Announcement from the current Queen’s Rapier Champion, Lord Robert MacEwin:
The Queen’s Rapier Championship is little more than two weeks away! Here are all the details:
Date: October 1st, 2022 Location: Archers to the Wald Time: Procession will begin lining up at 10:50, start at 11:00.
Tournament will begin immediately following.
TOURNAMENT FORMAT:
Round 1 – Participants will be evenly distributed into four Round-Robin lists. The top two fencers from each list will move on to round 2. Ties will be resolved as necessary with additional fights.
Round 2 – The 8 fencers that have advanced from the first round will fight a double elimination tournament until 2 remain. After that, all deaths will be cleared and those two will move on to the finals. All fights in Round 2 will be best-of-3.
Finals – Best-of-five, rotating forms. The finalist from the winners’ list will choose the first form. Following that, the loser of each bout will choose the form for the next bout.
DOUBLE KILLS:
Round 1 – double kills will be refought once. Further double kills will be scored as a loss for both fighters.
Round 2 – double kills will be refought until there’s a clear victor. However, if you double kill more than once, we will start taking things from each fencer (secondaries, arms, etc.)
Finals – double kills will be refought until there is a clear victor.
SPECIAL WEAPONS FORMS:
Cut and Thrust – Any pair of fencers that wishes to fight C&T is welcome to do so. When you sign in, please let the MoL know that you wish to fight C&T, and we’ll try to pool you with other C&T fighters.
Spear – Since spear is still new, we’ll allow it, but require opponent’s consent. In any fight within the tournament, if you’re authorized and your opponent is cool with it, you’re welcome to fight spear. If you are not interested in fighting against spear, that is totally fine! Due to limited list space, spears must be no more than 6 feet long.
The next Æthelmearc Youth Combat Champions’ Tourney will be held on Saturday, May 18th, at Æthelmearc War Practice in the Shire of Steltonwald. Anywhere from one to three Champions will be chosen by King Gareth and Queen Juliana, based on the fighters’ prowess and chivalry. Those chosen will serve as Kingdom Champions for the duration of Their Majesties’ reign.
Schedule for youth fighting at War Practice on Saturday morning:
9:00 am – List opens for inspections
9:30 – Authorizations
10:00 – Youth Champion’s Tourney begins
11:00-12:00 – Melees
Limited loaner armor and weapons will be available. We advise that your youth fighter bring their own equipment if at all possible.
The Youth Combat list will be on the main battlefield, to the east of the thrown weapons range and alongside Currie Road.
THLord Methias Weasel, Æthelmearc Youth Combat Marshal, will be the Marshal-in-Charge. If you have any questions about youth combat at Æthelmearc War Practice, please contact him at ae.youthfighting@aethelmearc.org.
An account of the court of Sven and Siobhan, King and Queen of Æthelmearc with Their Royal Highnesses Titus and Anna Leigh, held at Æthelmearc War Practice on the 18th and 19th days of May in the 53rd year of the Society in the Shire of Steltonwald. Reported by Baroness Ekaterina Volkova, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald, assisted by THL Sophie Davenport, Silver Buccle Herald, Drotin Jorundr hinn Rotinn, Golden Alce Herald and Mistress Graidhne ni Ruaidh, Holus Herald.
Friday May 18, AS 53 on the Field:
Their Majesties called before them the Order of the Pelican. They spoke of one who has long served the Kingdom and the Martial community. THL Ursula of Rouen was then called forth. It was confirmed that she was free of all obligations and sent to sit vigil and contemplate inclusion into the Order of the Pelican.
Court was then suspended.
Saturday, May 19, AS 53 in the Great Hall:
Their Majesties invited the assembled Landed Baronage to join them in court.
Their Majesties then invited Their Royal Cousins, Alric and Katherine of the Midrealm to join them in court.
Court was resumed and Their Majesties talked about the wonderful fighting, learning, and comradery that was seen throughout the day. They then commended the artisans who created the Slavic outfits They were wearing.
Their Majesties’ Slavic outfits. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Edelvrouw Lijsbet de Keukere was called forth to speak of the Scarlet Apron competition that was held with the theme of Food Preservation. Simon a Fjarfelli was announced as the Populace Choice winner and presented with a token. Kusunoki Fumio Bun’ami was announced as the overall winner and presented with the raiments of his new office for the next year.
Master Bun’ami is named the winner of the Scarlet Apron competition. Photo by Arianna.
Simon is named the Populace Choice of the Scarlet Apron competition. Photo by Arianna.
Those members of the Populace who wished to do so, but had not yet had an opportunity to swear fealty, were invited forth and their oaths accepted by Their Majesties.
Fealty oaths. Photo by Arianna.
Her Royal Highness Anna Leigh then spoke of the amazing number of classes that were offered and thanked all those who both attended classes as well as those that taught them. She then invited all those who had taken six hours worth of classes throughout the course of the event to find her after court to receive a token.
Her Highness then spoke of how the Royal Family has a fondness for brewed beverages and because of this, she sponsored a brewing and beverage competition that day. Master Madoc Arundel came forth and announced the winner of each category.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage – Artisan Level Simon a Fjarfelli
Brewing/Vintning – Artisan Level Marius Sittius
Herbal & Apothecary – Artisan Level Aodhan MacMichael (who also won “best novice”)
Brewing/Vintning – Master Level Cristina inghean Griogair (who also won “best in show”)
Any Category – Populace Choice Methius T. Weasel
Simon. Photo by Arianna.
Lord Aodhan. Photo by Arianna.
Lord Sittius. Photo by Arianna.
Lady Cristina. Photo by Arianna.
THLord Methius Weasel. Photo by Arianna.
Lords Robert Hawkesworth and Niccolo Salvietti came forth to speak of a fencing competition that was held this day. The competition involved those members of the fencing community who were not White Scarves or Masters of Defense seeking out and fighting those that were. The prizes was lots of candy. The unscarved fencers said that they could not partake in all the bounty they received so pooled their winnings and presented equal shares to Their Majesties Æthelmearc, Their Royal Highnesses Æthelmearc and Their Majesties Midrealm.
Lord Robert and Lord Niccolo present their bounty to the Crown. Photo by Arianna.
Their Majesties then called before then Patrokles Athenaios. His Majesty spoke of how they had heard of Patrokles’ years of participation on the fighting and fencing fields, as well as in the Arts and Sciences arena. For all this they were moved to Award him Arms. Scroll by Bronwyn Androus.
Lord Patrokles Athenaios receives his AoA. Photo by Arianna.
THL Methius Weasel, Marshal in Charge of the Youth Heavy Combat Champions Tournament, was called in to speak of the day. His Lordship thanked the previous Champions and all those who competed for the positions. Simon a Fjarfelli was announced as the Division 2/3 Champion. As there was only one Division 1 participant, Fritz was asked to continue in the position of Champion for his Division. It was also announced that Bri was selected the Most Chivalrous fighter and she was presented with a token.
Simon and Fritz are named youth combat champions. Photo by Arianna.
Bri is named Most Chivalrous youth fighter. Photo by Arianna.
Their Majesties then asked all Children present to please come forth. Her Majesty thanked them for coming and said that in the back of the hall was a box from which each could select a gift and then asked them to go calmly back to pick their prize.
The children are summoned into court. Photo by Arianna.
Next THL Astridr Vigaskegg was asked to announced the winners of the Largesse Competition that was held during the day. It was announced that Baroness Sybilla Detwyller took third place, THL Drogo Rabenwald was chosen as second and that Aurelia Argenta Prima was the overall winner.
Baroness Sybilla is third in the Largesse competition. Photo by THLady Aine ny Allane.
Lord Drogo is second in the Largesse competition. Photo by THLady Aine ny Allane.
Their Majesties requested Winardis of Borderwatch to come into Their court. His Majesty spoke of how this good lord has been seen fighting at all the major Kingdon events for many years and how his enthusiasm on the field makes him a valuable member of Borderwatch. For this he was inducted into the Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll illuminated by THL Philippe Ulfsdotter and calligraphed by Mistress Sthurrim Caithnes.
Sir Tarl accepts Lord Winardis’ Golden Alce. Photo by Arianna.
All members of the Order of the Golden Alce were asked to stand. Her Majesty asked that the populace look around and note that if there were any still seated that should be a member of this noble order, and if so, asked that letters of recommendation be sent in.
Their Majesties then invited into court all those for whom this was their first event. Those that approached were thanked for coming and given a token from Her Majesty’s private treasures.
Newcomers receive tokens from Their Majesties. Photo by Arianna.
Their Majesties presented Dumas of Waterford an Award of Arms in absentia for his many years of quiet service to his Shire. Scroll by Sevena and Hrefna fruþikona in heppna Þorgrímsdottir.
Grania filia Briani was then asked to present herself to Their Majesties. It was noted that her service at Pennsic and War Practice as water bearer was something that was crucial to the fighting community. For this she was inducted into the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Crystal Bradley and Mistress Graidhne ni Ruaidh.
Lady Grania receives a Keystone. Photo by Arianna.
All members of the Order of the Keystone were asked to rise so that the populace could see who should be recommended to Their Majesties.
It was noted that there was one in attendance who should have stood but did not and that is was possible that he was not a member of the Order. Her Majesty asked that he be called in so that this could be remedied. Lord Abdullah al- Rashid was called into court and inducted into the Order of the Keystone for his work in kitchens, sweeping halls, and as Baronial Seneschal. The scroll’s illumination was done by Lady Rivka bat Daniyel and calligraphy by THL Anlaith ingen Trena.
Lord Abdullah receives a Keystone. Photo by Arianna.
Next, Their Majesties called Catalina into Their presence. It was remarked that this young woman has become known as being a fierce force on the field, not just with archery and siege weaponry, but now had been seen in armor and taking up the sword and shield. She is also known for her cheerful and welcoming demeanor. For this she was Awarded Arms. Scroll by THL Phelippe Ulfsdotter and Graidhne ni Ruaidh,
Catalina is award Arms. Photo by Arianna.
It was then announced that the Memorial for Baron Leonard the Younger would be taking place on June 3rd and that more details would be announced on official channels.
The Order of the Pelican was then called into court. Once the flock was assembled, Mistress Antoinette de la Croix was asked to present herself. After confirming that both the Order and the good Mistress wanted the inclusion to happen, it was asked if there were any who would speak on Mistress Antoinette’s behalf. Countess Juliana Delamere spoke on behalf of the Royal Peers of the Society. Mistress Alicia Langland, representing the Jewels of Æthelmearc, told of the worthiness of the candidate. Duke Malcolm Duncan Mac Eoghainn spoke as a representative of the Order of Chivalry. The Order of the Laurel was represented by Hrefna fruþikona in heppna Þorgrímsdottir, and Mistress Fredeburg von Katzenellenbogen spoke for the Order of Defense. Finally, Mistress Graidhne ni Ruaidh spoke on behalf of the Order of the Pelican. Upon hearing of the endorsements from the Peerages of the Society, Their Majesties agreed that it was a good and proper thing. A Gollar was called for to mark Mistress Antoinette’s new station. She was then presented with the Ancestral Medallion of the Order of the Pelican in Æthelmearc as well as a personal broach and medallion. Mistress Antoinette gave her oath to the Kingdom as a member of the Order of the Pelican. The scroll, illuminated by THL Vivienne of Yardley and calligraphed by Mistress Alicia Langland, was then read into record.
Mistress Antoinette is inducted into the Pelican. Photo by Arianna.
The Order was asked to remain and THL Ursula of Rouen was called in. The Order as assembled was asked if they still wished for Her Ladyship to be one of them. After receiving confirmation, Their Majesties asked Ursula if she had received counsel and if she desired to be counted among the ranks of the Pelican. She happily said yes. It was then asked if there was a Royal Peer who would attest to her worthiness. Duke Maynard von dem Steine claimed that honor. His Royal Majesty Alric of the Mists claimed the right to speak as a member of the Order of the Chivalry and said that she was his Peer. The Order of the Laurel was represented by Duchess Ilish O’Donnovan, who also agreed that Her Ladyship was worthy of inclusion into the Peerage. When asked if there was a member of the Order of Defense who could speak, Master Emily of Dunvegan spoke on behalf of Ursula. Dame Vivienne Marie de Beauvais then stepped forward and spoke for the Order of the Pelican. Their Majesties, upon hearing the witnesses, agreed that the ceremony should progress. She was given a Norse coat to mark her new station and keep her warm. A Cap of Maintenance was then presented to her. Mistress Antoinette de la Croix then passed the Kingdom Ancestral Medallion to her and a personal medallion was given as well. After receiving her oath, Their Majesties asked that the words marking the occasion be read. Words by Master Quinn Kerr were read and a glittery promissory scroll by Lady Ylaire St. Claire was presented.
THLady Ursula is inducted into the Pelican. Photo by THLady Aine.
Their Majesties then called before them the Order of the Laurel. Noting that the Order is smaller than They expected, THL Ishiyama Gen’tarou Yori’ie was summoned into court. He was then instructed to present himself at the Pennsic War, where he will sit vigil and contemplate inclusion into this august Order.
THLord Ishiyama receives a Writ for the Laurel, with elevation scheduled for Pennsic. Photo by Arianna.
Their Majesties then spoke of the amazing artisans who labor long hours over their art, only to give it away in court so that people may have a remembrance of the day. It was then asked that all scribes stand and be thanked for the continued hard work.
Her Majesty then told of how, after Her many years in the Society, it is rare for her to experience something new. But this day she was able to witness a Japanese Tea Ceremony and was moved by the beauty and artistry of it. For this she did name Lord Amano Zenjirou Nakatsune and Lady Oribe Tsukime as Her inspirations for the day.
Queen Siobhan’s inspiration, Lord Amano Zenjirou Nakatsune and Lady Oribe Tsukime. Photo by Arianna.
It was then announced that there would be a performance by I Genesii immediately after Court.
Their Majesties then thanked all those who came, took classes, fought, and ran the event. Their Highnesses also thanked the populace and said that They are looking forward to the fun to be had over the next year.
Their Majesties of the Midrealm offered their appreciation for the event and thanked Their Majesties for allowing Them to join Their Court. Her Majesty Katherine then presented gifts to the Royal Family in a token of friendship.
There being no further business, court was then closed.
Lady Elska, winner of the first Scarlet Apron competition, with its organizer, Edelvrouw Lijsbet de Keukere. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
Good Gentles! War Practice is almost here!
…… Okay, maybe not *almost,* but it is close enough to start thinking about the Scarlet Apron Cooking Competition! The challenge for 2018 will require a bit more time to prepare, so we wanted to make our announcement early. We hope you will join us!
The next Scarlet Apron will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at Æthelmearc War Practice.
Your challenge: Period Food Preservation! Those wishing to compete should plan on presenting a medieval food item that has been preserved using techniques outlined or described in SCA-appropriate food and cooking resources. We’re looking for food that has been pickled, brined, cured, dried, candied, en confit, or fermented — if it was made to last, we want to see it on the entry table! (Please keep in mind – documentation is required for this challenge!)
Contestants should plan to have a portion of their medieval preserves available to be sampled by the judges and populace, as well as some to remain untouched to be left on display for presentation purposes.
More information will be provided as arrangements are made. In the meantime, please send any questions to Edelvrouw Lijsbet de Keukere (Facebook Messenger is preferred – Keirin Lazauskas-Ralff).
Here begins the report of the Court of Her Majesty Margerite, Queen of Æthelmearc, at Archers to the Wald in the Canton of Steltonwald, 8 October AS LI, accompanied by Their Excellencies Brandubh and Hilderun, Baron and Baroness of the Debatable Lands, Drotinn Jorundr hinn Rotinn, Golden Alce Herald, reporting.
Her Majesty thanked all who attended the event this day and all the staff for running this event at which She had such a wonderful time. His Majesty also sends His greetings and regrets that he was unable to attend this day.
Her Majesty gave leave to Their Excellencies of the Debatable Lands leave to conduct the business of Their Court.
Her Majesty gave leave to Lord Alrekr Bergsson to recognize some archers who had attained ranks in the Royal Round standings. Shelby Hernan, Vera Ivanova Tolstikova, and Alfonso de Santo Domingo, all achieved the rank of Archer, and he presented them with pewter medallions made by the hands of Lady Edana the Red.
Lord Alrekr had one further gentle to recognize but was unable to do so, thus he besought Her Majesty to make this recognition for him. Her Majesty summoned Devon Haugh before Her. Devon has achieved a Junior Royal Round average of 85, and was thus presented with a medallion, also by Lady Edana the Red to reflect his rank of Master Bowman. Her Majesty was further moved to recognize this remarkable achievement by inducting Devon into the Order of the Silver Alce. The scroll will be created by His Majesty at a later date.
Her Majesty next bade the children of the Kingdom to present themselves. So that they might be entertained she summoned forth the box of goodies, and the bearer of the day Alfonso de Santo Domingo that he might carry the box and run with it.
Her Majesty summoned THL Aemelia Soteria, the Kingdom Thrown Weapons Champion. This day she ran a tournament to determine her successor, and from among the finest throwers in the land, one rose above the rest. Master Juan Miguel Cezar proved himself most skilled this day and was named the Thrown Weapons Champion of Æthelmearc.
There was another champion to be determined this day, so Her Majesty summoned, Takamatsu-san Gentarou Yoshitaka, the Kingdom Archery Champion before her. The round robin style tournament had one archer rise above the rest, Ichikeiro-san Osoroshi, proved to be the best shot and so was named, Æthelmearc’s Archery Champion.
Her Majesty called for Caelfind in Eich Gil to attend Her. Their Majesties have heard much of the good works of this gentle and how she not only shoots, but also assists with setting up the range and tearing it down at the end of practice. For this it pleases Their Majesties to Award her Arms and make her a Lady of Their Court. Scroll by Brigette de Sainte-Mene-Eglise.
Her Majesty next had words for Sanada-san Masamoto Kenshin O’no Kuma. His skill with knife, axe and spear is a wonder to behold, and his rate of improvement is an achievement that all should seek to emulate. Thus does Her Majesty induct him into the Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll illuminated by Isabel Fleuretan with calligraphy by Kameshima Zentarou Umakai.
Her Majesty next gave leave to Master Juan Miguel Cezar to do some business as a member of the Order of the Scarlet Guard. Juan Miguel had a notion to take a pair of students that he might further their interest in and service to archery, Lord Ru Cavorst and Lord Alrekr Bergsson. Juan Miguel however noticed an issue with the regalia that he had brought with him, that being the tassel of the members of the Scarlet Guard, rather than their students. He asked her Majesty if she know of a way that his error could be rectified, and so the Order of the Scarlet Guard was summoned to present themselves.
Lord Ru Cavorst was inducted into the Order of the Scarlet Guard and granted arms with a scroll by Graidhae ni Ruaidh.
Lord Alrekr Bergsson was inducted into the Order of the Scarlet Guard and granted arms, scroll forthcoming.
Her Majesty spoke of how one gentle this day inspired her with her willingness to assist the new members of the Society by taking time out of her day, while taking care of her own child to take care of the child of a family new to the Society so that the parents could get a chance to see what the event had to offer. For this Her Majesty named Lady Aisling Ngleantan Her inspiration of the day and awarded her a Golden Escarbuncle.
Her Majesty bid all the scribes who presented scrolls to this day’s Court to attend Her, and she presented them with a token in thanks of their hard work.
Her Majesty thanked everyone for being so welcoming to Her this day, and wished all a good night and a safe trip home.
Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope reports on the doings at this year’s Archers to the Wald event.
As always, the Canton of Steltonwald’s signature annual archery event provided good fun, good food, and good company. The weather forecast looked unfriendly, with rain and high temperatures only in the mid-50s, but Nature took pity and the rain turned to drizzle, then stopped for good in the early afternoon.
A wide array of shoots were held throughout the day. Master Donnan Macdubhsidhe ran his usual combo archery and fencing woods walk in which fencers and archers teamed up to run the course, or gentles who wished could fill both roles solo. They saved a princess (in the form of THLord Jorundr hinn Rotinn, which caused much amusement) from bandits, fought off evil warriors, and competed with a merchant to complete the course. The team of Maestro Jacopo di Niccolo and Lord Magnus Bastiano di Vigo proved victorious, marking the third year in a row that Maestro Jacopo was on the winning team for this course.
Maestro Jacopo and Lord Magnus, winners of the archery/fencing woods walk, receive their prizes from Master Donnan.
Lord Alrekr Bergsson ran a woods walk in which archers had to defeat evil fairies from the world of Supernatural. The winner of this competition was THLord Juan Miguel Cezar (as some in the populace at court murmured, “There can be only Juan…”).
THLord Deryk Archer ran several competitions: one required archers to hit an apple hanging from a branch to receive various prizes ranging from chocolate to a toy crossbow to a vintage D&D miniature figure. Another had archers shooting at targets based on the Highlander shows, of people’s heads and a fearsome pig. The winner of this competition was Lord Cadan Buri.
Lord Cadan Buri receives his prize.
Master Alaric MacConnal ran a competition which required archers to shoot at jewels of various colors, shapes, and sizes in cardboard on a large butt. After shooting their first jewel, they had to then shoot another jewel of either the same color or the same shape. They could continue until they hit the wrong jewel by mistake. Most of the day the shoot had a three-way tie of a score of 7, but at the end of the day Lord Takamatsu Gentarou Yoshitaka blew everyone out of the water with a score of 27.
While the wet weather forced the cancellation of both the Thrown Weapons Baronial Champion’s Tournament and the Seven Pearls Archery Tournament, THLady Anlaith ingen Trena was able to run some atlatl practice for interested gentles.
The day also saw contests to choose the new baronial adult and youth archery champions. Twelve archers competed in the adult shoot; in the end Master Urho Waltterinen won over Lady Annora O’Duelaghane by a single point. One of the rounds required archers to shoot images of two zombies and bottles of alcohol in the hands of Don Vigo da Napoli. Unfortunately, one of the archers failed in this task and instead struck the image of Don Vigo in an [ahem] unfortunate location, to much laughter from the other archers (and later, from the real Don Vigo).
Don Vigo’s likeness received a palpable hit. Photo by Baron Liam macanTsaoire.
The youth champion’s shoot was designed by the outgoing champion, Phineas, and featured characters from the Odyssey. The victor in that shoot was Phineas’ brother, Beren, who dragged the head of the defeated Cyclops into court in proof of his conquest.
Beren brings the head of the Cyclops before Baron Liam.
While all of the martial mayhem was going on outside, Mistress Alessandra d’Avignon ran an A&S display of Viking-related entries in honor of the Canton’s beloved Countess Aidan ni Leir, who passed away unexpectedly at the beginning of September. There were wool clothes, a Canton banner, and beaded necklaces.
Throughout the day there was a hearty sideboard made by THLady Cionaodh Gunn with assistance from Lord Aidan Gunn, Mistress Ysabell Graver, Master Creature Twinedragon, and others.
At baronial court in the evening, His Excellency Baron Liam began with a moment of silence for the loss of Countess Aidan, then recognized the winners of the various competitions and invested the new baronial champions.
Master Urho receives the ceremonial quiver of office from the outgoing baronial archery champion, Lord Magnus.
Baron Liam invited the baronial Archery Marshal, Maistir Brandubh o Donnghaile, to address the populace. Maistir Brandubh commended numerous archers who had improved their Royal Round scores over the course of the summer and achieved new ranks, including one new Archer, Arthes MacLeod, and four new Bowmen: Alistair MacLeod, Annora O’Duelaghane, Arianna of Wynthrope, and Ghaliya bint Jusef.
The Baron then called forth THLady Cionaodh Gunn and bestowed upon her a Gold Comet for her many years of service to the Canton and Barony. The scroll was created by Countess Aidan, and His Excellency remarked solemnly that it may well have been one of the last scrolls made by Her Excellency before her passing, to the populace’s sad sighs and not a few tears.
THLady Cionaodh Gunn with her Gold Comet scroll.
Gold Comet scroll by Countess Aidan ni Leir.
His Excellency ended the court with a moment of silence and a request for donations for the family of Kim Dietz, who was one of the victims of the shooting in Roseburg, Oregon only days before the event. Kim was a member of the Shire of Briaroak in the Principality of the Summits, Kingdom of An Tir. Kim is reported to have stood in front of a door to block the shooter, at the cost of her life. Donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign set up by her family. Baron Liam further exhorted the populace to be exemplars of those qualities the SCA holds dear and to donate time and funds to those in need as proof of our enduring nobility, in honor of those like Kim who have gone before us.
All photos not otherwise credited are by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
The Æthelmearc Gazette is pleased to share this missive from Aidan ni Leir, the Class Coordinator for Æthelmearc War Practice.
The event is only four weeks away; the deadline for the on-site booklet is just over two weeks out (30 April).
SCHEDULING CLASSES
I am very sad to report that as of today, I have only FIVE offers so far. While it is traditional to wait until the last minute to volunteer, these numbers are way below what I have had on the schedule at this point for the last several years. Surely, at an event which has an average attendance of over 1200 gentles, there are more than FIVE volunteers? I know there are many capable teachers with much to offer in this Kingdom, so if you available, please send the following information for the website and booklet:
Name of Teacher
Title of Class
Description of Class (brief, please, 75 words or less)
Class Length
Maximum Number of Students
Age Limit of Students
Fee, if any
Please include your legal name and e-mail address, and your preferred time for your class, as well as any special requirements you may have. The schedule will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you volunteer, the more likely it will be that I can accommodate you.
Space is available from 9am-8pm on Friday and 9am-6pm on Saturday in one of three large tents (with tables and chairs), the upper bathhouse (also with tables and chairs, plus electricity and access to water), and the Great Hall.
SCHEDULING MEETINGS
If you are an officer who would like to hold a staff meeting, or you represent an order or a guild who would like to hold a meeting, you will need to send me the following information so I can book you a space:
Name of order/office/guild/group
SCA and legal name of the clerk/officer/representative
E-mail address of the clerk/officer/representative
Preferred day and time requested
Amount of time requested
Space is available from 9am to 8pm on Friday and from 9am to 6pm on Saturday in one of three large tents (with tables and chairs) or the upper bathhouse (also with tables and chairs, plus electricity). Please be flexible; classes will have priority on the space.
Please send your class or meeting request to me by 30 April:
E-mail: helen.pinto@comcast.net
Phone: 724-203-4014
Mail: Helen Pinto 1936 Crestmont Dr Aliquippa, PA 15001
Thanks in advance for your generous offers, and feel free to cross-post this announcement anywhere you think there may be interest.
Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai, Silver Buccle Principal Herald, has asked the Æthelmearc Gazette to share these court reports with the populace.
Steltonwald 12th Night, January 31, A.S. XLIX, in the Canton of Steltonwald
Documented from the Scrolls of the Reign of Titus and Anna Leigh, King and Queen of Æthelmearc: the Business of Their Court at Steltonwald 12th Night in the Canton of Steltonwald, 31 January AS 49. As recorded by Their Silver Buccle Herald, Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai.
Lady Teresa Alvarez was inducted into the Order of the Keystone for autocratting multiple events and for opening her home to host the Canton’s summer fencing practice. Scroll by Countess Aidin ni Leir.
Lady Teresa Alvarez. Photo by Mistress Hilderun Hugelmann.
Lady Ingunn Halldorsdottir was created a Companion of the Sycamore for her talents in embroidery, sewing, creating feast kits and veil pins, and for her continued generosity in donating these items to be used as Royal largesse. Scroll by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Lady Ingunn Halldorsdottir. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lord Vigo di Napoli and THLady Madeleine de l’Este. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lady Madeleine de l’Este was elevated to the Order of the Fleur d’Æthelmearc and Granted Arms for her historical research and recreation of Elizabethan and Italian garb for herself and her family. Scroll by THL Sophie Davenport.
Lord Vigo di Napoli said “Hello for you!” to the scroll commemorating his elevation to the Order of the Keystone, which was delivered to him by Their Majesties.
Master Robert Marston was named of Baron of the Court of Æthelmearc for his service to the Royalty, most especially his sacrifice of his own clothing in the name of the creation of Their Royal garb. Scroll by Countess Aidin ni Leir.
Baron Robert Marston’s Court Barony Scroll crafted by Countess Aidan ni Leir. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
There being no further business, Their Majesties’ Court was closed.
In Honor and Service,
Kameshima Zentarō Umakai
高貴国境の王国の治部卿
Silver Buccle Principal Herald, Kingdom of Æthelmearc
Feast of the Seven Deadly Sins, February 7, A.S. XLIX, in the Barony of Delftwood
Documented from the Scrolls of the Reign of Titus and Anna Leigh, King and Queen of Æthelmearc: the Business of Their Court at the Feast of the Seven Deadly Sins in the Barony of Delftwood 7 February AS 49, accompanied by Their Highnesses Timothy and Gabrielle, Prince and Princess of Æthelmearc, and Their Excellencies Fergus and Helene, Baron and Baroness of Delftwood. As recorded by Their Silver Buccle Herald, Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai, with the assistance of Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn, Gullskel Herald, Drotinn Jorundr hinn Rotinn, Golden Alce Herald, and Marcellus Titus Cincinnatus.
In the morning:
Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn was invited before Their Majesties, and reiterated the boon that he had begged of Them at Their Crown Tournament, namely, that they send his student, Baronsfru Othindisa Bykona, to vigil to seek the counsel of the Peers and populace of the Realm, and of the Order of the Laurel in particular, that she might contemplate elevation to that Order. Their Majesties summoned Baronsfru Othindisa and bade the Order of the Laurel escort her to that place which had been set aside for her.
Photo by Baron Steffan Wolfgang von Ravensburg.
In the evening:
Their Majesties Granted leave to Their Excellencies to hold Their Baronial Court.
His Majesty invited the populace to join Their Majesties in a moment of silence for those recently lost by the Barony.
Marca Claudia Cincinnata was inducted into the Order of the Silver Buccle for coming into her own as a member of the Barony, including helping in the kitchen, serving feasts, and being a messenger at events. Scroll by Baroness Anastasie de l’Amour.
Zinoviia Ivanova was Awarded Arms for her skill on the heavy weapons and thrown weapons fields, and her service at demos and as photographer. Scroll by Baroness Clarice Roan.
Lady Zinoviia Ivanova. Photo by Mistress Hilderun Hugelmann.
Lady Amalie Reinhardt was elevated to the Order of the Keystone for her service as webminister, MOL, deputy Chronicler, autocrat, and marshal-in-training for thrown weapons. Scroll by Baroness Ekaterina Volkova.
Lady Amalie Reinhardt. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lady Arsinoë hë kai Antigone Nothou tou kai Philoromaeou Kallinikou was created a Companion of the Keystone for service to the kitchens of Æthelmearc, both as cook and as a member of the cleaning staff. Scroll by Mistress Felicity Flußmüllnerin.
Lady Arsinoë hë kai Antigone Nothou tou kai Philoromaeou Kallinikou. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lady Margarita Carpintero and Lady Catalina Carpintero de Diaz. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lady Catalina Carpintero de Diaz was inducted into the Order of the Keystone for serving her Barony as Chatelaine and Largesse Coordinator. Scroll by Duchess Branwyn ferch Gwythyr.
Lady Margarita Carpintero was bade join her mother, Lady Catalina, as a member of the Order of the Keystone, for she has served as autocrat, Chronicler and deputy herald. Scroll by Baroness Helene al-Zarqa.
Lord Raðúlfr Eriksson was elevated to the Order of the Keystone for his selfless volunteering as autocrat, marshal, and helping to set up and clean up events. Scroll by Lord Fridrich Flußmüllner.
Lord Raðúlfr Eriksson. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Lord Marcus Claudius Cincinnatus was elevated to the Order of the Millrind and Granted Arms for his willingness to serve his Barony and Kingdom at every opportunity, including serving as Windmill Pursuivant for the Barony of Delftwood and event autocrat. Promissory scroll by Catherine Wolfe.
THLord Marcus Cincinnatus. Photo by Mistress Hilderun.
Baronsfru Othindisa Bykona was summoned before Their Majesties as she had been instructed by them, and answered that she had received counsel from the Peers of the Realm and was now prepared to take her place in the Order of the Laurel. Countess Alexandra of Clan Donald spoke of the friendship she had cultivated with Othindisa while she served as Alexandra’s head retainer, and described her as generous and gracious.
Mistress Othindisa. Photo by Lady Rowena Moore.
Earl Syr Yngvar the Dismal proclaimed simply that this was the best thing Their Majesties had done or would do all day, and that he endorsed it. Countess Caryl of the Order of the Pelican mused that while there were some people that you know will be a Peer as soon as you see them, “and then there are people like me and Othindisa,” and that she was proud to have watched Othindisa’s growth and service. Mistress Honnoria of Thescorre of the Order of the Laurel called Othindisa her sister, and recalled fondly the times that the two of them had fought and made up, and taught and learned. Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn of the Order of the Laurel spoke of the vast amount of knowledge that Othindisa had learned and passed on to the populace. Viscount Sir Haakon Oaktall praised Othindisa for taking an art form that is relatively unstudied in our Society and inspiring others to bring it out of the shadows.
Thus moved, Their Majesties created Othindisa a Companion of the Order of the Laurel, Awarded her Arms by Letters Patent, and invested her with regalia befitting her station: a medallion, a jacket, a cloak, a hood, and a wreath. Mistress Othindisa then gave her Oath of Service to the Crown, and a scroll illuminated and calligraphed by Lady Isabel Chamberlain of the Kingdom of the East upon wording by Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn was read to the populace.
Mistress Othindisa giving her oath as a Laurel. Photo by Baron Steffan.
There being no further business, Their Majesties’ Court was closed.
In Honor and Service,
Kameshima Zentarō Umakai
高貴国境の王国の治部卿
Silver Buccle Principal Herald, Kingdom of Æthelmearc
Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope reports on the merriment of Steltonwald 12th Night.
Master Tofi Kerthjalfadsson, Countess Genevieve du Vent Argent, Sir Magariki Katsuichi no Koredono, and THLady Anna Malakina. Photo by Baroness Cecily of Whitehaven.
The Canton of Steltonwald held its Twelfth Night event on the last day of January. Steltonwald is best known for hosting Æthelmearc War Practice, at which the entire Canton puts in countless hours of work, so for their 12th Night they made the decision some years ago to let others handle the work and just enjoy themselves. Hence, each year the feast is catered by a local restaurant. A few years ago, the event was moved to the Hyeholde Restaurant, an upscale establishment built almost 80 years ago to look like a French chateau. For $40 per person, 12th Night attendees were provided with valet parking, servers offering drinks and hors d’oeuvres, and a gourmet meal held in a large and beautiful private dining area where they could all enjoy each other’s company at their leisure.
Lady Teresa Alvarez receiving her Keystone. Photo by Baroness Cecily of Whitehaven.
Their Majesties held a court that spanned the entire evening, pausing the festivities from time to time to bestow awards on various gentles. Notable among the recognition given was a Keystone to the autocrat, Lady Teresa Alvarez, a Fleur to THLady Madeleine de l’Este for her skill in costuming, and a Court Barony to Master Robert Marsden.
Late in the evening Their Majesties called forward Master Jacopo di Niccolo and Master Creature Twinedragon, called Creador, and enquired of the populace which of the two was the “most evil.” While Master Creador’s son, Lord Gunther Schwartzrosen, maintained that his father was clearly the more evil for the simple act of having unleashed Gunther on the world, many others cried that since it was well-known that everything is Master Jacopo’s fault, he was obviously the more evil. Accusations flew back and forth. but in the end it was agreed to much laughter that they both men were truly evil.
Lord Vigo di Napoli. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
After dinner and court, Steltonwald’s infamous “Mongolian style” gift exchange began, with Maistir Brandubh o Donnghaile and Master Kameshima Zentarou Umakai serving as masters of the ceremonies. Each participant had brought a wrapped gift which was placed on a table, and then received a number from Lady Teresa. As each number was called, the holder of that number could choose a gift from the table or steal a gift from another gentle. As usual, alcoholic items (especially several bottles of whiskey, rum, and gin) were hotly contested, but a highly decorated drinking horn, a beaded veil, and a bag of Japanese silks were also exchanged many times.
When the final gift from the table had been unwrapped, the heralds announced that the festivities were at an end, and gentles wound their way up the stairs to retrieve their vehicles. Some went home while others retired to a nearby hotel to continue their celebrations by the pools and hot tubs, cheered by a pleasant evening with friends.
About three dozen gentles gathered in the Canton of Steltonwald for an unusual event last Saturday. It featured classes with names like “Corset Making,” “The Dofuku — a Casual Men’s Japanese Jacket” and “Period Smocking,” but the most unusual thing about it was that it was held in modern dress.
Lady Teresa Alvarez
The event was the brainchild of Lady Teresa Alvarez, who is apprenticed to Mistress Cassadoria Finniala and considers herself a student of historical costuming. Fourteen years ago she suggested to some friends that they hold something a little bigger and more formal than the weekly sewing circle, so they ran a costuming symposium. Then, as Teresa put it, “life happened” and she didn’t get back to the idea until the summer of 2013, when some friends suggested she revive the symposium. Last fall’s symposium was a big hit, so Teresa was persuaded to host the event again this year.
Why modern dress for attendees? Teresa said she’s just more comfortable in modern clothes, but also that she felt it would be less of a distraction if teachers and students weren’t in garb. Several attendees chimed in that some of the peers and other long-time members are less intimidating in modern clothes – they felt more at ease asking questions of their friend Chadd than they might of Duke Christopher Rawlyns (who taught a class on his reconstruction of the Jupon of the Black Prince).
In addition, to keep the event easy to run and informal, attendees were treated to doughnuts from a local bakery when they arrived, and takeout Chinese food for lunch.
The array of ten classes focused on clothing and needlework. Some were presentations of research while others were hands-on practice that permitted students to take home patterns or embroidery. Here are just a few samples:
Elizabethan buttons made in Countess Aidan’s class
Countess Aidan ni Leir taught a a class on making Elizabethan thread buttons from wooden beads. Participants spent about an hour learning the stitches and making their own buttons. These buttons are documented in hundreds of portraits and many extant garments in England and the continent. The ribbed buttons, shown here, are made from 12mm wooden beads with pearl cotton thread wrapped around them.
THLady Marguerite d’Honfleur presented an overview of the clothes owned by Queen Eléanore of France, wife of King François I, including an analysis of the types of fabric, weaving, and colors used in those clothes. Her presentation was based on an inventory the Queen’s gowns, kirtles, farthingales, and petticoats taken in 1532. Attendees learned that most of the Queen’s gowns and kirtles were red or black, probably because those dyes were expensive and showed off the wealth of the Royalty. Many were lined or edged in fur, including loup-cerviers, or lynx, another costly element. THL Marguerite also introduced her students to French terms like toile d’or frisée (cloth of gold with loops of gold thread or wire forming a pile on the surface of the brocade) and drap de soie (silk fabric).
Mistress Ysabel’s class on drafting sleeve patterns from “The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant”
Mistress Ysabel Graver walked participants through the process of drafting a sleeve pattern from The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant. Ysabel explained that it starts with a bodice that fits properly so the armscye is correctly positioned and shaped for the sleeve. Students spent two hours learning the concepts, measuring each other, and then drafting their patterns, with Mistress Ysabel offering examples of her own gowns with correct and incorrect sleeve placements.
Lady Rivka bat Daniyel provided students with information on how to research period uses of embroidery to match their personas, including methods for searching online. She recommended that students seek out academic articles or well-known museums like the Victoria and Albert and the Cleveland Museum of Art. Afterward, she guided students through some embroidery stitches.
Lady Rivka’s embroidery class
Countess Elena’s appliqué class
Countess Elena d’Artois displayed an array of appliquéd clothing and discussed the uses of appliqué in period, from ecclesiastical furnishings and vestments to heraldic display and decorated clothing. She then gave each participant an item to hand appliqué, explaining how to couch pearl cotton thread around the edges of the decorative cloth pieces to affix them to the backing fabric.
Duke Christopher explains his research on the Jupon of the Black Prince
In Duke Christopher Rawlyns’ class, he displayed his recreations of the Jupon of the Black Prince of England, who died in 1376, and discussed the history and construction of the garment. The original jupon (a kind of arming jacket) is on display in Canterbury Cathedral beside the Prince’s crypt, along with his helm, shield, gauntlets, and sword scabbard (the sword itself is missing, rumored to have been stolen by Oliver Cromwell). His Grace based his research in part on an examination of the jupon by the famed costume researcher Janet Arnold, done in 1985 and published in 1993. He reviewed some of the controversies surrounding the garment, including what the padding was made from (he concluded it was cotton, which was costly but available in the late 14th c.) and whether it originally had long or short sleeves. After making and wearing one of these jackets in combat he noted that it experienced stress at the armscye, resulting in the jacket sometimes ripping at that point. He attributed that structural failure to his elbow cops being affixed to the exterior of the sleeve, and twisting the fabric as he threw sword blows. Christopher examined multiple period manuscripts showing military men in such garments, and concluded that unlike Scadians, 14th c. knights probably wore their armor under the jacket rather than over it.
Lady Teresa fitting a bodice on Queen Anna Leigh
To cap off the day, Lady Teresa taught a class in how to do fittings on European garments, with assistance from Mistress Cassadoria. Teresa demonstrated fitting techniques on Her Majesty Queen Anna Leigh, for whom Teresa is sewing a new gown for 12th Night in the German style. Teresa emphasized the importance of making the initial adjustments to bodice patterns first at the shoulder, and then at the sides. She also addressed how to handle fit issues relating to the kind of fashion fabric being used – for example, how to keep wool or linen from stretching. After her class, she asked if people had fun at the event, to which the answer was a resounding “Yes!”
Creating duct tape body doubles
Other classes offered included Corset Making, taught by Lady Madeleine de l’Este, Period Smocking, taught by Mistress Ts’vee’a bas Tseepora, An Overview of Japanese Costuming, from Loom to Garment, by Magariki Katsuichi no Koredono-sama, and The Dofuku — a Casual Men’s Japanese Jacket taught by Lady Hara Kikumatsu.
In addition to the formal classes, two workshops were available throughout the day: Mistress Alessandra d’Avignon helped participants create duct tape body doubles, while Lady Teresa taught period hand sewing techniques.
When asked if she wants to make any changes to the Symposium next year, Teresa said she might implement a suggestion from Mistress Aoibheil of Dun Holen to hold a fabric swap. She would also encourage merchants to attend, especially those selling goods relating to costuming. In addition, Teresa plans to put the word out to prospective teachers earlier in the hopes of attracting new classes, though she wants to keep the event “small enough to still be cozy.”
The next Æthelmearc Youth Combat Champions’ Tourney will be held on 
