From MarkG: Anarchist Infantry for the Russian Civil War (135 points)

With a sigh of relief, I get my last entry over the finish line. These are supposed to represent a unit in the Anarchist Army of Nestor Makhno in Ukraine (the Makhnovshchina). All are a mix of various figures from Copplestone Castings - Ragged Whites, Partisans, and Bolshevik Infantry,

Given their mongrel nature, and appearance, they are generic enough to be used for any side in the conflict. Most were poorly dressed/ragged most of the time, and they are perfect for any conscripts/prisoners changing sides, or even seasoned veterans.

The Revolutionary Insurgent Army of Ukraine, or "Makhnovishchina" were rural Anarchists, who fought against nearly every army in the conflict: the Whites, the Germans, the Austro-Hungarians, Ukrainian nationalists, and finally the Bolsheviks (after allying with them for a short while, and then realising what a nasty bunch they really were). 

In essence, they wanted to have their own "stateless" state, but none were willing to accommodate, the Bolsheviks finally defeating them in 1920.

In terms of wargaming they make an interesting force; plenty of cavalry, and tachanka's (which are claimed to be one of their innovations), ex-sailors, peasant conscripts, and a whole mix of men from both the Red and White armies (ex-prisoners, deserters etc.). Despite their mixed nature, they were quite effective, motivated and well led; a real headache for any army that had to fight them.

So finally, many thanks to everyone who made this such an enjoyable challenge. To all of you who made kind comments on my efforts, to Sander for his curation of the "Saturday crew" and his encouraging remarks, and of course to Curt for setting this fine show up.

The points summary:

27 x 5 = 135 points for twenty seven 28mm foot miniatures.

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Doomed rural anarchists who had a bone to pick with all levels of authority? I have to say these Makhnovishchina sound like my kind of people. Fabulous work, Mark. I really enjoyed following your progress with with project. This was especially helped with your fine brushwork and historical backgrounds - a real treat.

Have a great spring and summer and I hope we see you out with us when the weather turns chilly.

- Curt