Heart of Oak

- Being a game of war in the golden age of sail -

A British fleet commanded by Admiral Sir Hyde Parker engaged a Danish-Norwegian fleet anchored off the city of Copenhagen. Admiral Horatio Nelson disobeyed orders when he successfully attacked the enemy lines, and eventually the Danes were forced to surrender.

This refight of the famous battle was conducted on May 5, 2005, with 1:2000 scale miniature sailing ships, using Heart of Oak rules. The battle was fought to a draw in the time allotted, with the British having an advantage that would have told over time.

The British fleet approaches the harbor defenses.

The harbor--with the foggy channel leading to it--and its land defenses.

Fog lines the channel where the combined Danish-Norwegian fleet has anchored to meet the British. Note sand bar at top left.

An overall view of the battlefield. The British fleet approaches the harbor, but is just beyond range of the shore batteries.

Teach 'em early: a future armchair naval commander.

Planning defensive strategy.

The Danes are ready for the enemy. A benign God/referee smiles on the proceedings.

Big British ships of the line engage floating batteries as they sweep to the Danish right flank.

A doughty British vessel braves continuous land and ship bombardment as she enters the mouth of the channel.

A line of British vessels lags behind the lead ship. Note foundering warship at top left, the target of many Danish cannons.

The British grind their way into the channel from both ends. Note Danish-Norwegian vessels pivoting in line to bring the enemy under fire.

British ships of the line (at top) heavily outgun the opposition.

The same two British ships running the gauntlet.

A close-up of the action on the Danish left flank.

A British squadron still sailing steadily to their quarry.

The implacably cruel face of the Royal Navy. Note war drum behind cabin boy.