1735: Strategic Overview

Map of Hurst shire of the Kingdom of the Weald, circa 1735

 This map details the disputed western area of the Weald, known as Eyerstscir (Wealas) or Hurstshire (Alban) and the major conurbations as they appear in 1735.  Each hex grid represents about six miles. 

Major Features

The mountain ranges of the centre and west region of Hurstshire make east-west travel more difficult, with only three major roads crossing the area. There are numerous tracks and pathways, but these are little more useful than open ground for a military formation.

Towns

 The largest towns in the area are Wickham Lace and Brighthelm but are themselves quite small. They are able to garrison 2 regiments of infantry and one regiment of cavalry in peacetime, with the other towns able to support 1/1. Hurst Manor as the seat of the Eyerstscir Landgrave can support 1 regiment of cavalry, but not infantry. 

Movement

Infantry and Artillery may move 2 hexes per turn, and Cavalry may move 4 hexes per turn. This is halved for any off-road movement. Infantry and Cavalry may attempt to ford a stream but Artillery and supply wagons may never do so. 

Supply

Units must be able to draw a line of supply to the nearest road and thence to their home territory or a friendly town, if not they are subject to supply issues. This line may not cross through enemy towns, across rivers except at bridges, or roads which are occupied by an enemy army.

Coverage and Line of Sight

Armies that encounter each other in the same hex may choose to engage in battle, or one (or both) sides may decline and retreat. Armies become aware of opposing forces in adjacent hexes (and one additional hex for an army which contains light cavalry, to represent the scouting and patrolling responsibility of such units), except in the case that a potential target army is inside hills/forests/mountains.