Armies of The War of 1812: The Armies of the United States, United Kingdom and Canada from 1812 - 1815

   I recently discovered this wonderful little book through Aly Morrison's blog (thank you!).  Although the text is pretty basic it does a very good job of describing the uniforms of the armies of the War of 1812.  This can be very confusing as the United States changed uniforms about every year. Each state also maintained its own militia who often outshine the regulars in dress.    And what is the difference between the Sedentary and Incorporated militia anyway?


  Well this book will explain all that and more.  Best of all are the uniform plates.  These are from the website of Olivier Millet at History-Uniform (http://history-uniforms.over-blog.com).  Although not as well know as they should be his illustrations are a treasure trove for the War of 1812 gamer.  Great detailed illustrations of uniforms of the type needed to paint your miniature warriors.  These are organized on his web site by regiment and changes by year.  So if you look at the 41st Regiment of Foot you see them in  1812 with stovepipe shakos but by 1814 they are in belgic shakos.  Very nice details!  Best of all all these illustrations are now at your finger tips on this handy book.

These are the type of illustrations you will find in the book.

  Once of the best sections of the book are the various militia regiments.  Each state had its very own army.  And a wide and colorful array of uniforms they are.  While they may not fight well (the Blandenburg races?) they do enliven a table top battle.

  So if you are a War of 1812 buff, or someone who has considered gaming this fascinating period pick.up this book.  You will be doing yourself a favor.  Highly recommended