THis is a minor 54mm conversion of Shenandoah Union infantry to depict the Fenian Infantry during the disastous 1866 invasion of Canada.
The aims of the Fenian movement were to draw British troops to Canada from Ireland to allow a successful rising there, however the New York Fenians had as many informers as members and the authorities knew all about their intentions well in advance (and again in 1870 when a second invasion was launched). The effort was doomed to failure but proceeded even though only one of three Fenian Infantry regiments turned up at the appropriate time.
The US government were the main winners because although the invasions failed in both goals, the Fenian threat was used by the US to extract compensation from Britiain for her support of the CSA during the Civil War with the promise to keep the Fenians under control.
The uniforms and equipment were indentical in pattern to Union Army as they were produced by the same suppliers in the New York area.

Stephen, What a great idea for a figure project. The Fenian Brotherhood was founded in New York City on St. Patrick's Day in 1859. The Brotherhood which was formed into "circles" or regiments contained hundreds of discharged Union veterans of Irish background. The Shenandoah figures were a good choice as the uniforms worn by the fenian Brotherhood were either Fenian issue or surplus U.S. uniforms to include weapons and leather equipment.~Gary

Great job

Excellent vignette. I little-known but dramatic page in post-Civil War history. I love the active feel of this, particularly the rifle falling from lead soldiers hands. Nicely painted and handled.

Kyle

Stephen,
This is another nice job. Where do you get the time to turn these out so rapidly? Keep up the good work!
Pete