29 August 1813 – Central Germany – Day 4

1^st Russian corps moves north to cut the French off from the west bank

At their approach the French move to secure the bridge

Under cover of darkness they retreat to the west bank

The French lose 100 casualties, the Russians no casualties

29 August 1813 – Battle of Kulmbach

Tactical map of battle area

2^nd French corps has crossed the river Saale north of Kulmbach and cut the Russian main supply road.   They have made no attempt to take the city of Kulmbach.

1^st Russian corps have been ordered to attack the French and reopen the road

The garrison of Kulmbach can only be used in the city

French – 16000 infantry, 1000 cavalry, 30 guns

Prussian – 16000 infantry, 1000 cavalry, 30 guns

Table at start of game

Kulmbach is occupied by the Russians

Move 1 : 0800-0900

French send infantry and cavalry to secure bridge

Move 2 : 0900-1000

Russians race to reach bridge first

Move 3 : 1000-1100

French reach bridge first

Cossacks and unwilling to engage French cavalry

Move 4 : 1100-1200

Remainder of French approach bridge

Move 5 : 1200-1300

Russian artillery open fire

French deploy to hold bridge

Move 6 : 1300-1400

Artillery exchange fire

French cavalry receive casualties, but pass morale and hold

Summary

2^nd French corps crossed the river Saale and cut the Russian lines of communication north of the town of Kulmbach.

1^st Russian corps was sent to defeat the French and open the road again

The Russians hoped to cut the French off from the river Saale, and their line of retreat.   To do so they advanced east of the town to secure the wooden bridge.

The French immediately reacted by sending their cavalry to hold the bridge and sending the rest of the corps behind them. 

The French arrived at the bridge first, and deployed to fight

The Russians were content to have reopened their supply road.  They did not wish to risk a battle and risk the loss of Kulmbach should they lose.

Conclusion

The French hold the bridge until nightfall, when they move back over the river Saale.

The French have lost 100 casualties

The Russians have received no casualties