Donald Featherstone (wargamer)

Kriegsspiel 1824

Donald Featherstone (20 March 1918 – 3 September 2013) was a British wargaming author and historian who played a significant role in the development of wargaming as a hobby. He wrote over 40 books on the subject of military history and wargaming. Featherstone's contributions to the field of wargaming are widely recognized as foundational, helping to transform it from a niche hobby to a popular pastime enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world.

Early Life

Donald Featherstone was born in London, England, in 1918. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in military history and model soldiers. This interest was further developed during his service in the British Army during World War II, where he served with distinction.

Career

After the war, Featherstone pursued a career as a physiotherapist but continued to nurture his passion for military history and wargaming. In 1957, he published his first book, War Games, which is considered one of the earliest comprehensive guides to wargaming. This book laid down the basic principles of the hobby and included rules for miniature battles, which were based on historical conflicts.

Featherstone's work was instrumental in establishing a set of standardized rules for wargames, which allowed players from different backgrounds to engage in the hobby with a common understanding. His publications covered a wide range of military periods, from ancient and medieval times to the modern era, reflecting his extensive knowledge of military history.

Throughout his career, Featherstone maintained a prolific output of books and articles, contributing regularly to magazines dedicated to wargaming and military history. He also founded the Wargamers Newsletter, which became an essential resource for the wargaming community.

Legacy

Donald Featherstone's influence on the wargaming community is immeasurable. He not only helped to popularize the hobby but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among its practitioners. His work continues to be referenced by contemporary wargamers, and his rulesets have inspired numerous adaptations and variations.

Featherstone was honored with several awards throughout his life, recognizing his contributions to the field of wargaming and military history. His legacy is preserved through the continued popularity of his publications and the enduring enthusiasm for wargaming that he helped to cultivate.

Death

Donald Featherstone passed away on 3 September 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence the wargaming community.

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