SAARBRUCK TO SEDAN; & THE GERMAN WAR OF 1866

◗ Ralph Weaver; and Theodor Fontane

◗ Helion (2021)

◗ £25; and £35

◗ 113, and 476, pages (softback)

◗ ISBN:9781914059889; and 9781914059292

◗ helion.co.uk

The first title offers a description of the uniforms, weapons and organisation of the armies of France, Prussia, and Prussia’s allies in the initial phase of the Franco-Prussian war, including 22 colour plates of the principal troop types. The emphasis is on the uniforms, but with good coverage of the establishment strengths and a modest look at weaponry. Overall, a helpful volume in organising and painting your 1870 armies.

‘The German War of 1866’ is a direct translation of a major Prussian study of the war with Austria, in considerable detail – for example, the early action at Gitschin warrants around 35 pages, whilst the climactic battle of Koniggratz has a thumping 100+ pages, with thirteen maps of different parts of the battlefield. The detailed battle maps are in the style of the period, unfortunately without scales, although comparison with say a website source would give you these. The perspective is of course largely from the Prussian side, albeit there are orders of battle (but not unit strengths) for both sides.

Two fine additions to Helion’s strong coverage of this period