Background
The Battle
of Ellendun marked the decline of Mercian hegemony over Wessex and taking
advantage of the opportunity, King Egbert sought to expand his lands. In the
decade following, Wessex borders moved closer to East Anglia and northward, resuming
its conflict with Mercia.
In the southwest however, Egbert encountered a setback against Danish raiders at Carhampton in 836. Recovering later, Egbert would defeat the Vikings and their “West Welsh” allies, a term used to describe the British peoples of Cornwall, at Hingston Down.
Location
The location
of the battlefield remains unknown; however, Viking longships could easily find
shelter along the river Tamar, in close proximity to the downs near Hingston.
The area is also described as wooded and the rounded grass-covered hills
offering hilly terrain known as downs. For game purposes, exchange the difficult
hills required for gentle ones (maximum 3) and add two woods. A figure outlined
in chalk, such as a long-legged horse or Hercules with a big stick, would add ambience
to the board.
Forces
Wessex, use
army list III/24b.
West Welsh,
1 x general (Sp), 7 x warriors (Sp), 1 x skirmishers (Ps) +
Viking
allies, 1 x huscarls, 1 x raiders (3Bd) 1 x archers (Ps).
Re-fighting the battle.
Both sides
battle lines were evenly matched, yet Wessex, advancing forward, were
inconvenienced by woods on the right, formed two columns. The Cornish troops
encountered no such obstacle as they advanced cautiously forward creating a gap
with their Viking allies.
The battle developed quickly on both flanks with the Vikings earning their pay, making quick work of the Saxons to their front. The Cornish left was less fortunate, as Saxons drove a deep wedge in their line. Shortly after, the centre of both armies made contact.
The Vikings having accomplished their task and remained at their position to see the Cornish army flee the field. A glorious Saxon victory (4 – 2) over the West Welsh and their Viking allies.
Sources
Battle ofHingston Down, Wiki
Wales andthe Britons, 350 – 1064, T.M. Charles-Edwards (online)
No comments:
Post a Comment