Barony of Shattered Crystal's Newcomers Guide

Legal stuff…..
The Barony of Shattered Crystal’s Newcomers Guide to the SCA is intended to be of use to new members of the SCA and to transfers to the Barony of Shattered Crystal in the Middle Kingdom. It is not a corporate publication and does not delineate SCA policy. It is only a guide and not a definitive work on the Barony, the Middle Kingdom, or the SCA.
The guide is based on parts of the following publications: Forward into the Past, The Middle Kingdom Handbook: A Guide to Some Customs and Courtesies, A Glossary of Terms used in the SCA and the Middle Kingdom, Awards in the SCA and the Middle Kingdom, The Pale, and the author’s own experiences and knowledge. The information contained has been rewritten and adapted to specific use to the Barony of Shattered Crystal.
In Service to the Barony, the MidReaIm, and the Society,

Welcome to The Society for Creative Anachronism, Middle Kingdom, Barony of Shattered Crystal’s Newcomer’s Guide. This document was created by Lord Dafydd a while back when he saw a need to place everything in writing that we, as old-timers, were taught by others, and have since taken for granted. He has compiled a lot of useful information in one place. While I have updated a couple of items, and changed things about, 99% of this document is his. While we encourage anyone interested to contact myself or any of the officers of the group with any question, this document, as well as www.sca.org, or www.midrealm.org, can answer some of the simplest. We hope that you can come and visit, and perhaps find yourself immersed in the Dream that we try to create as I have.

WHAT IS THE SCA?
The Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. (SCA) is an international, not-for-profit corporation that is devoted to historical research and re-creation. The scope of the Society is pre-seventeenth century (600-1600 AD) Western European culture and those cultures that interacted with the West. , such as Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, and Africa, and a bit of the Americas.
The SCA was incorporated in 1968, but recognizes a tournament held in Berkeley, CA, on May 1st, 1966, as the beginning. Today, the SCA covers all the states and Provinces in the United States and Canada, with branches in Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and many other places throughout the world.
The Society is divided into sixteen “kingdoms”, each with it’s own King and Queen. If you are reading this, more than likely you are a citizen of the Middle Kingdom if you live most of the year in Illinois, but you can play and visit in any kingdom. The Middle Kingdom is comprised of Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Manitoba, and ports of Ontario, Kentucky, and Iowa. Kingdoms are divided into many local and regional chapters called branches. The local branch here is called the Barony of Shattered Crystal, and is centered in Belleville, IL, though members come from as far away as St. Charles, MO, and Godfrey and Marissa, IL. Local branches host events such as tournaments and feasts. SCA members from other branches come to compete and visit with everyone else. The Barony hosts two, sometimes three events a year, but there is usually at least one event a weekend within a four hour drive from Belleville. There are no local dues, although it may be to your advantage to become a paid member of the Society. Membership in the SCA entitles you to the kingdom newsletter, and another publication called Tournaments Illuminated, which is a research journal that is published four times a year. Members can become officers and are allowed to participate in activities such as heavy combat, fencing, and equestrian events.

GARB & CLOTHING
Every person attending a Society event must wear a attempt at medieval clothing. This is called “garb” by those in the society, also as “costumes” by those in the modern world Wearing costumes plays a large part in creating the atmosphere for our events, and does much to enhance the environment.
A newcomer is not expected to dress as authentically as someone who has been in the SCA for many years. A long dress or long skirt and blouse for women or a length of cloth with a hole cut for the head and belted around the waist for men will usually do the trick. Most branches, such as our Barony, also have loaner garb that can be loaned to new people at events. Ask the Chatelaine or the Gold Key (someone who is in charge of the loaner clothing) for something to wear to an event.
There are some don’ts at this point. Do not wear a white (or silver) belt, sash, or baldric. White (and silver) are reserved for members of the Chivalry. Some solid-colored belts, like red, green, or yellow, are often used to indicate that the wearer is a student of a particular person. Although these colors are not restricted, in this region and kingdom, they would cause much confusion and embarrassment. Necklaces of chain links without medallions or other pendants are also worn by special groups. Avoid wearing a metal circlet unless it is plain and narrow. If you are worried about making a mistake, ask someone. We will be glad to assist. Eventually, making your own clothing will become a major concern. Deciding what kind of clothing you would prefer is the first choice. One way of doing research would be to look at books on historical costuming until you find an outfit you like. Another way is to simply look at what others are wearing, and ask them about their clothing.
If you have further questions on garb, there are many excellent costumers in our Barony. There are also many publications that will give patterns or instructions on garb, such as The Knowne World Handbook which is currently being sold by our Exchequer (treasurer).

NAMES & PERSONA
Members of the Society have an opportunity to name themselves. You get to choose a name that you like, which was used during our time period. Any medieval name will be fine, as long as you follow some simple rules. First, the full name must be original. You can’t call yourself Henry Tudor. It must not have been used by anyone in period or currently used by anyone in the SCA. You cannot name yourself after anyone fictitious or in any way fantastical or legendary. Elvish and other fantasy names are not allowed. This is a historical re-creation society, not a fantasy one. At least one of the names must be a proper name, such as Henry, Thorvald, Anne, and so forth. You must have a second name, and that can be descriptive, a family name, a place name, or genealogical. The name must be in the style of the Middle Ages. You may use two languages or cultures in your name, but one is preferred and more than two is not allowed. And last, but not least, you can’t choose a name that includes a title like Count, Earl, Duke, and so on.
The best names are simple, short, and easy to pronounce and spell. If you get into some cultures, such as Gaelic or Welsh, everybody will mangle the pronunciation and misspell it every time.
Choose your name carefully, but don’t take too long. We have a tendency in the Barony to name people if they don’t name themselves.
The Herald can help you choose a name. Usually the first step is to choose a culture that you would have want to be a part of, and then decide on a name that fits the culture and that you like. Do not use “name-the-baby” books, because most of the names are not documentable for our period. Again, the herald can help with your quest for a name. A “persona” can be developed to go with your name. It can be as detailed as you like, or as short as you want. Most people would just choose a time period that they like and possibly an occupation, but you can come up with a complete history if you desire. If you want to create a “persona,” ask the Chatelaine for assistance.

OFFICERS, TITLES, & HONORS
A quick glimpse at the local newsletter or website will reveal many officers in the Barony. Most offices have strange names, but it is still a bureaucracy, regardless of how bizarre the names may sound.
Here is a quick rundown of the officers/position holders and what they do:

	The Seneschal is the legal representative of the SCA and is responsible for running and doing the paperwork of the group. He is equivalent to the club president
	The Pursuivant (also known as the herald) is the officer in charge of making announcements and helping people research their names and devices (the secretary).
	The Knight Marshal is responsible for overseeing fighter practices, seeing that the rules of combat are enforced, and training new fighters (a sort of range safety officer).
	The Chancellor of the Exchequer is responsible for the financial affairs of the Barony (the treasurer)
	The Minister of the Arts & Sciences coordinates the activities of the Arts and Sciences within the Barony. If you have any questions regarding the study and practice of anything in the Middle Ages, he/she is the person you might want to talk to.
	The Chronicler edits and publishes the local newsletter, the Shards.
	The Chirurgeon (pronounced ky-RUR-jun) is certified in first aid and provides first aid at events, tournaments, and other meetings.
	The Chatelain(e) is here to help newcomers and provide education in the SCA. If you have any questions about anything you might read here, ask her/him first.
	The Demo-Coordinator is in charge of scheduling demonstrations for the community and is a first contact for those who want us to appear at schools or social events.
	The Fencing, Archery and Equestrian Marshals are similar to the Knight’s Marshal but oversee only their specific portion of competition.
	The Minister of Children (MoC) organizes activities and entertainment for young people at Baronial gatherings and events.
	The Web Minister is responsible for the maintainance and general well-being of the Barony's internet web site.
	The Court Bard is is responsible for entertaining the grown-ups during Court, at feasts and other events.

In the Middle Ages, there was an hierarchy with kings, dukes, barons, and lord. The SCA has a similar system in each kingdom. All titles are earned and are bestowed by the Crown of each kingdom.
In the Middle Kingdom, a tournament (Crown Tourney) is held twice a year to determine the next King and Queen of the kingdom. The winner of the tourney will be the Crown Prince (or Princess) with the person that is fought for becoming the next Crown Princess (or Prince.) They will be Prince and Princess for about four months before they are crowned King and Queen at Coronation. They will then reign for six months, when they turn over the kingdom to a new King and Queen.

Whenever you address someone, it is courteous to use a title. No one is offended by “My Lord/My Lady”. You ‘might be politely corrected, but they won’t be angered.

The King and Queen are addressed as “Your Majesty”, “Sire”, or “My Lord King/My Lady Queen”. It is courteous to curtsy or bow in their presence. They wear gold crowns representing the Middle Kingdom.
The Crown Prince and Princess are addressed as “Your Royal Highness” or “Your Highness”. They wear silver crowns ornamented as they desire.
The Territorial Prince and Princess are chosen the same way as Kings and Queens, but instead reign over a smaller area known as a Principality. Currently, there is only one Principality in the Middle Kingdom, the Principality of Northshield. The Prince and Princess wear silver coronets and are addressed as “Your Serene Highness” or “Your Highness”.
Dukes and Duchesses are those people who have served at least twice as King or Queen. They are addressed as Your Grace” and may wear gold coronets with strawberry leaves.
Counts and Countesses have served as King or Queen only once. They are addressed as “your Excellency” and may wear gold “embattled” coronets (shaped a bit like the top of a castle wall).
Viscounts and Viscountesses are those people who have served as Prince or Princess of a Principality. They are addresses as “Your Excellency” and may wear silver “embattled” coronets.

There is another honor given to past Consorts of the Middle Kingdom and that is the Order of the Rose. They may wear a medallion with a rose of any color.

There are two kinds of Barons and Baronesses, Territorial and Court. Territorial Barons and Baronesses oversee a Barony for the Crown. They may wear simple gold coronets with six “spheroids” or pearls. They hold their lands in fief for the Crown. Territorial Baronies are very much a ceremonial aspect of the SCA, the actual paper shuffling and administrative work is done by the seneschal.
Court Barons and Baronesses have received this honor straight from the Crown, they are Barons and Baronesses of the Court. They hold no lands and may wear simple silver coronets with six pearls. They may have received the honor by serving the Crown directly, or for many years of service. All Barons and Baronesses are addressed as “Your Excellency.”

Within the Society, there are certain elevated ranks called “Peers of the Realm”. The Peers are made of three orders; the Chivalry, the Laurels, and the Pelicans. New members are recommended to the Crown by those already in the Order. All awards, including those to the peerages, are given by the Crown.
Members of the Order of the Laurel have shown themselves as a Master or Mistress of a particular Art or Science. They are addressed as “Master” or “Mistress” and may wear a badge with a laurel wreath.
Members of the Order of the Pelican have distinguished themselves by long service to the Crown, to the Middle Kingdom, and to the Society. They are addressed as “Master” or “Mistress”. They may wear a badge of a pelican “in her piety”, that is a pelican piercing her own breast to feed her young.
There are two branches of the Chivalry, the Order of Knighthood and the Order of Mastery of Arms. Elevation to the Order of Chivalry is based upon prowess on the field and for chivalry and courtesy off the field. Both are equal~ and are treated as such. The only difference is that Knights swear fealty to the Crown and wear gold spurs, a gold unadorned chain, and a white belt. They are addressed as “Sir”. Masters and Mistresses of Arms do not have to swear fealty to the Crown, and wear a white baldric and spurs. They are addressed as “Master” or “Mistress”.

There are other awards given by the Crown in the Middle Kingdom. A complete listing can be had by asking an officer or the Pursuivant. A few of the more common ones are listed below.
The Order of the Willow is given to individuals who have shown proficiency, but not yet mastery, of one or more arts.
The Order of the Silver Oak is given to individuals who have shown proficiency, but not yet mastery, of one or more sciences.
The Award of the Purple Fret is given to individual long service to their group, office, or Kingdom.
The Award of Arms is a very basic award which allows recipients to style themselves “Lords” and “Ladies”. It is usually the first award a person may receive. It is given for a variety of reasons, usually for service to the local group. An AoA entitles the bearer to use a heraldic device as arms.

The Barony has a few awards, too. The most common is the Baronial Award of the Shard. It is given for lengthy service to the Barony as an officer, work at events, and for many other reasons. It is generally given only once or twice a year. Others include the Crystal Orb for Arts and Sciences, The Lapis Milites for martial prowess, and the Lapis Rose for dedicated self-less service to the Barony.
Two other Baronial Awards is the Order of the Baron’s Own or the Baroness’ Pride. Each is rarely ever given. The first is for behavior that the Baron wishes others to imitate, while the second is given by the Baroness to those she feels have shown outstanding chivalry.
Finally, there are the Baronial Champions. There is a champion for each of the martial and non-martial activities. We have an Armored Champion, a Fencing Champion, a Thrown Weapons Champion, an Archery Champion, an Equestrian Champion, a Court Artisan, a Court Bard and a Court Poet. The armored, fencing, thrown weapon and archery champions are selected in a tournament held once a year. The individual tournaments are rotated throughout the year.

HERALDRY
The brightly colored designs on shields, banners, clothing, and personal items are all a part of the pageantry of the Middle Ages. In the SCA, we call it heraldry. In the broadest sense, Heraldry covers everything that heralds do, from making announcements, helping people devise their names and devices, and running courts. The devices, sometimes miscalled coats-of-arms, are personal insignia used to distinguish one person from another.
Heraldry in the SCA is basically pre-1485 Anglo-Norman in terms of technology, and pre-1600 in terms of charges (the objects depicted on the shield). SCA heraldry follows certain standard rules of heraldry, plus additional ones of its own.
Heraldry uses only a few tinctures, called colors and metals. The colors are: azure (blue), gules (red), sable (black), purpure (purple), and vert (green). The metals are:
Or (gold or yellow) and argent (silver or white). There are also furs that are combinations of metals and colors in a complex stylized design.
It is easier to see items on your device if they contrast with the backgrounds, so one of the rules is that colors may only be placed on metals and metals only be placed on colors. This guarantees that charges do not blend into the background. If you consider this, it is still true today with road signsPursuivant public insignia.
“Charges” are stylized versions of beasts, birds, everyday objects, and other items. They may be used separately or in combination with other charges. The combination of charges, tinctures, and field layouts results in a final, unique device.
A heraldic device may be used by anyone, as long as it is registered with the College of Heralds. “Arms” are bestowed only by the Crown. When granted, the Award of Arms will change your device into “arms”. A registered device may be placed on shields, clothing, banners, and personal objects. To register your device, check with the Pursuivant for forms. In fact, the Pursuivant will assist you with all the details of how to create your own device.

THE ARTS & SCIENCES
There are many types of Arts and Sciences practiced in the Society. Any skill or craft that was done in period will be practiced by someone today.
You shouldn’t feel pressured to start any of them right away, take some time and look around. Feel free to ask questions from someone who is creating something or has made something you’re interested in making. At our meetings, there is almost always someone doing an art or science. If you don’t feel like working on anything at first, that. is fine also. Many people don’t practice an art or a science for a very long time. However, it will greatly enhance you enjoyment of the SCA if you actually create something.
Most gentles in the Barony have been doing their crafts for a long time. Don’t feel that you have to measure up to their standards. We all were beginners at some point.
In the Barony, it is easy to get involved in the arts and sciences. Some activities include dancing, music, bardic recitals, embroidery, costuming, spinning, weaving, brewing, leather working, vintning, cooking, calligraphy, illumination, gaming, juggling, falconry, equestrian activities, and much more. If any of those sound interesting or if there is something that you would like to do but is not listed, talk to our Minister of the Arts and Sciences. It is his/her duty to assist gentles in the search for information and will be able to direct you to someone who knows something about what you might want to do.
We learn about how to create items from the Middle Ages by doing research. Fortunately, many people have come before us and have done the research beforehand. About every other year, in Illinois, there is an event called a RUM session. RUM stands for the Royal University of the MidRealm. There, you can take classes on a variety of subjects, from the arts and sciences listed above, to history classes, heraldry lessons, meetings for local and regional officers, and classes on fighting, fencing, archery, and a host of subjects. For finding research materials for something not in a class, ask our Minister of the Arts & Sciences.

COMBAT
Often the first thing a new person will notice at an event is the fighting. It is certainly the loudest. SCA combat is an attempt to recreate the fighting of the Middle Ages safely and as authentically as possible. There are strict rules concerning armor, weapons, and the training of the combatants.
No one under the age of 18 may fight in the Middle Kingdom. Furthermore, all fighters must be a paid member of the Society to “authorize”, even though you don’t have to be to train. Anyone, man or woman, is expected to train to be able to fight safely. After a period of training, new fighters are required to “authorize” before a group of marshals who will evaluate their ability and safety. After successfully completing an authorization, the new fighter may then compete in a tournament.
The Knight Marshal is here to assist you in training and in the acquisition of armor and weapons. It is the duty of each new fighter to make or buy his or her own armor and weapons, but the assistance is available, if for nothing else than to suggest a good armorer or show how to make the armor.
All fighters are supposed to know the Middle Kingdom Rules of the Lists. These are the rules and regulations for combat. Please see the Knight Marshal for a copy of the Rules (or see the webpage http://www.midrealm.org/marshal/handbook/kemhbindex.html ) .
Each fighter on the field judges the blows received as if they were given with a real weapon. Steel edged weapons are not allowed on the field of combat. The combats are judged on an honor system. If the blow would have killed or crippled you using a real weapon, then please take the blow. A solid blow to the legs deprives you of the leg, a solid blow on the arm deprives you of that arm, and a good, solid blow to the head or torso “kills” you.
A cry of “Hold!” is used in fighting to stop the combat immediately. A potentially dangerous situation might have developed such as leg armor slipping off or the fighting getting too close to the onlookers.
Fighters practice is a good time to see fighting and maybe practice it yourself. The Barony does have a set of loaner armor that you can wear if you feel like trying it out. It is a very good idea to actually practice with loaner armor before you decide to start buying armor, fighting is not for everyone and the armor can be very expensive.

FENCING
Fencing is relatively new to the Middle Kingdom. There are many differences between SCA fencing and college fencing. A schlager is the weapon used in the SCA. It is heavier and thicker than an epee or foil, closer to what a medieval rapier would have been.
Like the heavy weapons, fencers must also be over the age of 18 and must be paid members of the Society. The fencing marshal can assist you in training as well as the acquisition of fighting equipment needed, like a mask, blade, gorget, and other items.
- Also, like the heavy weapons, the blows delivered are accepted in an honor system. If the blow delivered would have killed or crippled you, it is up to you to accept the blow. The Middle Kingdom has a “touch-kill” standard.
Fencing practice is a good time to get involved with the fencing. There is loaner fencing gear available for you to use to practice on your first outing with the fencers. Please contact the fencing marshal if you are interested.

ARCHERY
Another popular martial activity is archery. Unlike the other fighting, there is no age or membership requirement, anyone can play providing that they have a bow and arrows.
There are restrictions on the bows and arrows themselves. The arrows must be of wood and compound bows cannot be used. Also, sights, pulleys, stabilizers and other modern devices are not used.
We have regular archery practice in the Barony. You can ask the archery marshal when and where the practices are. Practice would be a good time to ask about where to purchase bows and arrows. There are some shops in our area as well as catalogs you may order from.
Combat archery is also allowed in certain instances. That falls under the Knight Marshals, however. Please direct your questions to him for combat archery.

EQUESTRIAN
The Middle kingdom also has a dedicated group of horses and riders that compete in a variety of games, from the quintain to the rings. The Barony itself has the largest contingent of equestrians in Illinois. It is not necessary to own a horse to become authorized, nor be 18 years of age. Several owners are happy to let you borrow their horse during competition.

COURTESY & CHIVALRY
     Courtesy and chivalrous behavior are major differences between the SCA and the “mundane” world. If you are not courteous, you will not have a good time in the SCA. Courtesy includes being polite to everyone. It includes using medieval titles of respect when you address others, such as “my lord” or “my lady”.
Other examples of courteous behavior would be:
•        asking permission before touching or picking up anyone else’s property.
•        helping others with heavy loads, setting up for events, cleaning up after events or meetings, holding the doors for people with or without loads.
•        at events, don’t use flash photography during courts or at the fighting fields. The flash can distract fighters or blind them and can take away the “period” flavor of the moment.
•           heeding the heralds call to attention: “oyez” (oh-YAY). Heralds make announcements at events in addition to other duties, and since we do not use voice amplification devices, it is necessary for you and others to listen when announcements are being made.
•        making a reverence (a bow or curtsy) whenever you pass near (or if they pass near you) Royalty. You also should reverence when you pass in front of the Royal Thrones.
•        if you should have a need to draw a live steel weapon, such as showing a new purchase off to a friend, check around you to make sure that you can safely draw the weapon and exclaim “Clear!” in a loud voice to bring others attention to the weapon. Also, never wear weapons into the presence of Royalty or their regents, including the Baron and Baroness.
•        like the Boy and Girl Scouts, we take pride in leaving an area as clean, or cleaner, than we first found it. Do not litter, especially with obvious mundane items like cans or cigarette butts. Please take care of campsites and other areas
~        at events.
•        A cry of “Hold!” means for everyone to stop what they are doing. A potentially dangerous situation is present, such as children running onto a list field or you could be about to step onto something.

GUILDS & HOUSEHOLDS
Guilds are special interest groups within the SCA. They vary from region to region and may cover a variety of subjects. In general, anyone that has an interest in a specific area may be part of that guild. In the Barony, there are only a few guilds operational. Dance guild is open to anyone who shows up, as is the cooking guild.
Households are political and/or social organizations within the SCA. Households may be begun by anyone, usually have closed memberships, have no official status, and have new members by invitation only. If you are invited to join a household, think carefully before doing so. With a new household comes responsibilities and loyalties, as well as reputations to consider.
A household may be nothing more than a knight and his/her squires, a laurel and his/her apprentices, a group of friends who like to sit and drink, or a group of fighters who would like to start a tourney group. Some household exist just to have fun.

CHILDREN
While children are always welcome, as a parent, you are still responsible for your child at events. At events, children are expected to wear garb, too. Many events will try to have some sort of activities for children, but it must be remembered that it is not daycare. Only a few events actually have daycare, such as our fall event, Crystal Ball. If an event has children’s activities, it is expected that a parent will be there with his/her child. The children’s activities are not a babysitting service.
You will need to keep an eye on your child during the event. A child may easily run onto the list field where the fighters are and be injured. If you know that you as parents will be busy at an event, an alternative would be to bring your local baby-sitter and putting garb on him/her.

YOUR FIRST EVENT
Your first event can be very confusing. There may be many activities going on at the same time, and you may not have the time to see everything. Most events have a fighting tourney and a feast, but many others will have fencing tourneys, archery, equestrian activities, classes, meetings, arts & sciences competitions or displays, a court, merchants, and possibly other activities.
If you know you want to attend a certain event and stay for feast, send in your reservation early. The information for sending in the reservation can be found in the kingdom’s newsletter, the PALE, sometimes in the Shards or in a flier that the seneschal receives for events, or you could just ask the seneschal. Many are also found on the web (go to the calendar on www.midralm.org). Feasts will sometimes sell out early, so it is a good idea to send in a reservation.
Directions to the event may be found in the same places that were listed above for the reservations. If you find that it is hard to get to an event due to transport problems, like your car breaking down, talk to people a few weeks beforehand. Many people have room in their car for a passenger. (Some don’t have room due to all the stuff we take to events, so don’t be upset if some members refuse you.) If you do travel with someone else, check if you can pay part of the gas or anything else that is needed. Going to an event with an experienced member can be fun, and less stressful since they would be able to answer your questions.
When you arrive at the event, remember that everyone attending and SCA event needs to make an attempt at mediaeval garb. See the earlier section on garb for details of how to get some.
The first thing you need to do is to check in at the “Troll”. The troll is usually a few tables near the entrance where you check in at an event. You will need to pay a “site fee”, which is a few dollars to cover expenses for renting the site and for various items at the site, and a feast fee if you want feast. If you sent in reservations (with money) then you don’t need to pay again. You will also have to sign a waiver form at the troll booth accepting responsibility for yourself. You will then receive a “site token” which just confirms that you have paid. Keep it somewhere on your person.
At the event, if it is outside, make sure you have sunscreen. It is necessary. Also, check the rules of the site, if it is indoors, smoking may not be permitted, especially if it is a school or a public place. Alcohol may also not be permitted. Check beforehand before you bring alcoholic drinks to an event. A dry site will not allow alcohol; damp or discreet sites will allow alcohol but you need to conceal the fact that there is alcohol, you need to pour it into a period container while consuming (that’s called being discreet.); and wet sites will allow alcohol in any form and in its original containers.
Before the feast, at the troll booth, there will usually be a sign up and seating chart for feast. If you signed up for feast, check when you can put your name on the chart. It is assigned seating. This will allow you to sit with your friends. Also, if you have serious dietary restrictions, check at troll for a list of ingredients in the feast. If is really serious, call ahead to the “feastocrat” or head cook for details before the event.
At the feast, you will need your own feast gear. This consists of a plate or trencher, one or two drinking vessels, a bowl, knife, fork, spoon, and possibly candleholders, candles, napkins, and a tablecloth. If you need to borrow feast gear, ask at our meeting before the event, most people have more than one set. Also, bring along a plastic bag to put the dirty dishes in after feast, as not all feasts have places to wash your dirty dishes. Please do not use a sink in the restrooms for this as it will clog up the sink.
At feast, the food is served in several courses, or removes. Each remove will usually consist of a meat, bread, vegetable and possibly a dessert. It is not necessary to fill up on the first remove as there is usually two, three, or four removes. During the feast, there will usually be entertainment. During singing or storytelling, it is polite to keep conversations down to a minimum so everyone can hear the entertainment. Feast may last a couple of hours. If Royalty is present, or if the event is held in a Barony, there may be a court sometime that evening. It may occur before or during feast, but usually happens after feast. Court is when awards are handed out to the populace and presentations are given to the Royalty. Follow the actions of those around you when you should sit or stand. Applaud after someone receives an award, and bow or curtsy when the Royalty passes by into and after Court. Court may last for as long as ten minutes to an hour and a half. If you get bored or want to hold a conversation, please get up and leave the hail quietly.
After the festivities, there may be a Revel. This is usually comprised of one or more things: dancing (especially here in Illinois), music, singing or storytelling (called a bardic circle), games, or people just standing around talking.
After the cleanup of the site (pitch in if you’re still there) and the site closes, there may be a post revel somewhere, usually at a member’s house. They may be by invitation only, but the invitation will sometimes be for all there. They are usually wet and BYOB, so it is good to stop someplace and pick up beverages and snacks. Keep in mind designated drivers, while not period, are very necessary. An invitation to a post-revel does not include an invitation to stay overnight, either.
Sometimes, after an event, there may be crashing on site. This means that you can sleep there at the site overnight. Just remember to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow, blankets, and toiletries. If there isn’t, you may arrange to crash at someone’s house. Remember to be courteous when there and to have the above items with you.
If you would like to go to a camping event, it is not necessary to have a period pavilion. Most of us do not and use modern tents. Period pavilions generally are more expensive, take up more room in the vehicle, and usually require two or more people to set it up. It does add to the atmosphere and are generally more comfortable than modern tents, so it might be an investment in the future, but it is not a necessity.
Your first event will often be one of the most memorable experiences you will have. Remember to have fun while you are there and to see as much as you can. Take your time looking the activities over; you might want to do some of it yourself someday.

GETTING STARTED
There is much more that could be added in this book. If you don’t possess one, buying a Known World Handbook from our exchequer will be of assistance. It contains articles on many topics like the Arts & Sciences, fighting, and fitting in. It is designed to give a broad scope of what we do and to set people on a path if they are interested in a certain subject.
If you have questions about anything, feel free to ask one of our officers or just about any of our “older” members. We will be glad to offer assistance as we were once new like you.
Our business meetings may seem boring because all we talk about is business. They can last from fifteen minutes to an hour. Our Sunday meetings are closer to a real event as there will usually be fighting, fencing, dancing, and possibly archery. There will also be a potluck dinner there where everyone is expected to bring a dish of food that can feed several people. Garb is expected at our Sunday meetings, but not at our business meetings.
A main item that should be remembered about the SCA is that you get as much out of it as you put in. Feel free to join the fighters or fencers at practice. They usually have loaner gear available. Archery practice is another time to join in. If you see someone doing an art or science that looks particularly interesting, ask that person about it or find out I how you learn it. And anytime, if we need help with something, from an event or a demo, feel free to volunteer your time and energy. That is the best way to get started in our Barony.

Three Rivers: St. Louis, MO         Far Reaches: Carbondale, IL
Riverhold: Jefferson Co, MO         Lochmorrow: Macomb, IL
Carraig Ban: DeKalb, IL                Swordcliff: Springfield, IL
Illiton: Peoria. IL                Rivenstar: W. Lafayette, IN
Tree-Girt-Sea: Chicago, IL         Sternfeld: Indianapolis, IN
Dark River: Quad Cities                Wurm Wald: U. of Illinois
Blackhawk: Rockford, IL
Baile na Scolairi: Bloomington-Normal, IL
Shattered Crystal: Belleville, IL

KINGDOMS OF THE SCA
Ansteorra — consisting of the states of Oklahoma and Texas
(except for the Fort Bliss/El Paso area in the extreme western end of the Texas Panhandle.)
An Tir — consisting of the states/provinces of Washington,
Oregon, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and northern
Idaho.
Artemesia — consisting of the states of Montana, Utah, western
Wyoming, and southern Idaho.
New York State and the state of West Virginia.
Atenveldt — consisting of the state of Arizona.
the1marc — consisting of western Pennsylvania and western
Atlantia — consisting of the District of Columbia, and the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and southern Maryland
Caid — consisting of southern California, Hawaii, New Zealand, and the Las Vegas area.
Calontir — consisting of the states of Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and northern Arkansas (Fayetteville).
Drachenwald — consisting of Europe.
Ealdormere — consisting of the province of Ontario.
East — consisting of the states/provinces of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, northern Maryland, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, eastern New York State, Nova Scotia, eastern Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Meridies — consisting of the states of Alabama, Georgia, southern Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and southern Arkansas.
Middle — consisting of the states/provinces of Michigan, Ohio, part of Ontario, northern Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Manitoba, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
Outlands — consisting of the states of Colorado, New Mexico, eastern Wyoming, and the Fort Bliss/El Paso area of Texas.
Trimaris — consisting of Florida.
West — consisting of the states of Alaska, northern California, the Reno area of Nevada, and the continent of Australia and the U.S. Military bases in the Pacific.

SELECTED GLOSSARY
taken from A Glossary of Terms Used in the SCA and the Middle Kingdom; copyright 1989, The Rose and Nefr Press

Anno Societatis (A.S.) — literally, Year of the Society. This refers to the SCA’s method of numbering the years. A.S. 1 is 1966, the year that the SCA was founded. The SCA year begins on May Day (May 1) since that is the day the SCA was founded.
Apprentice — a “squire” to a Laurel, that is, a person who shows promise in an art or science who is taken on by a Laurel for extra training or help in exchange for service.
Armigerous — having an Award of Arms. This means the Crown has granted this person an Award of Arms and to use the title of Lord or Lady.
Arms — what an armigerous person’s device is called.
Authentic — being correct for a certain period and culture. Ideally, everything should be as authentic as possible, but concessions are always made. The more concessions you make, the less authentic you are.
Authorized — a fighter or fencer 18 years of age or older who has fought several test bouts before the marshals to prove that he or she is safe to him- or herself and to others in the tourney field. A fighter/fencer must authorize separately in each weapon style that he or she wishes to use. Also used to denote one able to participate in Equestrian activities.
Autocrat — person (or persons) in charge of an event. Makes the final decisions on all matters concerning the event. Does the planning and makes all the event arrangements.
Award of Arms (A0A) —this is the lowest ranking Society-wide award. It entitles you to use the title Lord or Lady and to call your device arms.
Awards — are given to people in official recognition of their efforts for and services to the Society or Kingdom. These awards can bestow titles or honors.
Bardic Circle — a gathering in which the participants share tales, songs, and poems on period and SCA subjects. Usually all who sit in such a circle are expected to contribute something Bardic circles are often held at post-revels and around the fire at camping events.
Board of Directors — this body makes all policy for the Society as a whole. They formulate the Corpora with the members input and are the final court of appeals in the Society.
Chivalry — 1) a collective term meaning all the knights and master/mistresses-at-arms of a kingdom or just a part of them. Refers to the fighting peerage orders. 2) a code of ethics and behavior which was a medieval ideal and which most Society members aspire to follow.
Circlet — a small (generally ‘A” to ¼” wide or less), usually
undecorated band of metal worn on the head. In some kingdoms, only armigers and above may wear circlets. If a circlet is worn care must be taken so that it is not mistaken for a Coronet.
Coronation — 1) the coronation ceremony. 2) the event at which the ceremony takes place. In the Middle Kingdom, the ceremony and event takes place twice a year, in March and September. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess are crowned King and Queen. The old monarchs then step down.
Coronet — a circlet decorated in various ways and worn by Baron/esses, Viscount/esses, Count/esses, Dukes/Duchesses, and Prince/sses of a Principality. More elaborate than a circlet, and only worn by those who are entitled to wear them.
Corpora — basic rules and by-laws of the entire Society. These are formulated by the Board of Directors often with the input of the members of the Society.
Court — 1) a formal gathering presided over by a landed noble
(King, Queen, Prince, Princess, Baron, Baroness). Awards may be given to deserving people and gifts may be given to the presiding nobles. Often refers to a royal court presided over by the King and/or Queen. 2) the group of people who surround the Crown at an event.
Crown — 1) what only the King, Queen, Crown Prince, and Crown Princess wear on their heads. 2) short for Crown Tourney. 3) a term used to refer to the King and Queen of a kingdom.
Crown Prince/ss — Prince/ss of a kingdom who will eventually be crowned King or Queen.
Crown Tourney — the tournament whose winner reigns as Crown Prince or Crown Princess until the next Coronation when they are crowned King or Queen. They crown their consort Queen or King and they preside over the next Crown Tourney. In the Middle Kingdom, this happens twice a year, in May and October.
Damp — adjective to describe sites or events where alcoholic beverages are allowed with certain restrictions.
Demo — short for demonstration. A Society educational lecture-demonstration for mundanes on Period fighting, arts, crafts, etc.
Device — 1) an heraldic design on a shield. 2) an heraldic design belonging to a non-armigerous person.
Dry — adjective used to describe sites or events where alcohol is not permitted.
Event — an official Society gathering listed in the kingdom newsletter which may consist of but is not limited to tournaments, feast, court, A&S activities and classes, and/or a revel.
Event Steward — alternate name for autocrat.
Favor — a ribbon, scarf, or specially constructed item given by a Lady or Lord to a fighter or any member of the Society as a token of esteem. It can be given permanently or for a specific length of time.
Feast — the part of the event when people sit and eat specially prepared period foods, usually accompanied by entertainment.
Feastocrat — a sub-autocrat in charge of feast.
Garb — Society clothing, i.e., period clothing worn by Society people at events.
Gentle — a polite term for an individual member of the SCA.
Gold Key — a collection of loaner garb for new people to borrow until they have their own.
Head Cook — an alternate title for feastocrat.
Head Table — at a feast, the table at which the presiding nobility sit, along with others whom this nobility wishes to honor.
Hold! — This exclamation means freeze, stop right where you are. When used within the lists, Hold may only be called by a marshall, never by a spectator. When this exclamation is used outside the lists, it is used only in emergency situations such as preventing someone from falling into a pit or stepping onto a rattlesnake.
King — the title granted to a man who has won Crown Tourney or to the consort of a Queen. The King also must have served as Crown Prince.
Known World — all of the members and activities of the Society.
Lists — 1) the physical boundaries within which Society combat takes place. 2) the fighting at a tournament. 3) the table where the person in charge of the lists and staff are.
Marshall — an officer in charge of either fighting, fencing, archery, or equestrian activities.
Mundane — non-Society. Used in phrases such as “mundane clothing” (blue jeans and t-shirt), “mundane food” (hamburger and fries), etc.
Novice — 1) officially, someone who has never won a tournament. 2) a new fighter or fencer. 3) someone who has been practicing an art or science for less than a year.
Oyez — an exclamation used by heralds, marshals, and other officials to gain the attention of an SCA gathering before an announcement is made. When you hear this, you should immediately stop talking in order to be polite and to avoid missing the announcement.
Peer — holder of a peerage level award, i.e. Knight, Pelican, or Laurel.
Period — a term referring to proper dress, mannerisms, speech, etc.; being in the style of an historical period.
Protege — a “squire” to a Pelican, that is, a person who shows promise of becoming a pelican who is taken on by a pelican for extra-training or help in exchange for services.
Queen — the title granted a woman who has won a Crown Tourney or the consort of a King. She must have served first as Crown Princess.
Regalis Universitas Mediterranae (RUM) — an organization within the Middle Kingdom that exists to disseminate knowledge and information on the historical Middle Ages and Renaissance as well as the history, traditions, and customs of the Middle Kingdom.
Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) — an international, non-profit, educational organization dedicated to the study and recreation of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Site — the place where a Society event is held.
Squire — a person who has sworn service to a knight or master/mistress-at-arms in exchange for training.
Troll Booth — the check-in point for an event.
Wet — adjective used to describe sites or events where alcohol is allowed.