Victoria's Boys in Red

   In honor of the day the Republic of Texas declared itself independent from Mexico, the Texican Legate and his wife will host a traditional Texas-style picnic meal. On the menu are a variety of hot smoked beef cuts with a savory sweet 'barbecue' sauce, chili con carne, cornbread, a cold potato salad, stuffed cabbages, and something called 'tamales'. Dessert will be pecan pie. Of course, beer and whiskey will be available to drink, as will punch or iced tea for teetotallers and young children.

   A solemn ceremony of remembrance will take place at noon, with bugler playing retreat and a rifle salute to the Texican fallen - 186 shots in total, one for each man who fell at the Alamo siege. Food will be served beginning at 4:00 in the afternoon, until it all runs out. Last year, this was near midnight. Fireworks will be shot skyward immediately after dark. The best view of the fireworks will be on the eastern edge of Victoria Landing, opposite the downport.

Today is Texas Independence Day.

God Bless Texas

"J" is also for... JAPAN

War Flag of Japanese Imperial Army

   At the end of the 19th century, Japan was making up for a couple of lost centuries worth of technological development, especially in the military. Seeing the strength of Western armies and navies, the Japanese determined to emulate the strong and improve on their technology by wedding the bushido mentality to the advanced weapons. What resulted was the foundation of a new Imperial Nippon. In VSF, they would certainly have been seeking a place in the solar system. For me, that place is on Mars, allying with some city-states that were distant from the British, French and Germans, then dominating them and making them puppets of the Shogunate of Mars. This is a project which I have considered, but for which very little has been purchased. I am looking strongly at Parroom Station's Japanese soldiers. BANZAI!!!!

"L" is also for...  LANDSHIP

   Steam-powered tanks, or landships, are quite common in Victorian Science Fiction. I think landships make the rest of the crazy VSF technology more believable, because they might have been possible. Certainly they would have been quite primitive things by even WWI standards, but possible? Just about, at least in some form.  So, with that small but believable stretch of reality, it makes the crazier things a bit more plausible. They are popular enough to merit their own rules (Land Ironclads, by Wessex Games) as well as inclusion in pretty much all the other rules available. There are many manufacturers of models for them as well. I am partial to Black Hat for the 15mm and Ironclad Miniatures for the 25mm, myself. Many excellent scratch builds are out there as well. Seems like everyone loves steam powered tanks! So why didn't I go with "L is for Landships" in the original list? Because I was already planning on discussing steam, and it fell under that category as well.

Trencher by Proxie Models. No longer available.

HMLS Prince Albert [Modified Black Hat Miniatures Heavy Steamtank]

"P" is also for... PARROTMEN

   Along with the ubiquitous lizardmen on Venus, the Cytherean Parrotmen are a very commonly used race in many VSF games. As far as I know, the idea originated on the Lead Adventure Forum, by a member known mysteriously as "DewbackUK".  Since then, I would imagine dozens of copycats (myself included) have jumped upon the parrotman bandwagon. For me, the project has stalled among the plethora of other things to do. But I did write a monograph on the Pappegaivolk. And I have figures for them, at least in 28mm. Like many others, I chose to use plastic GW Kroot, painted to resemble parrots, with their weapons modified a bit. Below is a work in progress photo. I chose Pellucidar over the parrotmen because my project has stalled. It might just be time to bite the bullet and send them off to be painted. Thirty or so of them, at $5 a piece... yikes! That's $150!!!!

Picture taken October, 2008 - talk about stalled!

"T" is also for...  TEXAS

   Like I wasn't going to work this one in somewhere? I'm a proud son of Texas, and my family arrived here from Alabama during the days when we were our own Republic (ca. 1837). I have a timeline of alternate history that keeps Texas a free and independent nation, through alliance with Britain in the 19th Century. There is also a VSF 'weird science' version of that timeline. The  only reason Tesla won out over Texas is because I can't imagine any VSF universe being complete without that mad genius. So, here's to the Lone Star Republic!

De Zavala Flag, the 'First National Flag of Texas'

Lone Star Flag, adopted in 1839

   When I wrote about "B is for... Britain," it dawned on me that while real nations are often the heart of Victorian Science Fiction campaigns, there are a huge number of imaginary ones being used by gamers and authors. I think that the category could be extended to include nations that really existed, but have ceased to do so somewhere in our 'real' timeline. With that in mind, here are a few imagi-nations I find interesting.

Kingdom of Hawai'i The idea of my friend Eli, where if I recall correctly, earlier exposure to Europeans allowed more immunities to diseases later, and an alliance with Britain makes them a protectorate, so that the United States never really develops control there. Polynesian feathered cloaks and breechloading rifles = fun.

King Kalakaua I

Republic of Texas One of my personal pet projects. My timeline has the Republic never being annexed and developing an alliance with Britain. My friend Jim and I have developed a timeline which extends from 1836 to 2036. Interesting place, the Republic. They have conquered the northern parts of Mexico and even established an overseas colony in the Pacific (sort of a leftover of a war against Mexico and France). The Texicans established a colony on Venus, though only trading posts and consulates on Mars.

Confederate States A favorite of many alternate histories is the idea that the South is not defeated in the American Civil War. Maybe the war is ongoing, extended far past the actual four years. Maybe the reinforcements at First Manassas managed to pursue the fleeing Union troops all the way back into Washington, capturing the capitol. Whatever device is used, the use of anachronistic steam technology in the War Between the States makes for interesting games.

3rd National Flag of the CSA

Confederated Italian States Another of my pet projects has Italy still divided, but working together against other large European nations. Garibaldi died as a result of wounds, and the dream of Italian nationalism went with him. The major states of the CIS are the Papal States, the Serene Republic of Venice, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, and the Kingdom of Savoy-Piedmont.

Laputa Another idea brought to my attention by Eli. Laputa is a flying island which migrates around the Pacific, exacting tribute from the primitives below them. The Laputans have some advanced technologies which they are no longer able to replicate or repair, but can still operate. This includes a variety of flying ships and weapons that are slowly wearing out.

Atlantis The classic mythological 'lost' island, where advanced technology was commonplace. In some VSF universes (When the Navy Walks comes to mind), Atlantis is no myth, but a real place. Atlantean technology can open doorways to the deep seas, and allow players to hunt for Captain Nemo.

Ruritania A classical imagi-nation, from The Prisoner of Zenda, if I recall correctly. A tiny Central European nation, it is mentioned in Soldier's Companion, complete with flag and uniform information. Speaking of which, I highly recommend the Soldier's Companion as a sourcebook, even if you are not interested in the rules.

Free Republic of Ireland Another alternate history nation, where Ireland manages to win a rebellion against the British somehow. My guess would be help from France or Germany at some point, or possibly (though less likely, I think) Russia. Not one I use in my VSF universe, but it is popular in others.

Transbalkania A nation I have never put together, but which I have postulated to exist. It makes up a considerable piece of the Balkan mountains. I know that ethnic and religious rivalries prevent it in the real world, but it gives an excuse for a bewildering array of uniforms.

Bongolesia Originally a setting for Mike Murphy's modern AK-47 Republic game, I took this nation back to colonial-era Africa. It is claimed by several nations, because of the value of one particular plant.

Modern Bongolesian Flag

  And, of course, there are all of the alien nations, city-states, tribal groups, etc., which populate the other worlds of our solar system. Helium, both Greater and Lesser, and Zadonga from the Barsoomian novels come to mind, or my own Galfor, or the Oenotrian Empire of Space: 1889. Really, there are few limits to this categoy of imagi-nation.

   Lastly, one of the reasons we use imagi-nations is to divorce the setting of our games from actual history. This can help defuse any accusations of 'latent imperialism' or Euro-centrism (although the age was Euro-centric!). It's hard to accuse someone of ebing some sort of wannabe Clive or Rhodes when they are 'conquering' an imaginary place using toy soldiers. Sad what we have to consider this point, but there it is...

  In 1836, a group of brave men met secretly in the small town of Washington-on-the-Brazos in what is now the Houston Province of the Republic of Texas. They signed a document which meant their deaths if captured by the Mexican Army, but liberty for their entire nation if their rebellion, like that of the American colonies before them, was successful.

  Fellow residents of Victoria's Landing, please extend your congratulations to Texicans you meet today. In celebration, the Texican Consulate will be providing free 'barbecue' beef and beer to all residents of the city. His Excellency the Viceroy will be hosting a dinner and formal ball for the Texican Consul, Mister Andrew Jackson Houston, at Government House tonight.

  Also, please do not be overly concerned by the sound of numerous gunshots coming from the Texican Quarter tonight. They are most likely the result of a few Texicans partaking a bit too heavily of the local spirits and celebrating their independence by firing revolvers into the air. Residents of the city are, therefore, encouraged to remain indoors after dark, to avoid accidental injury from falling bullets. Last year, two people and three Martians were injured by the 'lead rain.'

  Today is the 49th anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto, in which the valiant Texican army, outnumbered and ill-equipped, surprised and defeated the invading Mexican Army, led by the despot Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. In a mere eighteen minutes, spurred by their anger over the massacres at Goliad and the Alamo, the Texicans swept the Mexicans from the field.

  Later that day, General Santa Anna was captured and signed the Treaties of Velasco, recognizing (in his capacity as President of Mexico) the independence of the Republic of Texas.

  Expect a large crowd outside the Texas Legation here in Victoria Landing, enjoying a feast of traditional Texican foods, such as barbecued beef, beans, chilis, and of course, large quantities of beer, whiskey and cider. Fireworks will follow after sunset.

175 years ago, a small group of men defied overwhelming odds in a makeshift fortress outside of San Antonio for thirteen days. In the end, all were killed. Their sacrifice enabled the rest of their army to build, and six weeks later, to win independence for their nation.

Some may call them foolish for not abandoning the Alamo. But no one can doubt their courage.

In 1836, a group of valiant men met secretly in the small town of Washington-on-the-Brazos in what is now the Houston Province of the Republic of Texas. They signed a document which meant their deaths if captured, but liberty for their entire nation if successful in their rebellion.

Fellow residents of Victoria's Landing, please extend your congratulations to Texicans you meet today. His Excellency the Viceroy will be hosting a dinner in honor of the event, for the Texican Consul, Mister Andrew Jackson Houston, at Government House tonight.

Also, please do not be overly concerned by the sound of numerous gunshots coming from the Texican Quarter tonight. They are most likely the result of a few Texicans imbibing a bit too heavily of the local arrack and celebrating independence by firing their revolvers into the air. Residents of the city are encouraged to remain indoors after dark, to avoid accidental injury from falling bullets. Last year, three people and a Martian were injured by the 'lead rain.'

We provide the good citizens of Victoria Landing with this information so as to prevent them being startled when the local Texican forces fire their salutes this evening, just as the sun sets.

The notorious mad Belgian inventor, Herr Doktor Professor Otto Maton has, as we all know, been the most diligently sought after fugitive from justice the Earth has ever known. His fiendish devices almost toppled the Belgian monarchy back in '79, and his associate Professor Fassenbender's sinister scientific experiments have warped humanity itself!

Recent investigations by a Mister Sherman Homes, of Kensington, London, indicate that the mad doctor and his nefarious associate may have smuggled themselves and some of their diabolical creations to Mars. There is even some hint of agents of the Kaiser being behind his escape to the Red Planet. All citizens of the Empire are encouraged to keep a steady watch for these dangerous foreigners. If you see any giant mechanical men, or small metallic spiders in your neighborhood, please alert the authorities immediately!

Celebrations for the anniversary of the declaration of independence for the Republic of Texas have begun here in Victoria Landing at the Texican Delegation. Forty-five years ago today, the Republic declared it's independence from the tyranny of the Mexican dictator, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. Fireworks, a rodeo, music and dancing are all planned for the festivities.

In addition, the Texican Consul, Mister Andrew Jackson Houston, son of the late first president of the Republic, has provided a traditional Texas barbecue for the prominent citizens of Victoria Landing. Texicans of all stations are invited as well. Two entire sides of beef were brought from Texas for the event. This barbecue is in celebration both of the birth of Mr. Houston's father, who would have been eighty-eight years old today, and Mr. Houston's newborn son, Samuel Andrew Houston, who was delivered of Mrs. Houston here in Victoria Landing two weeks ago.

Mister Andrew Jackson Houston, son of the late President Samuel Houston of the Republic of Texas and presently Consul for the Republic of Texas here in Victoria Landing, announces the birth of his first child, Samuel Jackson Houston.

Mrs. Aleta Houston was delivered of a healthy baby boy in the consular apartments at the Texican Consulate last evening. Doctor George Williams attended the first-time mother during the delivery. Both child and mother are doing well.

An interesting new species of giant tortoise has been discovered by our Texican allies on Venus. The new species, officially classified as Testudo venustica thibodeaux (or T. v. thibodeaux), is incredibly large. It is also, according again to our Texican friends, a rather tasty meal. The Texican photostatic expert for the expedition has again provided this journal with the first glimpse of the huge beast. It is conservatively estimated to weigh in at over 900 pounds, with a shell measuring over 10 feet across! Truly a monster, and a feast for many days to the hunters who manage to kill the beast. Rumor has it that its thick shell is proof against Earthly rifles, and that only a shot to the softer tissues of the extended head or neck will bring one down. The Thibodeaux tortoise's hard beak-like mouth can shear through tree limbs as thick as a man's thigh with ease. I shudder to think what its terrible maw could do to the tender flesh of Man.

This photostat shows the incredible gracefulness of these dangerous predators of the Martian skies. A trio of golden whorled deathrays can be seen gliding smoothly over the dry plains of the Martian outback. This particular photostat was taken from the safety of the armored deck of HMS Wasp, on a test flight out of Albertport.

I do hope you have enjoyed the latest in our educational series of posts regarding the flora and fauna of the Inner Planets. Return again soon to this telephonic journal for more edifying fare for your mind.

On the steamy jungle planet of Venus, great lizards very much like our own long extinct dinosauria still roam the surface, fly through the skies, and make water travel very... exciting, to say the least. One such creature is the immensely powerful, but moderately docile Triceratops. Recently, a group of Texican Marines operating south of Her Majesty's Camp Trafalagar location have reported the domestication of a trio of the gargantuan beasts. Surely, our friends and allies the Texicans will be forthcoming with their training methods for the better utilisation of animal power on Venus.

The carnivorous amphibian 'Bloodeye' frogs (Rana venustica phlegboptica ) are swarming through the southern swamps of Venus. Seen below is a photostat captured by a Texican journalist who is part of their recent military expedition to the Veiled Planet. As you can see, the amphibians are quite large, and have no fear of mankind or our weapons. Thankfully, they are thin-skinned, and a round or two from a rifle will do for them.

A staple of Martian cooking, the volcano pepper is becoming increasingly valuable as an export item to Earth. The fiery hot fruit of this plant is quite popular in Texas and India. Additionally, the wood of the plant secretes an oil which is flammable, and useful as a fuel substitute to coal on the Red Planet. It has, in fact, been used to heat homes through the cold Martian nights for millennia. Our photostat comes from a typical farm in the Ikora District of the Martian Crown Colony.

A small patrol of the 1st Gonzales Foot on Patrol. Note the native tent in the background. Careful search of the premises yielded no contraband, and the nomadic Martian family was left in peace.

Twenty minutes later, one member of the patrol, Private Ferdinand Schlinke was killed by sniper fire from the rocks.