New Project: American Civil War, the Battle of Olustee, FL.

A Re-enactment of the Battle of Olustee, FL

       After this year's Historicon, I wanted to create a new challenge for myself. In this case, it is the American Civil War. It is amazing that Kalissa and I did not have any figures for this time period yet. After all, I read and studied the war for a good portion of my youth and at college. It seems like the right time for it. Besides, there are a lot of cool scenarios and references out there. But I did not want to choose any of the more common battles. I wanted something a little different with some interesting flavor, which brings me to the Battle of Olustee, FL that took place in Feb, 20th, 1864. It was also known as the Battle of Ocean Pond. It seemed to be one of the only big battles in Florida that I did not know too much about. In a matter of fact, I did not really know about it until I had recently watched the movie "Glory". I was kind of curious to know what happened to the 54th Mass. after the assault on Fort Wagner, SC. I was led to this battle.

       The nifty challenges this presents is that it is Florida winter terrain. I was born in Tampa, Fl, so I have a good idea about it. Plus, there are a lot of re-enactment reference photos to get it right. The board I will be making might have some swamps. I will also have the fun of modelling southern pine trees that I cannot just buy. I will have to figure that part out along with the scrub brush that would be the pine barrens. So there are a lot of interesting terrain choices to consider. It will be fun!
       To top that, I have a huge amount of troops to paint. I want to be able to break down forces for a 6 player game. I, also, must consider whether or not I want to break down the game into a four part game or a one shot deal for multiple games. Either way, I plan on have quite a few figures. I had already bought 13 regiments worth of infantry for Sash and Saber in 28mm. The cool thing is that we convinced the owner to help support our project, so I will try to go above and beyond like usual.
      The last thing I have to consider are the rules system to use. The easiest would be to use Black Powder. However, I want to look through Pickett's Charge, Fire and Fury, Devil to Pay, and other rules. Maybe, Jay will share his Hallowed Ground rules. The mission is to get a rules system that does not have the possibly to bog down when played. If I accomplish that mission as well as put on an awesome Civil War game, it will be awesome!