Wow, thanks so much for the kind words, guys!  I hope you won't mind if I put all the responses together.

Hi, atomicdog, I have two long-range plans, one is a diorama based on the Battle of Minden in the Seven Years War, and a display of a large inn or Gasthaus, with soldiers on campaign or manoeuvers, coming and going.  But finishing it has to wait for some remodeling to make room, first

Thanks, Shark!

Thanks, Blitz!  Have you found the article yet?  You're probably right, they're probably from our Civil War, there was actually a kaleidescope of uniforms, if not always worn in the field.  You should look for some figures and paint them from the pics.  I'd like to see more guys try their hand at painting some figures, in all styles, and post them here in the forum.

Ferris, elend, thank you very much, guys!

Well, thanks, Ialarmu!  The colors are one of the reasons I like the 18th century armies so much.  The Imperial German Army is another area that I collect and paint, and I have some pictures of those that I'll post someday.

As to my sources, I've collected these over the years, at flea markets and toy soldier/miniature figure shows, back before the Internet; and on eBay and from shops overseas.  I look for figures made by Charles Stadden, like some of the ones pictured in this thread, and his successors, Tradition of London.  I also have figures made by a British gentleman, Russell Gammage, back in the 60's through the 80's and sold in his Rose Miniatures line.  Then there are American makers, like Imrie-Risley, whose company is still in business; and Jack Scheid, who passed away about 10 years ago.  And some very good German makers-Ulrich Puchala, Dolp, Hecker & Goros, MiniWelt.  Basically, I look for figures that have a decent level of detail, but I like the toy finish, so I use the gloss enamels.  I still have many more on the bench and in my stash, too

Well, I've been away from the forum for a little while, and I've promised to post the next pics, so they'll follow...