EllisCon: A Small
New England Convention

Dispatch News

by Victor Gregoire

For 13 years a phenomena occurs every November in the little town of Danielson, Connecticut. It’s called “Ellis Con” hosted by the H.H. Ellis Technical Simulation Club under the inspired guidance of John Haskell. Held every year for thirteen consecutive years. All proceeds of the day go to benefit and underwrite the kids annual trip to West Point The $6.00 entry fee covers the whole day where even gamemasters ante up.

John Haskell approaches the challenge of practically singlehandedly orchestrating the event himself with the aplomb and vision of someone gifted at what he does. His charisma is evident in the way in which the kids genuinely warm to him as he directs them in almost every single detail. He smiles through his fatigue as he shakes his head and in one breath says” I’m getting too old for this. Never again!” You know he doesn’t mean it. You know he’ll be back next year.

Well supported by local stores such as Fathers and Sons Hobby and the Time Machine from Manchester, Connecticut as well as the Toy Loft from Danielson. The high point of the day is an auction where attendees get to bid on donated items that are worth the price of admission. John stands in the middle of two tables of items which he auctions off with the amateurish fun of a professional stand up.

Games included my own set of home grown Spanish Civil War rules played with the rare 25mm Ahketon figures that are now collectors items. Known as “The Demise of the Generalissimo” or “Spanko Franko”. One of the kids had trouble with “Falangists” whom he kept referring to as the “Flanigans”. Other games ranged from 15mm ACW, WWII 20mm skirmish, to the ever popular “Magic”Tournament by the engaging Steve Maynard , Axis and Allies, Risk and others.

To me the most gratifying aspect of this day is to see in spite of all our most dire fears of the “graying” of the hobby at least here this day it isn’t happening. The kids were hungry to learn and be taught and a delight to be around. Oh there were adults there too but the kids were the most memorable. The event occurs once a year every year. Please EMail John at John.haskell@po.state.ct.us and come out to Ellis Con XIV next year!

Courier Dispatch News About the Hobby.

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