From Master Feral von Halstern:

Most Courteous Greetings All.

This past Saturday, we finished the Pennsic War Negotiations.

The schedule is as follows, note that this begins on the Sunday of War Week, July 28, 2013:

Sunday: Champions Battles (at least four). If you are on the Belted or Unbelted Team, or are an alternate, please be on site and in armor or let me know ahead of time.

Monday: Field Battle. There will be five battles, each one worth a point, and switching sides of the field after each battle. The Siege Engine competition and Rapier Champions are trying to be scheduled for this day as well.

Tuesday: BOTH Woods Battles: armored first, rapier second. The whole woods will be used for the armored battle and possibly for rapier as well. Final schedules are still being worked out.

Wednesday: Break day, although there may be some brief non-heavy list points scheduled.

Thursday:Tower Battle: a 90 minute resurrection battle with banners and a lot of points. Thrown Weapons and Rapier Bridge may also be on Thursday.

Friday: Concluding with the armored bridge battles. There may be a shorter non-armoured point scheduled for Friday as well.

Pennsic closes on Saturday, August 3, 2013. The Pennsic Staff has requested that we are off the field by Friday at noon. This is not carved in stone and if we need more time on the field Friday, we will take it to make the battles work. Closing Court will also be held on the field.

This is a tentative schedule. Adjustments will be made as necessary, especially if we get hit with bad weather. There are a lot of battles planned for everyone, so try and get into shape. Less bread, beer, and pasta, more veggies and protein. In the immortal words of Sir Sichelgaita von Halstern; “Move more, eat less.”

In Service and Fealty to the East,

Feral von Halstern

Filed under: Events

In response to requests, the Gazette now has a Twitter account.  You can follow us at EastKingdomGaze.  We are also on Facebook, Google+ and a feed was set up over on Live Journal.

Filed under: Tidings

The following article was written to explain games, races and martial activities at the upcoming Swabian event in Carolingia by the autocrat, Lady Kunegunde for Carolingia’s newsletter. It is being reprinted here with her permission.

Swabians were the often-mocked backwards peasants of the Middle Ages, but the Current Middle Ages has sadly neglected this legacy. On April 20th, Carolingia will remedy this with a Swabian Peasant’s Festspiele. Enjoy the games and pastimes of simple country peasants on a holiday! The event is not set in a specific historical time, and people from all cultures and nations are welcome to join in the fun, as we include gentles of all ages in a wide range of active and less-demanding documented pastimes.

The event will be at a new site for Carolingia, Veasey Memorial Hall, at 201 Washington Street, Groveland, MA 01834 (www.VeaseyPark.org). The site has a main building with multiple rooms, including a feast hall and wood-beamed parlor. A wide lawn surrounds the buildings, with plenty of space for heavy list fighting, archery, and active games. The event announcement at http://eastkingdom.org/EventDetails.html?eid=2396 contains full details and pre-registration info.

No celebration is complete without food. Gentles are encouraged to bring lunch items to share with friends, and picnic on the lawn watching the sport if the weather is fair. There will not be a dayboard. Rather than a noble feast, in the evening we will share a celebratory peasant dinner cooked by Lady Richenza an der Brücke. Dinner will be hearty fare, with multiple vegetarian dishes and meat for those who wish it.

The Middle Ages is rich with both familiar and strange games, races, and contests. The autocrat, Lady Kunegunde, is immersed in researching period peasant pastimes and welcomes help, pointers to sources, or other advice. She can be contacted at thjadewolf@yahoo.com.

For the Festspiele, heavy list fighters will be following in the illustrious tradition of Italian commoners, who from the twelfth through fifteenth century regularly held battles with wooden swords. Perugia, Pisa, and Siena all had their own particular variation of this battle, for possession of a town square or bridge. Sources document the equipment needed as helmets, quilted jackets, leg coverings, and a shield. They also tell us that the battles could go on for nine hours, result in numerous broken bones, and be followed by a children’s battle! (Endrei p. 93-4) We expect our recreation to fall a bit short of those marks. Scenarios are not yet finalized, but may well include town and bridge battles. There should be plenty of fighting to be had throughout the day!

The site also allows archery. Medieval Germany was particularly known for archery contests, in which prizes were given for knocking pieces larger than an ounce off the wooden target bird, in addition to prizes for high scores. Germans also gave a joke prize to any archer who got a score of zero: a piglet (Endrei p. 127-8). While details of scenarios are not yet finalized, we expect a day of shooting to delight all our archers.

Thrifty peasants don’t throw things away, they resell them. Lady Edith has volunteered to organize and run a market at the Festspiele for the sale of used goods. Please contact her for specifics at chronicler@carolingia.eastkingdom.org. Bring SCA related items worth $20 or less to sell, and cash to buy things you want.

Races are a familiar contest that will be represented in several forms, including chances for the balanced or clever to outpace the merely fast. Carolingians of long standing will remember the ladies’ footrace, traditional at Falling Leaves. The Festspiele will bring back the tradition, if possible with the medieval prizes of kerchiefs, aprons and caps serving as the finish line. Sources tell of laws forbidding ladies to strip off their outer garments to race, but certainly that would never happen at a Carolingian event!

Marbles are a surprisingly ancient pastime, and medieval people played a wide variety of games with them. Allegedly, round vegetables and fruits were the first marbles. There are some sources that reliably document marble games played with food. Breugel shows a South German game: players form pyramids with four walnuts each, then try to knock the pyramids over with another nut. The player who knocks over the pyramid gets to eat the nuts. Another game closer to our modern idea of marbles is “Spans,” in which players win their opponent’s marbles by landing a marble within a hand span of the opponent’s already-thrown marble. Those playing this game are advised to pre-negotiate whose hand will be used for measuring to avoid potential arguments. (Endrei p 114) These and other marble games will be taught and played at the event.

Yeder Vogel in sein Nest is, as you may have guessed, a German game. The name means “Every Bird in its Nest.” All players but one wait on their “nest,” such as a tree. The player without a nest, called the catcher, calls out “switch,” and each player runs to the nest of another player. Whoever is left without a nest is the new catcher, and the game repeats (Endrei p. 87).

Prisoner’s Bars was a medieval game played across Europe (Strutt p. 143, Endrei p. 86). In essence, each player is chasing one person and chased by a different person, at the same time. Two teams start out on their home bases, and form human chains. One end of the chain remains at the base while the other end stretches out. One player from team 1 decides to make a run for it and drops out of the human chain. A player from team 2 then leaves their chain to pursue the first player. Someone from team 1 leaves their chain to pursue the player from team 2. This continues until all the players have left their chains, each chasing one person and being chased by one person. To find out what happens when someone is captured, come to the Festspiele!

As you may have noticed, many of these games are playable by adults and children alike. There is documentation of Hugo von Trimberg censuring adults for playing marbles childishly in 1290. He reports they run after their marbles chanting rhymes to keep them rolling, or shielding them from unfavorable winds with their garments (Endrei p. 114). The Swabian Peasants’ Festspiele will follow the illustrious example of our medieval forbearers and include all ages in most games.

There will also be a few games especially for children. One is Wolf and Sheep, the older version of Duck Duck Goose. Don’t worry, we’ll remove the part where someone is beaten with a sack of dried peas (Endrei p. 23). Alternately, Meidungern is a German game with no beatings at all. A question is asked, and the players must answer it without using certain forbidden words, for example yes, no, black, or white (Endrei p. 83). This can be challenging if you ask the right questions and forbid the right words!

Of course, the Middle Ages had a disregard for risk of bodily harm that we will not be able to accurately re-create. The blindfolded wheelbarrow race from medieval festival days will not take place at this event, unless sufficient gentles bring their own wheelbarrows, blindfolds, and signed damage waivers. How many volunteers are there to race barefoot between swords buried with the point sticking up out of the ground?

If any of this sounds fun or funny, come join in the Festspiele!

Bibliography
Endrei, W. and L. Zolnay, Fun and Games in Old Europe. Budapest: Corvina Kiadó, 1986. Trans. Károly Ravasz.
Strutt, Joseph, The Sports and Pastimes of the People of England. London: Chatto and Windus, 1876. Ed. William Hone.

Filed under: Events Tagged: Carolingia

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There is no need to beware the Ides of March within the EastKingdom.

The calendar is filled with exciting events, sure to please one and all.  Should you be willing to warm up in the winter, there is a tavern to attend, dancing to be had, or bardic and noisemakers to enjoy.   If you would like to join the academia, the Kingdom is offering events in scribal and scholas.  Perhaps if martial activities is more to your liking, come out and enjoy Mudthaw, and experience the pomp and circumstance of a baronial investiture, as well as many, many more activities.

Filed under: Events, Uncategorized

The following were enacted by Edward and Thyra in the year of the Society forty-seven, sixteenth day of February at Dragonship Haven, in common conference and in the presence of witnesses.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the children of the East Kingdom and shared with them toys donated by la Chambre des Dames d’Alisay and others.

Item. Their Majesties caused those good gentles new to our Society to be brought before the Tyger Thrones, and did gift each with tokens of the day.

Item. Their Majesties convened a great gathering of artisans from across the four corners of the Kingdom and from among their number selected as the most excellent of their day Ose Silverhair, the said Ose to stand as Queen’s Champion of Arts and Sciences for the term of a year, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Dosalena Sofia della Mirandola and Kayleigh McWhyte.

Item. Their Majesties announced that David of Quintavia prevailed in the Master Alexander Younger Memorial Challenge with his creation of a leather bottle.

Item. His Majesty Edward selected Solskinn as the artisan to stand as King’s Champion of Arts and Sciences for the term of a year, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Lassar ingen Aeda.

Item. The Keepers of Athena’s Thimble presented Queen Thyra with a gift of a work bag and accessories for Her embroidery.

Item. Their Majesties accepted the fealty of Lady Sabina Luttrell as the new Kingdom Minister of the Lists.

Item. Their Majesties thanked Mistress Brunissende Dragonette for her service as Kingdom Minister of Arts and Sciences and accepted the fealty of Lady Gabriella de Bas Serra as the new Kingdom Minister of Arts and Sciences.

Item. Saint Eligius’ Guild of Enamellers made gifts to Their Majesties and the Kingdom of enameled award medallions.

Item. Cassandra Arques de Northmannia approached the Tyger Thrones and made gifts to Their Majesties and Her Highness of painted miniature portraits.

Item. Their Majesties summoned before the Court Alesone Gray of Cranlegh and gifted her with the Award of the Golden Lyre for her excellent work in sugar subtleties.

Item. Their Majesties called Christoffel d’Allaines-le-Comte before the Tyger Thrones and, praising his great labors, inducted him into the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Agatha Wanderer and Gwillim Kyneth.

Item. The aforenamed Order being as of yet incomplete, their Majesties summoned Rosette de Rheims to stand before the Tyger Thrones and thereupon inducted her into the Order of the Silver Crescent in acknowledgment of her many labors, the which deed was memorialized in a document created from a woodcut by Renne Wurm.

Item. His Majesty called before the Court Katrusha the Skomorokh and, praising her manner and garments and talents, inducted her into the King’s Order of Excellence, the which deed was memorialized in a document writ in her native tongue by Michael Acrensis, calligraphed by Carolyne de la Pointe, and illuminated by Ro Honig von Sommerfeldt.

Item. Their Majesties issued a writ to Eowyn Eilonwy of Alewife Brook summoning her to appear before the Court upon 9 March in the Barony of the Bridge, there to answer the question of whether she would accept from Their Majesties’ hands the Order of the Pelican, the which writ was composed by Alys Mackyntoich and calligraphed by Eva Woderose.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the Order of the Laurel and, assessing their number, called forth two artisans of manifold and surpassing skill to be added to the Order aforenamed.

The first so called was Siobhan ingen Chon Mhara, who has displayed surpassing excellence in spinning, weaving and other fiber matters; Siobhan received gifts and medallions crafted by many and a document created by Elisabeth Greenleaf.

The second artisan so honored was Xandra Rozina Xiberras Galea, for her manifold skills in metal working; Xandra received gifts and a medallion and a document authored by Alys Mackyntoich, calligraphed by Kayleigh McWhyte, and illuminated by Ekaterina Volkova.

And I, Alys Mackyntoich, by command of the abovewritten my lord king and lady queen, having been present in the aforesaid Court, swear that all the aforesaid things were done as set forth. Witnesses of all this were Ryan McWhyte and Yehuda ben Moshe.

Photographs by Cateline la broderesse and Ygraine of Kellswood

Filed under: Arts and Sciences, Court Tagged: Kings and Queens Champions

Medieval Stained Glass, Lady Solskinn

At the King’s and Queen’s Arts and Sciences Champions event yesterday, an overwhelming amount of articles – beautiful, tasty and practical – were exhibited.  After careful judging, five finalists were chosen.  Photographs of their work is displayed here.

After much deliberation, Lady Ose Silverhair was declared Queen’s Champion.  King’s Champion was Lady Solskinn.

Medieval stained glass, Lady Solskinn

Medieval Stained Glass, Lady Solskinn

The effect of spin direction on fabric design, Lady Ose Silverhair

The effect of spin direction on fabric design, Lady Ose Silverhair

A meal including clean up, Lord Galefridus Peregrinus

All foods came for the medieval Islamic world except for two Byzantine olive cures, Lord Galefridus Peregrinus

Majolica mirror frame, Baroness Ysabella de Draguignan

Majolica book vase, Baroness Ysabella de Draguignan

Armlets from silver hordes in England and Ireland, Earl Kenric aet Essex

Neck-ring typical of Anglo-Saxon grave finds, Earl Kenric aet Essex

Garters based on Sutton Hoo tablet weaving with typical seventh century hooked tags, Earl Kenric aet Essex

Photographs by Cateline la broderesse

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Kings and Queens Champion

Blowing snow and the threat of a blizzard could not keep the ardorous inhabitants of the Barony of Endewearde from their annual winter gathering to celebrate love in all its many expressions.

The Tourney of Love was held this past Saturday February 16th in the Barony of Endewearde. It is a day filled with fighting, fencing, arts, music, food and fun.  At stake is the coveted pink baldric of the “Champeen o’ Love”.  Only the most ardent and versatile gentle earns the baldric since the right to wear the baldric comes from the entrant’s combined scores in all three of the day’s competitions: Fencing, Arts & Sciences, and Heavy List combat. Lord Ané du Vey has held the esteemed title of Champeen o’ Love for three years running and this year only one contender had the fortitude and versatility to enter all three categories and thus challenge him for the right to wear the pink and lace confection that signifies his status. Read on to find out if Lord Ané kept the coveted baldric or was forced (?) to surrender the magnificent regalia.

Lord Ané made a spectacular entrance to start the day off entering from the high dais of the tournament hall on a cloud and to the sound of trumpets and the gentle harp music of Baroness Aneleda Falconbridge, he welcomed all comers to this day in celebration of that noblest of emotions, and especially noted Master Julien de Lapointe who was the other intrepid combatant entered in all three contests of the day.

The first event of the day was the Fencing tournament in which 21 were entered.  When all the tallies had been tallied, there was a three-way tie for first place between Master Julien de LaPointe, Lord Radbod, and Don Jordan Harvey. The tie was resolved, at sword point of course, in favor of Don Jordan Harvey.

A short break in the martial activities gave those gentles offering performances as their entries in the Arts and Sciences competition to present their art. Then the populace was issued tokens with which recognize those artisans on display.  They did not have an easy time of it as there were 31 entries ranging across a broad spectrum of arts. The artisan with the most tokens at the end of the day would win the A&S portion of the day.

Then the Heavy List fighters took the field.  Eight entrants fought a round-robin and when the dust had settled, the undefeated champion of the heavy list tournament was Lord Ané du Vey.

Throughout the day a fabulous dayboard was presented by Lady Anya Krasnoperkin and her staff, keeping the gallery and the combatants well fortified for their exertions.

Once the last sword thrust had been delivered and the last A&S token tallied, it was time to announce the winners of the day. As has already been stated, Don Jordan Harvey won the fencing tournament and in recognition of this feat, he was presented with a handmade leather flask finely crafted and donated by Syr Cedric of Thanet. Lord Ané du Vey, winner the heavy list tournament was awarded a mighty drinking vessel “for water” which was made and donated by Anna Tarr.  The Arts & Sciences competition was won by Triggvy for his performance of the battle march of Tir Mara and he was presented with a beautiful stained glass fleur-de-lis donated by Lord Gwillim Kynith. Triggvy also won the Youth category of the Arts & Sciences competition with his performance.

Then it was time to announce the overall winner of the tournament.  The winner was presented not only with the traditional baldric, but also a hot pink great sword crafted by Lord Drottin Broddr Tryggrsson which is nearly as long as the event’s Autocrat Lady Agatha Wanderer is tall. Dubbed the “shaft of love” the prize was bestowed with much giggling and ceremony upon a new Champeen o’ Love: Master Julien de Lapointe.

Following the presentation of prizes the hall was reset for banqueting and an amazing feast was presented by Lady Leofwenn of Wytleseie and her staff. Throughout dinner there was dancing lead by Lord Gwillim Kynith as well as several musical performances. It was a perfect end to a love-filled day of friendly competition in celebration of that most sublime emotion.

Vivat to the beautiful Barony of Endewearde on hosting such a warm and welcoming event to brighten these cold winter days.

Filed under: Events Tagged: a&s, Endewearde, events, fencing, heavy list

 

This Saturday the Barony of Iron Bog is proud to host the second Modern World Collides with the SCA. Would you like to learn about how the modern world impacts the SCA from knowledgeable professionals?
There is something being offered for everybody. The following classes are being offered:

10 to 11
Chained Books & Jealous Monks: Copyright Law in a Nutshell (Lord Tristan le Chanticler de Champaigne)
Project Management for Autocrats (THL Owynn Greenwood)

11 to 12
Civil and Criminal liability for officers (Master Lawrence Thornguard)
My Persona’s Curriculum Vitae meets My Modern Resume (Sir Tanaka Raiko)

1 to 2
PATENTS. (Garrick Mapmaker, OGR)
Using the web pollings and recommendations page (Lady Raffaella Mascolo)

2 to 3
Modern Commercial Heraldry: Trademark Law in a Nutshell (Lord Tristan le Chanticler de Champaigne)
The SCA Meets the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or Why do I have to Allow Dogs At My Event. Lady Caitriona inghean Sheamuis

3 to 4
Civil and Criminal liability for officers (Master Lawrence Thornguard)
My Persona’s Curriculum Vitae meets My Modern Resume (Sir Tanaka Raiko)

4 to 5
Deductible Expenses in the SCA (Molly inghean ui Raighallaigh)
Bringing Your Research from Re-enactment to Academia (Lady Jane Milford, OM)

Filed under: Uncategorized

Lady Sabina Luttrell, Deputy Minister of Lists, is looking for a qualified person to take over the maintenance of the MOL website. The website is in need of an upgrade and a warranted webminister.

If you or someone that you know would like to volunteer for this position, please contact Lady Sabina or the East Kingdom Webminister’s Office.  Interest and qualifications are the most important aspects at this point. Warranting will be worked on through the Kingdom Webminister’s office if needed.

Filed under: Official Notices

There will be a Q&A session for the web polling’s and recommendation’s page this weekend at The Modern Word Collides with the SCA! event.  For more information about the event, see this article about the classes or the event announcement.

Please come and ask Lady Raffaella Mascolo any questions that you have about the set up, process, security and such.

Filed under: Events

In the forty-seventh year of the Society, upon 9 February, in the Barony of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant, Edward the King and Thyra the Queen did enact and cause to be enacted the following:

Item. Their Majesties accepted the fealty of Angus and Tadea, Baron and Baroness of L’Ile du Dragon Dormant.

Item. Their Majesties caused those good gentles new to our Society to be brought before the Tyger Thrones, and did gift each with tokens of the day.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the children of the East Kingdom and shared with them toys donated by la Chambre des Dames d’Alisay.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne their fair subject Tadea Isabetta di Bruno, and, in acknowledgement of her many labors, including as Baroness of l’Isle du Dragon Dormant, summoned the Order of the Pelican and thereupon inducted the said Tadea in the Order aforenamed and conveyed upon her Arms by Letters Patent. This deed was memorialized in a document calligraphed by Alisay de Falaise and illuminated by Ursion de Gui.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the good lady Borujin Acilaldai before the Court and inducted her into the Order of the Silver Rapier, the which deed was memorialized in a document prepared by Lada Monguligin.

Item. The Order aforenamed being yet incomplete, Their Majesties called Mikulaj von Meissen before the Court and created him a member of the Order of the Silver Rapier, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Lorita de Siena and created by Isabel Chamberlaine.

Item. The Order of the Silver Rapier remaining incomplete, Their Majesties called upon Jonathan Rankin O’Rose and caused his name to be writ upon the lists thereof, the which deed was memorialized in a document calligraphed by Constance de St. Denis and illuminated by Sarra the Lymner.

Item. The subject of the art of the rapier being much on Their Majesties’ mind and the practice thereof being greatly to their pleasure, Their Majesties convened this day a great and mighty rapier tournament; the victor of the day was declared in open Court to be Nathaniel Wyatt, who was thereupon awarded the title of King’s Rapier Champion and gifted in memory thereof with a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Her Majesty then summoned Davius Saint Jacques before the Tyger Thrones and declared him to be her chosen Queen’s Rapier Champion according to the most ancient traditions of the Realm, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Their Majesties requested the presence of Samantha McShane before their Court, and the said lady appearing, did induct her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Borujin Acilaldai.

Item. Their Majesties requested the presence before the Court of Olan of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Brangwyne of Wentworth.

Item. Their Majesties summoned before them Mireille of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant and awarded her Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Magdalena Lantfarerin and calligraphed by Elsa de Lyon.

Item. Their Majesties awarded Arms to Ildiko of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Mayuki Yuri.

Item. Their Majesties awarded Arms to Abiageal Muirgen Mhic an Mhadaigh, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Aleksei Dmitriev.

Item. His Majesty gave tokens of the King’s Esteem of Merit to Shadiyah al-Zhara and Arthur de Beaumont.

Item. Their Majesties caused the name of Katherine Ashwode to be writ upon the list of the Order of the Manche, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Sunniva Ormstung.

Item. Their Majesties called Daffyd of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant into their presence and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Their Majesties brought Bradwyn of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant before the Court and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Isa of Ruantallan and calligraphed by Eleana O’ Sirideain.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Erick the Ferocious into their presence and thereupon awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Robin dit Dessant.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Frasier MacLeod before the Tyger Thrones and, acknowledging his long labors, created him a member of the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized in a document written in his native tongue by Alys Mackyntoich and created by Roberta MacMorland.

Item. The Order of the Silver Crescent being not as yet complete, Their Majesties then summoned the good man Guthfrith Yrlingsson and created him likewise a member of the Order aforenamed, the which need was memorialized in a document authored by Díarmaid Ó Bríain and created by Sarra Graeham of Birnham.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Thrones Noa the Archer and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Danuta Czarowna.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Guyuk Sakighci into the Court and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Margaret Twygge.

Item. Their Majesties called before them, and awarded Arms to, Kirsa Ajinai, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Mayuki Yuri and calligraphed by Borujin Acilaldai.

Item. The Majesties called into the Court their subject Ursion de Gui and, in recognition of his deeds, created him a Baron of the Court and granted him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Alisay de Falaise and Kayleigh McWhyte.
Item. Their Majesties called Cosmano Piero Micheletto da Roma before the Tyger Thrones and thereupon created him a Baron of the Court and granted him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Borujin Acilaldai, calligraphed by Robin dit Dessant, illuminated by Melina al Andalusiyya.

All these things were enacted upon Saint Apollonia’s Day, in the presence of witnesses, including Conogan mab Rioc, John Radburne and Godfroy de Falaise. Mistress Alys Mackyntoich, Their Majesties’ Herald, wrote this, based upon information provided by Master Ryan McWhyte, Brigantia Herald.

Filed under: Court, Fencing Tagged: Kings and Queens Champions, rapier

Earlier today, the following post was shared on Facebook:

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Kingdom of Meridies,

As many of you know, about a year ago there was a lawsuit settlement against the SCA. In what can only be described a triumph of unity and solidarity, the populace of the Society came together as one and sacrificed for the betterment of us all. As one of the Society’s insurance carries had denied the liability claim, the Board of Directors had to make the hard choice to require money from every branch to meet the financial obligations put before us. Even the sub-corporations which were not required to do so chipped in as a show of support and unity. Our bank accounts may have been depleted, but we as a whole became a stronger, closer community.

Yesterday The Crowns, Heirs, Seneschals and Exchequers of the Kingdoms of the Known World met via conference call to hear the outcome of the complaint against the insurance carrier. The result of the settlement is such that each Kingdom will receive back approximately 2/3 of what we had to give to meet the financial burden of the original law suit. These checks will be dispersed to the Kingdoms Monday, February 11th. It will take a bit of time as Master Kevin and THLady Jutta plan, discuss, and implement the best way to filter the money down to the local groups who gave to the Kingdom to help meet the burden placed upon us. Your local group should expect a refund of approximately 2/3 of that which was given.
As is standard in such legal proceedings, the settlement included a non-disclosure agreement. The Board of Directors have shared what news they could but cannot discuss details of the settlement. They and the Society officers who have been instrumental in these tough times should be commended. This members are volunteers who so love our society they are willing to do the toughest jobs we have so we may enjoy our game. Please take the time to thank them for their efforts on our behalf.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to ask Master Kevin, THLady Jutta, Our Heirs or Ourselves and we will try to answer as best we can.

Thomas and Elisenda
Rex et Regina Meridies.

The Gazette contacted our own Royals to ask them about the announcement.

TRM Edward and Thyra confirmed the information provided by TRM Meridies and let us know that Master Michel Wolffauer, the East Kingdom Exchequer, is unavailable for the next week. He and their Majesties will address the disbursal of funds when he returns.

Their Majesties cautioned us that 2/3 was an approximate number, and the details must remain confidential. Their Majesties expect to communicate with Kingdom and local officers in the next couple of weeks to determine a plan for the funds.

“We’re glad that this is behind us, and that we have a favorable outcome,” His Majesty said by conference call. Their Majesties explained that while the BoD has signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement, they can say that this closes the countersuit brought by the SCA against its former insurance company.

The Gazette also spoke to Countess Margaret Ny Connor, BoD member and former Queen of the East. She let us know that the BoD will release an official announcement tomorrow via the Announcements list. “We are all very pleased and relieved that we can now move forward and work on the future health of our organization,” she said. “Seriously, we are so grateful to the membership for its support of the organization over the past few years. We really are looking forward to what we can now build to ensure the SCA’s future success.”

The EK Gazette thanks His Majesty Meridies for permission to post his message, and their Majesties East as well as Countess Margaret for taking time out of their evening to answer our questions.

Filed under: Corporate Tagged: BoD, corporate, Edward and Thyra, law suit

Countess Marguerite ingen Lachlainn has been kind enough to send us the following report from King’s and Queen’s Rapier Champions, currently being fought in snowy L’ile du Dragon Dormant.

Following the round robin pools, the final sixteen met as follows in a double elimination tournament:

Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson vs. Baron Diego Miguel Munoz de Castilla
Don Quintin Brilliant vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster vs. Don Griffith Davion
Don Alain Longship vs. THL Owyn Greenwood
Rowen of Dragon Dormant vs. Lord Davius St. Jacques
Don Fraser MacLeod vs. Lady Camille des Jardins
Don John Radburne vs. Don Nathaniel Wyatt
Sir Antonio Patrasso vs. Lady Anastasia da Monte

The following combatants were victorious and moved on to compete as follows in the “winners list”

Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Don Griffith Davion vs. THL Owyn Greenwood
Lord Davius St. Jacques vs. Don Fraser MacLeod
Sir Antonio Patrasso vs. Don Nathaniel Wyatt

The remaining combatants competed as follows:

Baron Diego Miguel Munoz de Castilla vs. Don Quintin Brilliant
Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster vs. Don Alain Longship
Rowen of Dragon Dormant vs. Lady Camille des Jardins
Don John Radburne vs. Lady Anastasia da Monte

After those bouts were completed, the final four are:

Don Nathaniel Wyatt vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Don Quintin Brilliant vs. Don Griffith Davion

Don Nathaniel Wyatt bested Don Ogedei to advance.

Don Quintin entered his final four bout with one loss, and Don Griffith was unbeaten entering the final four.  Don Quintin won the first bout, giving them one loss each, and forcing another bout. Don Griffith won the second bout, giving Don Quintin two losses, which eliminates him from the tournament. Don Griffith moves on to face Don Nathaniel in the final.

The finals of the tournament was best three of five. Don Griffith Davion won the first bout, with Don Nathaniel Wyatt winning the second and third bouts. Then both combatants took a short break. Following the break, Don Nathaniel Wyatt won the fourth bout — his third win — and won the championship and the title of King’s Champion.

At court, Her Majesty announced that Lord Davius St. Jacques has been selected to serve as Queen’s Champion. Countess Marguerite reports that he was “overwhelmed” when he learned that he had been selected.

The Ladies of the Rose present also presented tokens to the following combatants to recognize their exemplary chivalrous conduct during the tournament: Lady Camille des Jardins, Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster, Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson, and Lord Robert Earlson.

Congratulations to Don Nathaniel Wyatt, Lord Davius St. Jacques, and to all who fought with skill and honor in today’s tournament.

Filed under: Events, Fencing Tagged: Dragon Dormant, fencing, Kings and Queens Champions, rapier champions, rapier combat

In the forty-seventh year of the Society, upon 2 February, in the Barony of Carolingia, Edward the King and Thyra the Queen did enact and cause to be enacted the following:

Item. Their Majesties accepted the fealty of Fergus and Imigla, Baron and Baroness of Carolingia.

Item. Their Majesties caused those good gentles new to our Society to be brought before the Tyger Thrones, and did gift each with tokens of the day.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the children of the East Kingdom and shared with them toys donated by la Chambre des Dames d’Alisay.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne the subject Metilda Grey of Lochleven and thereupon awarded her arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Martelle von Charlottenburg.

Item. Their Majesties gifted Everest of Lochleven, Alden of Lochleven, Ellery of Lochleven and Avery of Lochleven with the token of the Golden Kinder in recognition of their artwork.

Item. Having held upon this day a great convocation and assembly of bards, songsters, poets and performers, His Majesty selected from among their talented number Grim the Skald to be King’s Bardic Champion, the which appointment was memorialized in a document authored by Linette de Gallardonand calligraphed by Svea the Short-Sighted.

Item. Being no less equal in dignity, Her Majesty selected Lucien de Pontivy as Queen’s Bardic Champion, the which deed she memorialized through the gift of an engraved instrument created by Marion Quyn and Grim the Skald.

Item. Their Majesties called into the Court Shannon de Valois and thereupon inducted her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Jan Janowicz Bodanski.

Item. Their Majesties called into the Court Fiona de Valois and thereupon inducted her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Katherine Stanhope.

Item. Her Majesty summoned into her presence Toki Redbeard and gifted him with the Queen’s Honor of Distinction.

Item. Their Majesties bestowed the token of the Golden Lyre upon Toi Poisson de Mortagne.

Item. Their Majesties appointed Lianor de Matos, Simona bat Leon, Fortune SancteKeyne and Matilda of Carolingia as Seamstresses to the Court.

Item. In acknowledgement of his manifold skills with the bow, Their Majesties acknowledged Richard of Carolingia as a Master Bowman.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne their subject Colin Ursell and, in celebration of his long service, inducted him into the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized with gifts of multiple medallions and a document authored by Alys Mackyntoich, calligraphed by Eva Woderose and illuminated by Khioniya Nikoleva Ryseva.

Item. The aforesaid Order being as of yet incomplete, Their Majesties summoned Hugh Tauerner and, in praise of his service, likewise inducted him into the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by BoudiceaRavenhair and calligraphed by Ekaterina Volkova.

Item.  His Majesty brought before the Court Paskahalika Kananbala and thereupon presented the King’s Order of Excellence, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Eleanor le Brun.

Item. Their Majesties summoned into the Court their subject Constance de Saint Denis to answer whether she would join the Order of the Pelican; and the said Constance answering in the affirmative, the aforenamed Order was summoned forth; and many Peers giving good testimony of the said Constance’s worth, Their Majesties did invest and endow the said Constance with the Order of the Pelican, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Catrin o’r Rhyd For and calligraphed by Eva Woderose.

All these things were enacted upon the Feast of Candlemas, in the presence of witnesses.  Mistress Alys Mackyntoich, Their Majesties’ Herald, wrote this, based upon the report of Master Ryan McWhyte, Brigantia Herald.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien

Filed under: Court Tagged: Bardic, bardic champions, Carolingia, champions, court, court report, Edward and Thyra, events, King and Queen's Champions, Kings and Queens Champions

A mumming greeted King Edward and Queen Thyra at their recent visit to Carolingia.  “In honor of their visit, and in keeping with our duties has baron and baroness, we wanted to honor them with something both appropriately Carolingian,” said Baron Fergus MacRae. “ Leaning on the strong traditions of our fine barony, a Mumming was presented during feast.  In keeping with His Majesties fine Scottish roots, it was all about sheep.”

Baron Fergus and Mistress Catrin o’r Rhyd For commissioned Master Christian Lansinger von Jaueregk to create a poem for the performance.  “Mummings were used in period to entertain, deliver advice or present gift to notable people,” explained Mistress Catrin.  “We do them periodically in Carolingia, and they’re always popular.”

Mistress Gwendolyn of Middlemarch performed the poem, admonishing the local shepherds and shepherdesses for paying more attention to their sheep than each other.  Master Peregrine the Illuminator and Lady Clara Beaumont were the shepherd and shepherdess.  Additional shepherds and shepherdesses were Lord Ulrich Reinhart, Lady Sorcha Dhocair inghean Ui Ruairc, Lord Symon of Barnesdale and Lady Deirdre of Mitgaard.  Onlookers who were dragged up to dance by the shepherds and shepherdesses were Their Majesties, Master Justin du Couer, Lord Andreiko Eferiev, Lady Rosina von Schaffhausen, Countess Mara and Duke Vissevald.

The poem, photographs and a video follows. The video starts a few seconds into the mumming.

A Mumming for King Edward and Queen Thyra
by Christian Lansinger von Jaueregk (mka Michael McAfee)

Sad tidings, oh, sad tidings do I bring!
Good people, oh, good people, weep and wail!
And yet what good are tears ‘gainst serpent’s sting?
For now we strive ‘gainst grief to no avail!
‘Tis no hyperbole, no strain of truth
To state the gods themselves must be dismayed
For through the silly foolishness of youth
The dancing, my dear friends, has been delayed!
The frolicking and merriment tonight
Would have begun on time, and started well,
But, oh, we now must wait upon delight
And fires in our hearts we now must quell.
But whom, I hear you ask, are we to blame
For such a heinous fate now to befall?
I shall not single anyone by name
For truth to tell the blame is shared by all!
The fair young men and women of the field,
Those shepherds and the maids who roam the hills,
Unto their baser natures they did yield
And thus have proved the cause of all our ills!
And here is why our revels cannot start
And why our promises we cannot keep:
Each shepherdess and swain has lost his heart
Unto a fluffy, cute and cuddly sheep!
Instead of taking pleasure in good sport,
These commoners defy Terpsichore!
Well, I shall call them to a higher court
And absolution they must seek from me!
Distraction I can understand full well
And would forgive as natural and pure
But this abhorrent curse I must dispel.
Approach, you malefactors! Take your cure!
I will confront the source of all these harms
For I know where the origin must lay!
No matter how compelling are their charms
I tell you now to put the sheep away!
I see that some of you do not believe
That we lie under some unlucky star!
Well, sit you back, and I shall, by your leave,
Present how sorry these affairs now are!

I summon forth a young and lusty swain
Who, as a shepherd, would, in normal days
Come seek a dance as flowers seek the rain
And show such skill that would your eyes amaze.
Out on the floor, he would examine all
The eligible maidens that desired
To be called forth and asked to join the ball,
But he would hold out ‘til he was inspired
By one so fair of face and sleek of limb
That one would think a nymph had joined the fun,
And, with her loveliness entrancing him,
He would attempt to be her special one.
He’d wrap his arms around her slender waist
And with sweet words the shepherdess he’d woo,
And see if he her honey lips might taste,
And then repeat with maiden number two
And maybe more, for, ladies, after all,
There is enough of him to go around.
‘Twould be a shame if, somewhere in the hall,
There was a maid with heart left on the ground.
Then later, he would tell his every friend
Of all the triumphs he’d achieved that night,
Of every mean he used, of every end,
And say which wonton showed the most delight.
And then they would their muscles and physiques
Put side by side to see whose was the best,
For young men will, their skills and their techniques,
As is their nature, put them to the test.
As it should be! Instead, what do we find?
He pets a sheep instead of chasing maids,
Caressing wool that has not been refined
Instead of maiden’s skin and maiden’s braids!
No more, I say! Bad shepherd, I insist!
Put down the sheep! Make ready for the dances
Or I shall drub thee soundly on thy wrist
Until this beast no longer thee entrances!
Present the beast, with you’t shall not remain!
Strike up your courage, man, and do not blench!
You have done what is right, and for your pain,
Take this embrace. Now go and find a wench!

To speak of wenches: now, here comes a maid
Who normally in dances would be found.
From such amusements she would not have strayed
But rather to such circles she’d be bound
And possibly a handsome swain she’d meet
And then distract him with her female charms.
As he approached, she would take to her feet
Evading lithely his embracing arms.
Yes, she would lead him on a merry chase.
She would approach, perhaps sit on his knee,
But if he would lean close, away she’d race,
Like in those dances learned from Italy.
But soon he would completely be entranced,
And she might deign her graces to bestow
That lucky man, on treasure he has chanced
That onto him such fortunes she would show!
But maybe not! Perhaps she might again
Escape his clumsy, awkward, gauche advances,
And, laughing, mock the foolishness of men
To think she might be won with graceless dances.
And afterward, when all the shepherdesses
Retired to some grove, as maidens do,
To brush each others’ hair and comb their tresses
And help each others’ corsets to undo,
Her dealings with the lads she would relate
And everyone with laughter near would burst
The silliness of swains they would debate,
And then with wines and ales they’d quench their thirst.
But do we see such wholesome doings here!
Why, no! This shepherdess her sheep must nuzzle!
Although some men of quality stand near,
She feels the need to stroke and rub its muzzle,
And from these lads she will withhold affection!
Come forward, girl, pay heed to my complaint!
You are in need of serious correction!
From this affliction, you must show restraint!
Put down the sheep! Don’t make me say it twice!
If you do not, more strongly I’ll insist!
Ah, lovely girl! You see? Is that not nice?
Your soul’s no longer lost! You are dismissed.

Alas, such tales are easy to recount,
Such tales of woe, such tales of wretchedness.
But I dare not narrate the whole amount,
Nor shame all the benighted populace.
But not because I lack the will to try
Nor am I to discuss these things afraid
But doing so would make the time slip by
And dancing will be even more delayed,
Which I am guessing is the wicked plan
These ovine devils plotted all along
But we will edit out as best we can
So I will simply call out to the throng!
Oh, you who also carry on with sheep
I do command you, stop with this distraction
Now cast them forward, no more yours to keep
Or risk the wrath of my dissatisfaction.
And now, to face the leaders of this plot!
Conspirers all! So foul, so treacherous!
But thank the Muses nine they have been caught
For holding up our sport so lecherous!
I know these troublemakers! I have seen
Their workings, like a pox upon the land!
The day they first arrived, these sheep have been
A strain upon our barony so grand!
They have brought mayhem, bedlam and confusion
Upon the most innocuous proceedings.
Of headaches we now suffer a profusion.
Our doctors give us heated cups and bleedings.
A curse upon the road they followed here!
These fleecy, wretched beasts with soulful eyes,
And bleatings that can’t help but to endear!
And cuddlings that draw forth happy sighs!
Oh, they’re so pwecious! Who’s a widdle sheep?
Oh, who’s a widdle sheepie? Yes, it’s you!
I want to bring you home so I might keep
You to myself, to kiss a time or two!
Oh, no, no, no! I’m starting to succumb!
Their diabolic cuteness is too much!
Enough! I cast you back to where you’re from!
And do not further tempt me with your touch!
Aroint thee, sheep! I tell thee, get thee gone!
I’ll place you where you’ll do no further harms!
So ere you see another sinful dawn
I’ll place thee under guard of royal arms!
With that, these ill-timed incidents I’ll close
And what has been delayed I’ll now advance.
So, lads and lasses, lose your cares and woes!
With gladsome hearts, make ready for the dance!

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences, Events Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Who Will Speak for the Sheep?
by Myra Hope Eskridge
(performing as Lucien de Pontivy)

When dispute threatens the great Leven Loch
And good Saint Robert cries, “och, Meggie, och!”
Lords and Ladies, let noblesse oblige be your teacher
As you gaze on the weakest, the meekest, the sweetest of creatures…
Tell me…

Who will speak for the sheep?
When great houses battle, who speaks for the cattle?
Who will speak for the sheep?
Their little hearts break for the beating,
And their voices expire for the bleating,
Tell me, who will speak for the sheep?

Sheep don’t know the terrors of war
They don’t read history… (well, who does anymore?)
Wooly ears hanging low trotting in to their beds
Getting stuffed into cannons? No! Losing their heads!
Tell me, who will speak for the sheep?

Who will…?

Longing for the taste of tender green grasses
The cool breeze is the balm for the brands on their… delicate hindquarters
Who will speak for the sheep?

Who will…?

Words and music (c) 2013 Myra Hope Eskridge
Released under the Creative Commons
Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, King and Queen's Champions

“Bold Lord Robert of Lochleven”
by Martyn de Halliwell to the tune of “Edi Beo”

Verse 1
Bold Lord Robert of Lochleven,
was riding along on his best riding sheep.
Through the woods he did travel,
carrying pigs for the smoker that night.

All the bacon he would provide,
All his pulled pork goes right to our thighs.

Then Lord Robert he did arrive,
at court without taxes to pay for his Styes

Verse 2
Then the mighty Baron roared
The headsman’s axe swung with a terrible fright.
Good Lord Robert’s head flew by
A look of shock as it took flight.
All the bacon he did provide,
All his pulled pork went right to our thighs.

Then Lord Robert he was no more
Though now a saint as declared by our King.

Verse 3
Saint Lord Robert came along
On Saint Robert’s Day he still traveled on
Upon a Herald he came by
And said, “hello I am Lord Saint Ro-“
STOP!

“What are you trying to do?”
“There’s no title stacking ever!”

So Saint Robert a Lord no more
He traveled along looking for boar.

Verse 4
Then Saint Robert he happened upon
A dastardly black knight with treacherous heart.
“Why the face and the heart so long?”
“I’ve not any clue I’m just really ticked off!”

“All the bacon can heal the soul”
“All the pulled pork goes right to your thighs.”

So go off and eat some now,
And know that the kings tax is due tomorrow.

Verse 5
So we’ve learned two important things,
To eat all the bacon and not title stack.
Thank you Saint Robert for not who without
We’d pray for bacon and pulled pork.

All the bacon your sainthood provides,
All the pulled pork goes right to our thighs.

So to him on his holy day,
We raise up a pork chop and shout “Amen.”

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Time of taxes came to
trusty Carolingia –
brash Baron demanded
bah-bah calling livestock.
Righteously then Robert
roared against this sheep-toll;
painful price was made to
pay that day of horror.

Youthful hero had a
heady plan that day and
stealthy stole wool bearers
straight from tax-years prior.
Fast a brand was fashioned
fine sheep back were gifted –
Alas too late to save the
lord who spoke so bravely.

Remember good Robert!
Raise a glass to toast him –
Great his gift of courage,
gave his life for household.

-Grim the Skald
(also known as Matthew Grymm)

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

“This piece was adapted from a story in ”(Merry) Tales and Quick Answers”, (printed c. 1535) based on the notes I used in the competition,” reports Lady Judith. “The words may differ slightly from what I said in the video.”

The Resurrection of St. Robert

You have all heard of Saint Robert, how he defied his Baron…how he was martyred, how Lochleven mourned the loss of bacon–er, of HIM.

What you may not have heard was the tale of St. Robert’s resurrection. For, I tell you that he was Not dead as he did seem to be. When he was brought back home to lie in state, he remained lying down as if dead, to see what his wife would do (for she had not seen him die). When she entered the house, she had some bacon in hand, meaning to cook it over the fire. She saw her husband, lying as if dead, and stopped, unable to decide what to do, for she was very hungry. ”Call for help…cook the bacon….call for help…cook the bacon…” Finally she decided to cook the bacon and call for help after she had eaten. This she did, cooking the bbacon and eating her fill, until the saltiness of the bacon made her thirsty, then parched.

She began to cough, and choke, louder and louder. When other people from the household came to see what was happening, she quickly began instead to cry, and wail, and make great lamentation, crying, ”Oh, what shall I do?” Hearing this, her husband sat up, and said, ”Go quickly and drink, before your bacon chokes you!”

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Crumbs
By Chatricam Meghanta
(also known as Marguerite ingen Lachlainn in the SCA)

Crumbs

Memories of my love
have lifted me up out of my body
and sat me next to him in a remembered
place of honor.

With his own hand he has fed me
the tenderest of morsels.
I taste wine from the cup
where his lips have rested.

All night the melodies the musicians
play for him goes into me,
leaving me wild with passion.
His scent is all around me,

the shuddery perfume of amber and musk.
His voice is in my ear, murmuring
the most erotic verses of those midnight songs
until I loose the last shreds of my restraint

and beg him to take me,
take me!

In the morning, when I awake alone
and thirsty for more wine,
I pluck these word crumbs
from the sheets where he no longer lays

and I write.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Archery Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions