 Kruger St., Wheeling, W.Va., USA. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. 9 to 3 p.m. Saturday. Admission $20 per person/family or $25 per person with one swap meet table (spouse/children free). Contact: Chairman Allan Miller, tel: (304) 242-8133 or toll-free 1-877-242-8133, Website: www.toyandtrain.com; e-

mail: [email protected] or [email protected].

Sat., June 21, Summer 2014 Model Show held by the Shepway Military Modelling Society, Hawkinge Community Centre, Heron Forstal Avenue, Hawkinge, Folkestone, Kent, England, U.K. CT18 7FP. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission adults £1; under 16 50p. The event will feature traders, a bring and buy stall, club displays, and competitions, including a World War II D-Day 70th anniversary class. Contact: e-mail: [email protected] or Website: shepwaymilitarymodelling.wordpress.com.

Sat., June 28, 30th Anniversary Show of the Faversham Military Modelling Group and a Celebration of Military Modelling, The Alexandre Centre, Preston Street, Faversham, Kent, England, U.K. ME13 8NY. 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free admission. The event will encom-pass traders, an exhibition and a competition to mark the start of the Great War open to any 1914-18 subjects. Contact: tel: 01795 532135.

JULY

Thurs. to Sun., July 11-13, World Model Expo organized by Model Club VCO Verbania, Palazzo dei Congressi, Stresa, Lago Maggiore, Piedmont, Italy. The event promotes all types of model figure and scale model hobby pursuits with competitions, vendors, seminars and more. Contact: e-mail: [email protected] or Website: http://www.we2014stresa.com.

Thurs. to Sun., July 17-20, Historicon, Fredericks-burg Expo & Conference Center, 2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, Va., USA. Vendor hall open from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 9 a.m. to noon Sunday. The Historical Miniature Gaming Society-sponsored event features tournaments, seminars, figure painting classes, contests and vendor sales. This year’s convention theme is “The American Civil War — 1863: Year of Decision.” Visit the Website at www.historicon.org for information on the convention fees and schedule. Contact: convention Director Paul Delaney, e-mail: [email protected]; or e-mail: [email protected].

Sat. and Sun., July 19-20, Toy Soldier Extravaganza presented by Joseph Saine Toy Soldiers, Holiday Inn, I-275 and 6 Mile Road, Livonia, Mich., USA. Auction at 1 p.m. Saturday. Show opens at 10 a.m. Sunday. Contact: Joseph Saine, tel: (419) 662-8697; Website: www.josephsaine.com.

SOCIETY MEETINGS

Bognor Regis Modelling & Wargaming Soci-ety, Community Hall, West Meads, Bognor Regis, West Sussex, England, U.K. Usually meets from 7:30 to 10 p.m. every Monday. Contact the joint secretaries: Stephen Pidwell, tel: 01243 855449; or Dilip Sethi, tel: 01403 780637; e-mail: [email protected].

British Model Soldier Society (National), Pimlico Room, St. Saviour’s, St. George’s Square, Lupus Street, Pimlico, London, England, U.K. SW1V 3QW (new venue). Usually meets from 5 to 7 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. Upcoming meeting themes and dates: Military Pageant May 16, World War I June 20 and Militaria July 18. Information: Arthur Smith, tel: 020 8856 0064; or Website: www.bmssonline.com.

British Model Soldier Society (Bristol Area Branch). Quarterly meetings. Information: Peter Stur-

geon, tel: 0117 9732067 or e-mail: [email protected] Model Soldier Society (Ealing Branch),

Northfields Community Centre, 71a Northcroft Road, Ealing, England. Meets on the second Friday every month. Information: Bruce Harron, tel: 07847 855 850.

British Model Soldier Society (Essex Branch), Two Brewers, Springfield Road, Chelmsford, England. Meets at 8 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month. Information: Les Bickmore, tel: 01621 744234.

British Model Soldier Society (Northants Branch), Wellingborough Bowls Club, Hatton Park Road, Wellingborough, Northants, England. Meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. Information: Terry O’Neill, tel: 01933 681536.

British Model Soldier Society (Northern Branch) and the Manchester Association of Military Modelling Socie-ties meet jointly from 1 to 5 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month at the Sale Moor Methodist Church Hall, Northenden Road, Sale Moor, England. Adults £1 (children free). Information: Tom Cunningham, tel: 01614 992803.

Irish Model Soldier Society, Garda Club, Harrington Street, Dublin 8, Ireland. Meets on the first Thursday of every month. Information: Tony Foley, tel: 00 353 1 4932248.

Letchworth Scale Model Club, host of the British Model Soldier Society North Herts Branch. Meets on the third Wednesday of every month from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Four Emblems Club, 2 Station Road, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, England, U.K. All welcome. Guests must pay a £1 club guest membership fee to comply with the social club venue’s bylaws. Information: Rod Johnson, club secretary and BMSS area representa-tive, tel: 01438 814225; Website: www.letchworthsmc.yolasite.com.

Ontario Model Soldier Society. Usually meets monthly (except July and August) at Branch 210 of the Royal Canadian Legion, 110 Jutland Road, Toronto, Ont., Canada. Doors open at 11 a.m. and the formal meeting begins at 1 p.m. Next meetings: Annual Show May 3 and June 22. Information: Gary Lenius, tel: (416) 261-6494 or e-mail: [email protected]; Website: www.omss.ca.

South Carolina Military Miniature Society. Meetings are held at members’ homes in two U.S. cities: the second Thursday night of every month in Columbia and on Sun-day afternoons every six weeks in Charleston. For meeting details, contact: Society President Dennis Fontana, tel: (803) 419-6747 (Columbia); or Lance Leader, tel: (843) 795-8720 (Charleston). For membership and club information, contact: Geoff Walker, tel: (803) 356-2674 or e-mail: [email protected].

Southern California Toy Soldier Collectors Society. Meets on the last Saturday of every other month at members’ homes. New members are welcome. Contact: Mike Tarantino, tel: (909) 861-4252 or e-mail: [email protected].

Sydney Model Soldier Society. New members needed and welcome! Meets every second Wednesday in every second month at Earlwood-Bardwell Park Bowling Club. Send all inquiries concerning membership and meetings to the secretary: Tom Thorpe, 29 Chaleyer St., Willoughby 2068, Sydney, NSW, Australia. Tel: (612) 94172162.

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Toy Soldier and Model Figure 193 June 2014 - Superunitedkingdom

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