8 July 1813 – Battle of Wiessensee

Tactical map of battle area

The Russians have moved south to tempt the French to cross the river Saale

14th Westphalian corps are ordered to attack 2nd Russian corps

This is to prevent them marching south to join the main Russian army.

2nd Russian corps are ordered to drive the Westphalians back west of the river.

Russian – 16000 infantry, 1000 cavalry, 30 guns

Westphalian – 16000 infantry, 1000 cavalry, 30 guns

Table at start of wargame

 2^nd Russian corps have redeployed behind the hill and are about to march back to drive the Westphalians back over the river Saale.

14^th Westphalian corps have received orders to pursue the Russians and prevent them joining the main army further south.   They are unaware that they are victims of a deception plan to lure them over to the right bank of the river Saale.

0800-1200

The Westphalians have sent one division to attack Wiessensee, the remainder of the corps have deployed behind cover of the woods.   The artillery are supporting the attack on the town.

The Russians have deployed and are about to attack the Westphalians.   

1200-1600

The Russian grenadier brigade advanced to attack the woods, supported by their cavalry who skirted the woods to threaten the French rear.   They were countered by the Westphalian lancers, who won the melee and forced the cuirassiers to retire shaken.

Meanwhile two Westphalian brigades, supported by their artillery, attacked the town.   A second Russian brigade was sent to support the garrison, but as they entered the town the garrison broke and ran, taking the second brigade with them.

With the loss of half of his infantry Jermolow called off the attack

Conclusion

Jermolow has lost two of his four infantry brigades.  He orders the remainder of his corps to break contact and retreat south.

The Westphalians have lost 400 casualties

The Russians have lost 1200 casualties