Annotated History of the West - The History of the Kingdom of The

Transcription

The History of the Kingdom of the West
Being a Description of Events and Courts
Annotated by a Variety of Folk “Who Were There”
Volume One: The First 12½ Years
(AS I (1966) through AS XIII (1978))
by
Master Wilhelm von Schlüssel, M.L., M.P., O.L.M., Q.O.G.
©Copyright 1983 by William R. Keyes
(First Printing: March 15, AS XXX (1996))
(Annotated Version, Completed: April 15, AS XXXV (2001))
(“Typeset”/edited by Master Hirsch von Henford, OL,OP, etc., aka Ken Mayer,
September, 1993 - March, 1996)
Annotation Added Summer/Fall of 1998 through the Summer of 2000
Editing continued through Winter/Spring of 2001
Special Thanks to Editor: Mistress Eilis O’Boirne, OP, OL
and to the Artists:
Dame Teleri Tawel, OL (Original History of the West Printing);
Lord Nicholas Bawcock of Petersfield (Annotated History Artist)
Disclaimer: This history may have errors in it, as much of the detail is “remembered” history, or as one of the cover pages
of the original type-written manuscript states “The material within is derived from the information printed in The Crown
Prints and in The Page, and from the memories of the participants.” The original document was typed on onion-skin
paper, with hand-written notes (often in the margins). All attempts have been made to reconcile the notes with the
original document. Even so, mistakes will have been made -- please contact Hirsch with corrections ...
The History of the Kingdom of the West
As Compiled by Master Wilhelm von Schlüssel, OL, OP
Table of Contents
The Origins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
The West Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Year One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The First Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Second Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Third Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The First Twelfth Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The First Coronation and Crown Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The First Coronation Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The Year Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The Year Three . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
First Event of the East Coast Chapter, Whitsuntide Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
First Crown and Coronation Tourney, Kingdom of the East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
The Creation of the SCA, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Gripe Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
The Year Four . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
First Crown Tourney, Kingdom of the Middle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
The Year Five . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
First Crown Tourney, Kingdom of Atenveldt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
The Year Six . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
The Year Seven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
The Year Eight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
The Year Nine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
The Year Ten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
The Year Eleven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
The Year Twelve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
The First Estrella War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
The Year Thirteen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
The Principality of the Mists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
The Province of the Mists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
The Province of Ceantyre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
The Province of St. Andrew’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
The Province of the Southern Shores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
The Principality (Kingdom) of An Tir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
The Barony of Madrone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
The Barony of Three Mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
The Barony of Adiantum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
The Barony of Lion’s Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
The Shire of Eskalya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
The Principality (Kingdom) of Caid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Royal Tourney of Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
First Coronet and Coronation Tourney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
The Barony of the Angels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
The Barony of Calafia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
i
The Origin and History of the Society for Creative Anachronism and the Kingdom of the West
Table of Contents
The Barony of The Isles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
The Barony of Dreiburgen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282
The Marches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Atenveldt (Kingdom) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
The Barony of Allyshia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293
The Barony (Province) of the Golden Rivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
The Province of Shasta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309
Rieslingshire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312
The College of St. David . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
The Shire of Montalinas/Perilous Visions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320
The Shire of the Great Oak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Defunct Branches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Officer Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Society Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
Herald’s Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
Kingdom Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
Misc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
Royalty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
Kings and Queens of the West Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
Princes and Princesses of the Principality of An Tir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331
Princes and Princesses of the Principality of Caid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332
Princes and Princesses of the Principality of Atenveldt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
First King and Queen of the Kingdom of Atenveldt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 334
Awards - Created by, Date, and First Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337
Ceremony for Twelfth Night, AS II (1968) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
The Original Articles of Incorporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350
Record of the Gripe Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354
First Proclamation of the Laws of the West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 362
Songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 364
Men of Riesling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 364
A Song of Myles, Knight Marshall of Madrone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 365
The Caid Rebellion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 366
Mongolian Birthday Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367
From the Halls of Calafia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368
Stronger Than Heros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369
Song for Brian Dritar an Con . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 370
The Bellower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 371
Baby (Douglas) Longshanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 372
Misc. Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 373
“Magic Moments” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 389
Where Are They Now? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 392
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 400
ii
The Origins and History of the Society for Creative Anachronism
and the Kingdom of the West
Annotated
©
Copyright 1980 by William R. Keyes (Wilhelm von Schlüssel)
The Origins
The origins of the SCA go back to the year 1965, when David Thewlis (now Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit) and Ken de Maiffe (now Duke
Fulk de Wyvern) were studying the medieval orders of chivalry and the art of sword and shield fighting. In February of 1966 they began
practicing sword and shield fighting in the backyard of Diana Paxson (now Countess Diana Listmaker), a medieval history major at the
University of California at Berkeley. David and Ken had made the swords out of wood and the shields out of plywood, and were trying
to teach themselves how to fight and thereby learning how it was really done. They based their actions on the old order of chivalry. Diana
was enthralled with the idea and remembered the fabled “Last Tournament”. This was an event which took place in Scotland in 1839. The
Earl of Eglinton, a high-minded young nobleman, complete with castle, serfs, and a head full of the novels of Sir Walter Scott, decided to
dramatize the values of the Middle Ages, which were Scott’s and his own answer to the problems of the Industrial Revolution, by having
a tournament. Costumes were prepared, banners were sewn, and the springs of the London hansom cabs broken by the weight of men in
armor being born to practice. In was the social event of the year. The Great Day arrived and the splendid procession processed and the
jousting commenced. And then it began to rain ... Do you know what happens to armor in the rain? And banners? And respectable English
noblemen without any shelter? That was the end of the Romantic Period in England. (This is taken from Diana Paxson’s fanzine, Patterns,
which gave an account of the first tournament of the SCA. [This article is in the Appendices - see page ?])
Diana, David and Ken came up with the idea of holding a new “Last Tournament.” They would invite all of their friends over to Diana’s
backyard at 2219 Oregon St., in Berkeley, California for a tournament. Everyone would come in costume and the men could all be knights
and fight with wooden swords and shields for the right to crown their lady Queen for the day. Diana was going to graduate in June and
this would be a last fling before the end of the quarter and finals. The event was set for May Day, May 1, 1966. It was intended to be a
single time event, just for fun. Nobody ever expected it to continue.
Comments:
A [... a medieval history major at the University of California at Berkeley ...] “Diana, I think, was actually at Mills College, not UCB,
though Mills could have come later in her academic career. Ken and Dave were doing their practicing with padded maces
(hardwood handles and cloth wrapped heads, as I recall. The shields, however, were out of steel backed with leather. The steel
was sufficiently good to shatter an arrow from a 75 lb bow with essentially no penetration.”
“Diana was going to be going into the Peace Corp. Part of the genesis of the idea was to be the only one in the Corp who had
ever had a tournament in their back yard. Stefan de Lorraine and I knew her through fandom, primarily because of a shared
membership in al local SF group, The Elves, Gnomes, and Little Men's Science Fiction, chowder, and marching society. We got
the announcement from her and Henrik Olsgaard (later Henrik of Havn) saw it pinned to our bulletin board in our dorm room. He
was interested and asked if he could come as well. In the end, Stefan, Henrik, two other guys whose names I can't remember, and
I all went, catching a ride with another friend of ours, Felice (later Felice of Mayhem House).” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Bo of York (Howard Friedlander) was one. Alan Burafato (fencer, SF State) may have been the other one since he did attend
at least one event (at Cragmont Park - later).” – Henrik of Havn
a “I could remember Bo, though not anything more of his name. I don’t think the other one was Alan, but I can’t remember
it clearly. I think his name was something like Don or Dan.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
B
[... were trying to teach themselves how to fight ...] “By the time of the first tourney, both Ken and Dave had made themselves very
impressive leather and metal heater shields that had all of us agog. Dave’s was later burned in The Fire – though he kept the metal
face for years and may have it still. The arms he painted on the shield are the ones he bears today.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “16 gage steel with 2 or 3 layers of 1/8" thick leather.” – Henrik of Havn
“As far as I know, Ken still has his shield, and it caused an initial contretemps when the heralds became prominent, as the arms
depicted on the shield were those of the actual de Maiffe family, to which, as far as I know, Ken is Connected but not the arms
holder. I’ll wait to see if anyone who was there will comment on the origin of the name Fulk de Wyvern (Ken used his own in the
initial tourney) before I pass along second-hand gossip on the subject.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I think he changed the charges from the real arms, but the colors and placement are the same as the real arms.” – Henrik
of Havn
2 “Did he ever pass along secondhand gossip? The arms on Ken's original shield were in fact the de Maiffe arms. The charges
were changed from roses to boars' heads in his "registered" arms and I recall this coming from one of a number of decorative
~1~
B
shields we made for the (second tourney?) but Ken's shield was never repainted and he stopped fighting before it would have
been a real issue anyhow.” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
“The invitations were run off the mimeograph belonging to Felice (then) Rolfe (Felice of Mayhem) and distributed to many of Felice’s
friends in fandom. That’s how Steve Henderson (Sir Steven MacEanruig) and I got involved. A friend of ours in the dorms at San
Francisco State, one Henrik Olsgaard (Duke Henrik of Havn), saw the notice on our bulletin board and said "I do that kind of stuff."
We invited him along and he showed up with a pile of fencing sabers, lath weapons, and a broadsword he’d made from a truck
spring that was truly the 20 pound sword you keep hearing about in the fantasynovels that no real knight ever swung. Impressive,
though.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “It only weighed 5 ½ lbs. (the pommel was solid brass and the handle was 3/4" thick solid steel), but compared to Steve’s
Knight Templar small sword it was heavy.” – Henrik of Havn
a “For the sake of accuracy, I didn’t have the Knight Templar sword until some months after the SCA got started. For the
Blessing of the Swords I held one of Henrik’s fencing sabres.” – Stefan de Lorraine
b “It may have only weight 5 pounds but it felt a lot heavier at the time. Of course the pommel counterweighted it nicely. It was
heavy but balanced.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“The Eglinton Tournament is dealt with at length in the book The Knight and the Umbrella. Sorry, I don't recall the author's name.
“The fanzine Niekas was and is published by Ed Meskys, not Felice. She was a regular contributor.” – Karina of the Far West
D
[The origins of the SCA go back to the year 1965 ...] “Or back to 1962 when Ken and I were learning to fence in a Luftwaffe barracks
attic in Bremerhaven, Germany ...” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
[David and Ken had made the swords out of wood and the shields out of plywood ...] “We were using both wooden swords and oldsock-maces -- no rattan until about the third tourney. But the commenter is right that the shields were steel and leather (glued on)
heaters.” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
D
~2~
The West Kingdom
The Year One
May 1, 1966 AS I The First Tournament
At twelve noon Diana and three others were standing around in costume, one of
Diana’s roommates was still sewing on hers, and Diana was wondering what to
do with four people in costume, other than admiring the outfits. Then it was
2:30pm and there were people in medieval costume all over her yard. (Thus the
precedent was set for Official Society Time: about two hours late.) Dr. Elizabeth
King of the West - Or, a crown dancetty of three voided
of the West - Or, a crown dancetty of three
within a laurel wreath vert.
Pope, head of the Mills College English Department, was the Official Judge. The Queen
voided vert within a wreath of roses proper.
Second Judge and official archbishop was Don Studebaker, under the name of Sir
Jon de Cles. These two judges would determine the winners of each fight on a modified fencing basis, where one counted a “killing” blow
instead of a touch. They sat on red covered thrones in front of a purple hanging. Beside them, on a purple cushion, rested the crown, to
be awarded to the Champion’s lady (there were no kings at this time). A triumphal march was heard (the Processional from the Play of Herod
- 13th Century) and around the corner came a procession of knights and ladies. Two by two they came forward, bowing to the judges and
parting to circle round and join again. As they came up they were announced. There were Astrid Anderson (Countess Astrid of Hawk
Ridge) as Queen Lucy of Narnia, in a red dress with a bird on her arm, and her knight, David Bradley as David the Herald (Sir Ardral Argo
verKaeysc), Ken de Maiffe as Sir Kenneth (Duke Fulk de Wyvern) with his lady Mary (Duchess Mary of Tamar) who was wearing a flowing
leopard print, with high dressed hair and a monkey, and was something which Sir Kenneth had found while on the Crusades. Diana’s
roommate, Molly Titcomb (Mariana Silversea), wore turquoise satin, with Suzanne as a princess in blue and Benjy, in a russet cloak, as a
hobbit. Jerry Jacks (Israel ben Jacob) was Lord Mediocrates of Hellas, Richard Barnhart (Sir Aegineous, aka Duke Richard the Short, later
Richard of Mont Real/Mont Royal) was Sir Aeginius, Frederick Hollander was Sir Frederick of Holland (Duke Frederick of Holland), Steve
Henderson (Count Steven MacEanruig) was Sir Henderson, Henrik Olsgaard (Duke Henrik of Havn) was Sir Henrik the Dane, Paul
Wolfgangel, a graduate from Cal in linguistics, from Germany, was Sir Deutsche Bursenschaft, Marion Breen (Mistress Elfrida of Greenwalls)
was Dona Ximena (wife of El Cid) while Walter Breen (Walter of Greenwalls) was a “hairy hermit wild,” or friar of the Chaucerian sort,
complete with wineskin. Also present were Nathan Retiarius (who fought with net and trident), Edwin Bersark, Beverly Hodghead and Ellen
Hodghead with David Hodghead (David of Ilwheirlane) and Marynel Hodghead (Duchess Marynel of Darkhaven).
After all had been announced there was the long note of a horn, and David the Herald announced the blessings of the swords. At this the
archbishop, Jon de Cles, rose and let the sonorous Latin roll forth, “Ecce Eduardus ursus scalis nunc tump-tump-tump occipite gradus
pulsante, post Christophorum Robinum descendens ...”, and the assembly chorused “Amen.” The first combat was announced between
Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit and Sir Kenneth, with mace, and then Sir Aeginius versus Nathan the Retarius (with net and trident). There
was a pause as singers sang “Sumer is i-cumen in” and then two more combats followed by four dancers doing a pavanne. Then combat
resumed. As the other fighters were all styled as knights, and as David the Herald was fighting well, Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit, with
the consent of the rest of the fighters, called David forth to kneel and, in the manner of the medieval order of chivalry, dubbed him knight.
This was the first knighting in the Society, giving David (now Ardral Argo verKaeysc) the title of First Knight. The strength of the shields
that Siegfried and Fulk had made was proven when the father of one of the singers (Beverley Hodghead) left and returned with crossbow
and long bow. An arrow from the longbow merely chipped paint off the shield, leaving the broad arrowhead curled up from the impact .
The finalists were Sir Aeginius and Sir Deutsche Bursenschaft. Sir Aeginius was fighting with spear and shield. Sir Deutsche Bursenschaft
was wearing a fencer’s outfit with fencing mask and using a wooden lathe sword in the fencing manner. Sir Aeginius dealt a blow which
broke the sword and mashed the hand holding it, causing Sir Deutsche to fight with one hand behind his back and a mace in the other. Sir
Aeginius thrust with his spear and Sir Deutsche Bursenschaft dodged, they circled, Sir Deutsche caught Sir Aeginius between the neck
and shoulder, thereby “killing” him and winning the first lists. He placed the crown on the head of his lady, a “simple peasant maid.”
Marynel of Darkhaven filmed the tourney with her movie camera. Subsequently Sir Deutsche Bursenschaft returned to Germany and was
never heard from again. The participants so enjoyed themselves that they decided to do it again at Midsummer’s Day. After the tourney
twenty-four of the participants formed into another procession and processed all the way up Telegraph Avenue to the campus and back
again, protesting the Twentieth Century. About a dozen people stayed, procured some food, built a fire, and sat around eating roast chicken
and singing and dancing in the firelight. And thus the first revel occurred, with the revelers staying past midnight reliving the bright
moments, singing, drinking wine, and enjoying the fire.
~3~
Some time later, When Marynel’s films were developed, it was discovered that Sir
Aeginius, now Sir Richard the Short, had struck a killing blow that the judges had
missed. Richard was declared the true winner and Marynel of Darkhaven was
deemed his lady and Queen of the day.
Aeginius (Richard the Short, Richard of
Mont Real/Mont Royal) - Sable, in saltire a doublebitted axe and a Celtic cross Or.
Marynel of Darkhaven- Purpure, a dragon salient Or,
its neck embowed about an edelweiss proper.
Commentary:
A
A
A
A
B
B
B
[List of attendees ...] “Notably missing in this description, and particularly in this spot, is Felice Rolfe (now Maxam, SCA: Felice of
Mayhem House), the mother of Suzanne and Benjy. The mistake is probably caused by this account being taken from the account
in her fanzine, Niekas, in which she was describing the tourney from her point of view. The later Mistress of Mayhem House came
as a "Lady of Galadriel’s Court." While "Mayhem House" became part of her SCA name, it was actually her name for her abode for
many years before.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“I cannot remember whether Astrid of Hawk Ridge was present with her mother, Karina of the Far West (Karen Anderson) or not.
I have a memory of Karen acting as a herald, but that may be memory overflow from another tourney. Coming late to the party were
Sir Bela of East March (Poul Anderson) to pick up his daughter (and wife?) and Harold Breakstone (Clint Bigglestone) who had had
to work and came late. Definitely present was Janet Dottery (later Bigglestone, then Winter) whose first tourney identity slips from
my mind.” – Stefan de Lorraine
[... and the assembly chorused “Amen.”] “An extract from Winnie the Pooh in Latin, if anyone’s wondering. It sounded very authentic
to me as I kneeled in my costume of the inner lining of my raincoat and leggings of ace bandages holding a fencing saber.“ –
Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Specifically, "Winnie the Pooh went thump! thump! thump! down the stairs after Christopher Robin."” – Siegfried von
Hoflichskeit
[... leaving the broad arrowhead curled up from the impact.] “On the other hand, the crossbow bolt put an actual dent in Siegfried’s
shield which he carefully preserved with enamel. As I said before, the shield’s fittings were burned away in The Fire, no idea if the
shield face is still around.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “The shield face was unfortunately useless after the fire, and although I do not remember making a decision to part with it, I
no longer have it. I don't even remember for sure if it survived at all. My original helm survived -- as a burnt-out shell -- and
James Greyhelm much later relined it with leather, but the wings (made out of aircraft aluminum in point of fact) didn't make
it through the fire.” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
[Sir Aeginius was fighting with spear and shield.] “Actually, I don’t think Sir Deutsche had any kind of sword. The lath swords had
all broken by this time. Rattan swords were still months in the future. Essentially Deutsche had gotten to this point in the tourney
through fencing, while Richard had fought his way up using whatever weapons hadn’t broken yet. He started with a hardwood short
sword that broke relatively early. In the finals, he was using a Spear which had been the shaft of the Retarius’s trident. For the finals
to be fair, each combatant had to use a weapon he had not used before, which is why Richard had the "spear" and Deutsche was
using a mace. Seeing a mace used in fencing style is instructive…” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “He [Deutsche] used Richard’s 3/4" thick oak short sword for awhile, later a mace.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “I recall Richard’s 3/4" sword as a bit of a brute. It was even carved down to a blunt point.” – Steven MacEanruig
[And thus, the first revel ...] “The parade was interesting, since this was a period when parades of all kinds up and down Telegraph
Avenue in Berkeley were rather common. We were invited to a Workers Day party, but we decided to stick with a medieval theme
for the day. We tried to sing period songs, but the only thing all of us had any clue about was Greensleeves, which got old fairly
quick.” – Stefan de Lorraine
[Richard was declared the true winner ...] “One wonders what would have happened if Sir Deutsche had stuck around and been
active. I do know that an attempt to reverse the result of a tourney because of movies taken a couple of years later was roundly
shouted down because the participants were regular participants in the tourneys. And, of course, it wouldn’t have been important
at all if people weren’t totaling up tourneys won to determine who should be a duke when the office was created.” – Stefan de
Lorraine
~4~
B
B
[Marion and Walter Breen came up with the name of the Society for Creative Anachronism ...] “Actually, the original name was the
Berkeley Society for Creative Anachronism. I kept suggesting that the group use Society for Creative Anachronism in Berkeley, but
people didn’t like the acronym. Can’t think why… “ – Stefan de Lorraine
“Further Note that may duplicate one given by another participant on this list:
“Steve Henderson fought his first combat that day, a long duel with Edwin Bersark which he eventually lost. As he came off the
field, Felice looked at his sweaty face and battered body and asked, "Steve, are you all right?" Steve answered, "I’ve never had so
much fun in my life." Felice, "I’ll never understand men."” – Stefan de Lorraine
C
“Mariana Silversea ... asked me to tell you that she wore white nylon at the first event, she was dressed as Eowyn of Rohan (from
The Lord of the Rings).” – Glenna (For Mariana)
D
“Astrid's dress was a red-purple taffeta that I found at a Goodwill. I think it had once been a sort of dressing-gown, since it had a
zipper down the front. I altered it to be more like the Pauline Baines drawing of Queen Lucy in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,
adding heavy silver cord couched in a pomegranate and scroll motif. Did she have a live bird? Was it the parakeet she had about
then? I don't think I had my parrot yet.
“I was absent from the first tourney because I was on the East Coast -- not by choice. The first event I made it to was the one
in the park. At the time I was involved in the Hyborean Legion, a Conan fan group, with the office of Lion Queen of Arms. Hence the
tabard I wore: sable a lion rampant Or, the arms of Conan's kingdom of Aquilonia. "Karina of the Far West" was my Hyborean name.
George Scithers was publishing Amra in those days, and a number of its readers were primed for the Return of the Middle Ages.
“I can't recall whether I announced the combats that time, but I did keep track of matches and their outcomes. There were five
or maybe six fighters, and each fought each of the others. My photos show some of the combats; some arms and armor; the
Consortium Antiquum as a group; a group of archers; the autocrats, Elfrida and Walter; myself, with my then-long hair in braids to
my waist over a rainbow lamé gown and the Hyborean tabard; Fulke de Wyvern and Mary of Tamar, crowned with laurel.
“My gown, and a rainbow rhinestone tiara I wore with it, were from my Worldcon costume of the year before. Mary wore a sari.
Beverly Hodghead wore an Arab robe with headcloth and agal. The Consortium, of course, had period garb already, and most
fighters wore tabards or jerkins. There are about nine shields in the photo, mostly stacked, and all are flat wood except one that
began life as a garbage-can lid. As for head protection, there are two fencing masks and Sir Bela's augmented motorcycle helmet.
(The spoofing arms he refers to in his recollections feature gilded lilies, multiple bars, tuxedo-clad drunks as supporters and the
motto Dum Vivo Bibo.) His work gloves are there, and a right-hand gauntlet appears in one combat, but otherwise hands seem
to have been uncovered.
“Other gear included folding chairs, a camp stool, and a card table. (The Consortium brought at least one music stand.) There
was a red fabric draped over something I can't make out, to make a seat of pretense; there was also a cushion, with what looks
like an embroidered cover, that lay on the seat. A rope strung from one tree to another, high up behind the seats, supported a green
shield with a gold Irish harp and, at intervals, some narrow streamers. The archery butt was two haybales to pin a target on.
“Most of us must have been thinking by the end of the day that we could do it better next time.
“Of which, more later! – Karina of the Far West
1 “My recollection is that I wore a dark red velvet converted dressing gown at this event. The dark red taffeta (which began life
as a prom-type dress) with couched pomegranates was at a somewhat later event -- 2nd or 3rd Tourney. It's the one in the
photo with my father & George Scithers (who was wearing the "Uncle Ole " shirt.). The bird must have been a small stuffed
one -- I recall it as having a yellow breast and long striped tail feathers. I didn't take my parakeet to any tourneys, and no, the
parrot wasn't around yet.
“Dr. Elizabeth Pope commented that she was wearing the most authentic outfit there, being her doctoral robes and soft
cap.” – Astrid of Hawk Ridge
E
[He placed the crown on the head of his lady ...] “No! Pearl on chain necklace.” – Henrik of Havn
(In a face-to-face discussion with him, Henrik stated that this is what he remembers from that event – there was no crown, or wreath
of any sort, instead Sir Deutsche was given a small [“not large -- 20" perhaps” -- Henrik of Havn] chain with a very small pearl on
it to place around the neck of the Queen of Love and Beauty. -- Hirsch)
1 “As I recall, I was too busy having fun to notice. I certainly don’t recall a crown, however.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “First Tourney: I remember that there was a crown, the prettiest one for quite some time, formed of wire curliques with
semi-precious stones. Perhaps Diana made it? Perhaps I dreamed it? The movie should show whatever it was, necklace
or crown.” – Astrid of Hawk Ridge
“The ‘roast chicken’ eaten by those who stayed into the evening: ‘Market Rotiserie Cooked Chicken’” – Henrik of Havn
E
F
[The Procession ...] “Curiously, Diana actually left out my name and the name of the lady who came with me (and I blush to say that
I can't remember) from the procession but of course I was there.” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
~5~
G
“Many years ago Diana told me she had some trouble convincing Dave & Ken that anyone else might actually want to do such an
odd thing as fight with sword & shield. Later I asked Dave if it was Diana who persuaded them that anyone else might be interested
and he said that "That is essentially true." I believe (and I said this at the 30yr SCA Origins symposium led by Diana, Henrik, Flieg,
and Marianna) that Diana made 2 key decisions in organizing the First Tourney. One was requiring some attempt at period garb.
This made it an all-participant event, no one was a spectator, the way it is at Ren Faire and the like. The second was arranging
for period music and dance, including a broader cultural element, setting the course for a recreation of a whole culture, not a mere
martial arts club. Even though Diana had meant it as a one-time event, the way she did it set the pattern. When Diana was away
and Marion organized the 2nd tourney, things continued in the direction begun in May.
“I don't think the tourney dates related to Cal quarters. They were traditional times, May Day, Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox,
Twelfth Night. (Diana lamented to me a few years ago being unable to attend many SCA events because they conflicted with Pagan
events, but said it was her own fault because she chose those dates originally for SCA events before she was involved in Pagan
religious organizations.)
“Also, Diana was not a medieval history major, as I remember, she got an A.B. in English from Mills, then her M.A. in
comparative literature - emphasizing medieval literature, I think - at Cal. (But ask her, to keep the record straight.)
“Finally, Joaquin Miller Park is an Oakland city park, not in Berkeley nor part of Tilden, nor of the East Bay Regional Park District.
“Cragmont (3rd tourney) is a Berkeley city park. Before long, the greater room found in Tilden and other EB Regional Parks
became usual, although tourneys were held on the Mills Campus, at the Seminary in Marin that Richard attended, and a city park
in SF. Sorry to be so lengthy.” – Robert of Dunharrow
June 25, 1966 AS I
The Second Tournament
The enthusiastic turnout for the first tournament had proved that a roomier site
was needed for the proposed second tournament. It was proposed to hold the
tourney in the Joaquin Miller Park to the east of Berkeley. However, in order to
reserve a site in Tilden the band of medievalists had to apply to the Park Service
as an organization, for which a name was needed. Marion and Walter Breen
(Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls) came up with the name of the Society for
Creation Anachronism, because the group was trying to recreate the ways of the
middle ages as it could have been, which would certainly be considered an
anachronism in twentieth century Berkeley, and the goal was creativity. This
name was accepted and so the Society for Creative Anachronism was formed. Mary of Tamar - Or, two levriers rampant addorsed, tails
Fulk de Wyvern - Azure, a fess Or between three wiverns
argent.
couped, sable.
The Breens were autocrats for the second tourney.
The second tourney was held in Joaquin Miller Park, Oakland, California, on
June 25, 1966. Once again lists were held. Fulk de Wyvern defeated Edwin Bersark in the finals, winning the right to crown his lady, Mary
of Tamar, Queen of Love and Beauty. It was decided to keep on having tournaments. At this event it was found that aluminum pipes made
flat were not good swords as they bent. That summer, at a “1066 Party”, Siegfried von Hoflichskeit and Marynel of Darkhaven were married
in the first Society wedding, with all in medievals. (At the second tourney Alfonso de Castile showed up with the Consortium Antiguum
to perform.)
Comments:
A
“Of course, this is the early tourney I missed. Seems they had some silly rule about having to have a costume ...
“I was, however, under the impression that Fulk fought Karl vom Acht (Owen Hannifen) in the finals. Perhaps I am remembering
it badly and Owen was in the semi-finals. I heard the story from him, after all, and it was his first event. However, he did well enough
that when the first knights' list came up, he was on it. Not too bad for a (then) Angeleno who could only come up every few months
or so.
“I understood, too, that the aluminum pipe swords left a heckuva welt when they hit. Of course, everyone was still wearing
costumes, not padding.
“It was probably around this time that the UC Berkeley fencing department began to be wary of SCAers. Seems a bunch of their
saber helmets went missing ...” – Stefan de Loraine
1 “For years afterward they still had a problem about that ... Was it our guys who took them???” – James Greyhelm
I
“No idea, as I was not part of the Berkeley Mafia at the time. The fencing department certainly blamed the SCA. Perhaps
some of their people attended an event, saw the helmets, and assumed they had been taken from UCB. I seem to recall
that some of them had UCB markings on them. Long after we had homemade steel helmets, fencing students were being
~6~
2
B
warned to look out for SCAers trying to take UCB fencing helmets.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who fought in a combination army
helmet liner and catcher's mask and padded the back of his neck JUST before getting hit there very hard ...
a “Hey, I made the damned thing. I was vastly proud of it at the time. All you had to do was avoid getting hit on the side
of the head at the ear level or below or on the back of the head or neck. Sends chills down my spine thinking of
wearing it in combat now.” – Steven McEanruig
“The warnings to guard against getting your saber helmet stolen were still current at U.C. Berkeley as late as AS VII when I was
taking saber there. As a newly minted knight I felt it necessary to set the department straight. I met with the two primary
instructors and explained that saber masks had not been legal for SCA combat for years and offered to demonstrate what was
currently being used. On the last day of the quarter I and another SCAer from the epee class brought our gear to school, suited
up and proceeded to whale and whack upon each other with a great deal of gusto and a variety of weapons. The warnings
ceased as far as I know from that day on.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“To my great regret, because of having a deadline to meet, I couldn't be at the very first tourney, but was only able to take Astrid there
and afterward bring her home. What I saw and heard was enough to show me this was going to be a lot of fun and the whole family
would want to join in.
“So I started preparing for the second event. At Karen's suggestion, I bought an old wool sweater at the Goodwill and sprayed
it with aluminum paint to look sort of like a mail shirt. My helmet from long-gone days motorcycling around overseas was to cover
my head. I fitted a sheet metal faceplate to it and draped a metallic-looking cloth behind to hide the leather [this was an old design
of brainbucket -- KA] and be a coif. The helmet itself I padded to protect the spoofing arms painted on it. Even so, there's a dent on
top that must have been acquired that day. Spray-painted work gloves served for gauntlets. A shield cut from plywood was green
with a raven thereon; the principles of heraldry weren't yet being applied, and I liked the idea of a raven on Tower green. A light
wooden ax, wielded one-handed, seems to have been my only weapon, though here a snapshot must do for memory. Hiking boots
were and remained my footwear.
“I got thoroughly trounced, and the poor three-ply shield ended in splinters, but the tourney was nevertheless a grand occasion
and, like probably everybody else, I sought to do better thereafter.
“The third was at Cragmont Park in Berkeley. After a while I noticed a couple of police officers. They stayed for half an hour or
so, but since there didn't seem to be anything the matter, my household gave them no particular attention. We only learned the full
story later.
“In those days Berkeley was a cauldron of what called itself protest. A sheet styled the Berkeley Barb was among its raucous
voices. Word of what had been seen came to the editors, who eagerly started to write a feature piece on how a few poor
medievalists couldn't enjoy their innocent sport without being harassed by the brutal cops. Somebody who had been there
explained that, actually, the officers had stopped by to warn that several cars were illegally parked and had better be moved if the
owners didn't want tickets. They got so fascinated that they lingered as long as they could just to watch. The black member of the
team, especially, made critical remarks about the handling of various weapons. That was all. So the Barb ran a headline:
FUZZ COZY UP WITH FEUDALISTS
(Although, naturally, a number of our younger members counted themselves among the rebellious, our relationship with police was
always cordial. There was even some talk about giving them some shields and instruction, because none of us condoned mob
violence, but evidently nothing came of it.)
“About that time or before, members were asked to choose medieval names. I settled on Bela of Eastmarch. The place name
came from the fact that at that time our house was farther east than anyone else's, in Orinda. This in turn suggested an Eastern
European cognomen, and "Bela" was, in a way, my small tribute to the Hungarian Revolution ten years earlier. The persona was
thus more or less a rural Magyar knight who'd heard tales of these here new-fangled tournament things and come northwest to
see what they were all about. (SCA knighthood wasn't instituted till later.) However, I made no special effort to act it out. My lady
became Karina of the Far West and our daughter was Astrid of Hawk Ridge, the street above ours [running along a ridge - KA] being
El Gavilan.
“In my forties, with most opponents ten or more years younger, I generally lost my battles. Then classes and practice sessions
began in Berkeley. I attended pretty faithfully and improved until I was winning enough to be among the first who were knighted in
the Society. My lady took a special role as a herald, since she has a strong voice and theatrical experience had taught her how to
make it carry. This led her to research in the general field of heraldry, in which she'd long been interested, and she became a
leading member of the College and eventually chief herald of the West. [Actually, of the Known World, when it consisted of four
kingdoms plus dependencies in Outremer. - KA] In time the work load grew too heavy, but she left the office in good hands.
“She was also an excellent artificer, designed our pavilion, and tailored the covering. I believe it was the first to be relatively easy
to set up, take down, and transport, its core being a collapsible aluminum frame strung with clotheslines. Of course, still better
models appeared later, but we stayed with this. We carried the whole works in a long gray bag on top of our car, where it resembled
a gun so much that we dubbed it the Gray Mauser. The car sported the vanity plate WYVERN, reflecting her arms. My own arms,
which she also created, were canting -- Azure, a saltire (aka cross of St. Andrew) argent, between two suns or in pale.
~7~
“For my part, I was the woodworker, among other things making the folding table on which we set forth our viands. My new
shield, five-ply and metal-bordered, proved durable, if a bit heavy. I made a number of swords, at first from oak and fairly realistic
in appearance -- some so much so as to be strictly for show -- then from rattan shen that became regulation. I also turned another
motorcycle helmet, bought second hand, into what I think was the first helmet in which a man could safely fight wearing glasses.
It wasn't much for looks, a sort of truncated pig-faced basinet, but it too served me for as long as I joined combat.” – Bela of
Eastmarch (via Karina)
C
[That summer, at a “1066 Party” ...] "Separate event – not wedding!" – Henrik of Havn
D
“I missed the second tournament due to summer camp from Air Force ROTC. I did get several letters about it from Stefan and Felice
of Mayhem House, both of which letters helped me get through the camp, where I was not precisely the most eager military type
around.” – Steven MacEanruig
September 25, AS I 1966
The Third Tournament
The third tournament was held in Cragmont Park in Berkeley on September 25, 1966. Henrik the Dane (Henrik of Havn) defeated Fulk de
Wyvern in a very close fight and crowned his lady, Wendryn (Wendryn of Townsend), Queen. (Henrik had not yet chosen his lady and
was about to enter the final round. He saw Wendryn with some friends and went over and asked her to be his queen. She and her friends
had come from the local high school to visit and she was surprised but agreed. Then Henrik won and she was crowned and given a
commemorative scroll, which she carried around with her the next day at school.) (Richard’s title of Count and Wendryn’s title of Countess
were later dated to this date.) Edwin Bersark received a scroll for excellence in archery. Harold Breakstone began heralding.
Comments:
A
[Henrik the Dane defeated Fulk de Wyvern ...] “Henrik largely won because he was using a morning star made from some kind of
tool handle, chain links made of leather, and a jacks ball festooned with suction dart tips. Gorgeous looking weapon, but it had none
of the weight of the actual weapon (just as well) and it moved entirely too easily. He really looked good using it. At this time, I don't
know if there was any evidence of the "El Cid" effect (watch the movie with Charlton Heston, particularly the attack on several knights
by El Cid swinging a morning star that sends knights falling but manages to hit the heads of several horses, and El Cid's head,
without effect) but the weapon was rapidly banned. I think it might have burned up in a fire some years later, but Henrik might still
have it around ...”
“This tourney was significant for the many attempts at working weapons. No one had made the rattan connection yet, and there
were many attempts at working swords. There were some leftover aluminum blades, and various attempts at hardwood weapons.
Sir Bela was buying different woods and turning out swords, most of which broke. Probably the best of the lot was Steve
Henderson's boken, which was, after all, meant for this kind of work. It also inspired him to wear his gi and call himself the
Slaughtering Samurai, which I, as a sometime herald and his roommate, insisted on mutating into the Slobbering Samurai, and
other japes. I don't think he has ever forgiven me. I suppose if someone had shown up with shanai it might have meant an entire
different look for SCA arms and armor ...
“Another doughty warrior was Barry Gold as Shylock of Venice, armed with his weighted money bag. It didn't quite have the flair
and effect of the morning star. There were competitions in various weapon styles. One of some interest was maul and javelins.
The mauls were long dowels with sock padding on one end. The javelins were broom handles with crutch tips on the ends ...” –
Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I have long forgiven Steve for the various bad jokes. That the thing came off as well as it did indicates how seriously we were
taking the whole group at that time. The boken worked pretty well for some time. When rattan was discovered it was initially
in 1" thick pieces, which broke quite nicely against the boken. When the thing finally began to crack I pumped in glue and then
later wrapped the whole blade with glue and string tightly. I'm glad I never had to get hit by it. I think I gave it to Henrik when I
left for Europe and the Air Force in 1967 and I'm told it eventually burned up in a fire.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
[She and her friends ...] “No, they were from San Rafael in Marin County (across the bay) and Henrik was from San Anselmo - which
is the adjoining town to San Rafael - they were all Marinites!” – Henrik of Havn
1 “Interesting and it fits my memory. When I originally said local high school I meant local as in Bay Area, not as in Cragmont
Park/Berkeley.
“But how does this jibe with Patrice’s recollection of Wendy attending her high school in Richmond (which is admittedly
across the Richmond/San Rafael bridge from San Rafael – but it would have meant that she was going to school over a county
line. No idea if this happened in those days)?
~8~
B
B
C
“And of course, Wendy might have had separated parents who lived on each side of the bridge. I never knew her family.”
– Stefan de Lorraine
“Henrik chose to ask Wendryn to be his lady (not Queen) before the final combat because she was the prettiest girl in the group,
but to hide his feelings he claimed it was because she was the only girl wearing a long skirt.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “Speaking personally, Wendy was ok, but her friend Terry was definitely the best looking one there. With all due respect to
Henrik, I think he’s reasoning ex post facto on this one. Then again, looks are all in the eye of the beholder.” – Steven
MacEanruig
2 “Wendryn: I won't get in any argument about whether Wendy was the prettiest girl around, but she was pretty enough, certainly,
and more importantly, had a personality like sunshine, totally cheerful and pleasant.” – Robert of Dunharrow
“Note – Henrik wore the first steel helm in the SCA in the lists (a 4 plate Spangenhelm with nasal made from the 4 corner pieces
of square steel his steel round shield was made from). He also wore a 16 inch square breast protector made of ½" diameter ring
chainmail made from coat hanger wire.”
“It is 14 ga. steel, work hardened on a 2' long piece of railroad track, as I cold worked and dished out the plates. After it was
riveted together I stuck it on my head for fit. Then I pounded on the spots where it touched my head from inside till it fit well enough
to wear, then I added the nasal and finally the lining of thin leather." – Henrik of Havn
1 “That spangenhelm was fascinating in that it was form-fitted to Henrik’s head. I guess he pounded the steel around his skull
and then fastened the pieces together. If anyone else tried to wear it, the nasal hung down over one eye. And the only thing
between Henrik’s skull and the helm was a thin leather lining. No space, no suspension, just the leather.
“I remember Henrik claiming that the snug fit made the helm act as an ultra strong second skull. He may be right – I don’t
recall ever seeing him hurt by a blow to the head.” – Stefan de Lorraine
I
“As far as I recall, that’s right – but after I retired that helm in AS 10, I did get a serious headache/bell ringer from a head
shot from Duke Paul of Bellatrix through a loose bassinet and stiff padding underneath and I think I also had a full mail
coif on inside.” – Henrik of Havn
II “The only bell ringer I ever got wearing John the Lean's prototype pressurized gas cannister helm (he used an acetylene
tank instead of freon) was from Paul during a melee. I had the choice of blocking Paul's head shot or Steven MacEanruig's
leg shot and I'd never before been hurt in that helm. Watch the pretty birdies Kevin.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “They were all Freon drums. But I think that yours was one of the early heavy gauge drums. One time on a trip Henrik
tried putting a hole in one with a 32 caliber pistol. It turned the shot.
“Paul had an ability of hurting you where you had never been hurt before. ;-)” – Jon FitzRolf
I
“Actually, I did have a little extra padding which consisted of the unpadded cloth from my mail covered coif that I always
wore with the helmet. The cloth came from the legs of an old pair of school pants I had (not jeans). I made 2 coif shapes
and reversed the seams and sewed them wrong side to wrong side leaving a smooth interior and smooth exterior hood
with a 2 toggle closure at the throat. Then I sewed the mail to the hood starting at the top of my ear level and covering it
all the way down to my shoulders and collar bone and upper back. The bottom of the helm ended where the mail started.”
– Henrik of Havn
2 “Henrik's Norman helm: Just a leather lining, no padding, and a snug fit on his head. I did once daze him momentarily in a
small melee with a blow squarely down on top with a 5' maul (rolled carpet on end of rattan shaft). Once Henrik saw the helm
Fulk had designed for me, he copied the patterns and made ones for himself & all his household, with foam padding. But his
Norman helm & mail hauberk still look great especially when he is on horseback with shield & 11' oak lance. By the way, it was
in AS III, that Henrik & I started tilting at quintains on horses borrowed from ladies in the SCA. Alisande de Rohan, whose horse
I often used, built a quintain, but it flew in pieces once when I hit it squarely at a full gallop. So Henrik, who has
invented/developed many excellent items of equipment during his SCA career, built a quintain that no one has been able to
hurt very much.” – Robert of Dunharrow
I
“I should have mentioned the chain mail. The helmet looked great, however.” – Steven MacEanruig
a “Henrik's Chain Mail: I got to try it on once -- way cool! Although it was forty pounds or more, the weight was
distributed and wasn't uncomfortable at all. Although after an hour or more, I'm sure one got tired ...” – Astrid of Hawk
Ridge
“Of relevance to me, if no one else, is that there was an annoying squally baby girl at that 3rd tournament - yours truly just 1 month
old (mom always said it was 3 weeks, but the date of the event sez otherwise).” – Eden of Lionsguard
“The Wendryn Story”
A “The Saturday evening before the 3rd tourney, which was on a Sunday, Sir Steven MacEanruig and I (he was still flailing about for
a name at the time and adopted the Slaughtering Samurai moniker for the tourney – I was already some variation of Stefan de
Lorraine because my mother's side of the family was from the Alsace Lorraine area and my father's family was French by way of
Canada) went to a party in Berkeley held by some friends of a friend of ours, Phil Salin.” – Stefan de Lorraine
~9~
1
A
A
A
“Well, I wasn't exactly flailing about for a name, since as I recall, I had used Steven of the Ashenlands (my real name being
Ashland Steven Henderson. My recollection of why I used the Slaughtering Samurai is basically that the whole thing was still
a game, not the way of life it more-or-less became later. Of course, I missed the second tournament (something about being
at R.O.T.C. summer camp that the government wanted me to do), so I may not have been taking it as seriously as some.” –
Steven MacEanruig
“At the party were several young women, mostly of high school age (Steven and I were in about our third year of college) who were
interested in coming to the tourney we were talking about. In the end, four did so. Two were dressed in tunic and tights. Two were
in peasant blouses and long skirts. One of the girls in blouse and skirt hit it off with another friend of ours from San Francisco State,
Rod Baird, and the two of them spent most of the tourney wandering about the park, checking in occasionally to see if their
respective rides were still there.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Don't remember the fourth one, but I have no reason to doubt that there was one. Personally I was more interested in one of
the other two, Terry something-or-other, a tall brunette that I had hit it off with reasonably well, though nothing ever came of it.”
– Steven MacEanruig
“Towards the end of the lists, when it looked like Henrik (using morning star) would be fighting Fulk (using an axe made of plywood
on a broom handle – the swords had all broken, this was BR [before rattan]) in the finals, it was pointed out to Henrik that (1) he
needed a Lady to be Queen of Love and Beauty, and (2) there were these girls who were hanging out with us who weren't taken
yet. He came over to the group, we introduced him, and he looked at the remaining girl who had a skirt on and said, to the best of
my remembrance, "You're wearing a skirt, would you like to be my lady for the tournament?" The girl, Wendy Townsend, said she
would a little dubiously, since she had not much idea of what the position would entail. The other two girls were probably regretting
taking on the Maid Marian look for the event.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I remember the maul and javelin combat well, since I was one of the people in it, Fulk de Wyvern being the other. All javelins
missed. I think we each swung once with the maul. I took his leg and he bashed me over the head with it. I went down like a
ton of bricks and I suppose I'm lucky I didn't break something, like my skull.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Henrik went on to win, and Wendy was to be Queen of Love and Beauty. Some asked what she should be called, since Wendy
is not a Medieval name (I've seen it written that Barrie invented the name for Peter Pan -- though it seems a natural nickname for
Gwendolyn, but perhaps Barrie invented that, too). I suggested that she change her name slightly to Wendryn, giving it a kind of
pseudo-Celtic flair. She accepted the idea, and used the name in the SCA thereafter. I have no idea whether it is actually any more
Medieval than Wendy ...
“She later became very good friends with Duke Richard of Mount Royal and his Duchess La Rana, so much so that they named
their first daughter Wendryn, and were rather shocked to discover that I had invented the name. But I digress ...
“Wendryn was presented with a floral crown and a scroll declaring her the Queen of Love and Beauty. We were informed by
various of her friends that she spent the next day at high school wandering the halls with crown and scroll telling everyone, "You'll
never believe what happened to me."
“I think that's pretty much the story.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who wonders what has become of Wendy in the 15 or so years since
I last saw her ...
1 “Last I heard she was studying beavers for some advanced biology degree or other, which gave her a lot of opportunities to
make some very bad jokes.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “Steve's retelling of the Wendryn story offers me a less bulky forum to make a minor correction to a comment from installment
#3 about the third tourney. Wendy was NOT "from the local high school" (which would have been Berkeley high), she was a
classmate and friend of Patti Conrad's (Countess Patrice di Coeur Fidel) at De Anza high in Richmond, roughly 15 miles north
of Cragmont Park. She indeed did wander around the De Anza campus the following Monday with her crown and scroll, it was
the first time that any of us (except Wendy) in western Contra Costa County had heard of the SCA.” – Kevin Peregrynne
January 6, AS I 1967
The First Twelfth Night
As the Berkeley weather forbid any further tournaments outdoors until the spring, and as the Society events were basically scheduled to
fit around the UC Berkeley quarter system, the next event was held indoors on January 6, 1967 at the Mills College Student Union in
Oakland, California. This was the first Twelfth Night Revels. The idea of having Kings had been discussed, and it was decided that the
winners of the lists would be the Kings. Henrik, the winner of the last tourney, was informally referred to as “the king” ... Alfonso de Castile
and his Consortium Antiguum performed. Medieval dances were taught and performed. Siegfried von Hoflichskeit gave the Muckin’ Great
Clubbe to Fulk de Wyvern as a Christmas present.
Comments:
A
[... events were basically scheduled to fit around the UC Berkeley quarter system ...] “First time I've heard of this, particularly since
hardly anyone was a student at Berkeley at the time. After all, we were using the Mills College student union because various
~ 10 ~
A
A
B
members were Millsies. Henderson, Henrik, and myself were going across the Bay to San Francisco State. Of course, I suppose
some people were going to Berkeley fencing classes ...” – Stefan de Lorraine
[... it was decided that the winners of the lists would be the Kings.] “No one was too sure what to do with a King at the time, but
someone (Fulk?) came up with the idea of Lord of Misrule. They decided to choose the Lord of Misrule by having a little wooden
figure put in a square of a cake baked (I believe) by Ellen Hodghead. He (or she) who bit upon the cake became the self-same Lord.
“I got one of the early pieces. Nothing. I was told later that David Hodghead was the one to bite down on the figure and promptly
complained that he didn't want to spend the evening thinking up entertainment for everyone else. Steve Henderson, who was
passing the cake around, said "No problem." They put the figure into the biggest piece left and brought it to me. I said I had already
tried. They said that everyone had tried and there was still no Lord. I, as Steve knew I would, grabbed the biggest piece and bit down.
Unfortunately, the piece was so big that I missed the wooden figure with my first bite. David and Steve were somewhat surprised,
but assumed that maybe they had forgotten which piece they put the figure in. I kept chewing and said "wait a minute," as they were
walking away, looking for another sucker.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“It was actually a very enjoyable evening. I had a girlfriend there from my home town who knew nobody, and this gave her a
chance to be Lady of Misrule and preside over mustache measuring contests and the like. No, this was not Luise. Luise showed
up in the Bay Area soon afterward and I believe the March tourney, the fourth, was her first event.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I think I had a good time, but I recall it as also being enormously crowded. I've been to the Mills Student Union many times
since and I can scarcely imagine that many people being there all at once. Mills is a great hall, beamed ceiling, huge fireplace
at either end, altogether great place.” – Steven MacEanruig
“As I recall, Fulk and Edwin staged a short combat in the hall, and Lord Mediocrates entertained us with his rendition of "The 12
days of Solstice" (featuring "A sun god all crowned with hol-ly" and "10 catered orgies"). Since the Muckin' Great Clubbe didn't start
getting handed out to doughty fighters until after the next 12th Night to my recollection, perhaps it wasn't given at this event. But I
am entirely unsure...
“I'll be interested in seeing what others remember of the evening. I know Karina sang a song that's a favorite of mine from
"Silverlock," but I can't remember its title; has to do with Gilgamesh and Innini and suchlike people.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is
getting nostalgic for mulled wine and cider (it has been awhile..)
1 “The Clubbe was given at that event, to Fulk. Jerry (Mediocrates) had actually written quite a good heathen version of the 12
days of solstice. I have the words written down somewhere, but as I remember them they go like this:
On the 12th day of Solstice, my priestess gave to me:
12 catered orgies,
11 ancient witches,
10 sorceled potions,
9 captive demons,
8 red grimmoires,
7 scheming wizards,
6 bottled genies,
5 casks of wine.
4 chanting priests,
3 love charms,
2 magic rings,
and a sun god all crowned with holly.” – Steven McEanruig
“Siegfried von Hoflichskeit gave the Muckin' Great Clubbe to Fulk de Wyvern at the first Twelfth Night as a Christmas present, not
as a prize. Fulk was the one to make it a prize by giving it away to another doughty fighter, thereby establishing the tradition. (At
least that is what Dave Thewlis told me back then.)” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
1 “I knew how Fulk got it, and I'm pretty sure he gave it to Berzark, who gave it to me. I suppose it just sat on Fulk's wall (or next
to his very medieval looking fireplace – he lived in Fox Court) for several months before he passed it along to Edwin ...” – Stefan
de Lorraine, who got belted, chained and clubbed in one tournament. Those were violent times ...
I
“My memory also. I still remember Fox court. A great little apartment off of University in Berkeley. Now and then I drive by
it and remember fighting on the brick walkway there, doubtless to the confusion of passerbys. I remember when Henrik
first got his mail shirt completed and everyone (Me, Stefan, Fulk, and Edwin Bersark) had to try it on. Edwin was last in line
and got his beard caught in the butted mail links. It took some effort to get it off of him along with some rude jokes.
“All this talk takes me back again. Things like riding the bus (this was pre-Bart) across the bay bridge, mostly wearing
what armor we had, carrying shields, wooden and rattan weapons, maces, axes, and the like. As least we weren't afraid
of being mugged.” – Steven MacEanruig
~ 11 ~
II
III
“Ken and Mary were living in a small studio apt. at Fox Court on University Ave. in Berkeley and had very little room and Ken
may have considered it a white elephant and gave it away as an award to prevent hurting Dave’s feelings.” – Henrik of
Havn
[... gave it to Berzark ...] “No - to Henrik.” – Henrik of Havn
A
“While it's obvious that Steven and I have slightly different memories of events (I could have sworn that I was told David Hodghead
was the one to first bite down on the little wooden doll -- oh well), we were roommates at the time and most of our memories are
coming from the same angle. There were whole realms of activity that we were not privy to. And I'm not even asking about the
political lines that were being formed between Berkeley and the rest of the Bay Area (largely because of commute distance and
telephone costs) even in these early days ...
“A lot of what I'm saying is speculation and hearsay (albeit speculation and hearsay from the period, as I remember it). Does
anyone have any other rumors from the period they want to share?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is actually relishing the memories
of the sounds of the voices of the people who were passing on the gossip and the memory pictures of the people talking in various
living rooms and porches and kitchens long gone (except in the case of the Andersons – definitely one of the First Stops in the Bus
Tour of Pivotal SCA Sites).
1 [There were whole realms of activity that we were not privy to.] “I remember the 12+ hour drive up to participate in "Northern"
events for those of us who lived in San Diego. That was before I-5 was built - afterwards it only took about 10 hours.
“I heard about the SCA from a friend's showing me the article in Time Magazine, must have been '68 or '69. I looked for
it after that, because I had gotten my first costume book several years earlier and wanted to join a group where I could wear
costumes like that. Then one day, when I was a car hop for A&W, I put a tray of root beer on somebody's window and asked
them what that satin thing was hanging in the back of their car. They (I can't remember Tina ne. Hobart's SCA name [Elonwy
de Lur]) said it was a banner for the SCA, and I said I'd been looking for them for two years.
“Wilhelm von Messer was the passenger in the car, and he gave me his card, along with the info on the next local event.
I remember pulling an all-nighter to finish a costume (which I still have) for that event. I showed up right when he said it would
start, and wondered where everyone was (it was my first event).
“I joined in AS 4 in time for the second Caid Twelfth night (in San Diego/Barony of Califia), with (must have been King and
Queen) Paul and Carol and their three-year-old only son (who went around proudly announcing the anticipation of a baby
brother or sister). Bevin Frasier of Sterling had her neck in a brace disguised by a ruff.” – Käthe Willig von Mainz
I
“Nope, wasn't me with neck in a brace disguised by a ruff. (Don't think I've ever worn a neck brace.) Also, I didn't join until
A.S. VI, though I'd first run into the SCA at Baycon, in 1968 – the first and, I believe, only time I ever saw Sir Bela fight.)” –
Bevin Fraser of Sterling
II “Just an observation regarding dates - it couldn't have been AS IV if Paul and Carol were reigning and Brion was on the
way. Paul was Knighted in AS VI and won his first tourney at the following crown, I think it was their fourth reign when Brion
was pending.” – Kevin Peregrynne
III “Also,Caid's Tourney of Union was in 1974-I don't know when we started having 12th Nights but before 1974 we were
called the Southern Baronies. Angels & Calafia were founded in 10/V & 11/V respectively.
“Incidently, if anyone has a copy of the June 1977 Page (which was printed by Lord Randolph the Devious-an Old
Brotherhood of the Blade guy who fought with us at the last war with Atenveldt in February) one can see a full color picture
captioned "Duke Paul of Bellatrix chortles with sardonic amusement as Prince Martin the Temperate dies by his own hand
after slaying his comrade-in-arms Sir Loren sur la Roche."” – Colin of Dublin
C
“As for the scheduling of Crown events (equinox-solstice-equinox) ... I had it on good authority long ago (Diana, in fact) that the third
(October) tournament was specifically scheduled for Bilbo and Frodo Baggins birthday.
“According to Siegfried, who ought to know, the MGC was a gift to Fulk from him. It was made of a chunk of elm blasted loose
from its parent tree by lightning, shaped smoothed and polished in (soon to be) Master Beverly's workshop. The wood was so hard
that they burnt out several drill bits making the hole to drive the spike through (and it bent in the process). Fulk originated the use
of the MGC as the award for ferocity in combat. The first time that Patrice and I saw it the bearer was Caradoc ap Cawdor, it looked
so natural that we thought it was a permanent part of his costume. A tradition that went with the Clubbe was that, before presenting
it at the next crown tourney, the bearer had to rub at least a quarter pound of wax into its finish.” – Kevin Peregrynne
D
[... the idea of having Kings had been discussed ...] “This was done before the Sept. 25, 1966 Tourney since Henrik’s victor’s scroll
presented to him at the end of the tournament proclaims him King!” – Henrik of Havn
A
[Regarding a morning star that Henrik used] “I think it might have burned up in a fire some years later, but Henrik might still have
it around ...” – Stefan de Lorraine
~ 12 ~
1
E
“No – it’s gone – but the ball was a 3" sponge rubber ball and I always used it in large circular moves originating from the
shoulder and elbow– not wrist flicks!”
“Also I made a second one (flail) for Richard which he used in some of his combats.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“I liked that morning star. It wasn’t nearly as dangerous, IMHO, as the axe Henrik also made of heavy rubber and leather
with an oak handle. Hit like a ton of bricks and would probably be outlawed today.” – Steven MacEanruig
a “Yes, I used the axe in some of my combats. It consisted of an oak handle about 30" long with a 1/4" rubber core and
2 layers of 1/8" leather wrapped around the handle and extending past the handle onto cover most of the rubber blade
core.” – Henrik of Havn
[Regarding a boken] “I think I gave it to Henrik when I left for Europe and the air force in 1967 and I’m told it eventually burned up
in a fire.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Yes I had it, then I loaned it to Mary of Tamar and it was stolen out of her car.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“What does one do with a glue-and-string wrapped, silver painted, oak boken? – Steven MacEanruig
a “Think that there’s a steel blade inside perhaps?” – Henrik of Havn
March 25, AS I 1967
The First Coronation and Crown Tournament
March 25, 1967 saw the first Coronation and Crown Tourney, held at the
Amphitheater Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Fulk de Wyvern, who
had won the June tourney, called forth Henrik of Havn, who had won the
September tourney, and bid him kneel. Then, as Siegfried von Hoflichskeit had
done in the first tourney, he knighted Henrik in the name of the ancient order of
chivalry, and then crowned him as King. At this time there was only one
kingdom. Wendryn was not there so she was crowned in absentia. King Henrik
presided over the tourney. Crown lists were held to determine the next king.
Richard the Short defeated Fulk de Wyvern in the finals. Ann of San Anselmo
was Richard’s lady. They became Crown Prince and Crown Princess. (Fulk de Wndryn of Townsend - Azure, a sun in glory Or.
Henrik of Havn - Vert, on a pellet a horse’s head couped Or
above a coronet showing three Latin crosses Or.
Wyvern’s Count rank and Mary of Tamar’s Countess rank date from this event.)
Subsequently the first issue of Tournaments Illuminated came out. Jon de Cles was Editor and Chronicler.
Siegfried von Hoflichskeit was Registrar and Chancellor of the Exchequer. At this time the kingdom and the society began to get organized.
Diana Listmaker was the first Mistress of the Lists. Jon de Cles was the first Seneschal. Edwin Bersark was the first Earl Marshal. T.I. was
to be a magazine with articles of interest. A supplement to TI, numbered 1.1, 2.1, etc. came out between issues to announce events. Single
sheet announcements were handed out at events giving details of the next event.
Comments:
B
B
B
[King Henrik presided over the tourney.] “Henrik actually got to preside over a court at this tourney. Master Beverly Hodghead (of
course, this was before the Laurel) had provided the thrones, which were the Bishop's thrones from the Episcopal Church for which
he was some kind of official. Behind the thrones he set his Coleman stove, on which he was cooking/boiling/whatever something.
The ground was uneven, lots of people were moving around, and Master Beverly managed to upend the table with the Coleman
lantern onto the ground. Much furor, no one hurt, but Mary of Tamar decided we needed a distraction and immediately accused Lord
Mediocrates (Jerry Jacks) of an assassination plot. Lord Mediocrates attempted to buy his way out with a Bank Byzanta Card (Bank
Americards had just become popular), and claimed diplomatic immunity (Mediocrates of Hellas, Ambassador from the Court of
Nauseous Syphilis and his sister/wife Gonnorhea who live in Sin, which is a suburb of Constantinople – Jerry could go on for many
more lines).” – Stefan de Lorraine
[Crown lists were held to determine the next king.] “This tournament was the first in which ratan was used and there were still a
few bugs in the system. There were also a few bugs in the system of judging which meant that neither Fulk nor Richard cared to
be judged, would pay no attention to the judges, and fought on for what seemed hours until Fulk finally conceded he was hit and
Richard won.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“I believe this was also the first tourney for the lady named Nora who was a Junior Olympic fencer and wanted to play with the boys.
She found one fighter to fence with her, and a friend of ours, Paul Moslander, who was attending as Don Segundo Sombre de
Muerte Christiano (actually the name of the hero of an Argentine novel he had had to read in Spanish class) challenged her entirely
for the chance to be killed so he could give a magnificent dying speech.” – Stefan de Lorraine, for whom the tourney was also
significant for the first time presence of Luise of the Phoenix who soon became and is still his lady though for this tourney she came
as the lady of The Little Green Dinosaur, a very gifted cartoonist who was actually not too bad a fighter the few times he fought.
~ 13 ~
C
C
“This event saw several “firsts” in the SCA:
“1) Henrik wore the first real armour, his new 10,000 ring mail hauberk which he had started in the months after the second
tournament on June 25, 1966 and a portion of which he had been wearing when he won the Sept. 25, 1966 tourney.”
“2) Henrik borrowed a horse and rode with couched steel tipped lance, steel spangenhelm, steel hauberk, steel sword and
steel round shield – the inspiration for the cover portrait by Diana Listmaker on TI #1. (Note - Henrik made the armour and his sword
and shield.)” – Henrik of Havn
1 “And the cry went up ‘Get Henrik off that horse and on the throne so the tournament can get started!’”
“Speaking of mounted royalty, I should mention here that, during the Summer Tournament, when Richard and Diana were
presiding at Mills College, we had the first “Mounted Coronation.” Richard, at the time, was getting around on a BMW touring
bike and Diana had a motor scooter, so they intended to ride mounted to the thrones. We all lined up and waited, and waited,
and waited. None of us knew why we were waiting because it was supposed to be a surprise.
“Diana’s scooter was named ‘Chrysofalax The Recalcitrant’ and chose that time to live up to its name. We were finally
rewarded by the entrance of our royalty on their iron steeds.” – Stefan de Lorraine
I
“Spelling: Chrysophylax? Meaning: ‘Gold-keeper.’ A word referring to Gryphons.” – Karina of the Far West
1 “I think this was the first tourney in which we had a formal ‘Eric’. Edwin erected a fence of poles with a rope to enclose the
fighting, much like what I saw at the last couple of tournies I attended, many years later and many years ago. As you might
expect, it was not called the ‘Eric’ because it was not red. And if that name has been lost in antiquity, I’ll be glad to expound in
it later.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“3) The first real Pavilion - Henrik’s, a round pavilion 12' tall and 10' in diameter at the base and 6' wide in diameter where the
conical roof met the sloping sidewall. The fabric was undyed (at that time) sheets sewn together.”
“4) The first crown – black iron band with 4 silver plated maltese crosses. Iron for strength, silver for noble purity. Fulk designed
it, Henrik made it.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “And now a question for Henrik: Was that 1st iron crown with silver crosses your personal property, and not passed on to a
successor? If so, were the crowns that Master Beverly made (and that you and Siegfried carried on cushions at the very front
of the 11-kingdom procession at 20 Year) the first to belong to the Kingdom and to be passed along?” – Robert of Dunharrow
I
“Yes, it is my personal crown and no other person has worn it at court except Fulk who wore it before I was crowned with
it at the March 1967 Tourney. Yes, they were the 1st Kingdom owned crowns, but I continued to be crowned exclusively with
my own Crown during succeeding reigns. The procedure was, I would approach the King, he would remove the copper
Crown from his head and place it on a cushion or some such held by an appropriate person – Kingdom Herald usually
and then my crown bearer would proffer my crown on a cushion and the departing monarch would pick up my crown and
crown me.” – Henrik of Havn
a “This, as many of the commentators will confirm, was common practice until the presentation of the current silver
crowns by Duke Henrik years later.
“Most new royalty had custom crowns made, often of more precious materials and custom-fitted to their heads
to wear instead of the ancient and honorable crowns. On some occasions the ancient crowns were used for the
coronation ceremony proper and the personal crowns were worn at all other times until the next coronation. (Some
personal crowns occasioned quite a bit of gossip and commentary on the personal tastes of either the royals or the
jeweler in question.)” – Kevin Peregrynne
D
“That was a good event. It was held at Tilden Park and had a moderate walk from the parking to the field. Dr. Elizabeth Pope, who
had presided over the first event was there and I remember helping her walk back to her car when she had to leave, which was fun
because she was an interesting lady and her student aide, who was there with her was a good looking young blond lady whom
I had fought for that day. On the other hand, that was the event, as I recall, where I fought Richard in the semifinals and he flat
refused to wear a face mask, fighting only in his motorcycle helmet against me. I was furious, taking it as a personal insult, which
I nursed for several years while off in the air force and only forgave him somewhere in the mid-70s. Mind you, I’ve long forgiven him,
I understand his reasoning. And I still think he was absolutely dead wrong.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“[Tilden Park] at the Amphitheater Playfield as it was called then by the park authorities.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “This is in the wrong place. The Amphitheater is not the Airplane Field. I think the tourney I was referring to here was perhaps
in year II (early) or even Year III. I think it was the one that Caradoc won, but it may have been the earlier one in which Richard
beat me in the finals.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who curses a failing memory that cannot recall just when this happened, but does
remember the difference between the amphitheater and the airplane field...
I
“FYI unless I am mis-remembering (it's been years since I last played around in Tilden Park) it is easy for the Airplane field
and the Amphitheater Playfield to be confused in recollection. Both of them are in the same general area in the park (near
the old pony ride site) and share parking areas and privies.
~ 14 ~
II
B
“The Airplane field is on the east side of a tree-lined seasonal water course, running south-north, and is essentially
a large open natural meadow (hence yellow and dusty in the dry season) with little in the way of shade. It is/was reached
by hiking/portaging south from the parking area into and across an east-west gully and through a screen of trees and
brush.
“The Play-field is on the west side of the same water course right against the parking area, and is a long, narrow
(about 50 x 200 yards) irrigated lawn area parallel to the water course with shade/trees on both sides.
“The shared parking area is to the north and the shared privy is at the south end of the play field where it is reached
from the airplane field by a short walk along a path and crossing the water course.
“I hope, both that the information helps and that I haven't just displayed more incipient senility.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“The Tourney that Caradoc won was October Crown, AS 3. It was very hot and was at the Airplane field (I think that it was
actually known as the Little Airplane Field' as model airplanes were flown on it- this was before the cool RC ones they
have now.)” – James Greyhelm
“And also by the way, I did not take the opportunity at the appropriate time to mention an incident that took place at the first tourney
at the Airplane Field, March AS II, I believe. Sir Bela and I and another person were off to one side when a couple of hikers came
up and asked "What are you people?" Sir Bela's response was "It's what we are instead of hippies."” – Stefan de Lorraine, who
still has a rather spectacular picture of his lady whose sunscreen wasn't up to the sun at the war (pdf 10 was a dream at the time,
much less 30). She was known for a couple of months later as Lady Luise of the Sunburn.
April 30, 1967 AS I
The First Coronation Tournament
April 30, 1967 saw the First Coronation Tournament, held in Cragmont Park,
Berkeley. Richard and Anne were crowned King and Queen by Henrik and
Wendryn. King Richard declared that the day would be a celebration of his
coronation and of the May and that his successor would be chosen at the
next tournament. The winner of the day’s lists would earn the right to crown
his lady Queen of May. Fulk de Wyvern defeated Sir Henrik of Havn and
Steven of the Ashenlands (Sir Steven MacEanruig) and crowned his lady,
Mary of Tamar, Queen of May. Fulk instituted the Muckin’ Great Clubbe
(MGC) Award for Ferocity on the field (not skill or intelligence, just ferocity)
by presenting it to Sir Henrik of Havn and charging him to present it in turn
Richard the Short (Richard of Mont
toa Celtic
the cross
fiercest
fighter at the next tournament. (Henrik’s Count title and Anne of San Anselmo
Real) - Sable, in saltire a double-bitted axe and
Or.
Wendryn’s Countess title date from this day.) This was the end of the first
year of the society. May 1 became the first day of the years Anno Societatis. (At this event Edward Bersark received a scroll for excellence
in Poetry.)
Comments:
A
“This tourney was actually a watershed tourney for more reasons than it being the first May coronation tourney.
“Richard, at the time, was acting as a sort of Resident Assistant (as they were called at San Francisco State, I dunno what his
official title was) at a school and brought several of his residents along. He had been giving them some training and, among other
things, they brought along some pikes. We had some melees in which the utility of pikes in defense was proven, but their problems
in offense were also pointed out.
“Richard also instituted the first attempt at chivalry by appointing seven warriors (myself and Sir Steven among them) as his
Champions, and making it necessary for others to successfully challenge the champions to get into the lists. As it happened, Jon
de Cles and I were the only ones to fail to hold our places. Jon was challenged by two pre-adolescents and decided to take them
both on at once. They elegantly double-teamed him. I was challenged by Sir Ardral and one of Richard's proteges who went by the
name Dale of Wales and looked more like it should be Dale the Whale (or perhaps Orca would be more exact). Not having Jon's
flair, I took them on one at a time and Dale knocked me out of the competition in the first fight, then proceeded on to defeat Sir Ardral.
He was then defeated by someone like Henrik or Steven. The two youngsters (who I believe were brothers) let their discipline fall
apart when they fought each other after defeating Jon and were both summarily dismissed from the competition when they turned
the fight into a flailing match (as I recall--one may have actually gone on to be defeated by another Champion).
“I don't know of Dale ever showing up again, tho he might have once or twice. One of those natural jocks who picked up the
sword stuff real quick.
~ 15 ~
A
A
“The most important watershed of the this tourney, however, was the attempt of Nora <last name forgotten> to play with the
boys. Having been rebuffed as a fencer at the last tourney, she showed up in something approximating armor (no worse than
anyone else was wearing at the time) and weapons and wanted to fight like everyone else.
“Henrik accepted the challenge, they fought, Henrik hit her. She fell, then complained that "He shouldn't have hit me so hard,
I'm a girl." Henrik had, of course, not hit her any harder than he hit anyone else.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Actually, I pulled the blow which struck her upper ribcage under her raised left arm.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “Nora Hewittson, or Huitson - I never saw it in print, and only heard the story after I joined in 68.” – James Greyhelm
“This set back women fighting in the SCA about six years.
“By the way, I think someone like Steven should regale the assemblage with stories of the early practice sessions. I didn't go
to a lot of them but Steven did and stories such as ‘How Steven Almost Deprived Henrik of an Eye’ should be told.” – Stefan de
Lorraine, who wonders why no one got an eye put out in those early days...
1 “Divine Intervention! (Aka Dumb Luck!)” – Henrik of Havn
“Okay, since MacEanruig has not taken me up on my suggestion that he tell the story, if anyone takes a look at Henrik’s eyes, he
might notice a scar over one of them (or the scar might finally be gone, it has been 30+ years).
“During one of the early practice sessions, after the traditional breaking of the swords, Henrik and Steven squared off with short
swords, which were made from the leftover plywood from some shields – no padding or anything. The fighting got hot and heavy,
Henrik thrust at Steven, who blocked and said to himself “Oh, we can thrust, can we?” and thrust straight out for Henrik’s face guard.
Henrik had a very open weave catcher’s mask over his spangenhelm for face protection. The not-very-blunt point of the shortsword
went right through the weave (possibly breaking some welds, I’m not sure) and hit Henrik very hard just above his eye. There was
much blood and Henrik might have been stunned or knocked out, I can’t remember the story and wasn’t there.
“As he says, ‘Divine Intervention.’” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Pretty close to it. There Henrik, Richard, Fulk (I think) and I and perhaps some others were at a practice at San Anselmo.
Henrik and I were fighting and neither one of us was having much luck hitting each other. I happened to fake a thrust (still legal)
at his leg and noticed that he got wildly out of position. ‘Great’, I thought, ‘fake a thrust again and hit him.’ I faked another thrust
and then, instead of swinging, I thrust at his head and put the point of the bokkan into his eye slit, catching him just about on
the eyebrow. Stopped the fight. Henrik and I ended up going to the emergency room where I recall he got several stitches from
someone who didn’t really believe our story of how it happened.” – Steven MacEanruig
I
“I seem to recall 2 different rooms – a lady nurse at the school infirmary who confirmed the need to go to Marin General
Hospital Emergency where Dr. Chester Noyes did the stitching. (I later worked at Ross General Hospital so I remember
Dr. Noyes.)” – Henrik of Havn
II “By the time I joined, only a year or so later, this story had changed greatly. I was told it was a fight with a sharpened oak
short sword, and Richard the Short was wielding it. Glad to hear the right of it.” – James Greyhelm
a “See. I don’t get no credit. I recall myself as using my boken, however. I think I made both feints, but I could be wrong
about that. Henrik wasn’t knocked out or even particularly stunned, but he definitely felt it. I have some memory of
Henrik wanting to continue and being stopped by someone’s comment about blood running down his face, but I might
be confusing it with something else.” – Steven MacEanruig
III “Now that you mention it, I remember you saying something similar the first time you told me the story, right after it
happened (I wasn’t at the practice session). As for the boken instead of shortsword, it’s entirely possible. I remembered
the story as being shortswords, but I didn’t even remember whether you had the bokken at the time. I’m sure your
kinesthetic memory is better than my faltering memory of a story you told me in the first place.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“Any other stories of interest from those sessions? Perhaps something involving Richard which might have given rise
to the confusion of the stories?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who thought actually practicing for these exotic parties was taking
dedication a bit too far, and who didn’t really fight at all until we started getting ready for the 4 th tourney ...
a “Well actually, Steven was using the previously mentioned boken - the blade length of these is typically around 30"
+/- and the handle is an additional 10" or so (total of 40"). Not really a short sword. I don’t remember what weapon
I had. Steve may have remembered correctly about my using a plywood short sword.
“My face mask had a horizontal 2" high by 10" wide clear open space at eye socket level. Vertical bars were
welded above and below (by the manufacturer) with about 1 ½" spacing. The top of Steven’s boken (which was about
9/16" wide and about 1" height – give or take) struck the upper edge of the 2"x10" opening - which was defined by two
3/8" diameter horizontal bars, and slid above and past the upper one striking my left eyebrow/brow ridge.
“The impact I felt was not really hard but certainly quite strong. I didn’t feel any pain and was certainly not stunned
or even knocked out. I was puzzled at the odd looks Steven and others were giving me as they quickly came up to me
and asked if I was all right. Sweat was running down from my forehead/brow and getting in my right eye brow and eye
lid as they spoke. They asked about my eye, and when I felt with my fingers, I first became aware that it was blood and
not sweat on my eye lid. I could see fine from both eyes. I went to a bathroom and washed the blood away and found
a tear in the eyebrow skin. I went to a hospital and had only 4 stitches.” – Henrik of Havn
~ 16 ~
b
2
B
“Thinking back on this, Henrik did do the first thrust and I realized that I had been way out of position. I did the second
one and then nailed him above the eye. Personally I thought I had got him in the eye and I was scared. I do recall
Henrik being pretty lackadaisical until he realized that it was blood. I don't remember at all what weapon Henrik was
fighting with.” – Steven MacEanruig
i
“Yes, I was expecting to continue, since at first I didn’t know that I was bleeding. I had felt the impact but no pain
and assumed I was undamaged. It was the stunned look on other people’s faces (I guess as the blood starting
flowing from the skin tear in my left eyebrow) that I first noticed.” – Henrik of Havn
“The practice was held in a covered parking area I believe, at a boy’s military school in San Rafael that Richard was a Resident
Assistant counselor at. (It’s now Marin Academy, a college prep high school, and before that it was the Ali Akbar Kahn School
of Music.) Richard autocratted the practice, and was there but it was Steven MacEanruig that I was fighting. The boken is a
gently curved practice sword used for studying kata (types of attack or defense patterns in several Japanese Martial Arts
including Kenjutsu and Naginata) and is typically made out of white or red oak. It is not normally used to strike a person’s body
with full force – usually a light tap or slow pressure if it all. Normally it is used 2 handed and strikes the opponent’s weapon
in defense and/or attack, the only armor being worn in Naginata is padded kote (hand and wrist protection/gauntlets) in case
of a slip. Steven’s boken was white oak and was being wielded one handed as we fought. The tip is not sharp per se but is
profiled to represent a very thick version of a single edged Japanese sword and so features angular surface intersections.”
– Henrik of Havn
“And then there was the time at Cragmont when Caradoc in a fencing-mask had the left lens knocked out of his glasses. It was
found undamaged and the fighting went on.” – Karina of the Far West
The Year Two
June 24, 1967 AS II
Summer Crown Tourney
Held in the Hockey field at Mills College, Oakland, California. Edwin Bersark was the autocrat. Richard reigned as King. Anne was not
present so Diana Listmaker sat in her place as Queen. Crown lists were held. Sir Henrik of Havn defeated Caradoc ap Cador. Sir Henrik’s
lady was Leanne of Maywood. Sir Henrik gave the MGC to Kerry the Rock. There was a revel afterwards.
[Little known fact: Anne of San Anselmo had come down with a bad case of Mononucleosis, and after she had recovered went back to
the seminary and finished her education. This is why she was not present during the reign as Queen. She later showed up for some events
in the West, but dropped out awhile after that. She was found in Calontir in time for an event there, on the weekend of October 8, AS XXIX
(1994), and has been at least moderately active there.]
July 4, 1967 AS II
Westercon XX Tourney
Held as part of the Westercon in Los Angeles, California. Elfrida of Greenwalls, in her professional capacity as Marion Zimmer Bradley,
was the guest of honor. Many society members wore their medieval costumes into the costume ball. Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of
Caer-Myrddin) won Most Beautiful Costume for her modified medieval white dress with blue velvet cloak, blue and green feather wig, blue
feather eye lashes, and all-white make up. First prize for the best group went to Elfrida, her lord Walter, and her brother Edwin Bersark (Paul
Zimmer). They went as characters from Poul Anderson’s (Bela of Eastmarch) The Broken Sword. On the last day LASFS, which had
sponsored the convention, sponsored a tournament. Owen Hannifen (Karl vom Acht) was the autocrat. Harlan Ellison tried out as a fighter
and did rather well. There was a fascinating fight between Siegfried von Hoflichskeit and Fritz Leiber, who fought broadsword to
broadsword with no shields and did very well indeed. The four finalists were Bela of Eastmarch, Edwin Bersark, Richard the Short (Richard
of Mont Real), and Sir Henrik the Dane (Henrik of Havn). The final match was between Edwin Bersark and Sir Henrik. The winner was Sir
Henrik the Dane (Henrik of Havn), who received a two quart, hand-painted beer stein from the Con committee as a prize.
Comments:
A
“When I joined, a year later or so, there were still lots of stories and legends regarding this event, and some of them may or may
not be true ... However - we still have some of the principals in this discussion ... Ok - So Richard fought in this tourney, hiding from
other participants his injuries suffered when his shield was caught by a wind gust caused his BMW bike to become more closely
involved with the ground then one would like. They discovered this when one of his bandages or casts came off. ( Years later, I
heard this story retold, with me as the principal. I set the record straight.) Henrik fought Harlan - I think that the fight was supposed
to be between Harlan and Randall, but Randall begged off for some reason ... Harlan's girlfriend at the time was Grace Lee Whitney
~ 17 ~
(Yeoman Rand) who was apparently worried about Harlan fighting Henrik - I think that Randall once told me that Harlan said - "You
mean I've got to fight Godzilla?"(meaning Henrik), but Randall was a story teller ... That's all I can remember - It will be interesting
to see how the stories changed from '67 to '68, when I heard them.” – James Greyhelm
1 “Jim (Greyhelm) seems to have gotten Westercon 1967 and Baycon I 1968 blended in his recollection of the tales he was told.
The story of Richard being blown off of his bike and concealing his injuries so he could participate in the tourney at Westercon
is true (according to Richard who told it to me). (That Westercon was also the source of the extra "Hip!" added at the end of
the standard three cheers, that plagued the kingdom for years). The tournament where Harlan was supposed to fight Randall
and wound up fighting Henrik instead was Worldcon (Baycon I) the following year's Labor Day weekend at the Claremont Hotel
in Berkeley.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“No, I fought Harlan Ellison at Westercon XX in LA, not at Baycon in Berkeley.” – Henrik of Havn
II “Nope - I think that I am right on this - Henrik told me the story about Westercon 67 about Harlan at the 30 year celebration,
and it confirmed what I had been told by Randall and others. I don't think that Harlan fought at Worldcon - the 'Author' fight
at that event was Randall, Poul and someone else (Siegfried?) fighting Caradoc, Edwin and (?) to decide whether or not
that the only 'Good Campbell was a Dead Campbell' - John W. Campbell was there and it was fought for his amusement...
“We could just ask Richard about the bike - but he was King at 68 Worldcon - and not wearing any bandages or casts
that I can remember.
“Wasn't the first performance of HMS Trekkastar held at Worldcon 68? If so, then the extra hip dates from then, usually
shouted by Hap?” – James Greyhelm
B
B
B
B
“Also Richard ‘Kited’ off his BMW on way to LA for Westercon XX and only scraped hide off his nose and chin and lost his front teeth
– his smile was startling. No cheek holes. Westercon XX (1967, July) I fought Harlan. Siegfried fought Fritz Leiber!” – Henrik of Havn
[Regarding costumes] “Sir Henrik the Dane wore his handmade elbow length, knee length 40 lb mail hauberk and broadsword
(the first SCA real armour) and was mistakenly presumed by the costume judges to have rented the armour and was therefore not
considered for a prize among the costume contestants.” – Henrik of Havn
[Regarding Richard and his injuries] “Some us knew about his injuries before he fought – his sword had to be taped into his grip.”
– Henrik of Havn
[And (also regarding injuries)] “No casts” – Henrik of Havn
September 30, 1967 AS II
Fall Coronation and Crown Tourney
Held at Newman Center, Palo Alto, California. Mediocrates of Hellas (Israel ben
Jacob) was the autocrat. Henrik and Leanne were crowned by Richard and Diana.
Crown lists were held. William the Silent won, defeating Caradoc ap Cador. Sheryl
of Thespis was William’s lady. King Henrik knighted William on the spot. Kerry
the Rock gave the MGC to Edwin Bersark. A revel followed at the home of Joe
and Felice of Mayhavn House (Felice of Mayhavn House).
Leanne of Maywood - Azure, a Unicorn countertrippant
argent, armed, crined and pizzled and cullioned Or.
Comments:
A
“The Sept. '67 tourney (a week before I joined) was unique in that a total newcomer won it. I believe John & Sherry Jackson were
friends of John & Bjo from SciFi Cons, and when John came to Cal as a new grad student, Bjo recruited him. He had, I think, had
a wrestling scholarship as an undergrad, was about 5'4" and very quick. After one practice session, he came to a tourney and won.
(Of course, Richard, Fulk, Henrik, & Siegfried, I was told, all chose not to compete that time.) I later went fabric shopping with Bjo
and John & Sherry, getting stuff for Bjo to costume them in regal fashion for 12th Night and for her to make me my first banner after
Karina had helped me design a device, which was easier then, since the College of Heralds wasn't in being yet.) Since the
previous kings had all been there from the start, more or less, they didn't need to be told how to do things, but now Don (Jon de
Cles) saw a need and invented the office of Seneschal for himself to advise the King. (I think all officers thus far were more or less
self-appointed as need arose, with consensus of the inner core of the group, i.e. those who helped make it all happen, rather than
merely attending events.) Perhaps Master Edwin was the first appointed to an office by the Crown some time later, upon petition
by the teen-aged squires (about 1/3 of all fighters) whom he taught, when he became Earl Marshal.” – Robert of Dunharrow
~ 18 ~
1
1
1
“This was going to be the tourney that Edwin or Siegfried won, since they hadn't won yet. Henrik was on the throne, Richard
and Fulk would rather not end up the way they had at the March tourney. So they acted as Marshals and fought individual
challenges (one of which ended up with Ken (Fulk) challenging Don (Jon de Cles) to a duel at a later time.)
“However, as I recall, Siegfried had gotten out in the sun and burned himself thoroughly the weekend before. He could not
fight. So it was going to be Edwin's tourney. But (again as I recall) relative newcomer Jamie Oakenshield beat Edwin, and
slightly less of a newcomer Caradoc ap Cador beat Jamie while William the Silent beat first the Little Green Dinosaur, and then
me. So it was the relative newcomer Caradoc (he'd been to a couple of events) versus the total newcomer William the Silent.
William was too fast and deadly, Caradoc went down.
“It was such an unexpected event that Bjo had to remind people that they had a new winner and he needed to be
congratulated and praised and prepared to be king. Folks were in a daze for quite awhile afterward.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“Oh, and Felice's home was Mayhem House, a name she coined as assistant editor of Niekas for the columns she wrote.”
[Re: Edwin being Marshall] “This is the second time in a couple of months that I heard this story, and I never heard it before.
Perils of living in San Francisco when the In Crowd was in Berkeley, I guess. All I knew was that Edwin was suddenly Earl
Marshall.” – Stefan de Lorraine
I
“The idea to knight William was first suggested by Fulk to me in private. At that time in SCA history there was no thought
of group consensus to knighting – only two had occurred and they had been unilateral actions each.” – Henrik of Havn
B
“No! The knighting was done that evening at the post tourney revel at Felice’s house – Mayhem House.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “Exactly correct. An event that was also interesting in that Henrik, who was King at the time, was puzzling over whether he had
to talk to all the chivalry first and I’m one of the ones who told him, “No, you’re the king, you want to knight him, you knight him.”
(Thus following the path of Cromwell instead of Moore). I don’t know if I used the phrase “The King’s word is law,” in that
discussion or not. When I later followed my own advice and handed out Laurels to Michael of Moria and Joseph of Locksley,
I got criticized roundly. Out of such incidents to things like Knights Councils and Laurel Councils spring.” – Stefan de Lorraine
A
[Comment originally from events in AS I, moved to here as being more germaine – Hirsch] “I joined the SCA the first Sunday of
October AS II (1967) at 1st Northern RenFaire, one week after the 7th tourney (the first not won by Richard, Fulk, & Henrik in turn,
but by a total newcomer, William the Silent, aka John Jackson.) At that time, the SCA was still largely a fairly well-functioning anarchy,
with few official officers. Everyone knew everyone else and someone pitched in to do whatever was needed. Authority seemed to
rest collectively with the group, although it was mostly exercised by a core of a dozen or so members who chose to put in the most
effort. (I certainly wasn't appointed keeper and maintainer of all SCA property a week after joining by any royal or board authority.
They just all loaded everything in my truck and told me to take it home and bring it to all events.)
“As of Oct. II, as best I could tell, Diana was Mistress of Arts, Harold of Breakstone was Herald (field heralding only at that time),
Siegfried was Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jon de Cles was editor of TI (of which issue #3 was just out, and sale of subscriptions
for $1.50/yr. had apparently just begun.) All the fighters took turns marshaling, Edwin was made the first Earl Marshall some time
later upon petition to the Crown by all the young squires (aged 13 to 17 mostly) that attended his weekly fighter training sessions.
As best I could tell, Jon de Cles invented the office of Seneschal in response to having a complete newcomer win the crown.
Someone had to stand by the throne and tell him what to do, but that was at 12th Night II. Janet of Breakstone was doing the lists
job at that time, I believe. She sat at the edge of the field with a lap full of file cards and told everyone who was fighting next, but I
don't think anyone had given her an official title for doing it.” – Robert of Dunharrow
A
[Comment originally from events in AS I, moved to here as being more germaine – Hirsch] “I joined in Oct II, at First Northern Ren
Faire, a week after 7th tourney, but I extensively questioned everyone about the previous 1 1/2 years of known history. I paid my
$1.50 to join on Sunday, practiced fighting with shortsword & buckler and/or helped make weapons every evening Mon. to Fri., was
Queen's Bishop's Pawn in the Live Chess Game on Saturday, then on Sunday -the 8th day of my SCA life- they found that I had a
pickup truck. I brought it to the SCA booth. Steve Perrin said,(approximately) "Oh, great! Now the Society has a truck!" They loaded
everything the SCA owned (weapons, shields, 6 saber masks, 2 steel helms newly made by Fulk, ropes, stakes, etc. - hardly
anyone owned their own equipment) into said truck. So I asked, "Where do I take it all?" A chorus of all present answered, "Home.
You bring it to events." "Oh," I said. So I immediately was part of the small core group of people making it all happen. Naturally,
I also had to keep repairing all this stuff, but Master Beverly helped fix the helms.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
~ 19 ~
January 6, 1968 AS II
Twelfth Night Coronation and Revels
Held in the Mills College Student Union, Oakland, California. Jon de Cles and
Mediocrates of Hellas (Israel ben Jacob) were the autocrats. With the money from
the Pleasure Faire materials were purchased to make two crowns. Karina of the
Far West donated some fine jewels, fur and cloth. Jon de Cles designed the
crowns and Beverly Hodghead made them. King Henrik and Queen Leanne
presided over the Grand March and crowned William and Sheryl as King and
Queen with the new Royal Crowns of State. (Previously the crowns used had
been personal ones, belonging to the individual monarchs.) King William created
the title of Duke for those who had twice been King. For the first members of this
rank, since there were no kings in the first year, this was amended to read those Sheryl of Thespis - Azure, a swan naiant argent crowned
William the Silent - Or, a natural panther passant guardant
who had twice won a tourney. Richard of Mont Real was made a Duke dated Or.
sable.
September 30, when he stepped off the throne, and Fulk de Wyvern and Henrik
of Havn were made Dukes as of that day. The Order of the Rose was created for those who had been Queen, or who had been the lady to
a fighter who had won one of the first tourneys, when there were no queens. Thus Marynel of Darkhaven, Mary of Tamar, Ann of San
Anselmo, Diana Listmaker, Wendryn of Townsend, and Leanne of Maywood became members of the Order. King William created the rank
of Master of Arms for those who are worthy of knighthood but for personal reasons may not swear fealty to the Crown. Richard of Mont
Real and Edwin Bersark were made the first Masters of Arms. King William established the Order of Knighthood on a firm basis by
knighting Bela of Eastmarch, Fulk de Wyvern, Jamie of the Oakenshield, Karl vom Acht, Kerry the Rock, Siegfried von Hoflichskeit, and
Steven MacEanruig. Sir Ardral Argo verKaeysc, Duke Henrik of Havn, and King William himself were already knights. Thus there were
now a dozen belted fighters. The sign of a knight was a white belt and a metal chain around the neck. The sign of a Master of Arms was
a white baldric. King William created the Order of the Laurel for outstanding artistic achievement, and admitted Beverly Hodghead and
Alfonso de Castile as founding members. They were to be addressed as Master and known as Masters of the Laurel. Knights, Masters
of Arms, and Masters of the Laurel were to have equal precedence, with Dukes being higher in precedence and Ladies of the Rose being
somewhat lower in precedence. Then King William and Queen Sheryl stepped down in favor of the Lord of Misrule. The evening festivities
were begun in a grand manner with the medieval wedding of Stefan de Lorraine and Luise of the Phoenix. Revelry followed, with the
Consortium Antiguum performing, and Njali jarla Styrbjornsoni playing the pipes. (Steven MacEanruig and Fulk de Wyvern were not
present and were knighted in absentia.)
Comments:
A
“I'm not sure where the money came from for the crowns. At the same time that we were being Robin Hood and putting on a Chess
game, Bjo of Griffin organized the Medieval Crafts Guild and we were all selling various article, like clay viking drinking horns that
Henrik made, and Bjo's spiced tea, and Luise was doing sketches, and so forth. As an institution, the Guild lasted one year without
the Trimbles (who moved back to Los Angeles shortly after the turn of the year) under the supervision of myself and my lady, and
possibly a third Faire under the tutelage of Geraldine of Toad Hall before it petered out and various people did their own various
booths for several years afterward. Whether any of the Guild money went into the SCA's coffers I no longer remember.
“Of course, the whole idea of knights and dukes and laurels and ladies of the rose was not King William's. He was busy
studying. Jon de Cles, Edwin, and Siegfried came up with most of it. I was asked what I thought of the idea and said that it was
unnecessary because everyone was already considered a lord or ladyuntil theyproved themselves otherwise. I've always wondered
if that comment got me crossed off the potential knights list ... And there were no arms associated with these titles. Actual arms
and the registration of same was the contribution of Randall of Hightower (Randal Garrett) who was just getting ready to move to
the area at the time – I don't believe he was at 12th Night.
“One person at an SCA event for the first time, however, was Jon the Lean. John Edgerton was an old classmate of Luise whom
she invited to the wedding, expecting to get a pro forma reply of sorry, can't make it, too far from San Diego (where they had gone
to school together). Imagine our surprise to find that he was now living with his brother in San Jose and was working on a costume
so he could come to the wedding. He came, he saw, he joined.
“Certainly a happy chance that added a member to the group who has contributed quite a bit over the years.
“My lady and my wedding actually preceded the entire Twelfth Night. First came the ceremony, then the reception, which
happened to coincide with 12th Night and provided an immense saving for my family's pocket book. The suggestion to do this came
from Lady Ellen Hodghead, wife of Beverly and mother of Marynel, with whom Luise was living at the time.
“So first the wedding, then the court, then the festivities (Luise and I left fairly early in the festivities, strangely enough). I accepted
Steven MacEanruig's knighthood for him (he may still have been Steven of the Ashenlands at the time) and, I think, mailed him his
belt and chain. Or perhaps I held them for him. I forget at this point.
~ 20 ~
“This may be the first event with a belly dancer. Somewhere around here Diana Listmaker did some belly dancing.
“Lord of Misrule for this event was a gentleman named Jerry Miramontes (whom I knew in passing at San Francisco State),
who was in clerical robes and calling himself the Archbishop of Tel Aviv. He had two ladies with him, who both became the Lord
of Misrule's consorts. One went on to become the lady and queen and duchess La Rana of Richard the Short. Jerry and the other
lady faded away...
“All I can think of at the moment ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, whose memories of the occasion are a bit one-sided...
B
“Steve & Luise's wedding was at 6 PM (by invitation, as I remember - and they invited me, having gotten to know me since RenFaire),
then the SCA Revel was from 8 PM to Midnight, all in the Mills (old) Student Union - a splendid hall that would hold a revel for a
typical barony today. I'm sure Diana was much involved in the creation of the new orders also. Someone (Siegfried, perhaps) once
told me that after the small gathering of key members had decided on dukedom & knights & masters of arms, that Diana had said
something like, "OK, but what do we give Bev Hodghead?" The Laurel was probably Diana's idea (let's ask her) and I think Master
Beverly was designated "Master Artificer" & Master Alfonso de Castile (leader of the Consortium Antiquum - early music group - and
also teacher of dances from Arbeau) "Master of Music". These specific titles for Laurels were probably dropped after the next two
(Diana - Mistress of Arts; Lin - Master Baker - who baked bread and gave it to everyone at each tourney).
“Refreshments at 12th Night II were modest, apple juice & cookies, as I recall, but David Hodghead brought a suckling pig
(I think) which he shared with all who wished. (Major feasting began a year later at 12th Night III, when Geraldine cooked a whole
hog & whole goat & lots more stuff for 300 people.) Royalty was not revered so much in those times, I suppose, as I remember
the Lord of Misrule (the self-styled Archbishop of Tel-Aviv) decreeing that the King be set on the mantel of the great fireplace, while
the Queen be set on his lap. They were good sports about it, and as newcomers may have thought it to be usual practice.
“Artisan's Guild is what I remember Bjo calling it. Anyway, it met at Bjo's house twice a month and I always went because it
was the only regular activity happening (beside 4 tourneys a year & 12th Night). It was at one of those meetings that Karina helped
me design my device & Bjo agreed to make a banner of it for 12th Night. That was on top of completely costuming the King & Queen.
Later (at RenFaires 3 & 4 in 1969 & 1970) Geraldine headed a reorganized "Associated Guilds" that ran several games and
merchant booths, and held meetings at Toad Hall (386 Alcatraz Ave., Oakland) throughout the year.
“Probably some small percentage of proceeds from stuff sold at the SCA booth at RenFaire went to group use. The crowns
were of something like sheet brass, I think. (Henrik & Siegfried carried those original crowns on cushions when 6 of us KSM's
preceded King James & Queen Verena in the 11 kingdom royal procession on May 1, AS XXI, at 20 Year Celebration. Of course,
Jim & Ginny were wearing the newer silver crowns designed and crafted by Henrik.) I don't know who has them now, but the
materials cost of the first crowns must not have been great, but we were all poor then, folks put nickels & dimes in the passed helm,
and annual subscribing membership cost $1.50 (I think subscriptions were first sold at Ren Faire, because John Trimble told me
18 years later that I had been the first ever to pay money to belong to the SCA. I have never inquired further on this, however.)
“So what do others remember? What do I remember wrongly? We've already lost several key people to (mostly) untimely
deaths, so it would be well to get it all down right while enough of us can still recall it.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 [The crowns were of something like sheet brass ...] “Hammered sheet copper!” – Henrik of Havn
C
“The only thing that I can add to the Twelfth Night II story is that the Lord of Misrule relented and let the King get down off of the
mantle when the soles of his shoes started to melt.” – Kevin Peregrynne
D
“Twelfth Night: The Mills College hall was great. I'm not sure which event it was for (but since it was cold, it may have been 12th
Night), but I remember gathering mussels with Lady Geri and others for steaming up for a feast. I also recall Caradoc loudly
complaining that the roast goat was spoiled ... but he was mistaken.” – Astrid of Hawk Ridge
E
[Steven MacEanruig and Fulk de Wyvern were not present and were knighted in absentia.] “Fulk must have been there because
I was there and part of the wedding party. Still have the old newspaper clipping with the pictures.” – Mary of Tamar
March 23, 1968 AS II
Spring Crown Tourney
Held in San Francisco Theological Seminary, San Anselmo, California. Duke Richard of Mont Real was the autocrat. William and Sheryl
reigned. Crown lists were held. Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit won, defeating Master Edwin Bersark. Marynel of Darkhaven was Siegfried’s
lady. King William knighted Stefan de Lorraine. Master Edwin Bersark gave the MGC to Sir Stefan de Lorraine. Revels followed on the
campus of the Seminary.
~ 21 ~
Comments:
A
“While I thought I probably deserved to be a knight, I think there was something of a rush to judgement on this one because I
thought I was going into the Army in the next month or so (Vietnam era, you know). This was referred to in Master Edwin's classic
TI article, printed I think within the year of this event, on when someone should be knighted. As it happened, the Army, who told
draftee Steve Perrin that his once-broken wrist was no big deal and khaki was in his future, told enlistee Steve Perrin that he had
a broken navicular bone and was now category 1-y, which meant I'd be drafted to hand over the surrender papers to the Vietnamese
when they landed in San Francisco Bay.
“This list was also notable because the last rounds were fought inside. As the sun set the wind kicked up and everyone started
getting chill, so the tourney was moved inside despite Richard's protests that the chill would be gone in half an hour. He was right,
but the finals were fought on a hardwood floor. I have no idea if that has happened anywhere since.
“It was quite a rush to be both knighted and given the MGC in the same event. Don Simpson, who was attending these events
at the time, congratulated me on getting "chained, belted and clubbed" all in the same evening.
“Oh yes, earlier in the day, I was challenged by Sir Bela of Eastmarch because "My lady (meaning Karina) can beat up your lady
(meaning Luise)". As it happened, our picnic blankets (pavilions? what pavilions?) were next to each other, and when they heard
the herald announce the challenge, Karina scooped up a paring knife and Luise grabbed a coffee can full of pineapple rice pudding.
But they decided to let Bela and me fight it out, instead. I won, but I refuse to speculate on what relevance that had to the challenge.
“And a further oh yes, I believe this was the first event attended by Randal the Stout, later of Hightower. I think the persona he
chose for the moment was actually his fictional fantasy detective, Lord Darcy.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who also had the honor of
introducing the belly dancing of my lady to the evening's entertainment.
April, 1968 AS II
The First “Rules of the Lists” Printed
The May issue (#6) of TI printed the first Rules of the Lists. Also in that issue were the decrees that henceforth the Herald shall keep a
College of Arms and that all members of the nobility should register arms with the College. The Grand March was restricted to the nobility.
Comments:
A
“The College of Arms was Randal's idea. He moved fast when he saw a group he wanted to belong to. The Grand March being
restricted to the nobility was, I think, a direct consequence of several hassles about who was to march where and when for the
Grand March of the March Crown tourney.
“I believe it was somewhere in here that a rather momentous meeting took place amongst most of the movers and shakers
(with some pointed exceptions) of the SCA at the time. Luise and I were invited by Herald of Breakstone and I don't think that he
necessarily had the permission of the Band of Brothers to do so. I think I've already talked about this meeting, wherein a lot of the
offices were established and their areas of influence were delineated (many continuing to the present day).
“At the meeting were Jon de Cles, Duke Siegfried and his then-wife Marynel of Darkhaven (the meeting took place at their
house), Henrik of Havn and Leanne of Maywood, Karina, Edwin Bearsark, Harald and his then-wife Janet of Breakstone, Randal
of Hightower (and possibly his then-wife Allison, but I don't remember), and others. Notable by their absence were then-king William
the Silent and Queen Sheryl, Richard of Montroyal, and Fulk de Wyvern. I don't recall if any other Hodgheads were present, but I don't
believe they were.
“If I haven't described this meeting before, please let me know and I'll elucidate further. For the moment, I will just say that the
offices of Seneschal, Herald, and Marshal were solidified and some of the hierarchy that continues to this day was established.”
– Stefan de Lorraine, who found all the wheeling and dealing interesting and was probably inspired to join into the politics and
eventually become Seneschal as a direct result of the meeting.
Rules of the Lists – First Ever Printing
“While cleaning up my garage, I found my copies of ancient TI's. It struck me that minor excerpts might be valuable for the annotated
history project. Herewith is the first one, the rules of the lists as of May, 1968, two years after the beginning of the group.” – Steven
MacEanruig
The Rules of the Lists, May 1968, excerpted from Tournaments Illuminated
1. The Head and the Face must be protected from injury. A heavy sabre mask shall be considered minimum protection.
2. There shall be no thrusting except with lance or shortsword.
3. NO Tournament weapons may be made of metal, and no steel may be drawn on the field.
4. The Morgenstern (Morningstar) is banned from the Lists, and may be used only in Melee or in demonstration fights.
~ 22 ~
5. If a shield is to be used as an offensive weapon by a fighter, the shield becomes subject to weapons restrictions and must
be cleared by the King, or by the King's representative.
6. Any weapons mutually acceptable to the combatants in a fight may be used on the field, providing they have been cleared by
the King or His representative; except as in Rule 4 or as otherwise ruled by the King.
7. A bladed weapon may not be grasped as a means of stopping a blow.
8. If a weapon is broken on the field, the combat will stop while the fighter is rearmed. If the fighter falls or drops his weapon, the
combat will stop while he recovers.
9. No projectile weapons shall be allowed; and no weapons may be thrown except light javelins from a distance of 5 yards or
greater, except as otherwise ruled by the King, subject to rules 6 and 10.
10. All weapons on the field must be inspected and approved by the King or His representative.
11. Fighters are expected to behave as though the weapons are real, and injuries will be judged accordingly. All fighters are
presumed to be armored except as otherwise stated.
12. All combatants must be presented to, and must be acceptable to, the King.
13. Combatants will behave as knights and gentlemen, even if they have not attained this station as yet.
14. All persons under 21 years of age who plan to fight on the field must be under the specific sponsorship of a Knight, Master,
or adjudgedly competent adult fighter, except in the case where such person may have attained the rank of Knight or Master. No
one may sponsor who has not fought in Formal Tournament, or who is not 21 years of age.
15. Any combatant fighting in the lists for the Crown must have a Lady, though her person need not be revealed until her crown
is secure.
Comments:
A
A
[There shall be no thrusting except with lance or shortsword.] “Presumption being short sword point can be controlled well by one
hand, not a broadsword point. The lance point is only for thrusting so the defender will expect a thrust and defend accordingly.” –
Henrik of Havn
[... cleared by the King or His representative ...] “Historical comment – the King’s representative here was the Earl Marshall, but he
was not mentioned by title to prevent any conflict that might arise from ending in a stalemate. This in effect was how the power of
the crown developed into the “King’s Word is Law” in fact.” – Henrik of Havn
The Year Three
May Coronation and Crown Tourney
May 5, 1968 AS III
Held at the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Jon de Cles was the
autocrat. Siegfried and Marynel were crowned by William and Sheryl. King
Siegfried knighted Caradoc ap Cador. Crown lists were held. Duke Richard of
Mont Real defeated Sir Stefan de Lorraine. Duke Richard’s lady was La Rana. Sir
Stefan de Lorraine gave the MGC to Sir Caradoc ap Cador. There was a Maypole,
a javelin throwing contest, and a revel that evening at the site. (William’s Count
and Sheryl’s Countess date from here.)
Siegfried von Hoflichskeit - Sable, on a bend argent a
mullet of four points elongated to base gyronny Or and sable.
Marynel of Darkhaven - Purpure, a dragon salient Or,
its neck embowed about an edelweiss proper.
Comments:
A
“In reflection costumes were primitive at best, mostly tabards over jeans, few coats of arms. Mostly just people who wanted to
recreate a period, not as it was but as it might have been.” – David of Illwheirlane
B
“This was the tourney after the one at which I was knighted, and I was certainly suffering from new knight syndrome. I believe I beat
Caradoc, and I remember beating Edwin. We had an exchange of blows and he hit me in the upper thigh. I went to my knees and
he asked me where I had been hit. I pointed to my upper thigh. He said, "Then you've won," and fell. Part of it was that I was using
~ 23 ~
a kite shield, but I had been using the same kite for quite some time and dying a lot earlier. Perhaps the fact I had borrowed Sir
Bela's helmet helped, I don't know.
“Richard and I were given the option of fighting two out of three or one fight, and I chose to just do it once. However, we doublekilled the first time out, so we ended up fighting two fights, anyway. For the first fight, Richard was reluctant to believe that I had hit
him when he hit me until he looked at his motorcycle helmet, which doubled as his fighting helmet, and saw the dent I put into it.
“Politically, this tournament was notable for the very short appearance of the departing King and Queen. They showed up a bit
late for the coronation, crowned their successors, and left. I think it was the last appearance of William and Sheryl as a couple at
an SCA event, though the marriage continued for a few years after. They had gotten so burned out by the politics of the organization
they decided they had other things to do. A lot of us saw this, rightly or wrongly, as Jon DeCles treating them like puppets and it
helped draw a lot of the political lines that developed over the next several years.
“And I'm not sure I should have given Caradoc the MGC for the reason I did. He came to the tourney with two ladies, with, as
far as I could tell, the firm intent of making both of them his queen, which I thought took a certain intestinal fortitude that should be
rewarded.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who has, in fact, seen each of William (John Freeman) and Sheryl (Adamski) in the last few years.
June 2, 1968 AS III
First Event of the East Coast Chapter, Whitsuntide Sunday
Held at the Cloisters, New York City, New York. A tourney was planned but it was rained out. Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls were the
seneschals and the autocrats. Koppel funem Lachfalk was the Herald. Elfrida appointed Maragon the Artificer to sit as King and Adrienne
of Toldedo to sit as Queen, to preside over the first tourney and the first crown lists, whereupon the first true king would be chosen by
combat. When the tourney was rained out the group wandered through the Cloisters looking at the Unicorn Tapestries and freaking out
the museum guards. Present were Elfrida and Walter of Greenw alls, Adrienne of Toledo, Maragon the Artificer, Alfgar the Sententious,
El of the Two Knives, Rakurai of Kamakura, Eleolf Erickson, Robert the Puppeteer, and Cynthia Ornam.
Summer Coronation and Crown Tourney
June 23, 1968 AS III
Held in Mills College, Oakland, California. Richard and La Rana were crowned by
Siegfried and Marynel. King Richard admitted Diana Listmaker to the Order of the
Laurel. Crown Lists were held. Duke Henrik of Havn defeated Sir Caradoc ap
Cador. Leanne of Maywood was Duke Henrik’s lady. Sir Caradoc ap Cador gave
the MGC to Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit (and thus it returned to its maker).
Richard of Mont Real - Sable, in saltire a double-bitted
axe and a Celtic cross Or.
La Rana - Vert, on a cushion Or a frog sejant affronty ver
crowned Or.
Comments:
A
A
“Lot happened at this tourney. Jon de Cles came as a jester because Richard told him that he had no need of a Seneschal. Jon
used the "a jester unemployed is nobody's fool" line a lot.”
“Frank Herbert and a photographer showed up at this tourney to get pictures, but failed to get any they could use, so they
organized the feast discussed below. It was an excellent article on the SCA, it helped that Frank was a close personal friend of
several members.”
“Siegfried won the MGC because he got really hurt and continued to fight on. I think his knee was badly whacked, but I'm not
sure, I remember Richard telling him that he should run around the tourney field to "run it off." Diana's Laurel was the scheme of
Richard and La Rana, Henrik and Leanne, and my lady and myself. We felt that women were getting a short shrift in the SCA and
it was time that Diana's contributions were recognized, both for the sake of those contributions and to set a precedent. “
“Richard was rather frustrated at having to be on the throne instead of fighting, and further frustrated because he managed to
badly burn himself doing some blacksmithing a day or so before the tourney. The shield rim he was working on slipped off the forge
and he caught it in his hand. Bad idea. So his left hand (his sword hand) was well wrapped in bandages.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “We (Richard and I) were trying to curve some galvanized steel straps (14 ga, 1 ½" wide by several feet long) for shield face
edging. Richard picked up a piece which was still too hot and burned his hand.” – Henrik of Havn
“To dull the frustration and pain, he drank a lot of wine. When a belly dancer showed up, he stopped the lists to watch the belly
dancer. There were some other distractions as well.”
~ 24 ~
A
“Notably, there was an abduction (I'm afraid I've forgotten who was abducted--likely Leanne) led by Edwin, Caradoc and
Siegfried and a couple of squires. As I approached the bridge they had taken their victim across (I dunno if that bridge still exists
on the Mills campus, they may have torn it down and/or replaced it) Siegfried was attacked by Hap Butler (can't remember Hap's
medieval name) and went out of my field of view. I crossed the bridge with others, and we killed Caradoc and his squire (Herbert?
I forget exactly). Edwin went down against a half dozen attackers (which were about as many helmets as were available at the time).
Then those of us who were about to bring the lady back to the field heard a hush fall on the onlookers. We turned to find Siegfried
approaching (my wife, Luise, has a great black and white she did of this scene taken from a photograph by Jon the Lean). He killed
me, he killed Jamie Oakenshield, he killed Henrik (or was Henrik killed earlier – I forget). People where dragging helmets off the
fallen and putting them on and going in to fight Siegfried, and dying. Richard dragged a shield over his bandaged arm (which was
actually his sword hand) and went in, and died.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 [I'm afraid I've forgotten who was abducted – likely Leanne] “Yes, it was she.” – Henrik of Havn
“Jamie Oakenshield's young (15? 16?)squire, Earl of Morris, was watching. He had always admired Dave/Siegfried and was just
enjoying the show. Jamie rose up from his death place (those of us who had died had a great view of the show) and said "Earl,
take that helmet (pointing to his own) and that sword (a zwiehander, about which more in a bit) and kill him." Earl, with great
reluctance, put on the helmet, took up the sword, and faked Siegfried out of his boots.”
“Johnny Chambers, the Little Green Dinosaur, did a great cartoon of Marynel leading Earl away saying "Come along dear, we
mustn't be here when Uncle Dave wakes up..."”
“The zwiehander was a very long hilted two-hander with very long quillons that could be moved around with the speed of a
quarterstaff. Earl was one of the major talents with the weapon, which was later banned for being too light for the (very real) damage
it could do.
“What with the distractions and all, that tourney became known as the first "Long Day's Tourney Into Night."” – Stefan de
Lorraine
The cartoon below provided by Earl of Morris, is a “Little Green Dragon” cartoon. Earl notes: “I was the squire of Sir Jamie Oakenshield,
the father of the Zweihander. It could very well have been the tourney where I was dubbed ‘the Fierce’ by Diana, but it is so long ago I
just don't remember.”
Come along dear, you
don’t want to be hear
when Uncle Dave wakes
up ...
July 21, 1968 AS III
First Crown and Coronation Tourney, Kingdom of the East
Held in Cloves Lake Park, Staten Island, New York. Maragon the Artificer and Adrienne of Toledo sat as King and Queen to preside over
the first tourney of the East Coast Chapter of the SCA. The first Crown Lists were held and Bruce of Cloves was the winner. Sir Ardral Argo
verKaeysc, with his squire Sylvanus Andere, was present as emissary from King Richard the Short (Richard of Mont Real). Sir Ardral
knighted Bruce of Cloves and Sir Bruce was crowned as the first King of the East. The West Coast became the Kingdom of the West. El
of the Two Knives was the Chancellor of the Exchequer of the East and Rakkurai of Kamakura was Earl Marshal of the East. Florence of
Cloves was crowned Queen.
Comments:
~ 25 ~
A
“I heard a story a long time ago about the East Kingdom being cemented to the West & thus making us a national organization,
by means of a person whose name I do not remember making several plane trips across country. Said person received the 1st
Grant of Arms ever. I heard this tale in the distant past so I do not vouch for its veracity. Could someone set me straight? Is it true?
If so why did they not get a Patent, a Laurel if Pelicans had not come on seen yet? If it's not true then who did get the first Patent
& in what wise?” – Charles of Dublin
1 “The first Grant of Arms went to Randal of HighTower more or less at his own instigation because he was arranging for the
whole Patents, Awards, Grants process. I know this because he was arranging for my lady, Luise of the Phoenix, to do the
original scrolls at the time. I think someone else also received one at that first presentation of scrolls at 3rd 12th Night, but the
name is escaping me. Karina? Harold Breakstone? I checked with Luise but she says she did so many of them in that first
set that "They're all mushed together."
“This is not to say that Randal didn't make those trips. I have no idea what he was doing with his spare time besides
asking Luise if she was done yet. He was definitely and enthusiastically involved with the creation of the infrastructure of the
SCA at the time and had lots of contacts in New York, especially among the fans who made up a large section of the
membership.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who could never quite read a Randal Garrett story the same way after meeting him ...
2 “It is highly unlikely that Randall did any traveling to the East Coast, he was simply too broke. While he worked very hard on his
writing, his royalties and advances were only sufficient to barely meet his daily bills. During this time he and Lady Allison lived
in "Hightower" in South San Francisco, supported mostly by Allison's earnings. Randall used to say that his income was used
for their parties, of which they had many grand ones.”
“On reflection, I realized that Randall may have traveled to the east during the early years before he and Alison split up and
his finances dwindled.” – David of Ilwheirlane
3
“I strongly suspect this is a mutation of David Bradley's trip to the East Coast with Sylvanus Andere (sp?) to take the
accolade from the King (Siegfried at the time) to the winner of the first Eastern tournament. NB David's mother (Elfrida of
Greenwalls/Marion Zimmer Bradley) had moved back to the East Coast with Walter Breen, her husband, and was involved in
the startup of the SCA on the East Coast, so I assume David had other purposes than simply attending an initial Crown
tournament ....
“In the event, I think the first Eastern Crown was postponed for some reason, and in the interim I left the throne and Richard
became King. In any case however David carried out his mandate and knighted Bruce of Cloves -- or at least that's how I
remember it. David (Ardral Argo verKaeysc) was already a Knight and didn't need a Laurel. The first Laurel was Alfonso de
Castille and the second was Master Beverly Hodghead, both given at Twelfth Night II, 6 January 1968.” – Siegfried von
Hoflichskeit
I
“Patti and I spent much of our time with David and Silas both at SCA events and otherwise during this period. The story
as they told it to us, as it unfolded, pretty much matched Siegfried's below with a few added details.
“Silas' father also lived in the East and loaned Silas a car when they were there, so Silas pretty much chauffeured
David around as events took place. Silas also acted as Royal Courier on his own travels to the East without Sir Argo
Ardral. As a result Sylvanus was made the first Court Baron and an AoA recipient (either the first or a very early one of the
latter). I don't recall that any additional reward for David was considered (he said it was just his knightly duty), however
I wasn't privy to Royal deliberations in those days.
“In any case Sylvanus' Baron/AoA was bestowed at the same event (Twelfth Night III) as the first three Grants of Arms
were given to Harold of Breakstone, Randall of Hightower and Karina of the Far West. How much of these awards was
due to activities leading to the founding of the East I have no knowledge. Perhaps Karina can fill us in.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
a “Silas' award was for driving Caradoc to events - Silas had a working car (a very cool working car- an old Mark VII
Jaguar touring salon named Sir Dennis, sadly vandalized later and lost). Caradoc had no car, and maybe no driver's
license either, so Silas drove him, and others, to events. There are several funny stories that involve that car ...” –
James Greyhelm
II “Speaking for myself only, I can say I wasn't involved at all in the founding of the East. At the time in question Harold and
Randall were my superiors in the College of Arms. We were inventing the practices of SCA heraldry as we went along,
trying to create a consistent body of work based on English practice of the Plantagenet period that was why our cutoff date
was 1485, the battle of Bosworth Field. After that English heraldry was no longer regulated by the necessity of recognition
on the battlefield. This was the end of the Wars of the Roses, and the introduction of muskets completed the work of
cannon in ending the era of castles and chivalry. Renaissance heraldry was decorative rather than practical.
“I'd also been active in other ways - costuming, period food, pavilion-making, filk-singing, speaking forsoothly.
“The scrolls for the three heralds recognized that important work was being done by non-fighters (Randall was never
much of a fighter, and Clint's knee was bad even before he was drafted) and that there were roles for women other than
"fighter's lady." (Sir Bela never really wanted the throne; I had no prospect of becoming Queen.) We were early members
of the Permanent Civil Service, officers serving the Crown from reign to reign.” – Karina of the Far West
~ 26 ~
4
“Sir Charles asked the general list more or less why the folks who were instrumental in getting the East up and running and
the kept communications open during the process weren't made peers and instead were (apparently) given lesser awards.
There was some back and forth (David of Ilwheirlane and Bjo commented among several), but details with which Patti and I
were closely acquainted seemed to be missing though the broad outline of Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls and their son,
Sir Ardral's (David), involvement was sketched-in.
“At that time Dave Bradley (Ardral) and Silas Andrews (Sylvanus Andere) were among our closest friends in the SCA and
outside as well (David is the one who dubbed us "The Pattiphil"). Si and Dave were 'brothers' in the Berkeley High/SCA family
which included Kathea Verkaysc(CathyMinner-Cook-MacDonald [David's 'sister']) Thumas O'Conair (Thom Conroy) and others.
Silas' father (Joseph, I think) lived on the East Coast and was accustomed to loaning Silas a car when he was visiting.
“During the time that the formation of the East Kingdom was happening Silas and David both were frequent visitors to the
East and acted as Royal couriers/messengers/consultants on how things were done, both together and separately. Silas,
because of his access to a vehicle often acted as David's chauffeur/batman/aide-de-camp on these jaunts when they were
there together.
“When Twelfth Night III rolled around, the question of rewards for all of this valuable work (and other - e.g, organizing the
Heralds) came up (bear in mind the only existing awards were peerages - Duke, Chivalry and Laurel is all, the Pelican was
years in the future). My status at the time wasn't such that I was privy to the Royal decision-making process, but David told us
that he had declined any additional recognition, he viewed the entire process as part of his duties as the first knight.
“You can confirm from your records that Twelfth Night III was the event where at least three firsts occurred - the first AoA's
were made (including one for Sylvanus), the rank of Court Baron was created (specifically to set Sylvanus' apart from the
'ordinary AoA's) and the first GoA's were given (to Herald of Breakstone, Randall of Hightower and Karina of the Far West). Had
the OP existed I believe things would have been different, but it didn't.
“Totally aside ... now days it is difficult to envision a Kingdom where common permanent ranks and orders that we are
used-to didn't exist. These include Duchess (hard to believe, but no lady had yet been Queen twice, 'Duchess' was a 'courtesy'
title for a Duke's SigOthr), Count/Countess/VisCount/VisCountess, Master/Mistress of the Pelican, Orders of Leaves of
Achievement etc....but that's the way it was. Twelfth Night III was a watershed in many ways.” – Kevin Peregrynne
July, 1968 AS III
The Creation of the SCA, Inc.
It was at this time that the Society for Creative Anachronism became a non-profit corporation. Jon de Cles, Diana Listmaker, and Harold
Breakstone were the first members of the Board of Directors. Jon de Cles was the Steward, Chronicler, and Editor of TI. Diana Listmaker
was Mistress of the Arts. Siegfried von Hoflichskeit was the first Chancellor of the Exchequer, but turned the office over to Jon de Cles
in August. Harold Breakstone was Laurel King of Arms and head of the national College of Heralds. Siegfried von Hoflichskeit was the
Registrar. David of Ilwherlane (mundanely an attorney) was the Society’s legal counsel and saw to the incorporation of the Society, but
then resigned to become Chancellor for the Kingdom of the West. At this time the offices of the Kingdom of the West were separated from
those of the Society. Jon De Cles was Seneschal for the Kingdom of the West. Robert of Dunharrow was Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Edwin Bersark was Earl Marshal. Randall of Hightower was Clarion Principal Herald for the Kingdom. Karina of the Far West was Banner
Pursuivant. Alfonso de Castile was Master of Music. Diana Listmaker was Mistress of the Lists. Johanna von Griffenhurst was Artist to
the College of Heralds.
Comments:
A
A
B
“Just a question - Who was Marshal of the SCA? - or was the office created later?” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I believe Siegfried may have been SCA Marshall briefly, but Edwin was soon essentially in both Kingdom and SCA posts until
he passed the Kingdom office over to Caradoc. So, at the beginning, both the Kingdom and SCA had the same
Seneschal/Steward and same Marshal. I think there was no official SCA Marshal for a short time.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who
relieved Don of the job of Kingdom Seneschal – I believe it took awhile longer before Edwin turned over the Marshallate to
Caradoc.
“One item of fallout from incorporating that took place several years later ... Being a non profit corporation, with its federal tax
implications, was one of the reasons that I cited when we opened the lists to both genders. (I for one had no intention of laying the
Kingdom or corporation open to litigation over civil rights violations).
“Besides Trude was badgering me unmercifully.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“When Don/Jon came around at a tourney and announced that he needed $100 to incorporate the SCA, most everyone all but rolled
on the ground laughing at the apparent absurdity of the SCA being able to cobble together anything like A HUNDRED DOLLARS!!!
We had until then used only free sites and occasional collections for odd expenses drew mostly small coin. However, later that
day Jerry Pournelle asked if I would make him a helm like mine. (I had made 3 more for penniless teen-aged fighters as well, but
~ 27 ~
Pournelle was far from poor.) So I said I would for $50, but give the money to Don to incorporate the SCA and perhaps he can raise
the other $50 somehow. Well, Henrik loaned the SCA $25 (which it still owes him, I believe) and I guess Don begged enough from
others to make the needed amount. It seemed like a reasonable idea at the time. I was in favor of growing the SCA beyond the
SF Bay Area (in contrast to a small faction that didn't want it too big for everyone to know everyone else) and thought that having a
national HQ as a coordinating structure would help. So I'm partly to blame for that.
“I didn't become the first West Kingdom Chancellor of the Exchequer in July III. Don took the existing funds ($1.50 annual TI
subs) to the Corporate level of course, and the West had not a penny to its name, nor an officer to be concerned about it until the
following Spring (just after March Crown, III) when King Caradoc, at Crown Prince Siegfried's recommendation, appointed me
Kingdom Ch. of Excheq. I then had to create all the rules and procedures for the office and had to teach the populace to put real
paper money into the helm so we could afford overnight sites that cost $25 to rent (and it soon went way up after Prop. 13 hit the
East Bay Regional Parks very drastically).” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “Pournelle has told this story for years, with the minor change that he alone paid for the entire incorporation expenses (which
over the years have become a tad more) and he has always felt the SCA was extremely ungrateful in not knighting him for his
efforts.” – Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani
September 2, 1968 AS III
BayCon Tourney
Held in the Claremont Hotel, Berkeley, California. The Worldcon committee sponsored a tournament. Earl of Morris won. King Richard
knighted him on the spot. At Baycon the first Handbook of the Current Ages was distributed. A medieval fashion show had occurred three
days previous. Revels followed indoors.
Commentary:
A
“Time's arrow is still well before my entrance on the scene, but this post brought a couple of things to mind anyway ...
“The book released at Baycon was titled "A Handbook of the (Current) Middle Ages." It includes such useful tips as that it's a
good idea to use darts in garb because things don't look right to a modern eye without them, plus directions for making the various
scary weapons described in recent correspondence. The SCA admin looked at a reissue somewhere around 1990, but the thought
of what would happen if people read it as official rather than historical made too many people's blood run cold.” – Hilary of Serendip
1 “I’ll have to find a copy to be sure, but I thought the weapons were rattan swords – broad sword and great sword and an axe
consisting of a store bought axe handle with a made made of 2 pieces of belt weight leather (about 1/8" thick) sewn at the
perimeter and filled with stuffing – no flails, no plywood weapons (shields maybe). There may have been a mace included but
I don’t think so. So except for the hardwood axe handle, what’s scary?” – Henrik of Havn
I
“Er, well, there's this:
“* In addition to the hardwood handle, the axes have leather heads with striking edges the thickness of two pieces of heavy
leather sewn together. One is a stuffed bag of the type Henrik describes, the other has three additional layers of leather
tapering back from the first (which has the edge all to itself) and just a bit of filling near the haft. The stuffed bag is narrower
than the haft for most of its breadth, with a nice apple-seed edge on the main striking surface and (at least in the picture)
a needle-sharp spike in the back.
“* Although the book does mention that flails are not allowed in tournaments, it says they are OK in melees and
demonstration fights and gives a sketchy description of the difference in construction between a mace and a flail. ("The
head of a flail is fastened on with a chain or swivel.")
“* The head of a mace "should be built up with cloth, rubber, or leather so that it will land a solid impact, but have some
slight amount of 'give' to it." (Rattan is "very satisfactory" for the haft... but there's no mention of its being required.)
“* Duct tape seems not to have been invented. Rattan swords should be planed and sanded, then painted silver and
varithaned.
“* Although rattan sword points are described as rounded, all the ones in the drawings look quite realistically sharp.
“* A good thrusting tip for a shortsword consists of a layer (of unspecified thickness but barely visible on the illo) of foam
rubber covered with electrician's tape.
“* Spears (8') and javelins (5') are made of rattan, with a crutch foot "providing some protection" for a head.”
“Youse guys was tough....” – Hilary of Serendip
a “Yeah, maybe – but the speed and power of today wasn’t generally used then and maybe too – we were just Lucky!”
– Henrik of Havn
b “And that sort of construction continued for quite a while. I recall making a mace a couple of years after that (1971,
to be exact) which consisted of a rattan haft, a wrapping of heavy solder starting 1" from the end and running about
four inches along the haft (to add "proper weight", and "padding"consisting of many layers of socks to give a thickness
of about an inch and a half. Plus a couple layers of duct tape, and a leather grip.
~ 28 ~
A
“Then we "softened it up" by pounding on a telephone pole for a while. After that it still hit with authority, but never
injured anybody that I can recall.
“I think the last time I used it was in the mid-80s. Maybe I should see if I can find it and bring it back into use?
Volunteers to face it should queue to the left ...” – William the Lucky ... mostly that we didn't all do each other really
serious injuries!
1 “I still have my old mace, named "A Feather". It was built on a 2 and 1/2 foot sledge hammer handle. The head
was of carpet about 6 inches thick and a foot long, covered with an old denim pant leg. I attached a pound and
a half lead weight as a pommel to help balance it. It never did any injury, to my knowledge, but it did hit HARD.”
– Jon FitzRolf
II “I haven’t checked my copy of the Handbook, but my memory matches Henrik’s, Hillary’s et al. Robert of Dunharrow had
a pair of axes when I became his squire that were part of the SCA loaner gear that he schlepped around. They had stuffed
leather heads mounted on store-bought axe helves (I recall being told that the split portion had been sawn off before the
heads were attached.) I didn’t get a concussion but did get one heck of a neck strain when Alandale the Red whacked me
over the head half a dozen times in rapid succession to show some visiting mundanes how ‘harmless’ our weapons were
at one join Chaos/Dunharrow practice at Lake Merrit.
“If not in the handbook, then in a contemporary T.I. were instructions for constructing a mace using a pants leg (tied
at one end and turned inside-out) as a cover for the layers of padding. This was long before Henrik’s lab stopper mace
head and my rattan splinted gator hide cure.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “And on the comment about how tough we were, I remember at Island War II when folks were discussing whether
Zweihanders were too nasty and someone (Fulk?) wanted to introduce maces with hard rubber heads (some kind
of drain plugs, I believe). I remember Fulk standing there and taking full out blows from both the mace and the
zweihander and declaring the latter much more damaging...” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “No. 15 black rubber laboratory stoppers – about 1 ½" thick and 4" in dia. Weighing 12 oz. I made a mace – the
one Steve recalls, using 4 stoppers – core drilled and slid onto a eucalyptus haft.” – Henrik of Havn
III “Yes, Hilary, us guys WAS tough ... and young and foolish, and banged up a lot. One evening in Oct.II, my first week in the
SCA, having been enrolled as a standby pawn when I joined 6 days before the live chess game, and wanting to be in the
game, I practiced attacking Caradoc (a bishop with 5' maul) with my 24" shortsword & 12" buckler. I dove at his gut with
my point and he whomped me on the side of my sabermask with his haft (I got inside the head). Despite the fact that I was
knocked down, rolled over & dazed, and he was still standing there, he was dead and I was fine, since haft blows didn't
count. We did this a second time, as well. He chose to use mace & round in the game, and I got promoted to Queen's
Bishop's Pawn.
“I got pretty familiar with the early weapons, since I lived with them in a small apartment, hauled them around, repaired
them a lot, and made some of them. It was hard to get a blow that would be counted with the stuffed leather axe heads.
They got rather soft, including the spike on the back, which was mostly for looks. Of course the hickory handle could hurt,
but it didn't count, so you tried not to hit with it. Shortswords were 23" of rattan with 1" of foam padding taped on the end,
so you could thrust. (Thrusting not allowed with anything else, I think, until Sir Jon FitzRolf invented "Red Ruin", his
maul-pike, at May IV.) Sword points were mostly rounded, I'm sure, and flail "chains" were made of rope or leather, not
metal. Most maces were carpet or other stuff with some "give", although Henrik had a mace of heavy hard-rubber stoppers
(but he only used it with opponents who agreed to the experiment.) It hit hard, but it slowed him up compared to sword,
so if you could block it or duck it you had an advantage. Richard had a longsword named, "Scatterbrain", made of 3 parallel
poles of rattan glued together. It was very heavy & hit hard enough that he limited its use to head blows, since only our
heads had 16 ga. steel & foam padding, while a layer or 2 of mattress padding did for all the rest.” – Robert of Dunharrow
“The Steward's files included the correspondence folder assembled during the run-up to the Baycon tourney. What sticks in memory
is a letter from the organizer of the tourney to someone in charge of the convention, saying that a trip to the Claremont to view the
grounds had not been encouraging. "You promised me a greensward," railed the letter writer. "I have seen this greensward, and
verily it is no greensward at all; it is a Green Stamp...." Details like names are long gone from mind and the words may have
mutated a bit, but that's the Higher Truth.” – Hilary of Serendip
B
“Baycon: I won a fight with Sir Bela (always much too generous in counting his opponents' blows), then lost fights with both Richard
& Henrik (as I almost always did). But the most significant part for me was the revel afterward. I danced with Geraldine a lot, then
mentioned I was hungry, so she took me home with her & fed me and before long we were heading an SCA household that grew
to 70 people.” – Robert of Dunharrow
C
“Baycon was my first event. I met Sylvanus Andere' earlier that summer, and he had told me about the SCA - I did not necessarily
believe him. But there he was, and he introduced me to his friends. I tried out fighting, but got hit twice in a sensitive area (this was
BC - Before Cups ...) and sat the tourney out - just as well. I watched Earl of Morris win, and saw him get knighted that evening ~ 29 ~
saw my first Belly dancer as well - Louise - the costumes and fighting were cool, but there were (most importantly) Intelligent (and
cute) females of mostly my age.
“There were a large number of young fighters - Sir Robert has mentioned this - all about 16 or 17. Earl, Kevin, Tom Conroy
(Sir Thumas na Leabar o Conaire), Willy the Green, Sir Argo, Kerry the Roc, Dai of the Tulips and many others - All of them now
inactive, except for Kevin and myself. I have seen some of these men around Berkeley now and then - Willy was working at Whole
Earth until a few years ago - I saw Tom walking on MLK Way - he looked almost the same as he had 30 years ago.
“I remember the Baycon tourney as having been watched by many, many people - hundreds. The area that it was fought on
is now Tennis courts. I have a jumbled impression of all of it - probably something to do with it all being new, and it was the '60's
... I have a much clearer memory of the reve l, and of Richard on the Thorne, etc. - all of the first event kind of stuff.” – James
Greyhelm
D
“By the Way, I'll use this point to bring up some things I should have about the BayCon description.
“1) The earlier Medieval Fashion Show (Phantasie of Fashion) was put on by Luise of the Phoenix and yours truly (Luise doing most
of the gathering of costume and design). It featured a reverse striptease of putting Henrik in to his armor. Unfortunately, the people
chosen to act as his arming squires were completely unfamiliar with Henrik and his armor, so it took about three times as long
as it should have. Luise and I wore our wedding outfits (which she had designed and made) for the finale.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I would have been better able to help them get it right more quickly, but my left hand was in a half cast because of my broken
knuckle bone received a few weeks or so earlier at a fighting practice in Earl’s back yard. Richard was my opponent then. I did
fight at BayCon using a light weight kite shield which I strapped to my left forearm with my hand free and a 2" think rubber pad
between my hand and the shield. The broken hand was the impetus for me to act on a suggestion and invent the first SCA
basket hilts. T.I. #7 I think is the issue where I published my “How to Make Basket Hilts” article.” – Henrik of Havn
D “2) As I recall, this was the first time Jon the Lean's freon gas tank helms made an appearance. I believe mine didn't quite fit (I have
a very large head and he was trying to fit it around my glasses, as well) for the event.
“3) You may recall that Earl of Morris won the event, beating Siegfried von Hoflichskeit. Does this sound familiar? The Little Green
Dinosaur was on hand for this event as well, and he did a sequel cartoon of a couple of knights (one obviously Siegfried) in the
background with the other saying "Take it easy on him, Dave." In the foreground, a crazed Earl is assiduously polishing his sword ...
“4) At the convention was Bruce of Cloves, who was the King of the East. Apparently, from stories I heard later, he was a Stranger
King, who had attended at the last minute and fought because they didn't have enough fighters otherwise. He was a very nice fellow
but pretty clueless about what to do. Randal and Jon got ahold of him, and convinced him that the East needed guidance, so Bruce,
at the event, asked King Henrik to take the Kingdom of the East under the wing of the West and lead them on the true path (not
necessarily in those words). This essentially locked the Kingdom of the East under the sway of the Society in Berkeley and established
the Society as a national organization. From what I have been told, this was not at all the intent of the founders of the East Kingdom,
including Marion and Walter Breen, who had intended to have their own, similar, group, thank you. Marion, after all, had come up with
the SCA name in the first place and felt quite justified in using it in the East without any permission from her brothers in Berkeley.
“Bruce was rather ostracized when he came back and soon dropped out of the SCA (or so I am told by someone who was there
at the time--I'm trying to remember by who--Adrienne of Toledo?), but the annexation stuck.
“5) And, if it is not clear already, Baycon really put the SCA on the map. The number of people who later became very important
members of the SCA who found out about it at Baycon is absolutely amazing. Michael of Moria and Richard Ironsteed had the choice
of starting a fanzine or an SCA chapter and went for the SCA, creating Atenveldt. I think Paul of Bellatrix's first event was Baycon, and there
are many many more. “ – Stefan de Lorraine, who had a great time at that convention, even if the house he was staying in (Toad Hall,
in Berkeley, home of Geraldine at the time) was right on the outskirts of the riots going on at the same time. Having a fellow guest who
went out to see the sights come back with tear gas on his clothes was a salutary experience.”
1 “Ummm.... Actually, Toad Hall is in *Oakland* (by about a block). I lived there (rented it from Bob & Geri) for a few years. When
we moved out, Clint & Janet moved in.” – Hal Ravn
E
“I have fond memories of the Baycon Tourney, It was combined with the Baycon World Science Fiction Convention which on ly
increased the parties in the evening hours. This was where I met my future wife, who had come as an "ift from the planet Janus"
and had dyed herself green. Randall Garrett commented for years about her sticking her arm out of the bathroom and being told
that it was still green. (It was still green for six months thereafter. So much for using food coloring instead of theatrical paint.) This
event gained a lot of science fiction fans as converts to the SCA.” – David of Illwheirlane
F
“Ah, yes, Baycon was my first exposure to the SCA, too, though I didn't actually join for several more years, by then living in L.A. (And
I, too, was staying with someone on the edges of the Berkeley riots – my first whiff of tear gas. I'd all but forgotten about that.)
“It was also my first exposure to fandom. And the medieval fashion show inspired me sufficiently to go out scouring local thrift
shops with two fellow fans, where we bought some bits and pieces and put together a group costume presentation that actually
won a prize. Little did I dream ...” – Bevin Fraser of Sterling
~ 30 ~
1
“You remind me of my first experience with tear gas. The lovely lady I had met at Baycon (who later became my wife) was
staying at the Durant Hotel only a block or so from the scene where the tear gas was used. We got quite a dose of it taking
her back to her room.
“Baycon has many fabulous memories for us. For example, I remember Astrid being approached in the bar by an amorous
male and telling him that he would have to ask her father for permission to take her out as she was only 15. Poul and Karen
were sitting nearby. Astrid was a real flirt, but loved and protected by SCA knights.” – David of Illwheirlane
The following cartoon is a “Little Green Dragon” cartoon, provided by Earl of Morris, from this event – the ‘kid’ with the sword is Earl:
September 22, 1968 AS III
Autumn Coronation and Crown Tourney
Held in the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Richard and La Rana
held court. Following the Grand March Henrik and Leanne were crowned King
and Queen. King Henrik knighted Frederic of the West Tower and admitted Lin
the Baker to the Order of the Laurel. Crown lists were held. Sir Caradoc ap Cador
defeated Sir Earl of Morris. Amie of Exeter was Sir Caradoc’s lady. Sir Siegfried
von Hoflichskeit gave the MGC to Houri the Savage. Amie of Exeter hosted a
revel. Master Edwin Bersark received the Orders of the Sapphire and the Emerald
from the King and the Ladies respectively.
Comments:
A
“Lin's Laurel, yes, but Rick's knighting was a couple of weeks later, at Northern RenFaire II (It was in October the first two or three
years, and only 2 weekends.) as I said before. (I actually don't know who Henrik consulted before knighting Rick, but all of us in
Robin Hood's Band cheered mightily when he - as Will Scarlett- defeated Henrik - as Guy of Gisborne, I think - on the bridge. My
memory is one of a feeling of unanimous consensus among all present that it was a good idea, but I wasn't a knight, yet - I was
the next, the following May.)”
“That was a lively summer with the 2nd War in Aug, Baycon & Crown in Sept., Faire in Oct.” – Robert of Dunharrow
B
“Houri the Savage was so overcome with joy and feelings of acceptance for winning the MGC that he broke down into tears. He
was very proud of the honor.” – David of Illwheirlane
~ 31 ~
January 4, 1969 AS III
Held in M ills College Student Union, Oakland, California. Geraldine of Toad Hall
was the autocrat. Henrik and Leanne held court. Following the Grand March
Caradoc and Amie were crowned King and Queen. King Caradoc admitted Edwin
Bersark and Jon De Cles to the Order of the Laurel. He created Grants of Arms,
Awards of Arms, and Court Barons. King Caradoc gave the first Grants of Arms
to Harold Breakstone, Karina of the Far West, and Randall of Hightower. He gave
the first Awards of Arms to Geraldine of Toad Hall, Luise of the Phoenix, Njali
jarla Styrbjornsoni, Robert of Dunharrow, and Sylvanus Andere. King Caradoc
made Sylvanus Andere the first Court Baron. Grants of Arms were to follow the
Ladies of the Rose, followed in turn by Awards of Arms, in the Order of
Caradoc ap Cador - Ermine, on a pale azure a crux ansata
Amie of Exeter - Argent, a pair of dexter hands clasped
between three wiverns Or.
Precedence. Court Barons would not accrue any precedence for the rank, which couped azure above a dragon involved gules.
was in addition to any other rank, and was not an armigerous award. All other
awards carried an award, grant, or patent of arms and thus made the recipient an armiger. King Caradoc established the current system of
three crown tourneys and three coronations, with a crown tourney at the spring equinox, the coronation at Mayday, the next crown at
midsummer, the coronation in August, the next crown at the fall equinox, and the coronation at Twelfth Night. The populace then adjourned
to a sumptuous three course banquet, followed by general revelry, song, dance, drama, minstrelsy, and the Lord of Misrule.
Comments:
A
“Caradoc also gave rings and bracelets – I still have the steel bracelet he gave me.” – Henrik of Havn
B
“This is the event which we folks from Phoenix first attended. Richard Ironsteed, my late wife Anne of the Golden Rose, and myself,
Michael of Moria, known as the Inebriated, were given a of as by Henrik. Got lots of advice and encouragement to go back and get
started on our local group.” – Michael of Moria
1 “I remember seeing Michael of Moria wearing white tights. (They may have been parti-color but I recall white legs) with very
impressive - I had never seen such before - shoes or ankle high boots with curled up long pointy toes with bells on the tip, held
up with strings tied around his shins. Michael and his entourage made a very impressive entrance at court -- especially since
they were newcomers from far away. I hadn't been to Arizona and had no more knowledge of it than of Australia or Asia. Had
they come from as far away as either of those places, I couldn't have been more impressed.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“Henrik, if you think we folks from Arizona were strange, foreign and exotic, I hope you'll understand how all us in Phoenix
felt about those we met in the West. We watched the media for several years celebrating those godforsaken hippie
weirdos on the West Coast, and then we got to meet all of you. (Seeing Edwin come to the door at Rivendell, wearing a
housecoat, combat boots and a sword in mid-afternoon certainly opened my eyes. Then again, after the revel in 1969 when
you gave Richard Ironsteed, Anne and I our awards of arms, I swore I had met a real KING!) I think the Society did more
to broaden my horizons, mind, world view, etc., than just about anything I could have done, except maybe go overseas with
the military.
“The costume was all white, Henrik. Louise of Woodsholme sewed it for me after I designed it. (Last I heard, she had
moved to San Diego – what a seamstress.) Everyone in Atenveldt seemed to be caught up in the very basic costumery
of 400-800, and I saw Louise's books with those wonderful court costumes from 13-1400 and started thinking, why not?
Caught a lot of grief for the first codpiece in Atenvelt. Louise sewed it on top of a dance belt, which I wore outside of the
tights. After a couple of hours, that was a real pain. The shoes were white naugahyde, with 18 inch points, toes tied up
to my calves. Wrote an article for TI about how to make them.” – Michael of Moria
a “For those interested, Louise of Woodsholme is, in fact, here in Orange County and still doing seamstress work for
various stage companies. I happened to work with a part time actor who had had costumes sewn by her who was
very impressed. Louise helped us move in down here and we've seen her off and on since then, though not in some
months. Must remember to contact her again.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who met Louise at a D&D game in Atenveldt.
Long story...
C
[King Caradoc established the current system of three crown tourneys and three coronations ...] “As I'm pretty sure I've already
stated, this did not happen at 12th Night. Caradoc held a Curia Regis at Hightower some time after (can't remember it if was before
or after the March Crown tourney) and that was when all this was made official. It had been discussed before, but the Curia was
when it happened.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers a discussion with Caradoc at the aforementioned 12th night when we
discussed the banner of the Kingdom of the West. He had the rather interesting idea of having it be a sword surrounded by a laurel
~ 32 ~
rather than a crown. His thought was that the sword could be interpreted as a "one", thus establishing it as the banner of the first
kingdom. Nice idea, didn't happen.”
March 21, 1969 AS III
Queen’s Court of Courtesy
Held at Queen Amy of Exeter’s home, Berkeley, California. All ladies were invited.
Comments:
A
“My own lady did not attend, but most of the women I know who attended, such as La Rana and, I think, Leanne, were quite charmed
with Amy. She was a friend of a friend of someone who stepped in to be Caradoc's lady when his own lady did not really want to
be queen.
“No idea what happened to Amyand the SCA afterwards. I have a memory that says she was a psychologist and/or instructor
at Berkeley. If she continued with the SCA for any time, it wasn't in the circles I moved in.
“But then I compared life stories with Cat Yronwode (editor and columnist in the comics business) quite awhile back after we
got reacquainted in comics. We had met and corresponded when I was a sophomore in college and she was Cat Manfredi, pre
SCA, then lost track for years and years. Comparing stories, I found she had been in Berkeley hanging out with many of the people
I knew and even going to SCA events, and I was completely oblivious. Even then, the SCA was getting too big to know everyone ...”
– Stefan de Lorraine, who just had another rush of nostalgia. How I love the smell of rattan in the morning!
B
“I see Countess Amie of Exeter (Pat Crossman) now and then. When Caradoc was King he was about 19 or 20 and he had a
girlfriend a bit younger yet and I believe she must not have been willing to be Queen, even though she was active in the SCA. Amie
of Exeter (who once told me that she really was born in Exeter, in Devon, England) had a husband & 4 children and was quite a lot
older than Caradoc, of course. She was an excellent choice on his part, as she (being a psychologist or therapist of some sort,
with experience in working with groups of people) was very much an activist Queen for those times. She helped define the role of
Queen of the West as more than just sitting on the throne and smiling at people. She took initiative to organize various activities.
(Not that some previous Queens had not also done such things, but I think she helped define a more active role for the position.)”
– Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I'd say that Robert has this exactly right. While many of the previous queens were active and interesting women, they were
mostly queen because their boyfriend/husband was king and it was a good excuse to wear a killer dress and get waited on.
Amie's tea, for whatever it actually accomplished, was a clarion call that a queen could do something in her own right. Just what
could be done is, I imagine, still being defined. Amie showed that there was something to define.” – Stefan de Lorraine, whose
own Queen founded the Golden Key, in case it has been forgotten. (Hmm, or did she do this as Chatelaine?)
March 23, 1969 AS III
Held at the Douglas St. Playground, San Francisco, California. Harold Breakstone was the autocrat. Caradoc and Amie held court. King
Caradoc gave a Grant of Arms to David of Ilwheirlane and an Award of Arms to Ann Parkhurst of Gatehouse. The Crown Lists were held
and Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit won, defeating Master Edwin Bersark. Ardis an Dearg (Sumer Redmaene) was Sir Siegfried’s lady. King
Caradoc admitted Marynel of Darkhaven to the Order of the Laurel. About this time the Tribute, the newsletter for the Kingdom, appeared,
with Diana Listmaker as Editress. (The Pennoncel, the newsletter for the East, also appeared at this time, with Elfrida of Greenwalls as
Editress.) King Caradoc gave the Order of the Ruby to Master Edwin Bersark.
Comments:
A
“Notable among other things for the sudden proliferation of pavilions. My own household pavilion (never a major one) appeared
at this time, as did Marynel's and a few others. I was at this tourney that I acquired my page, Michael Oliver (can't remember his
medieval name, mostly he was Michael the Page) when mysquire, Houri the Savage, showed up with Michael in his arms saying
"Hey, Steve, look what I got!" Michael was about 11 or 12 at the time. His father was a drama professor at Cal Berkeley. A treasured
member of my household for many years. He eventually got more involved in theater, the Faire and music.
“The Order of the Ruby was a short-lived attempt to give awards to people for coming in second and third (I believe the third
place was the Order of the Emerald – not sure). These were formed plastic on a ribbon. I think I may have come in 3rd at this
tourney, since I have one of them. Absolutely no recollection of who I fought.
“Houri won a similar award for most chivalrous, which was actually an award for most improved in chivalry.
~ 33 ~
“There was also one of the first discussions of conflicting arms that I saw handled. Jon the Lean's initial arms involved crossed
maul and pipe or on sable. As you may well recall, this is very close to Richard the Short's device. Richard pointed it out and they
pretty much determined Jon's final arms on the spot. Very amicable.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“Minor point. It was a mace not a maul. Though I did enjoy mauling people with my mace. :-)”
“I remember fighting Siegfried. He fairly quickly took my leg, I just could not seem to block his attacks. Then, as I was on my
knees, and the final blow came in, I remembered that he was left handed! It was a learning experience. :-)
“I believe this was also the event where I first used my one handed fail. Either Edwin or Caradoc tested it quite completely on
me. It did no damage, despite many, many blows. Lots of force spread out over a large area” – Jon FitzRolf
C
“Notes on the tourney, and misc. stuff. I think that the newsletter was called the Tribune. This was my first Crown tourney that I
fought in. The bathrooms were locked, and we all had to walk a long way. Miscommunication. At this time, the Queen would give
out 'jewels' to the finalist and semi-finalists- Diamond, ruby and emerald. I think that there was a revel afterwards at Randall's
house on twin peaks, Hightower, but that may have been another time.” – James Greyhelm
D
“Regarding the jewels -- when digging through back issues of The Page (The Tribune, and TI) that Wilhelm donated to Aldith and
I, I did run across the Order of the Diamond, the Order of the Ruby, and the Order of the Emerald. The only problem is, I only found
one recipient of each, and in each case, it was Edwin Bersark. Now, that's not to say that they weren't given out to others, but those
were the only ones I could find recorded in the newsletters (although when Henrik came over, I noticed he had some TIs that weren't
in the stack Wilhelm had, so it's possible other newsletters are missing as well)” – Hirsch von Henford
1 “Well, given that Edwin was living in the same house as the editor of the magazine, ... ya think?
“I doubt the concept lasted more than a year, and I may have gotten mine at some event other than the Spring tourney –
I dunno. Once started, the practice just couldn't build momentum. Since Edwin never won the Crown, I don't think the orders
listed were all the possibilities, one of them was probably the chivalry award I mentioned earlier. I think I remember Edwin
winning that one. Heck, the one I have may be a chivalry award, I just don't remember.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is planning
to grow crops where he has been raking his brain ... Or is that racking?
a “My recollection is these “jewels” – transparent plastic resin cast in small star-like jellow molds about 1 3/4" in diameter
with a black 3/4" to 1" wide velvet ribbon affixed – I had and may still have a clear white (diamond) one – were given to “the
one (fighter) who fought well”, “the one who fought better” (loser to the winner in finals) and “the one who fought best” –
the winner of the Crown lists. Since Edwin never won crown, he couldn’t have received the diamond. Diamond was for the
winner and I don’t remember for sure but probably ruby was for 1 st runner up and emerald was for 2nd runner up.” – Henrik
of Havn
2 “I remember these 'awards' as tokens that were given by the ladies to the people they decided were the most valorous or
chivalrous or something similar. I was told at the revel after the tourney that this was a 'tradition'. However, I only remember
them being done a couple of times. As I remember - and would certainly believe now - the ladies had a hard time on agreeing
on anyone other than their own lords.” – Verena of Laurelin
March 30, 1969 (AS III)
Gripe Session
[The transcript, fairly lengthy, for this ‘Gripe Session’ is in the Appendices – see page 354]
Comments:
A
A
“The March III Crown Tourney was at a city park in the SE part of San Francisco. There were 3 or 4 pavilions (incl. Toad Hall's) for
the first time.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “The sunburn factor at the S.F. tourney and the heat at Oakdale are in my opinion the force behind the geometric expansion
in the number of pavilions over the next year or so.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“I think it was the first appearance of the Royal Pavilion that Marynel made (with frame by her father). We were getting ready for the
first ever overnight in May (not Modesto, as mentioned, but halfway between Escalon & Oakdale, which is close) and pavilionbuilding was rampant. The March site was, unlike Tilden, full of neighborhood kids, which caused some obvious problems.” –
Robert of Dunharrow
1 “Theft, pilferage and food scrounging problems were a constant worry ... we've mentioned Hagen's mail, I think Siegfried had
a silver coronet stolen at San Anselmo. Mistress Geraldine instituted badges for her household and guests to control access
to food and shade and so on.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“I can confirm that both Ardis' and his ducal coronets were stolen there. We had a lot of trouble in areas like that.” – James
Greyhelm
~ 34 ~
A
A
B
“Marynel's production of "Eric the Red" from leftover strips of pavilion fabric (dyed red, instead of yellow like the pavilion) did much
to solve the demarcation of field boundaries and I didn't have to lug all those heavy stakes & ropes around any more. Siegfried won
the tourney and I think it may have been his idea to cut back from 4 crowns a year to 3, making May a coronation & adding another
in August. In those days, crowns were single elimination with maybe 16 fighters, so 4 rounds would do it. Each fighter was entitled
to 5 challenge matches before the Crown Lists began. Only one fight at a time.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “Just when was the last Crown with formal challenge matches??? I miss them - they were part of the fun, their passing has
diminished us. Double eliminations first appeared years later I think at prize tourneys or local championships (anyone
remember more exactly?). The first Crown with Double Elimination was the one I won. Interesting to note that William of
Houghton defeated me something around the fifth round, then we re-met in the finals. William on his own initiative decided
the finals would be a clean slate - previous defeats would be ignored. He set a precedent and myself up to finally capture the
Crown (we went three rounds).” – Kevin Peregrynne
“I found Tom's fear that if we got up to 8 or 10 pavilions we would have no more room to fight the most fascinating comment of all.
It kinda puts a perspective on our growth when I compare this to camping for 9 days at 30 Year with 5,000 people in at least a
thousand pavilions and still finding room for fighting, tilting at the quintain, holding many classes, and dancing every night. Who
would have envisioned that back in III?” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “And all of that concern about loaner weapons, breakage and so on!! Strange that the main gripe was cost when the real
expense was time. I used to make custom shaped and laminated weapons for folk and only charged for materials otherwise
they would have cost almost as much as steel weapons at any rate that reflected the amount and value of my time.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
“The Gripe Session is a fascinating socio-historical document, considering that I knew/know all of those people the difference in
tone from then to now just blows my mind.
“One comment that struck me with how strongly the SCA has influenced its members unto the third generation. The fear
expressed in the document that children would toddle out onto the field juxtaposed with the reality of every SCA-raised child in
decades having a reflex to freeze when they hear"HOLD!" They even use it in their games.” – Kevin Peregrynne
April 16, 1969 AS III
Curia Regis
King Caradoc appointed Marynel of Darkhaven to be the Royal Pavilioner. She was to be in charge of arranging the pavilions around the
field when they were set up. She also was in charge of the making of the Royal Pavilion for their Majesties. (Sometime previous, Ardis an
Dearg had been appointed Royal Chatelaine.)
Comments:
A
“Marynel's father, Master Beverly, actually made the Royal Pavilion. I'm not sure just when Ardis was made Chatelaine, what she
did, or when she was no longer the Chatelaine. By the time I was Seneschal (wait for it ...) the office got subsumed into the
Seneschalate and my lady became the Chatelaine.
“Is there one these days? Luise always had trouble figuring out just what was under her provenance and eventually just gave
it up.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“Caradoc appointed me the first West Kingdom Chancellor of the Exchequer (a position I held until early AS XIV) upon
recommendation of then Crown Prince Siegfried, who had been the first Society Ch. of Exch. Since the Kingdom & the SCA were
no longer synonymous, Siegfried saw a need for a separate Exchequer (and indeed, separate funds) for the Kingdom. I was
expected to find some way to create such funds.
“Marynel did indeed make the fabric portion of the first Royal Pavilion and all of us who gave $4 or $5 toward the materials got
to put our devices on one of the dags. She cut & sewed the leftover scraps into long strips and dyed them red for a field marker
to replace the clumsy stakes & ropes I used to haul around. (The pavilion was gold, or yellow at least.) Now her father, Master
Beverly, built the frame to support the cloth part of the pavilion (I was present when they had some argument over the frame being
too large for the cover, but I think the cloth shrunk a bit in the dyeing. Well, the frame was of metal electrical conduit, with its handy
fittings, and adjustments were made & it was fine. (I'm sure it shows in some of the Super 8 movies that Geri & others took in May,
IV.) Master Beverly, who also invented portable holes for banner poles, devised the little wires with loops on top that went thru sewn
pockets in the red cloth strips and were pushed into the ground to hold up what came to be called "Eric" since it was RED!” – Robert
of Dunharrow
C
“This curia was actually one of great import (assuming it's the one I remember at Hightower). There was a lot of talk about whether
or not to have an overnight tourney in Oakdale, and in fact if there should be any tourneys outside the immediate Bay Area where
~ 35 ~
people had been able to get to them by public transportation. Finally, King Caradoc said he would meet with his advisors to make
a decision. Some one yelled out "When do we get to vote?" Caradoc slammed the hilt of his dagger onto the table and thundered
"The King Votes!" I think this was the first official pronouncement of 'the King's Word is Law'.
“By the by, it was funny at the time, too, because a lot of Westies had been muttering for the previous month or so about awful
things happening in the East! Why, there was even a rumor that they had councils that voted on things!” – Verena of Laurelin
Benefit Tourney and Revel for T.I.
Held in Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Sponsored by Toad Hall. Tickets were sold. A feast was provided. There were contests
in shortsword and buckler, axe and shield, maul, archery, and javelin throwing. There was dancing and games for the children. Revelry
extended into the night.
Comments:
A
“Don't recall if I even went to this event, though it's likely we did. I'm afraid most of Geraldine's feasts start to run together in my mind.
They were all fun and the food was good.
“And this was the period when the ‘Great Households’ began to form. Henrik's was growing, Toad Hall was immense, and
the Forces of Chaos (my house) was of pretty good size. The extended households of Greyhaven and Hightower, and the collegiate
house called Headless, started up around this time.
“In many ways, the concept was started by Felice Rolfe, who organized a bunch of Peninsular SCAers as Mayhem House,
named for her name for her house long before the SCA. Having no fighters amongst them, they asked for a champion and the king
at the time, Richard, appointed himself (as Richard of Mount Royal, not Richard the King). Other households started to grow as the
group got too big for everyone to know everyone and started to fragment, as it has continued to do to this day. The SCA later
legitimatized the concept with regional Baronies and other official associations, and often it has been hard to figure where a
Barony/Province left off and a Household began, but the Great Houses were the first manifestation of this inclination to splinter and
form smaller, more manageable, groups within the larger group.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“This was the 2nd of Geraldine's famous feasts (the 1st being 12th Night, III). Don (Jon de Cles) was finding it hard to put out 4
annual issues of TI for the $1.50/yr. dues, so Geri leaped in to erase the deficit. She made the great spread of food with the help
of a dozen or so of the (mostly high-school age) young women & men of the Kingdom. Most everyone came. (Unless you were ill,
Steve, you must have been there.) I organized the games, more like Ducal Prize than a regular tourney. Contests in various
weapons not generally used in crown lists, (but on hand from live chess) like shortsword & buckler, axe & shield, maul (5' rattan
pole with roll of carpet around end, covered & taped; swung 2-handed, not thrustable, a knock-you-over sort of weapon), and also
archery & javelin (metal-pointed spear) at fixed targets, and probably wrestling & tug-of-war were among those held. Either then
or later, I ran 2-man team melees & 3-man (with 3 different weapon types) team combats. However, as to Steve P.'s comment about
households, ("Toad Hall was immense"), not quite yet. I wasn't knighted until the next month (May IV) and Geri got her Laurel in
Sept.IV (I think). It was then, along with Master Lin, that we three peers formed Toad Hall with 3 equal Heads of Household
(although in practice, Geraldine was always a bit more equal than Lin & I in organizing & running things). We invited people into
the shade of our pavilion & she offered them food & drink & we rather quickly grew to 70 people on our household list, with 12 to
15 fighters, of whom 8 were knighted & 4 won the Crown.” – Robert of Dunharrow
May Day Celebration
Held at the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. The first attempts at tilting at quintains occurred.
Comments:
A
“I'm assuming this was a local event (I may have even helped autocrat it) done because so many people didn't want to make the
trip to Modesto for the Coronation. Also, I believe there had been a problem with using the Modesto land in question on the May Day
weekend, and the Coronation was postponed a couple of weeks. Yeah, I remember the circumstances better as I speak. That's
exactly the situation. A lot of people (myself included) thought that the idea of an overnight event would never catch on. And actually,
I never much enjoyed camping out...
“I believe the horses being ridden at this event included Leanne's horse and the horses of a couple of young women who had
joined Henrik's household. One was a lady named Allison Clough (whose SCA name escapes me--I have known too many
Allisons--though I think she may have gone with Allisande something--de Rohan?) and the other her sister, whose name totally
escapes both my lady and my memories, even though she figured in a tempest in a teapot a couple of years later.
~ 36 ~
“Leanne's horse was named Schoen (which we think means "Sweetheart" in German) and Leanne had had her for many years.
She is a central figure in another story, which I will save for the discussion of the Modesto Coronation...” – Stefan de Lorraine,
whose brains are getting bloody from all the cudgelling of them he had to do for these comments
1 “Yes, this was a private – not Kingdom event with everyone being invited.
“She (Schön) may have been there – John Edgerton may remember because his truck was used to trailer Leanne’s horse
to Oakdale and may have been used for the Maying trip also.
“Allisande was the autocrat. Sister’s name was Meredith.”
(Re: translation of horse’s name: Schoen or Schön) “Beautiful not sweetheart!” – Henrik of Havn
2 “Patience, my lad, patience. Headlesse House didn't appear (burst onto the scene?) until October Crown V, a year and a half
later. Which isn't long . . . except compared to the then-age of the Society.
“It just seems like we've been here forever.” – William the Lucky, who actually has been paying attention but waiting for
time to catch up to him.
a “Right, I realized that after I sent the original message -- note the comment about bloody brains. My use of the term Great
Houses is probably out of place timewise as well, since it started up after various squires and men at arms (in my case
Houri and Jon The Lean--then Andrew of Riga) became armigerous but stayed affiliated and other fighters and armigers
affiliated themselves. At the time we are talking about, we were just House Lorraine.” – Stefan de Lorraine
3 “Alisande de Rohan, indeed, as I well remember, having dated her briefly in 1971. Her sister was Meredith and I think it was
just Meredith, a young lady with exceptional looks and a fair amount of good sense.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“I don't remember this being a tourney at all, and surely not a substitute for the first ever overnight tourney in late May, which most
of us were eagerly looking forward to and building pavilions in anticipation of. This event, as I recall, was more like a picnic with
equestrian activities, organized by Alisande de Rohan (Allison Clough), who (together with her younger sister, Meredith) owned a
horse. (I cannot, I fear, recall the horse's name; do you remember, Henrik?) Henrik's Lady, Duchess Leanne, also had a horse,
Schoen (German for "beautiful"), but I can't remember if she was at this event, but certainly at the 1st overnight. Alisande had built
a quintain and Henrik & I (and I don't recall who else) took turns galloping at it with couched lance until one of my blows knocked
it into pieces. (A bit later Henrik engineered a quintain so tough that none of us has ever been able to really hurt it.) The 2 horses
mentioned here were the ones Henrik & I rode the next month for our mounted mace & small shield combat, probably the only
horseback combat ever within the lists of an SCA tourney. They also took part in the horseback abduction at that event. (You can
see that on film when that project happens.) Henrik's Norman Helm: Sometime in AS III, in a melee at a practice of the "Association
for Medieval Combat" (approx. name), a group of adult fighters who got together to promote better fighting standards & to practice
technique, 2 of us double-teamed Henrik & I landed a 2-handed swing of a 5' maul (heavy roll of carpet on a pole) right on top of
his helm, straight down. It sort of dazed him briefly, and we stopped to discuss it, but he didn't object to use of such a blow. His
helm did indeed seem to act like a second, outer, skull, spreading the force to his entire head, neck & even body, rather than to a
particular spot.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “Thor comes to mind, but that may have been Suzanne of Raven Hill's horse, which preceded Alberic.” – Henrik of Havn
C
“Would someone remember who was involved in the tilting? I would assume it was Henrik, but who else and how did it go? I would
like this information for the SCA Equestrians as most of them are new and don’t know the history of riding in the SCA. We do
quintain now-a-days but I’m sure it’s a far cry from what it was then.” – Jerald of Galloway (you’re getting close to AS IV and then
I get to jump in here)
1 “The autocrat of the “Maying” was one of my household members Alisand de Rohan, whom I had been introduced to by my
squire, Count Stephan Blackeagle when he was but a 17 year old San Rafael high school student. He had seen her on her
horse at the first Ren Faire and had run to get me to introduce me to his “new love” and asked me as I looked up at her on her
horse, if she could be in our household. Feeling compelled to not respond in the negative, I hesitatingly agreed – a decision
I never regretted.” – Henrik of Havn
a “I didn’t want to say yes to someone that I didn’t know, but I also would have felt embarrassed to say no to someone’s
face.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “She organized the first specifically equestrian event. She provided a quintain – and I think she had it devised with finishing
nails on part of the right arm (or extension) to hold rings for spearing. Having little understanding of the forces of a tilting lance
can deliver at “full tilt”, she constructed the quintain out of light weight materials – 3/4" water pipe or 1 1/4" dowel vertical
support/pivot with a 1/4" to 3/8" thick plywood target (shield shaped, I think) with something akin to 16 penny nails hammered
into the edge of the target and bent round the vertical pipe/dowel to pivot on. Light strokes would swing it around ok, but heavy
ones would definitely damage it. Alisande provided her horse (I think it’s name was Thor) for the competitors to use, and I
believe at least one other horse was also there. Sir Robert of Dunharrow competed and has described some of his
recollections earlier in this discussion. Several of the other ladies in my household were horse owners including my lady
Leanne, and Ladies Aurelia de la Licorn (sp?) And Irene of the Marsh. Any of them may have been there with a horse also.”
~ 37 ~
“I brought an 11 foot ash lance made from a tapered 1 ½" dowel. I borrowed a claw foot off of my mother’s piano stool and
removed the glass ball from it’s grasp. I mounted this on the top of my lance in lieu of a coronal. Since I expected the quintain
to have only a brief life expectancy I chose to be last to charge it. Sir Robert “softened it up” for me when he broke it. We
managed a makeshift repair and then I took my turn. I struck it at a gallop and sent the pieces flying into the air. That’s what
really turned me on to doing equestrian things in the SCA.
“For the Equestrian record – not long before the Oakdale overnight tournament (I don’t remember what year or month - but
it was before Fulk stopped attending events) - I conspired with Ken (Fulk) to try mounted combat to see how it would work. I
was a student at San Francisco State then and had done some riding of rental horses at two nearby rental stables along the
beach just at the San Francisco/Daly City border (these were Mar Vista Riding Academy and Palo Mar Stables). The areas
available to ride (unsupervised in those days for $3.50 an hour) included all of the beach from Daly City up to the Cliff
House/Playland and even into Golden Gate Park.
“The trail down from the stables (which were located on Olympic Way next to Skyline Blvd.) To the beach below the cliff/bluff
they were situated upon wound through a sand dune like area which bordered on the west side of the Olympic Country Club
golf course. A large culvert/tunnel about 15 feet high and 20 feet wide ran under Skyline Blvd in this area to the Olympic Country
Club property and wasn’t fenced off on the Ocean/dune side. A flat sandy area about 50 feet across lay at the ocean end of this
culvert surrounded by sandy hillocks about 8 to 10' high – a good visual barrier from the occasional passing rider. You could
even ride into the culvert and had lots of room to maneuver inside.
“On the appointed day, Ken and I brought our gear (2 helms, 2 shields, 2 maces) in a duffle bag and stashed it out of sight
near the culvert. Then we went to the stable (Mar Vista I think - since they had better horses) and rented 2 horses. Then we
casually rode to our secret spot, donned our gear and tried a few passes at each other. We both managed a few hits, but found
the horses VERY!!! reluctant to get close enough for much contact between Ken and me and so gave up after about ½ hour.
We then rode for a bit and that ended that experiment. When Sir Robert and I fought on horse back (it was a demo not real
combat) at Oakdale we had similar results using mace and shield again – Leanne’s horse and Alisande’s horse ridden by
me and Robert respectively didn’t like the commotion either.” – Henrik of Havn
The Year Four
Queen’s Court of Courtesy
May 13, 1969 AS IV
Held at the home of Queen Amie. All ladies were invited.
First Overnight Coronation Festival
May 17-18, 1969 AS IV
Held at Almond Knoll Ranch, Oakdale, California, home of Chang, Slayer of
Beasts (Count Hagen the Strong) [See Annotations below, error on someone’s
part here, as Hagen and Chang are not the same person – Hirsch]. Caradoc and
Amie held court. Siegfried and Ardis were crowned. King Siegfried knighted
Robert of Dunharrow and admitted Janet Breakstone to the Order of the Laurel.
Queen Ardis presided over Saturday night’s festivities.
Siegfried von Hoflichskeit - Sable, on a bend argent a
mullet of four points elongated to base gyronny Or and sable.
Ardis an Dearg (Sumer Redmaen) - Purpure,
on a plate a rose gules seeded Or.
Comments:
A
“Woopsie, a major correction.
“First and Foremost, Chang, Slayer of Beasts has, to the best of my knowledge, no connection to Hagen the Strong. Chang's
real name IS Joel Hagen, but Count Hagen's real name wasn't Joel Hagen (Darn, I've forgotten what it was. Wasn't he associated
with your household, Robert?) Some of you folks out there may recognize Joel's name as the sculptor of all those neat alien skulls
and similar artwork for many years.” – Stefan de Lorraine
~ 38 ~
1
A
B
B
“I can confirm that Joel Hagen is not Count Hagen. After all, I went to High School with Joel -- we were two of the three smallest
boys in our class for most of that time. Just didn't recognize him when I saw him in the mid-70s. He grew late, but was taller
than I am by then (not to mention having acquired muscles that he never had in high school).
“Ah, the people I missed by not being in at the beginning! I blame it on the local librarian: she not only got me hooked on
SF, she was an officer in the Little Men ... and didn't tell me about them when I went off to Berkeley. If she had, I might even have
made the first tourney.” – William the Lucky -- full of might-have-beens, but nobody ever specified whether the name refers
good luck or bad luck.
I
“Ha. This from someone who has often told me that when Boncueur first told him about the SCA he thought it was the
silliest thing he had ever heard of. Likewise that he only went so that Boncueur would quit bugging him about it.
“This is all interesting reading, mind you. I have visions of myself sitting on alert duty over in Germany while all of my
friends where having a great time back home.” – Steven MacEanruig
“There was an abduction at this tournament that proved too successful. The abductors (led by Henrik of Havn, whose lady had been
abducted at an earlier event) won, then didn't know where to go from there.
“I promised a story.
“We arranged to convoy up to the tourney with House Havn. The plan was simple. Henrik and some of his people would put
Leanne's horse Schoen (remember me mentioning her?) into a horse trailer in Marin, then head for El Cerrito (or one of those
places) and pick up Allison and Meredith and their horse, then come to Oakland to meet Luise and me and Jon the Lean (who was
sharing a house with us at the time) and various other members of our household and then we would all head for Oakdale. Should
be on the road by 9:00 PM or so, and there by midnight or so. One Econoline (driven by a friend of Leanne's) and John's Reluctant
Dragon (a car with quite an SCA history – more later), the van hauling the horses and Jon hauling the UHaul trailer full of gear.
“As I remember, the convoy arrived at our place in Oakland around 3 in the morning, though I may exaggerate here. Schoen
had been in two accidents while riding in horse trailers. She was not interested in getting into another trailer. When Leanne arrived
after work, the crew still hadn't managed to get the horse in the trailer. It took another three hours or more to finally get the horse
in, which I believe was accomplished by Leanne riding her into the trailer and sustaining some minor injuries in the process.
Fortunately, the other horse was very docile and no problem, but Schoen protested the trip the entire trip, both ways.
“So they arrived at our place in the wee hours of the morning and we started to pack stuff into the trailer and van. I was pretty
tired by this time (I had had to work that day, getting up at gawdawful in the morning) so I was just moving stuff out to the trailer.
Luise and some other ladies were packing up some food and decided they needed another container. Jon had a chest that was
somewhat available, but we needed the key. Luise sent me to get Jon's keys. I did that, only to find that they decided that the chest
was a bad idea. I toted the keys back to the street and looked at all the stuff in the trailer. I went back for another load of stuff. You
may notice an omission there.
“Everything is packed and Jon says, "Steve, where are my keys?" I say "Keys?" After an intense search, it finally dawns on me
that I had them up to the time I looked into the trailer. We had to dig out a quarter of the trailer (fortunately I remembered where I had
looked into the trailer) to find where the keys had fallen after slipping out of my fingers ... Not one of my good early mornings, but
they rarely are ...
“So we pack ourselves into the vehicles and it's hie for Oakdale. We arrive at dawn on Saturday. I am a lump for the entire day.
I didn't even get into my armor. I sat in the shade of our minimal tent and dosed and occasionally conversed with friends.
“Fortunately, a new member of our household, Anita Salcido, knew some hypnosis. In the evening, while everyone else was
having fun at Ardis's court, she put me into a light trance and I slept like a baby. Probably the best sleep I ever had at an overnighter.
Sunday I was able to have a good time.
“The tourney was notable for, during the Queen's Court, Astrid of Hawk Ridge sought a champion and Stephen Blackeagle
stepped forward. During Sunday, there was a round of fighting that proved that Sir Bela of Eastmarch was a hot weather fighter. It
was probably his best day as a fighter in the SCA.
“Oh, and in case it isn't obvious from the above, it was a very HOT tourney. There have been hotter since, but not up to that time.”
1 “Jon the Lean was driving the truck hauling the horse trailer which was to pick up Schön. She had been in one trailer accident
and Steve is correct, it took about three hours to get her loaded and yes Leanne did finally ride her into the trailer.” – Henrik of
Havn
“Obviously the evening of May 17, IV, was one of the great moments of my life. Siegfried had told Geri weeks before that he would
knight me at his coronation, but she didn't let it slip and I didn't know until he called me forth.” – Robert Dunharrow
1 “Well, she didn't let it slip to Robert, but a bunch of us young whippersnappers, who had been abusing her hospitality for
months, had a good idea of what was to happen and elbowed ourselves into numerous vantage points at court.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
“The site is a 6 acre place on the South side of Cal. Hiway 120, about halfway between Escalon & Oakdale, and situated on a slight
rise (the only rise between those 2 towns.) Look for it on your way to or from Yosemite. The house is at the north end, with an
~ 39 ~
B
B
almond orchard at the NE corner, and the hayfield where we camped along the southern side. The hay had been mowed & baled,
and of course we stacked the bales into a wall to fight over. Chang, Slayer of Beasts, did indeed live there (along with his parents,
who were teachers in the area), and Chang's 20th C. name is Joel Hagen. (He is no relation to Doug Nelson, alias Count Hagen
the Strong, who was not at this event, I'm quite sure.)
“Even though it was only May, it was very hot (a lot hotter than it ever got in Tilden Park, anyway), but we fought over the barrier,
and Jon the Lean (now Sir Jon FitzRolf) taught me that a 7 1/2 foot maul-pike was a lot better than a 5' maul, especially over a
barrier. A bit before dusk, when it got a little cooler, Henrik & I fought with maces & small shields on horseback on the main field.
We rode at each other repeatedly, shield-side to shield-side, with repeated results; we each struck the others shield (we had
agreed on head & high body blows only to avoid hitting the horses) and since his was a metal round, it rang like a gong. This
caused my steed to leap about 5' sideways every time, so we only got in one blow per pass. After a while I saw that I must try
something different before the onlookers got bored, so wheeled my horse abruptly and swung at Henrik weapon-side to
weapon-side. I missed him (and his horse) but he got my right forearm and so I yielded. It's difficult enough to manage reins &
shield in one hand, reins and mace in one hand is rather impractical.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “You should have tried fighting your first qualifications in mid-afternoon as Warren the Strange and I did (Stefan was lucky to
have slept through it even though Warren was in his household)” – Kevin Peregrynne
“Court was after dark, when it was cool. There was no shade on the field except our half-dozen or so newly-made pavilions.” –
Robert of Dunharrow
1 “The first ever fire- and candle- lit outdoors court and encampment, I'll never forget it.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“On Sunday, Henrik abducted Astrid on horseback (I think she had hinted that she wouldn't mind at all. Anyway she didn't struggle
when Njal the Piper and I seized her and lifted her over Henrik's saddlehorn). Henrik then rode off to the almond orchard, where
he had stationed his household archers. Another member of his household (not a fighter) rode the other horse to run interference,
but got dumped when the horse whirled. The rest of us abductors ran for the orchard, while everyone else (except Sir Bela, who
feared that his daughter would never forgive him if he should somehow by stroke of luck kill Henrik & rescue her) grabbed weapons
and gave chase, slaying several abductors en route. Henrik & I and 2 others (Stefan de Lorraine & Kevin Peregrynne, I think; is that
right, you guys?) then faced some 12 to 15 rescuers (Oh, oh!).” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “... who had been waiting impatiently in the orchard wondering when the show would finally get on the road.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
I
“I don’t remember that the abduction was on Sunday. I do know that Steven Blackeagle wasn’t acquainted with Astrid until
after the abduction, so it seems unlikely he would have become her champion at a court which occurred before the time
of the abduction.” – Henrik of Havn
a “Maybe the abduction was on Saturday then, although it seems hard to believe so much could have all been on one
day. The Super 8 films Geri took should answer this. I looked at the films several times after the event, but not for a
long time now. They show the barrier fight, the abduction (including Nyal & I lifting Astrid onto Henrik's saddle
pommel, Henrik galloping away, the fellow falling off the other horse, and some of the single combats in the almond
orchard), and also me practicing hitting the quintain with a mace (on horseback) to get the horse used to it before our
fight. However, I remember it got too dark for filming by the time of the actual mounted mace combat, which was near
dusk, and court was in the evening. So, if the abduction is on film ahead of me practicing with mace, and also if I'm
not wearing a white belt in the abduction, it must have been on Saturday. But then, what could we have done on
Sunday? Did we leave rather early to flee the heat? (I did leave early enough, with Geri, Sterling, Aaron, and Dai, to
get to Yosemite that night to camp & we hiked the Mist Trail the next day. Berkeley Schools, where I taught & Dai went,
had the Monday off for Malcolm X's Birthday.)” -- Robert of Dunharrow
a “Response to Henrik I always thought the May IV abduction was on Sunday, it was someone else who thought
Saturday. Since I was knighted Saturday evening, I think the films show me with white belt in the abduction. I'm sure
you & I were the only survivors, except your archers. I think the fellow who fell off the horse was called something like
"John de la Mer." Perhaps he was a friend of Alisande's, was that why he got to ride her horse in the abduction? After
Njal & I lifted Astrid over your saddle-pommel, I had to run like mad for the orchard with numerous would-be rescuers
in full hue-and-cry on my tail.” – Robert of Dunharrow
i
“Actually, John was a friend of Leanne's from Sacramento/Davis, where Leanne was going to school. The
Econoline van that convoyed to that tourney with Jon's Reluctant Dragon was his. I think he may have ended up
her boyfriend (husband?) after she and Henrik finally broke up.” – Stefan de Lorraine
ii
“Yes, it was on Sunday, I checked the film.” – Henrik of Havn
ii
[John de la Mer] “That was John Wilson, a friend of Charlene’s from Davis. He was an ex-racing Jockey so was
allowed to ride Allison’s horse. (He didn’t like horses as it turned out, and wasn’t a good rider. Jockeys only need
to sit still and follow trainers directions.)” – Henrik of Havn
b “I was wrong – it was on Sunday, after the previous mounted combat at dusk on Saturday.” – Henrik of Havn
~ 40 ~
B
B
“But Henrik had a plan. He boldly announced that his archers were in position to shoot them all down, but that we would fight them
all, one-by-one, in single combat. I got my revenge on Jon and his maul-pike (Red Ruin) by pinning it against him with my kite
shield as I gave him a wrap-shot to the helm. (After that he invented little maces hung on wrist straps for this problem.) I think Stefan
& Kevin each fought some & lost to someone, I killed Jon & one other, while Henrik killed about 10 in a row. When no one else was
left, Henrik & I and his archers (mostly the ladies of House Havn, but also a big, strong, good-looking teenager named Steven
Blackeagle) escorted Astrid to Henrik's pavilion, where we each got a kiss from the abductee. Astrid bemoaned the fact that she
had no champion, and Blackeagle gallantly volunteered. Soon he learned to fight and when he was 18 and she was 16, he made
her Queen. (This abduction was the only "successful" one I can remember ever. That is, all rescuers killed, some abductors
survived. Of course, Astrid was duly returned to her family after food, drink, and celebration in the Havn pavilion.)” – Robert of
Dunharrow
1 “I think Stefan & Kevin each fought some & lost to someone. I fought Robert's squire Dai of the Tulips (who for some reason
hadn't joined his lord with the abductors, communications error??) who gave me a lesson on the value of good footwork.” –
Kevin Peregrynne
I
“I remember striding briskly and casually with my shield and sword hanging each at my sides, up to several of my
opponents with a mental attitude that they shouldn’t bother to resist because they were already “dead”, and then striking
them quickly over the head and killing them – while they stood as if transfixed and did nothing to defend themselves. This
was an early application of ‘psyching them out.’“ – Henrik of Havn
“This was the 1st tourney that Geri had a Super 8 movie camera. (She filmed most events from AS IV through VII.) When we get
her films onto videotape, you can all see the Saturday barrier fight and the Sunday abduction. (It was too dark to film our horseback
fight, just shots of me warming up hitting the quintain to get the horse used to the idea.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
A
“To the best of my knowledge, I participated in the abduction as a rescuer, not an abductor. I remember the archers being a surprise
to me, and I think I would have been let in on the secret if I was part of the plot. Then again, as I've already said, I was so wasted
at that tourney that it may have all been burned out of my memory. For instance, I was thinking Allison Clough was abducted, but
I guess that was at another event (and Allison, of course, was affiliated with Henrik's household) Actually, now I'm thinking it was
Allison who got dumped when her horse spooked.
“As a side note, this was one of those times when, in the dubiously named "real" world, it seemed like half of California was
sure the whole state was going to slide into the sea due to some conjunction of the planets or other.
“Because we had a house which, if you looked out one window, had a view of San Francisco, we held a party shortly after the
tourney to celebrate Astrid's finding a champion, Bela's spectacular fighting, and the fact that we were about to slide into the sea.
There was no such interruption to the party. We even played Wagner, but no Gotterdammerung. Many other members of the SCA
were in a caravan in the Midwest, just in case ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, who admits to having been slightly apprehensive ... And who
now thinks, "maybe I was an abductor ..."
1 “I think Stefan was an abductor, but we'll know for sure when Geri's films get put on video tape or whatever. The person who
fell off Alisande's horse in the abduction was male, neither a fighter nor archer, I think, but in Henrik's household I believe. He
was trying to run interference for the abductors, but fell off when he whirled the horse about. (It's in the films.) Alisande was
much too good a rider to be dumped that easily.” – Robert of Dunharrow
I
“Sorry, the abduction was on Sunday, only the horse combat between me and Robert was on Saturday.
“No, Stefan was among the rescue party along with Siegfried, both of whom I defeated. The person who fell off the
horse was carrying a center bossed 28" or so round shield and he had a sword on his left hip. He was wearing all black
but is unrecognizable. He may have worn a helm.” – Henrik of Havn
a “His name was John Wilson, Leanne’s friend from U.C. Davis.” – Henrik of Havn
C
“OH Boy -- lots of memories of this event. It was hot. There were lots of tents and Pavilions. There were horses. There was an
abduction. There were weird things in the night - I remember a shout in the night that we were being attacked, and a call to arms.
I grabbed my sword and ran (naked? I don't know - it was really confused and I was coming out of a deep sleep). It was really hot
and I remember about 20 or so fighters running toward the fence-gate area where the call had come from - we got there and nothing
seemed to be happening. I heard later that some Cowboy types had decided to attack the hippies, and then found out that these
'hippies' had swords. But I never had a clear picture of what really happened. I do know that a Sheriff showed up the next day to see
what was happening. David of Ilwheirlane (Hodghead) was City Attorney for Sunnyvale at that time, and gave the Sheriff his card.
We put Jamie Oakenshields Coat of Plates (Aluminum (?) covered with cloth and with Jamie's arms on it - very impressive for the
time) on the guy and hit him for a while - he thought that we were ok, and hadn't eaten a ranch family and taken over the ranch or
something ...
“On Saturday, I fought in my first melee. The forces of Barbarism were on one side, and Civilization on the other. Randall
christened us the Arisians and the Eddorians. There was a hay bale castle wall between us - ‘lay on’ or ‘charge’ was called, and
I ran up to the wall. Everyone else walked - having done this before. I leaped on top of the wall (not much armor, so I was more
~ 41 ~
mobile then!) and Warren the Strange raised his shield. I stood on his shield and hit him - I then got speared by Ian MacEye, and
he got killed by Kevin. Lots of fun. In the second melee - I walked up to the wall and Robert of Dunharrow whirled his maul over his
head and hit my shield, destroying it (no 360 degree rule) and then hit my head with the second blow (a total of 720 degrees ...).
I enjoyed the hell out it.
“It got so hot that Hourai and Dai fought in the Irrigation canal up to their necks in the water.
“Sunday morning, after her Coronation on Saturday, Queen Ardis woke up and cheerfully yelled to the world that she had been
'Royally Screwed'. Long trip home. Lots of grumbles about having to drive too far to a tourney.” – James Greyhelm
1 “James' description of the opening barrier fight is quite accurate. He, flanked by myself and Sir Earl of Morris (both with
greatswords), had decided that a berserk charge right into the middle of the 'civilized' defenses was appropriate barbarian
tactics. As the heralds went through the usual pre-melee litany the three of us joined by other young enthusiasts howled,
jumped up and down and poun ded our shields and the ground with our weapons. At the 'Lay on!' command we charged
straight for the middle embrasure. James, without breaking stride, leapt onto the parapet and onto Warren's shield. Earl and
I covered his flanks by slashing across the tops of the embrasures from behind him and to his sides. As James killed Warren
and stepped down he was stabbed by Ian MacEye (I had forgotten his name) who I promptly nailed on the return stroke with
my sword. Earl and I jumped up onto the hay and cleared enough space for a bridgehead and almost without a pause "the
barbarians are within the walls!" rang out. I got my first kill of a knight during one of the barrier battles that day (Sir Bela was
looking the wrong way), but I can't state for sure that it was during the first one.” – Kevin Peregrynne
2 “Agree with Duke James' account of Sheriff's deputies at Oakdale. Their attitude altered quickly when David H. handed them
his card. However, he was, I think, Deputy City Attorney of Campbell, not Sunnyvale. (Since we're recording this for posterity think of the 3 million SCA members in AS CC reading it - we should try to be as precise as we can.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
D
“The First Overnight: I was wondering when we'd get to that ... Now I think it got nicknamed "The Purgatorio", but maybe that was
after the fact, or that may have applied to other summer overnights. Anyway, it WAS hot. Yes, Steven Blackeagle offered to champion
me at the Queen's Court on Saturday night, but I thought the abduction was before then? Maybe not. Anyway, I was gently thrown
over the front of the saddle, feet on one side of the horse, head on the other, and my dress got torn at the waist. And of course it
was all planned. "Would you like to be abducted?"” – Astrid of Hawk Ridge
E
“Looks like it's time for me to jump in here. It seems like it was around spring or early summer in Portland, OR (Barony Of Three
Mts) when I first read in the local paper that the SCA had just started a Barony in town. The folks interviewed, as I recall, were
Frederick of Holland and Lady Nicorlynn. The article told of the SCA, what it was and what it was trying to do. I read that about 5
times, just sat there and said to myself, "I got to do this". It was just the sort of thing I was looking for. I called and set up a time to
talk with Fleig (Frederick of Holland) and Lady Nicorlynn and that’s all it took for me. I have no idea how long we talked but it must
have been for some time, all the "newbie" questions etc. I went to a fighter practice, that next week I think, and let Flieg beat me up
real good, didn't want to quit. Got introduced to Sir Fredrick of the West Tower shortly there after and bent his ear for the rest of the
winter.
“There were some others in the Barony at that time but when winter hit they all went their own ways to come out next spring.
That first winter it was Frederick and myself and it was wonderful. We had a basement in downtown Portland that we would practice
in, rather impossible to do outside (rain, snow etc). We got together at least twice a week and work. I had made a round shield (20")
out of 1" thick plywood to train with. By midwinter I was getting very hard to kill. This paid off at the Crown Tourney of ASV which I'll
get to later. As I recall we had a tourney in the fall of ASIV just outside of Portland. Frederick informed us that Edwin Bersark was
going to attend this event. None of us had ever meet Edwin and Frederick had a great time filling us with horror stories of Edwin's
prowess. On the day of the event, I was introduced to this rather hairy individual, a bit shorter than me as Edwin (the terror, if you
were around Frederick much). I looked at him and thought, "this wont be so bad, I can handle this". I was using a high form with
the shield at that time and it was working rather well for me. First fight with Edwin: He took a step back and looked me over, took
a swing at my shield side, stepped around to mysword side and killed me. Nothing to it. As I walked off the field I was thinking that
I had better go back to basics. Edwin had a great time killing me all weekend (2 day event) but by Sunday afternoon he had to work
at it. I went home with a bruise that went from my armpit to my knee on the left side but was back at it by the next week. I was loving
it.
“This was the start of Three Mts and the expansion of the West Kingdom to the north. You'll hear from me when the Spring
Tourney of ASV comes around. That was the first Crown I ever attended.” – Jerald of Galloway
F
“Houri and Dai did fight in the irrigation ditch, much to their later regret when both got quite ill (possibly insecticide residue in the
water?).
“As I got the story, the local Saturday night pickup truck and beer crowd tried to heckle us and threatened to come back after
dark with their switch blades and farm implements and show us real men in action (I guess the combination of swords and skirts
~ 42 ~
F
G
on the same persons confused them). Some of the younger and more enthusiastically paranoid SCAers kept armed watch through
the night (after the revelry wound down long after midnight) but nothing happened.
“Robert can confirm this ... my recollection is that Twelfth Night III is the first one where Lady Geraldine catered the feast. King
Caradoc did indeed pronounce the goat to be spoiled in a voice that carried throughout the hall (tasted like goat to me, I don't know
what he had been expecting). This pronouncement gained greater credence when many attendees fell ill with the stomach flu
within the next week or so (ignoring for the moment that nearly every human being on the continent caught Hong Kong flu at about
that time). The consensus later was that the feast got a bum rap.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “At the end of the event on Sunday it was discovered that Jamie Oakenshield’s vehicle wouldn’t run, since someone (perhaps
the locals from the night before?) Had poured a bottle of coke into his gas tank. Jamie’s coat of plates was made of steel plates
as I recall with a velvet cloth covering. Unfortunately, the red velvet wasn’t very durable and started to tear after a few wearings.”
– Henrik of Havn
“I don't know if one more blurry memory will help or hinder. Warren the Strange and I qualified for the lists Saturday Afternoon before
the barrier battle(s) [refer to James' recounting] and dusk court where Robert was Knighted. The abduction sticks out of the midden
heap I call a memory as being on Sunday after the overnight alarums and excursions concerning the locals, Queen Ardis' famous
morning exclamation, and a whole lot of milling around and waiting for the abduction to happen while we sweated in the orchard.
“I also have this (probably fictitious) recollection that Robert and I first actually discussed Patti and I joining his, Geri and Lin's
household (which grew to the size of a third world nation) Sunday when he was already knighted and the abduction was over.
Certainly it was a fait accompli by the next tourney when Robert's arms and armor were ransomed.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“I have strong memories of this event. Our host was kind enough to provide bales of straw on which we could sit and watch the
fighting. Unfortunately, I was wearing tights and quickly found that the foxtails stuck through the material and into sensitive parts
of me. My lady and several others got pleasure in pulling (pushing them in) these things out.
“We also were visited by a group of local cowboys who thought at first that we were sissy city people, but quickly changed their
minds after seeing the fighting.” – David of Ilwheirlane
June 22, 1969 AS IV
Summer Crown Tourney
Held at El Camino Park, Palo Alto, California. Joe and Felice of Mayhavn House were the autocrats. Siegfried and Ardis held court. King
Siegfried knighted Thumas na Leabar O’Conaire. Crown lists were held. Duke Henrik of Havn won, defeating Sir Thumas na Leabar
O’Conaire. Leanne of Maywood was Duke Henrik’s lady. Houri the Savage gave the MGC to Sir Thumas. King Siegfried introduced the
custom of ransoming a new knight’s arms by ransoming the helm and shield of Sir Robert of Dunharrow. Hugh ap Llewelyn made his first
appearance as Greencloak Pursuivant. At this time Kerry the Rock became the editor of TI, replacing Jon De Cles, who remained Chronicler.
Comments:
A
“You know, I was at this tournament. I remember bits and flashes of it, but mostly it is a big blank to me. It was the last gasp of
Mayhem House, I think. Somewhere around here Joe and Felice split up. You will also note that Henrik won this tourney. If you look
back, you'll see that he won the previous summer tourney. It became a tradition for three years or so that Henrik would win the
summer tourney. It was fairly constant until James and Paul began trading back and forth.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“My helm ransoming is also in the films, but as best I recall, I came forward with the four other fighters of the Dunharrow Eored
surrounding me in a square. (I had gathered a fair force in a month, but with Geri feeding folks, our household tended to grow.)
Included were: my squires, Dai of the Tulips & Kevin Peregrynne, my man-at-arms, Jean de la Grande 'Anse, and myson, Richard
Bandersnatch (who fought in the tourney after 5 days training, having just come from Pennsylvania for the Summer.) (In my day,
only fighters under 21 were called squires, older fighters were men-at-arms, but the relationship was essentially the same. Jean
was in his mid-thirties, while Kevin was about 19, Dai & Rick were 16.) One of them carried my banner, another, my shield,
another, my helm, and I guess the fourth had my sword. Anyway, it made a decent ceremony, but the custom only continued a little
while.” – Robert of Dunharrow
July 4-6, 1969 AS IV
First Crown Tourney, Kingdom of the Middle
Held at Wilmot Mountain, Wisconsin. King Bruce of Cloves sent Adrienne of Toledo as his representative, who presided as Queen over
the lists. Present were Michael Bradley of Bradley, Franz von Blikenlichten, Cariadoc of the Bow, Diana Alene, and others. Cariadoc of the
Bow won, using a two-handed sword. (The Middle was at this time part of the East and known as the Principality Under the Mountain.)
~ 43 ~
Comments:
A
“As I heard the story, this was an interesting situation. Apparently the SCA in Berkeley had been contacted about establishing a
Chicago branch, and Cariadoc and company contacted the East Kingdom through mutual friends there to become a branch. For
awhile there were two branches in Chicago, though the Berkeley-chartered branch never had a tournament before joining the other.
All part of the competition between East and West as to who had the right to charter branches. Berkeley, in the person of Jon
DeCles, wanted a centralized operation in Berkeley, while the Easterners, led by Walter and Marion, were looking for a kind of
decentralized operation where any kingdom could establish a branch. Eventually, as I understand the situation, the East finally
decided that if Berkeley wanted the hassle, they'd let them deal with it.” – Stefan de Lorraine
July 19, 1969 AS IV
Midsummer Picnic Benefit for the Artist
Held at the Hockey Field at Mills College, Oakland, California. Toad Hall was the sponsor. A feast was provided. Contests were held in
archery, javelin throwing, wrestling, axe and shield, long sword, and three man teams.
Comments:
A
“These were always great fun, and the steadily growing households of Toad Hall and Lorraine looked forward to them. I kind of
remember this one, but I'm not sure what Artist was being benefitted...” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“I think this was to raise money to pay for supplies for Mistress Johanna von Griffenhurst to make the Great Book of Arms. (A book
with a whole page for the arms of each armiger in the Kingdom, and Johanna was doing them all.) As usual, Geri (helped by most
of the teen-aged members) did the feast, and I ran the contests. I think we did weight classes in the wrestling, but Michael Walrus
(Mike Peterson) was pretty unbeatable in the heavyweight class. He chaired the Math Dept. at Marin Catholic High School, and
coached wrestling & JV football as well. He was incredibly strong & a really nice guy. Oh, yes, he lived on a little houseboat named
the Walrus in Sausalito.” – Robert of Dunharrow
August 5, 1969 AS IV
Royal Proclamation
King Siegfried issued a Royal Proclamation which consolidated all past proclamations and laws. He established the post of Tourneymaster
and appointed Sir Bela of Eastmarch and Karina of the Far West to hold it jointly. [The Proclamation is in the Appendices, see page 362]
Comments:
A
“As I recall, this put Bela and Karina in charge of things like the Eric and the Royal Pavilion (though they didn't necessarily have the
keeping of it, just the duty of making sure it would show up). Karina should remember more about it. I'm not sure how this office
developed and/or how it disappeared. I think the Seneschalate took over most of the function, but I'm not at all sure.” – Stefan de
Lorraine, for whom most of this period rather fades into a hazy background as he became the chief Deputy Seneschal and prepared
to take over the office. But there was one little hitch ... Wait for it.
B
“Yes, the words, "The King's Word is Law", and a lot more, were published by Siegfried. It was the first written law in the SCA (other
than Rules of the Lists) so far as I know, and he deserves credit for this. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to get established as the
exclusive laws of the West. Some people holding important offices still continued to cite oral proclamations of past reigns as
binding law (when it suited their argument) even though not included in Siegfried's written code. This is why, when the first member
of my household won the Crown (Jean, in Oct V), I asked him if he would proclaim an exclusive law code if I would write it, and he
agreed. I included all of Siegfried's work & added a lot more, mostly spelling out current practices in print so everyone could know
the same version, but I failed to give Siegfried proper credit for his work. The key final phrase of this code, to end further quibbling
over disparate memories, was something like: "All proclamations of all previous reigns not herein included are hereby rescinded.
All changes to the Kingdom Laws by future reigns shall be in the form of amendments to this Code." Jean glanced over it and
handed it to the heralds to proclaim. Well, after another quarter-century, it seems to have stuck. However, Don & Diana (2/3 of the
Board) protested that one thing I included (Courts of Chivalry) were Society-level, not Kingdom-level law. I asked how we were
supposed to know that, since they had no written rules beyond the mundane corporate by-laws. This caused Don (Jon de Cles)
to invent the Corpora, and in the next reign (Hagen, also of my household) we amended out the offending item from the West
Kingdom Law.” – Robert of Dunharrow
~ 44 ~
August 16-17, 1969 AS IV
August Purgatorio Coronation Festival
Held in the Girl’s Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Sir Bela of
Eastmarch and Karina of the Far West were Tourneymasters. Siegfried and Ardis
held court. King Siegfried gave Awards of Arms to Alison of Hightower, Melissa
Wordsmith, Astrid of Hawk Ridge, Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of
Caer-Myrddin), and Hugh ap Llewellyn. Then Henrik and Leanne were crowned.
King Henrik named Siegfried Duke. King Henrik abolished the office of
Tourneymaster and reinstituted the office of Supreme Autocrat by appointing Sir
Stefan de Lorraine for October.
Comments:
A
“Oh, so that’s what happened to the post of Tourneymaster. I'd forgotten all about it. I wonder what the reasons behind the actions
were? The memory has completely escaped me. I do know that I was the chief deputy seneschal of the kingdom by this time and
Jon De Cles was getting ready to hand the reins of the kingdom over to me and move on to be Steward of the Society only. Fate
intervened, but that's a subject for a later communique.
“I do remember that the tournament earned its name of Purgatorio and we had to bring water into the site. No memory at all
of what took place. Things like Arts competitions and Queens Champion lists were some years in the future, yet.” – Stefan de
Lorraine, who was dealing with home and work issues and rescuing a cat from the neighborhood urchins at the time.
B
“Second overnight event, if I remember correctly. Nice weather but really hot. This was when David Bradley christened the event
'Purgatorio' , good fighting - an abduction occurred. Was this the event where David (Sir Ardral), Sir Kerry the Roc and one other
fighter attacked Henrik while screaming their battle cry- 'Rubber Duckie' ?” – James Greyhelm
C
“I thought the camp was in the south end of Tilden Park, near the little railroad, not in Redwood Regional Park as someone said.
I believe it was called either "Girls' Camp" or "Boys' Camp" (I forget which. I think the East Bay Regional Parks have one of each
by those names and we used both at different times.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
September 7, 1969 AS IV
WorldCon Coronation, Kingdom of the Middle
Held in St. Louis, Missouri. During the four day convention a coronation was held. King MacGregor of Goetz-Carlsberg was present and
presided. Astrid of Hawk Ridge sat as his Queen, since the true Queen of the East was not present. King MacGregor knighted Cariadoc
of the Bow and then crowned him the first King of the Middle. King Cariadoc then crowned his lady Diana Alene as the first Queen of the
Middle. This marked the creation of the Kingdom of the M iddle. Subsequently, The Pale, the newsletter of the Middle Kingdom, appeared,
with Thorvald the Grim as editor. Lady Mandi Tamborello was the Seneschal. King Cariadoc was also Earl Marshal. Bran of Cornwall later
became Dragon Principal Herald.
October 4, 1969 AS IV
Autumn Crown Tourney
Held at Lafayette Reservoir, Lafayette, California. Sir Stefan de Lorraine was the autocrat. Henrik and Leanne reigned. Crown lists were held.
Sir Stefan de Lorraine defeated Houri the Savage. Luise of the Phoenix was Sir Stefan’s lady, Queen Leanne invited all ladies for
conversation and cookies. A javelin contest was held, and children’s footraces took place. At final court King Henrik knighted Houri the
Savage and Robert de Recoing, and admitted Geraldine of Toad Hall to the Order of the Laurel.
Comments:
A
“Houri, as you know by now (if you didn't know from personal experience), was my squire. Off on the sidelines, his lady, Sarah, and
Luise were holding each others' hands and saying "I don't want to be queen. Do you want to be queen?" Luise lost.
“My worst fight was actually with Jerome Robert MacKenna, Jerry Pournelle.It was long and iffy on several occasions. We fought
in the semi finals, then Houri and I in the finals. A lot of folks were not participating for one reason or another.
“Houri was actually knighted before the finals, to theoretically break him away from fealty to me before the fight. The name
Robert de Recoing means nothing to me. I cannot think who that could be. I think there is a confusion with Hubert de Recoing, a
~ 45 ~
Frenchman who was Caradoc's squire for awhile, who might have been knighted, but I don't think so. Could have been, though.
Hubert wandered away around then ...
“There's more, but it's late and I have to get up in the morning. Perhaps more later.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers
that "Omigod I did it," feeling very well.
B
“While I was still languishing in Germany, I do happen to know that the name was Hubert de Recoing and he did get knighted.” –
Steven MacEanruig, who was still languishing, but soon to return.
C
“Hubert de Recoing was the other semi-finalist, along with Stefan, Houri, & Jerome Robert of McKenna. Houri & Hubert were both
knighted at that time. McKenna's fighting ability was certainly up to standard as well (especially impressive since he lived in LA,
where the SCA hadn't yet reached, and got no chance to practice) and he would likely have been seriously considered if he hadn't
previously managed to personally offend most of the chivalry and their ladies by ill-chosen remarks. Geri & I got along with him
fine, but he seemed to have a talent for irking many folks. The Order of Chivalry is of much broader scope than a mere martial arts
award.” – Robert of Dunharrow
D
“Just chiming with Stefan, Steven and Robert to agree that it was Caradoc's squire Hubert (see my comment from a few weeks ago)
de Recoing who was knighted the same day as Houri. Hubert promptly disappeared from the SCA thereafter, I don't believe he was
ever seen to fight again. As I recall, Hubert really was French, had dishwater blond hair, was of average size and wore a recycled
sleeping bag for a gambeson.
“Houri was completely unforgettable. Until the arrival of Paul of Bellatrix he was considered to be the hardest hitter extant (one
could tell if he was fighting by sound alone). I can certainly (v)ouch for his striking ability - he having been my first backyard sparring
partner shortly after he became Stefan's squire (before I was anybody's).
“Meaning no disrespect for my knight (hi Robert!), but it was not just the chivalry who were put out with Jerome at this point in
history. Most of the younger fighters felt that he had both a serious attitude problem (he frequently expressed the belief that he was
owed knighthood RIGHT NOW [though he hadn't paid the dues that most of us either had paid or were in the process of paying])
and (to be discrete) his sensitivity in detection of impacts on his person was considered to be less than consistent with the
consensual standards then in effect. He was also, if possible, more offensive and disrespectful to the ladies of unbelted fighters
and non fighters than he was to the ladies of the nobility.
“This is not to say that things didn't eventually change for the better, but semi-finalist or not knighting Jerome at that place and
time would probably have been a big mistake (IMHO). To keep the record straight Jerome and I managed to get along civilly too,
for several years he was my chief deputy marshal for CAID and did a superb job.” – Kevin Peregrynne
E
This was provided by Henrik, who had a copy in his files – it is Stefan de Lorraine’s report on this tournament:
10/13/70
A report on the Autumn Crown Tourney of the Kingdom of the Mists and the Western Lands, sent to the Board of Directors of the
Society for Creative Anachronism, with copies to the King of This Kingdom, His Earl Marshall, and the College of Heralds, written
by Stefan de Lorraine, KSCA, MGC, and Seneschal to His Majesty’s Western Realm.
GENERAL IMPRESSIONS: The Tourney was big, almost too big. We easily filled a field we once took only a corner of. Too much was
crammed into one day, yet things went fairly smoothly, thanks to the preparation involved in the preliminary meeting. However, several
points popped up ...
1) The Golden Key is undermanned (underladied, mostly). Father Rivvin, Lady Rima, and Lady Dorcas were almost alone, save for the
Chatelaine. Their only assistance seemed to come from Outlanders, such as Karen Arquette, the mainstay of the Province of Shasta.
Recruitment is necessary to find some people [who] can spend the time they usually spend sitting in doing something to help the
Kingdom grow in an orderly manner. Oh yes, Lady Geraldine also helped, and I don’t think she’s even an official member, though she
has supplied most of the material for costumes, etc. This, however, is a job of the Seneschal’s office, and I will work on it.
2) Likewise, the lack of thrones (the King’s was graciously provided by Lady Johanna von Griffenhurst) and belts and chains is the
fault of the Seneschal’s office. I am of the opinion that the problem is a matter of communications and little time. I am attempting to
improve the first and find some more of the latter.
~ 46 ~
3) However, it would seem that the lack of ceremonials (part of the problem brought forward by Sir Thomas before the knighting of
Sir Charles of Mercury) can be traced to the Historian, Lady Dorothea of Paraval, having the only copies. If I am wrong, and the
Heralds have copies as well, why weren’t any brought? If someone will give me copies, I will be glad to bring them along. I believe
that, while it is the Herald’s job to create ceremonial, it is the Seneschal’s job to maintain them. I can’t do that if I don’t have the
ceremonies. May I ask the Lord Laurel King at Arms to persuade his people in this Kingdom that He Who Speaks for the King (as
opposed to He Who Speaks wit the King’s Voice) would really do his job better if he knew what the King was supposed to say. Also,
since Kings change so often, and the Seneschal doesn’t, it’s a lot easier to supply me with one copy than it is to give each monarch
copies.
4) The fighting at this Tourney was bad. For various reasons, such as lack of practice, lack of sleep, cockiness, unfamiliar weaponry,
the knights and unbelted fighter[s] of this kingdom put on a bad show. However, one aspect of the bad show did not have a direct
Connection with the quality of fighting.
I am talking about the discussion groups which seemed to go along with each fight.
That there was a need to intercede in the Crown fight between Sir Houri’ the Savage and Charles of Mercury is unfortunate but
unquestioned. Unfortunately, the Earl Marshall and his Marshalls-in-Training seemed to take this as carte-blanche to intercede in every
fight, whether asked or no. Edgar the Unready died five times before the Knights Marshall saw fit to cease rejuvenating him. As a
Knight and former King, I say if a man chooses to die, let him.
The Earl Marshall has been the foremost proponent of the “The Fighter should judge his own wounds” school of tourney-combat
thought. It is sad to see him and his deputies now acting like the referees we repudiated so many years ago.
Also, the insistence on a “solid blow,” is steadily escalating us towards someone getting killed on the field. Fighters are repeatedly
having an opponent not call a blow because, “it wasn’t hard enough,” and then not calling blows upon themselves, for the same
reason. This, I think, puts us in the same boat as the controversy between “tussling on the ground” and “weapon-work only.”
I feel more and more that, if we are truly concentrating on style, then solidness of blow should be discounted in favor of cleanness.
The sharp, precise, blow and block of good sword and shield work is beautiful to watch. When people have to put roundhouses into
every blow, they don’t have time to be precise.
As things are, Sir Frederic of the WestTower has a shoulder muscle which may or may not recover (it hadn’t fully recovered when
I saw him Sunday night), and Kevin Peregrin may have the nerve trunk to his right arm permanently damaged (I haven’t heard anything
on this since the Tourney). Something has to be done, I don’t think armor for all is the answer.
5) Time was an important factor in this tourney. Thanks to the poor quality of fighting and the constant interruptions, the Crown fights
dragged on an unfortunate amount of time. Many people (i.e.; the Shasta people, Hal van Rawn ((Ravn?))) Barry of Judah (or whatever
he’s calling himself now), and others) got not opportunity to fight at all. I suggest now, for everyone’s careful thought before
November first, that making the Crown Tourneys two-day affairs, and the Coronation Festivals one-day, might not be a bad idea. We
could run preliminary bouts on the first day, and the main competition on the second, or something similar. There is no real need to
have the tourney an overnight affair, for that matter. Everybody merely comes on both days, or on the days they wish.
Either we do this, or start cutting down the Crown Lists drastically. We are getting too unwieldly for one-day Crown tournaments,
and they short-change the Outlander fighters who do not wish to fight for our Crown, but do wish to fight.
6) The Heralds managed to alienate the Master of the King’s Musick by a definite lack of stage-awareness. The interminable
commercials for books of poetry and far-flung feasts (Wouldn’t, “The Barony of Madrone is having an All Hallows feast, y’all come!”
have been shorter and to the point?) Dragged the time past any chance to do the dancing the Lady Diana had carefully arranged, and
thoroughly persuaded Don Alfonso and his musicians that no one in the Kingdom had any regard for them whatever.
I point out to the College that if they accumulate a reputation for constantly dragging out ceremonies with their own commercials,
personal business, and witty repartee, then the people of this Kingdom are going to start figuring that if the Heralds are having a
private party, it’s no business of their’s to listen in. A Herald Speaks with the King’s Voice. The Heralds might do well to consider
whether the King really wishes to say what they’re saying. Also, the Heralds may well consider whether the people who have to stand
in the sun (or stand and shiver while they wonder if they can get their pavilions down in time) really want to hear the King’s words
modified and embellished to three times their length, or they just want to hear what the King has to say.
Remember, it is the People who make this group. We’d all look very silly in our gorgeous cloaks and houpelandes of office if there
was no one to pontificate to. We have to keep our audience, good people, so let us take what stagecraft we have to mind and hold
our audience, not harry them.
~ 47 ~
This is not a happy report. Our main problems of keeping from alienating newcomers and getting the Crown Lists over with before
dark seem to be solved or on their way to being solved. Still, all the details I have brought out have to be attended to, and now we have
time for it with the other problems taken care of.
Some of these difficulties are new. Most, especially that with the Heralds, have been with the Kingdom for some time. I would like
other viewpoints on these subjects and any others. I hope that other officers of this kingdom will see fit to write their own reports.
As representative of the Society, I want to see this Kingdom working and coordinating. It won’t do that if nobody tells anyone
anything and, more important, no one writes anything down.
My Lords and Ladies, I trust I will hear from you on these matters. Please reply as soon as possible, at least on the matter of twoday Crown Tourneys.
I remain, y’r h’mbl’ & ob’t s’v’t,
Sir Stefan de Lorraine, KSCA, M GC, Seneschal to the King of the Kingdom of the Mists and the Western Lands and Legal
Representative of the Society for Creative Anachronism in the State of California
(Back to the commentary:)
1 “My, I was a long-winded sort when I got the wind up, wasn't I?
“As we can all see, most of my suggestions were ignored. My usual knack for prognostication was working on all 3 1/2
cylinders. Somehow the kingdom manages to cram lists with far more fighters and double elimination into a day, though I'll
note that the incidence of non-Crown fighting seems to be nil, from what I have seen. Of course, these days there are a lot of
other events in which people can fight without a crown at the end of the battle. At the time, I found it very hard to imagine that
people would want to go to one of these events more than six times a year ...
“And folks can read between the lines to see the hassles I was having with both the Marshals and the Heralds at the time.
My comments on the Marshalling stand, the comments on the Heralds mostly had to do with the penchant of Randal of
Hightower (Randal Garret) to over-appreciate his own cleverness and to inspire others to emulate him.” – Stefan de Lorraine,
who points out that he has acted as both Herald and Marshall and some of his best friends have been one or the other or both.
Just not at that point in time...
2
2
[Their only assistance seemed to come from Outlanders, such as Karen Arquette ...] “Just for the record - Karen's SCA name
was Gonwynlyn of Hrasvelg.” – Kevin Peregrynne
[... and Kevin Peregrin may have the nerve trunk to his right arm permanently damaged ...] “I didn't report back in writing, but
according to the folks at Kaiser E.R. my right Brachial Plexus was deeply bruised. Fortunately with October being the end of
the fighting season I had time to recover and was fine by Twelfth Night. The whole discussion about blows and marshalling
that preceded this is interesting, considering how many cycles of blow strength/counting and hands-on/off marshalling we have
seen since. My recollection is not that I was hit particularly harder than usual, but simply collected a shot perfectly placed to
knock my entire arm off the air by stunning the nerve plexus (hurt like the dickens too).” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“Yet another addendum/correction: Father Ruthven, i.e., Ruthven of Rockridge,who is an ordained Episcopal priest – those
masses Sunday mornings at various tourney fields were duly noted in the parish books.” – Rima of Rockridge
November 15, 1969 AS IV
Court of Chivalry
Knights and Masters at Arms were summoned to SCA Headquarters by Harold Breakstone, Laurel King of Arms, to discuss the Rules of
the Lists.
November 15, 1969 AS IV
Court of Courtesy
Held at the home of Master Beverly Hodghead, Berkeley, California. Queen Leanne summoned the ladies to discuss favors and their use.
Geraldine of Toad Hall reported on the Associated Guilds. Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf) was in charge of the Armourers Guild, Claudia of
the Snowflake was in charge of the Sticherers Guild, the Clothiers Guild was run by Luise of the Phoenix, The Spinners Guild by Dorothea
of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin), the Jewelers Guild by Michel Le Mohle, The Brotherhood of Breadbakers by Master Lin, the
Witchcraft and Herblore Guild by Davlin le Mohle, and Geraldine was Guild Mistress. There was also a Guild of Household Heralds and
Scribes.
~ 48 ~
January 3, 1970 AS IV
Twelfth Night Coronation and Revel
Held at the Mills College Student Union, Oakland, California. Mistress Geraldine
of Toad Hall was the autocrat and prepared the feast. Henrik and Leanne held
court. King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to Johanna Griffenhurst, M ichael of
Moria, Richard Ironsteed, William of the Shire, Lenore of the Darklands, and
Sheridan of Greenholm. Then Stefan and Luise were crowned by Henrik and
Leanne. King Stefan gave Awards of Arms to Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice
Carmigniani) and John ap Griffin. A feast followed, followed by revelry.
Stefan de Lorraine - Argent, a fleur-de-lys gules.
Luise of the Phoenix - Argent, on a flaming fleur-de-lys
gules a phoenix displayed Or.
Comments:
A
A
“And started the reign of King Stefan the Sick. Holding this discussion to a month is about right [Editor’s note – I emailed out events
one month’s worth at a shot for comments. – Hirsch], because various attendees at the feast were sick for a goodly chunk of that
month. I had whooping cough, as did some others, and others had various nasty afflictions. I had previously gotten the Caradoc
coronation mixed up with this one because of Caradoc proclaiming "The Meat is rank" in stentorian tones, when in fact he just didn't
recognize goat meat.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Actually, it was much more likely that all the kissing going on in the 'nooks and crannies' passed on whatever bugs people
had brought with them. That happened several years in a row, too. Remember the "Great Plague of the Year Seven" when
almost everyone who had come to Twelfth Night ended up with the flu?” – Verena of Laurelin
I
“Yes, and it wasn't only the Year Seven. When you had people coming from all over the West Kingdom (which, as she
points out, was then the whole West Coast) and mingling all evening in a close room, you're going to get maximum virussharing even before the cuddling in corners gets started. Happened practically every year, and I think the term "The
Epiphany Plague" dates from then.” – Dorothea of Caer Myrdynn
“No such proclamation was made at this feast, but, as I mistakenly said about the previous one, we think that some of the food
handlers (who were getting in free because they were helping Geraldine) let their enthusiasm for attending get ahead of their
common sense when they realized they were sick. They stifled their sneezes and coughs and came anyway and spread their little
fellow travelers far and wide amongst the kingdom.
“Other things that happened was that the Mills College student union was getting really crowded for a 12th Night. Jon FitzRolf,
was this the 12th night in which you set up a scaffolding so you could film the festivities? The movies of the sheer press of people
dressed to the medieval nines is pretty impressive, if I remember the movies correctly.
“You might say this was the first example of a King's Mistress. Luise was determined to belly dance, having established a
tradition of doing so, so she built herself a coronation gown that broke down into a glittery belly dancing outfit and the Queen
disappeared and Mistress danced. She immortalized the event on the handle area of the original King's regalia trunk.
“In fact, the tradition of the King's Regalia trunk, and the tradition of the various monarchs being immortalized on it, was started
at this 12th Night, as Leanne presented it to the kingdom.
“For those in other kingdoms who have always wondered at the West's reputation for profligacy at awarding Arms, at this event
the sister of Stephen Blackeagle (I believe her name was Heather Crotty, can't remember her medieval name) presented mylady
and me with gilded laurel wreathes to wear as a sort of cap of maintenance when we took off our crowns. Since she gave them
to us in a situation apart from court, we called her before the populace to publically thank her for her efforts. The Heralds
immediately wanted to know if we wanted to give the girl an Award of Arms. We said no, she had been publically thanked. That was
probably enough.
“Another interesting precedent set at this event concerned Duke Richard, always good for a precedent or two. He had moved
to New Mexico, and he sent a message offering to resign his Dukedom since he was not present to maintain it. He felt he could
just get it back when he returned to the Kingdom.
“I refused to accept the resignation, saying that the honor was for deeds already performed, and he could not undo the deeds.
I wonder what would have happened to tradition if I had accepted the resignation ... Can you imagine having to renew titles like
Count and Duke every couple of years in order to retain them?” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“An award of arms was also given to Anne of the Golden Rose, my late wife, Judy Adamson Reynolds.” – Michael of Moria
C
“This was the first of several Twelfth Night feasts I helped with. Toad Hall's New Years Eve 'tradition' for several years was spent
putting marzipan scales on the dragon's tail ...” – Verena of Laurelin
~ 49 ~
D
“The goat roasted that evening was called "Lamb" and did taste quite strange for those expecting lamb, but it was not "bad" as it
was labeled that evening. Some one brought a bowl of Tapioca pudding liberally laced with marijuana. It was not served to the
general populous and was kept in the kitchen. Unfortunately, Ellen Cross Quills (Ellen Hodghead) spotted it in the kitchen and
saying how she loved tapioca pudding helped herself to a large bowl. By midway through the evening she had a real glow on.
Fortunately she was a happy intoxicant, she thought that everyone was "wonderful" all evening. I don't know that she ever learned,
or would have believed what she had eaten. She did have a hangover the next morning.
“Ellen was not the only one who got carried away. A well known Knight took a young lady out on the lawn where I was told that
they made love in the altogether, resulting in their both getting colds.
“In preparation for this event Lady Geraldine and a group of us gourmets ventured to McClure Beach on the end of Tamales
Point in Marin County where we gathered a wash tub full of mussels. Gerry soaked them in water with wheat hearts to rid them
of the sand and stuff them with cereal. When they were cooked in wine sauce they were divine.” – David of Ilwheirlane
1 “Astrid and I were among that group. Low tide had us there from late afternoon to well into dusk, and I remember it as being
quite dark when we called it quits but wanted a campfire before heading up to the parking area. There was driftwood, rather
wet, and matches; but no kindling. It happened I had heard that orange peels had enough oil for the purpose, and someone
had brought oranges ... yes, it did work.” – Karina of the Far West
King Stefan’s Royal Proclamation
King Stefan proclaimed that henceforth all belted fighters who did not show up with their own helm, shield and weapon, duly inspected
and approved, could not fight in the Crown Lists, as it is their duty to set a good example of preparedness to those other fighters who aspire
to that rank. King Stefan also created a Council of Arms, to advise him concerning the suitability and safety of weapons. The Earl Marshal
and the Dukes were made Advisory Members, as were five fighters: Sir Robert of Dunharrow, Sir Jamie of Oakenshield, Sir Earl of Morris,
Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf), and Arnulf Silkhair. King Stefan re-instituted the Office of the Golden Key under Ruthven and Rima of
Rockridge, to provide costumes and information to newcomers. King Stefan also created a Royal Guard of Archers, under the Royal Archer,
Sheridan of Greenhold.
Comments:
A “I hate to say this, but this was an almost entirely political decision. Bersark and Caradoc and some others had been ragging on
a lot of us about our gear and attitude, but at least we had gear (and preferred our more egalitarian and anti-elitist attitude). They
were all using the same helmet and weapons. It seemed like a good idea at the time. They got around it by using their squire's
gear, since their squires actually took the time and energy to make weapons and armor, usually with people like Jon and Robert.
The opportunities for Caradoc and Edwin to make their own gear through the offices of Robert, at least, had been present for
months and not taken advantage of.” – Stefan de Lorraine
A [Council of Arms] “I'd forgotten all about this. I don't think it lasted very long. The committee actually had more of the Greyhaven group
(which I think wasn't Greyhaven, yet) in Jamie and Earl and Arnulf than it did our adherents, but these were the members of the
group who were willing to put some work into their medieval natures. Arnulf was a particular stickler ... I'm sure it foundered on the
problem that many of the participants really didn't want to talk to each other about this stuff. Most were doers, not talkers, and
certainly not politicians.” – Stefan de Lorraine
A [Golden Key] “I don't think there had been a Golden Key beforehand. I'm pretty sure we instituted it. I don't recall seeing a mention
of it in previous history, but it's late and I need to get to bed, so I could be wrong.
“I think this is the first mention of Ruthven and Rima. They were to become very important to the West Kingdom in years to
come. Often in the background, sometimes very much in the foreground. Ruthven became a member of the Board of Directors and
Rima was a very active Mistress of Arts of the Kingdom. Ruthven was (and is, as far as I know) an Episcopal priest who specialized
in translation (as well as being a parish priest). Fascinating people, both of them. The social tenor of the Kingdom changed
dramatically when they moved to New York.
“Sheridan of Greenhold was Sharon something (a lady whose name I had been trying to think of a few days ago, so this helps).
Sharon lived in San Francisco in "The big green house next to the Hippo restaurant." It may still be there. Someone actually mailed
her a letter with that address and it got there. Nice lady, Sharon. She eventually wandered away from the SCA. She was a pretty firm
member of Henrik's household for several years.
“Important members of Henrik's household around this time were also Ronn and Coreen Foss, who did a lot of costume work
and were generally a big part of our social structure for several years. They lived on the Peninsula, so they were not really close,
but we saw them many times. Naturally, we knew them so well that I cannot remember their SCA names. Ronn, an avid comics
fan, called himself the Shining Night (a takeoff on an old comic book character) even though he never, in fact, attained knighthood.
Had some very interesting armor made out of cadillac bumpers, though. He was a tinkerer as well as an artist and he and Henrik
and Jon were kind of kindred spirits in many ways.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers when various of us went to the Foss's
for a toga party...
~ 50 ~
1
1
1
[Sharon something ...] “Sharon Crase” – Henrik of Havn
[Coreen Foss] “Lenore of the Darklands” – Henrik of Havn
[went to Foss’s for a toga party ...] “But that’s another story!” – Henrik of Havn
February 28, 1970 AS IV
Nottingham Faire
Held by the First Unitarian Church of Berkeley, California. The SCA participated.
March 7, 1970 AS IV
Curia Regis
King Stefan called a session at his home, Chaos Manor, Oakland, California.
Comments:
A
“I remember calling this Curia mostly as a general get together, but several people were very nervous, wondering what I was up
to.
“We had just moved into this house in the Oakland Hills (which, alas, burned down in the fire) which we called Chaos Manor.
Our previous place had been Chaos Court because the townhouses it was a part of made kind of a courtyard area. The Manor was
much grander. It became something of a focal point for a lot of the West SCA for many years until we finally had to move out because
it was being renovated. A wonderful old place. Many visitors from outlying areas stopped by at one time or another.
“Initial group living there were Luise and I, Jon FitzRolf (then The Lean), Ellen who was later Queen but whose SCA medieval
name escapes me, and our long time friend Chris Lofthus, who we knew so well as Chris that her medieval name escapes me,
too. She and Luise made quite a belly dancing team, as many on the list will recall.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “If I remember correctly, Chris Lofthus' SCA name was Christina of the Runes.
“Chris is also the one who said just a bit too clearly to Patrice (after my knighting); "Well you'll have to behave yourself now
... you're a lady!" audible to all present as court suddenly became quiet after the obligatory cheering.” – Kevin Peregrynne
March 21, 1970 AS IV
Held in the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Stefan and Luise reigned. Crown lists were held. Stephen Blackeagle won,
defeating Arnulf Silkhair. Astrid of Hawk Ridge was Stephen’s lady. After crowning him with the laurel wreath, King Stefan knighted
Stephen Blackeagle. He also knighted Jean de la Grand ‘Anse and Robert Roundpounder and made Arnulf Silkhair a Master of Arms.
(Robert had been made a Master of Arms by Duke Richard at the Atenveldt Coronet because Richard, a Master himself, could not make
him a knight. Only a knight can dub another knight.) King Stefan gave Awards of Arms to Felice of Mayhem House and Ruthven of
Rockridge. Sir Thumas na Leabar O’Conaire gave the MGC to Master Arnulf Silkhair.
Comments:
A
“There’s an apocryphal story coming out of the visitation by many Atenveldters at this tourney that has them stopped at the border
by customs, who want to know where they are going with a trailer full of weapons and armor. They say “Berkeley” the customs
agents say “It figures”. Didn’t actually happen, or so I’m told.
“The knighting of Robert caused something of a stir. I was assured by Robert and Michael of Moria that Robert really wanted
to be a knight. So I knighted him, giving Atenveldt the prestige of having a knight, which Moria felt it needed. This, of course, was
his own perception, as the West was already used to having Masters around, and gave them every honor due a belted/baldriced
fighter.
“This insulted the other members of Casa Libra and mightily insulted Duke Richard, who felt that Masters had been relegated
as second place to knights. Robert felt rather harassed by all sides, but he weathered it fairly well. Eventually, he was awarded a
pair of white suspenders.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who arrived at the site separately from his queen and was rather apprehensive
until she finally arrived, having stopped to buy flowers to give to various ladies. My parents were also in attendance, their only other
SCA event besides our wedding.
B
“This was the first fighting event in the West which some of us from Atenveldt attended. I towed a U-Haul full of costumes, armor,
etc. 800 miles from Phoenix to the Bay Area. It became the source of a great story about the Agricultural Inspection Station at the
California border where one of the inspectors asked what was in the trailer. "Costumes, armor, swords, shields, and oh, yes, a
couple of thrones." We were waved through with a shake of the head and puzzled look. The thrones, by the way, were beautiful
things made for our first prince, but I'm told they were pure torture to sit in.
~ 51 ~
“I also have to fess up to having talked Robert Roundpounder into asking to "trade in" his master's baldric for the knight's belt.
As Seneschal of Ateneveldt (at that time, everything from the California border, across the south, to Florida) I wanted "knights" in
the coming Kingdom in the worst way and I didn't want to be "beggin’" to get them from the West. Robert accepted this reasoning
and asked to be knighted. Duke Richard, who had given Bob his baldric, was very upset with me for doing it. Looking back, I could
have waited, and so could Atenveldt, I guess, but that's water under the bridge.” – Michael of Moria
C
“My recollection is the knights and MoA listed below were elevated before the end of the Crown List. I cannot recall exactly when
this occurred during the day, but I know Stephen and Arnulf were elevated before they entered the finals.
“I recall the fight (in the semis I believe) between Stephen and Sir Earl of Morris. Earl had a beautiful new round shield. It was
one quarter inch plywood (maybe 3/8), and was wonderfully painted with his arms (chequy gules and sable a stag rampant argent,
if memory serves). It was quite lovely. Keep in mind that back then, there were no rims or rim protection requirements, and also,
fighters simply did not hit as hard as we do now. Nonetheless, during the day, the shield became damaged. And when Earl met
Blackeagle in the semi-final round, Steve began to take out large chunks of that shield. It almost looked as if he (Steve) determined,
"Well, if I can't get around it, I'll go through it." It came to the point a large gap between one and three o'clock was created as the
chips flew, and if I recall correctly, the killing blow came in through that missing portion of Earl's shield. My memory is Earl was a
little disappointed (miffed?) that his formerly pristine shield lasted for only one tournament.
“Another antic dote regarding Earl – I do not know where this happened (it may have been a con or a demo), or the other person
involved. For that matter, I am not completely certain it is true – but it makes for a cute story. Earl stepped onto the field and a
(female) herald asked who he was. Earl presented his shield with his arms painted upon it. (No, not the same shield as above.)
The herald looked at it as said, "Honey, I can't tell who you are by that thing." – Andrew of Riga
1 “She may have been Lady Joan of Crawfordsmuir, from Angels, based on my recollection of Earl’s description of the incident.”
– Henrik of Havn
a “I remember this too. I can see the Herald's face in my memory, but I have forgotten her name - She received a Laurel for
her Photography, and lived in Caid.” – James Greyhelm
i
“James: This only goes to show that not all Heralds knew the arms of the participants, though I know that both Randall
of Hightower and Edwin Berserk went to great efforts to teach them. It is a cute anecdote anyway. For that matter, I
wonder how many heralds would recognize my arms today.” – David of Ilwheirlane
ii
“Lady Joan of Crawfordsmuir, I believe. Can't remember what her real name was, I'm not even sure that it was Joan.”
– Stefan de Lorraine, argent, a fleur-de-lys gules, who if I stepped upon the field with my basic arms on my shield
today would probably be announced as the city of Florence (the joys of the grandfather clause ...).
iii “Lady Joan of Crawfordsmuir was MKA Joyce Muskat. Was SHE the person who got a Laurel for photography? She
did take some nice pictures, I still have some of them.
“(If anybody cares, she was also the author of the Star Trek TOS episode "The Empath.")
“She was more of a field than a book herald, it's true.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
1 “After Earl came off the field and became resigned to his shield's destruction, he proceeded to amuse various of us in the
vicinity by pretending to be going berserk - ranting and growling and biting off bits and pieces of splintered plywood from the
damaged part.” – Kevin Peregrynne
C
“Arnulf struck me as a good, decent man. He was very quiet, and unfortunately, drifted away from the SCA shortly after this date.
He came to a 12th Night a few years later and I was very surprised and pleased to see him – unfortunately, to the best of my
knowledge, he has not been back since.” – Andrew of Riga
April 1970 AS IV
College of Heralds Appointments
Karina of the Far West was promoted to Banner Herald. Johanna von Griffenhurst was appointed Artist to the College of Heralds and
Keeper of the Great Book of Arms. Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin) was appointed Historian and Keeper of the Book of
History. Alison of Hightower was appointed College Treasurer.
~ 52 ~
April 25, 1970 AS IV
Coronation Festival
Held in the Girls Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Stefan and
Luise held court. King Stefan gave an Award of Arms to Richard the Mild. Then
Stephen and Astrid were crowned by Stefan and Luise. King Stephen gave a
Grant of Arms to Hugh ap Llewellyn. Then the heavens opened and the second
day was postponed until May.
Stephen Blackeagle - Or, an eagle displayed sable resting
on the horns of a steel Norse helmet proper horned gules.
Astrid of Hawk Ridge: Sable, a lion’s head cabossed
Or within fourteen suns in annulo gules fimbriated Or.
Comments:
A
“As I recall, it was dry on Saturday and there was some light rain overnight. It was after that the Sunday was abandoned.” –Hal Ravn
B
“Is Eric von Reinheart still around (I may have the last name a bit wrong)? He was part of a delegation from another medieval group
whose main occupations seemed to be costuming and feasting who paid a diplomatic visit to our "neighboring kingdom." As I
understand it, the group, whose purview as described by Sir Bela of East March was "From the Borders of the West to the
Desolation of Smaug," died of lack of interest within a couple of months and the SCA inherited several of their members – Eric being
the one who sticks most in my mind. Can't remember the name of the group.
“And, this started my tenure as Seneschal of the West, as Jon De Cles eagerly unloaded the task upon me so as to concentrate
on being SCA Steward. There are transition problems involved with going from King to Seneschal. One stays too close to the throne
and finds it hard to break away. Does anyone know of anyone else who has gone from Throne to Seneschalate? I imagine some
might have gone from Throne to Marshallate.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who kept that cloak for many years and finally passed it, along
with the Seneschalate, to my successor, William the Lucky – who promptly made himself a warm version.
1 “Warm cloaks indeed. When I joined the heralds in AS VI as a pursuivant extraordinary, we newbies had to make do with thin
green tabards. The first thing I did when I earned the right to a Herald's Cloak was to get a lined cloak!” – Wilhelm von
Schlüssel
The Year Five
May 24, 1970 AS V
Second Part of Coronation Tourney
Held in the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Stephen and Astrid reigned. King Stephen gave an Award of Arms to Questifor
of Hightower.
Comments:
A
“Questifor (Chris Hoffman, son of Ardis and Ugly Ron ) received his award for his work as a list page. He was 9 years old, but he
had earned this award - it wasn't a cute gimme.
“I saw him recently, at Ardis' memorial service. He looks just like his dad.” – James Greyhelm
1 “Jim is absolutely correct about Questifor's AoA - he literally propped Randal up during some grueling stints as Herald of the
Field (the tournament at the playground in S.F. comes to mind). Those of us who were there (most of this group) will remember
Randy collapsing before the finals, those with strong memories of the SPF 300 day still give him the benefit of believing that
the heat and sun was the main factor (though Questifor must have hauled the equivalent of a keg of lager, tankard by tankard
that day).
“If it weren't for Jim's mention, Ron may have been missed in this verbal history entirely, since he wasn't a mover/shaker
on the SCA forefront. He was a corner-stone of the Ardis/Siegfried axis for a big chunk of time, was a fantastic chef, if you were
patient (mushroom soup ... yum!!!) and the first truly space-time impaired individual we had ever met (Ardis: "Let's go visit
Pattiphil in El Cerrito", Ron: "Fine let's stop for fresh garlic in Gilroy and cilantro in Mill Valley on the way"). – Kevin Peregrynne
- who is still waiting for Hagen to be King in this history so us youngsters can brag about how important we were.
~ 53 ~
June 20, 1970 AS V
Midsummer Crown Tourney
Held in the San Francisco Theological Seminary, San Anselmo, California. Stephen and Astrid reigned. King Stephen gave an Award of
Arms to Rachel of Bon Repos. Crown Lists were held. Duke Henrik of Havn won, defeating Sir Earl of Morris. Leanne of Maywood was
his lady. Master Arnolf Silkhair gave the MGC to Charles of Mercury.
Comments:
A
“Rachel (Holmen) probably got her AoA for working her tail off as Mistress of the Lists. I believe that she still has copies of all of
the lists for the first X years, and maybe some of the challenges and such. She mentioned this to me a few years ago, but I did not
know what to do with such things then. She still lives in Berkeley, and works for MZB.
“Arnulf should have gotten more mention in this history. He was a Quiet, serious man, and very dedicated to the SCA. He
fought in simple gear - what a Viking would have worn, perhaps. A helmet with no face guard, a round shield and hand-sewn linen
tunic. His swords were beautifully made, with hand carved and painted viking lobbed pommels. Like many SCA weapons back
then, they also had names (Adder's tongue?). He made the cover for the Great Book of Arms, that was supposed to have all of the
arms of the West in it, some day.
“I heard that his wife told him to choose between the SCA and her, and he left her for a time, but was miserable. He left us,
and I never saw him again.” – James Greyhelm
1 “Arnulf offered the Coveted Arnulf Award for authenticity in costuming. He was very anti the tunic over blue jeans and engineer
boots style of costuming that was, and I imagine is, so prevalent. We were all afraid that the award was the Coveted Arnulf, but
I don't know if anyone was authentic enough to win the award. He made exquisite Thor’s Hammer pendants that I imagine
various recipients still treasure.
“He did at least one cover for TI (vikings raiding a burning Celtic church) and in an accompanying article used the garb
almost worn by the victim on the cover as an example of period garb for women who wanted to be seductive and medieval at
the same time. Arnulf was much more of a Dark Ages person than a Renaissance one.
“I awoke one morning to find Arnulf ensconced on our couch. This was during his period of estrangement from his wife.
At one point he moved to Sweden (his ancestral home) but came back very disappointed because Swedes didn't like to admit
they were ever Vikings.
“When he was given the MGC, the awarder said he always feared Arnulf because he seemed to fight like a spider, creeping
up and lunging. A very interesting gentleman.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who got spider stung on more than one occasion...
B
“I think this was the last Summer Crown Tourney won by Henrik. By this time the next year, there was a whole new crew of deadly
fighters. Not much else about this tourney sticks in mymind. It was my first full tourney as Seneschal, and I'm trying to remember
if this was the one where Luise was abducted just as I had gotten out of my armor and into my Seneschal rig and had to race to
her defense in half-armor over my good cote armorie. I heard about that from her, let me tell you.
“At this point, Charles of Mercury was starting to make himself known. He was an up-and-coming Toad fighter, very strong and
fast – well deserving of the name. Left the SCA for Scientology, as I recall.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who still has (but no longer fits)
that cote armorie. It's hard to find anyone else to wear garb that is half fleur de lys and half seneschal keys.
C
“There seems to be some confusion (by me) at this point of history. Or I missed something. Was this held in June? I was under
the impression it was more like May. This event, whenever it was held, was the first Crown I had ever attended so big parts stand
out in my mind. Before I tell my tale of that event, I'd like to get the basics right. Was Stephen Blackeagle the king? I fought, and
defeated him (the very first knight of the West I ever beat), at the event and the King wasn't fighting in those days. You don’t forget
things like that. It has also been said that Charles of Mercury received the MGC at this event. And this is the reason I remember this
event so well after all of these years, I received the MGC at the San Anselmo Crown. Help me out here folks, do I have my dates
wrong, I know the site is correct and it was the Spring Crown we came down for (Sir Fredrick of the West Tower was with us) but
the version posted doesn’t sound right. (I'm looking for the photos of this event now and will send them on for the site).
“There is also listed a combined tourney for Madrona/3 Mountains on the same date (June 20) and stated that that was the
first tourney for 3 Mountains. Three Mountains held a tourney before that in Washington Park (Portland) and I had the MGC with me
then.” – Jerald of Galloway
1 “I don't know if it is a help or a hinder for Jerald's question. My recollection is that there was an event the following spring also
held at the Theological Seminary site. I may be confused but I think it was the event Hagen won, I do recall fighting (and losing
eventually to) Henrik in an elimination Lists there (double killed with him in the melee earlier). March AS V would be just about
right and may account for Jerald's tangled time-line. Hagen winning Spring Crown, James being knighted at Hagen and Ruth's
~ 54 ~
1
coronation May VI, and Paul and James meeting in the subsequent June VI Crown finals all follow in my own mental sequence
of the times.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“I believe this is right. I got out of the USAF in 1971 in late June, just too late to go to the crown that year. Hagen was the
king when I arrived back in civilization and James had just won the crown tournament. Paul, as I recall, was knighted in
June of AS V. I'll have to check my lists of early kings of the West for the actual dates.” – Steven MacEanruig
II “This also fits into my recollections. It definitely was the event Hagen won. Was James knighted at Coronation? I'm sure
he recalls it better than any of us who have spoken so far.” – Stefan de Lorraine
a “I was knighted at Briones Park, in May, by Hagen. In AS VI. So there is the confusion. We are still in AS V. We had
more than one event at the Seminary - I think that by AS VI, we had enough fighters and armor for big melees, etc.”
– James Greyhelm
i
“And the more I think about it, the more certain I am that it was the Spring event in AS V where Luise was abducted
and I fought in my court clothes ... Oh, I remember now ... Someone else was abducted, perhaps Queen Ellen,
and, because there were no fighters ready to rescue her, Luise picked up a staff flail and tried to rescue her,
getting captured (by Charles of the JACs?) for her trouble. Then I had to get armored up to rescue her (which
someone else did, actually).” – Stefan de Lorraine, so many events, so many abductions ...
III “I remember when Jean and Ellen were King and Queen, that a tourney was held at the Theological Seminary in San
Anselmo, and when several of us fighters tried to abduct her Majesty in a friendly, typical abduction, she was very
distressed and ‘really’ didn’t want to be abducted! Kinda took the air out of that sail! Could that have been the March AS
V tourney Kevin is talking about? Also at one of the San Anselmo Tournies – it may have been this one, a contingent of
Atenveldters came, including Charles of the JACS in his early “Seymor” plate armour and his brother, Arthur of Lockehaven.
There was a net and trident combat that Charles participated in.” – Henrik of Havn
a “They wore gold armor and in gladiatorial style, there was a bare leg, arm here and there and yes a bare chest. One
man had a padded trident and weighted net and the other had short sword and buckler. They fought for best two out
of three and I recall distinctly a herald (Randall Garrett?) proclaiming that it was "a net gain for the trident!"” – Brian
Dritar an Con
“The Awards list in SCA-West shows Jerald getting the MGC in March of AS V which falls into line as well.
“My own personal special memory of Arnulf is of him serving as the RenFaire sheriff's mens' Tac Squad to keep order on
the occasions that we "caught" Robin Hood and were going to 'execute' him (rescued at the last moment of course). His carved
and inlaid Viking kite shield was a work of special beauty.
“Arnulf must have had an add-on face guard for his helm for use in combat, I can't imagine him being allowed to fight
open-faced, but I have no mental image of what he actually wore when he fought.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“Alas, I never met Arnulf, who departed just before I returned. I did hear a lot of stories about him, however.” – Steven
MacEanruig
II “Arnulf had built in eye guards, very much like what many vikings and Scandinavians wore, and had a basket weave metal
faceguard he put on when he actually had to fight. No, he was not allowed to fight bare-faced, though, being Arnulf, I'm sure
he would have willingly and gladly done so.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who wishes to point out that Arnulf's real name was
Ernie Roth, he was a skilled jeweler (I believe that's how he made his living, and I'm talking about jewelry store jeweler
(employee, not owner), not Renfaire jeweler [on the other hand, he may have been another SCA programmer]) and did
not fit the usual physical look of a Viking, being rather short and slender. Certainly had the Viking spirit, though.”
a “He had to be talked into wearing a face guard, and (in protest, I imagine) he put some chicken wire mesh over the
lower face. The helmet was made from steel bands, blued, with cheek flaps and a goggle eye guard. There was a
small amount of mail at the back. The basic helmet bowl was a Bakelite construction helmet, with the brim cut off.
The sort of thing that workers wore in the 40's and 50's. It was a dark brown. I know that it sounds odd, but it looked
nice.” – James Greyhelm
1 “Very nice indeed. I had no idea it wasn't made entirely of metal.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is willing to believe
the flash and dash of almost anything ...
i
“I didn’t know it wasn’t a metal bowl either.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “Arnulf Silkhair did fight with a flimsy wire mask which clipped on to his helm. Two of the catch points w e r e
**through** his eye holes a fraction of an inch away from his eyeballs. It was dangerous as hell.
“After he left the SCA, to the best of my knowledge, he only made one appearance at a Western event. Arnulf
attended a 12th Night many years ago (my vague memory says it was the last 12th Night at the Kensington
Unitarian Church). He did not know me, but I was present when he was made a MoA here in the Bay Area (March
Crown 1970 I belief). I know nothing of his being made a Master at an Atenveldt event.
“My memory of June Crown 1970 at the San Anselmo Seminary (this was my first fighting event--I "qualified"
there--now it is called "authorized") is that Blackeagle as King was presiding; therefore, in accordance with
~ 55 ~
2
tradition, he did not do any fighting that day. This was Henrik's fifth win. He would win again in June of 1973.”
– Andrew of Riga
“On Arnulf as the Sheriff's Tac Squad:
“Opening Court on any Faire day. The Sheriff is introduced and makes his standard speech about behave yourselves,
the cops are on the scene.
"... and be advised: my Tactical Squadron is authorized to use Mace!"
“Whereupon Arnulf would step forward and thump the stage ... my gosh, yes, it must have been the MGC that he was
holding ... swing the MGC forward from its place over his shoulder and THUMP it down onto the stage. Loud thump. Lots of
nervous laughs. We were just out of the Seventies. You won't find any scars from the experience on the MGC, which is made
(if my memory serves) of hickory. There may have been a few scars on the stage.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
I
“I remember the Tac Squad and the exact quote about Mace as well. Arnulf wore a silver freon helm when he did his stage
bashing and it always got a big laugh out of the audience. I'm not sure I recall the club being the MGC but I think I have a
bit of that on film as well. Remember that the Sheriff's men were the biggest SCA bruisers around, wore black costumes
and had badges of gold with a red boar's head (a not so subtle reference to calling policemen "pigs" at the time). They
would swagger around the fair being generally obnoxious (this group later evolved into the Queen's Guard who eventually
got to wear the English uniforms from the Gene Kelly version of the Three Musketeers. But that is another story...). When
Robin was rescued on stage, they had rigged an arrow to suddenly pop out of the woodwork to make it look as it had been
launched from his confederate up in one of the trees. Robin Hood and his men would run through the forest and make
a big show of robbing an actor playing a fat merchant and then distributing his gold (chocolate coins) to the crowd and
craftspeople. Great stuff - too bad Phyllis Patterson did away with it in the name of "authenticity".” – Brian Dritar an Con
D
“This was the first Crown I fought in (one fight--it was single elim). I fought Siegfried, took his leg (the one away from me...) and
got killed shortly thereafter. I died suitably, and then got up to help Siegfried off his knees. That was when I realized he was
left-handed.
“The local cops came by and stopped to talk. They told us that the Hells Angels were expected to come through town that day,
so they (the cops) couldn't stay and watch. Later rumor had it that, on hearing that the SCA was in town that day, the Angels went
*around* San Anselmo.” – Hal Ravn
E
“To clear up some confusion about dates of knightings, etc. --“When Stephen Blackeagle defeated Arnulf Silkhair in Crown finals in March IV (1970) both were called up together & offered
knighthood. Steve took it, Arnulf opted for MoA.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I'm almost certain that I knighted them before they fought in the finals (much as Houri was knighted before we fought in the
previous finals) but I could be wrong.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“Henrik won June V (1970) Crown, for his 5th reign. Jean (previously knighted at an event in Atenveldt) defeated Charles of Mercury
in Crown finals of October V (1970). Since Charles was Jean's squire (within the Dunharrow Eored), Jean asked Henrik to knight
Charles before they fought in the finals, which was done.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “No, Jean was not knighted in Atenveldt. Jon the Lean (now Fitzrolf) was knighted in Atenveldt. I believe Jean had already been
knighted before the Atenveldt trip, perhaps at the same tourney where I knighted Stephen and Arnulf. In fact, I'm sure of this.
William the Lucky later named me the progenitor of most of the chivalry of the West for quite a while because I knighted Jean,
who knighted Hagen, who knighted Paul and James, and the two of them knighted aforesaid major chunk of the chivalry of the
West over two years worth of trading reigns, and a few afterwards, too.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is always interested in the
further exploits of "my children."
I
“My remembrance is that it was me that pointed that out first. Actually, Stefan is the progenitor of much of the chivalry of the
world, a good bit of it being due to the knightings in Atenveldt.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Hagen defeated Houri in Crown finals in March V (1971) and Hagen was then knighted by Jean. (Incidentally, Jean & Hagen each
won the only crown tourney in which either used a shield - the same Viking roundshield, in fact - instead of 2 shortswords or
longsword, respectively. It took me some time to convince each of them to use a shield in crown.)
“At his coronation (May VI - 1971), Hagen knighted James Greyhelm.
“At June Crown VI (1971), after James & Paul had each won one fight of a 2-out-of-3 final, Hagen knighted Paul of Bellatrix and
Kevin Peregrynne and made Frederick of Holland a MoA. Then Jim won the 3rd fight and so began an alternation of James & Paul
for the next 6 reigns.” – Robert of Dunharrow
E
E
F
“I remember it well as it was my first tourney and I happened to film it as well. Someone at the Renaissance Faire put me on to the
SCA. Here are some general notes-
~ 56 ~
“Date:The date should be correct as I recall having to leave early to go to my senior prom (was in high school at the time). That
had to have been in May or June of 1971. And it definitely was at the Theological Seminary - it made a very great impression on me
at the time.
“Participants I know were there (off the top of my head & sorry for any Elizabethan spelling) Stephan de Lorraine, Henrik of Havn,
Jon the Lean, Mark von dem Falkensfenn, Warren the Strange, Frederick of Hightower, Paul of Bellatrix, James Greyhelm, Verena
of Laurelin, Frederick of Holland, gue, Hal Ravn, Louis (what was his name - dark hair, big mustache, silver freon helm and a
serape - may have had a Middle Eastern persona), Shelley Monson, Aurie Mair, Irene (slender blonde in House Havn), Steve Forbes
(always wore fabulous Italian renaissance style costumes), there was also a fellow who had made himself a tunic of interlocking
colored plastic rings -which may have been poultry ID bands, a young guy with Columbine the kestrel (Steven something?), and
a woman kitted out in short leather swashbuckler/fantasystyle tunic showing lots of leg and skin. Obviously, there were others but
I'd have to look at the film to jog my celluloid based memory.
“Fighting: Yes there was a large melee of armored men - I filmed it.
“Dancing: Whoever was dancemaster, or something approaching that title - I want to say Alan -, led a group of people behind
the pavilions.” – Brian Dritar an Con
July 5, 1970 AS V
Westercon Tourney
As part of Westercon XXIII, held in the Francisco Tores, Goleta, California, a tourney was held. The arms competition was won by Sir Jon
the Lean (Jon FitzRolf). The music competition was won by Richard the Strange, from Atenveldt.
Comments:
A
“I have a memory of that event. I had someone down on the ground and was using my mace (A Feather) and had got off a blind shot
at him. Then I saw this great helm sticking up over the top of his shield.... so I struck down at it, just as someone yelled HOLD!
“It seems that my first shot had halfway removed the helm from his head. The second shot put it back on again.
“We finally got around to requiring helmet straps.” – Jon FitzRolf
B
“The Trimbles were the main instigators of this event and they asked that I be Tourney Master for them. A bunch of us went down
in convoy. There were four cars. First in line was a dilapidated VW Bus that held most of the Rivendell (later Gray Haven) contingent.
It was first because it was considered the most likely to fall apart. My Rambler station wagon had had its problems, so Luise and
I were second. Andrei de Sebastopol and his lady were our passengers, and the car was packed with materiel for a fashion show
Luise had something to do with. Third in line was the Hippogriff, Jon's van, which, while venerable, had a pretty good record for
staying in one piece. Riding with him was Caradoc ap Cador and possibly one other. The Hippogriff only had one passenger seat.
The van was filled with tourney equipment. Last in place was Harold of Breakstone's VW bug with Edwin Bearsark.
“All good intentions go awry. The hippogriff's drive shaft broke, and, since we were on the freeway, we had no idea anything
had happened. Breakstone stopped to see what was the matter, then couldn't catch up with us. He ended up cramming Caradoc
into the bug and continuing on down while Jon waited for the tow truck. I didn't get the details (though it was clear that something
was wrong) until I got to the Francisco Torres and Clint came in shortly thereafter.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Patti and I, with our crowd of passengers (Kathea verKaysce, Sylvanus Andearg, my cousin Janet [more later] and her Stanford
room-mate Beth) in the Great Purple Dinosaur (my parent's burgundy colored Plymouth) came upon Jon and the hippogriff
somewhat later and stopped to offer help. If I remember correctly, Jon was waiting for his second tow truck, the first had proven
inadequate to the hippogriff and its load of armor and weapons.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“The con committee paid for a bus ticket for Jon to come down to the convention with one duffel bag full of tourney gear, which meant
that many of the planned events couldn't happen because we didn't have the gear. People seemed to have a good time, anyway.
“But I could have sworn that Allison of Hightower won the arts competition. Maybe I'm thinking of another competition at a
regular tourney ...
“Princess Angela of the Meadows and some other Atenveldters were also at the convention. And several SCA folk came to the
costume ball in black, as SCA folk are wont to do. I knew them all and they were looking at one another, thinking that something
could be done with this situation. So I suggested that they assemble as a party from the Assassin's Guild of Lankhmar who had
been hired to assassinate the Guest of Honor, Rick Sneary, who had made a speech about how all the fringe fans, like SCAers.
should go away and leave the true fans their fandom. Charles of the JACs, Jon the Lean, Kevin Peregrine, a female cousin of
Kevin's, and one other formed the group. Rick Sneary and I were both among the judges, and they did a very persuasive
presentation of a cup of "something" to Rick. Their award as best group was unanimous among the judges. Astrid of Hawk Ridge's
very gorgeous costume lost out on that prize to a lady in a nice enough Egyptian Goddess outfit which mostly featured her bare
breasts. I'd like to point out that two of the three men on the panel voted for Astrid, it was the two women, plus Rick Sneary, that voted
for the pseudo-Egyptian ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, who didn't get a lot of sleep at that convention, but had some good times ...
B
~ 57 ~
1
C
“The speech, while it did name the SCA explicitly, also picked on just about everybody present who wasn't old enough to
remember prohibition. The strong impression that I got from people I talked to later was that implicit in the speech was that
the only "True Fan" was Mr. Sneary ... no others need apply. It did make him a tempting target for our group entry.”
“I think that the other in our group was Clint Bigglestone. We referred to our garb as 'Basic Black with cutlery', during the
judging the guys slouched around menacingly while my cousin Janet Milton (Now Janet Wilson Anderson, widely known in
Filk and Costuming circles) a redhead in slinky black satin played our 'bait'. Patrice was pissed off to be left out of the group
because her gown wasn't black. None of us ever received the group photo that was to be our prize.
“I have a couple of other memories that have nothing to do with the SCA of that event.
“The elevators were the slowest anybody had ever encountered, possibly due to the existence of a party consisting of four
floors' lobbies and the intervening elevator (rather Niven-ish), but since they ran slow at all hours, I'm not sure. The elevators'
behavior led to a series of running jokes about their detouring through hyperspace, moving sideways, being hijacked to
unusual locales and so on. I believe that it was Tim Kirk who produced a series of trenchant cartoons with the theme of a
sentient elevator with an attitude that induced spirited bidding at the art auction.
“The other was the traditional midnight skinny-dipping party. Ardis Waters walked up to the student at the lobby desk and
said outright: "Hey, can we skinny dip in your pool?" His reply: "Can you swim?" sent us into gales of laughter and off to our
rooms for towels. The resident UCSB students from the other tower who encountered us in the ground floor lobby on our way
to the pool got rather bug-eyed. In the pool proper the activities split into two groups - several male-female couples floating
around in the deep end and an arm-in-arm ring of several dozen exclusively male dippers in the shallow end who were involved
in an elaborate game involving splashing, kicking and chanting until suddenly they realized that there were zero females at that
end and the game spontaneously disintegrated and several of them departed red-faced.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“The cartoonist who drew the series of cartoons about a sentient convention elevator with an attitude was Lee Nordling. I have the
original of the final strip on my wall, as I suggested the concept of the fan escaping the sentient elevator only to enter the sentient
hotel lobby.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
August 1-2, 1970 AS V
Held in Big Trees Camping Area, Chabot Park, Oakland, California. Henrik and
Leanne were crowned by Stephen and Astrid. Competitions for War-Lord and
King’s Champion were held. Sir Jean de la Grand ‘Anse won them both. On the
second day King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to Alisande de Rohan and
Meridith, who was his Royal Consort.
Henrik of Havn: Vert, on a pellet a horse’s head couped Or
Comments:
A
“I suspect that War-Lord is supposed to be Ward Lord a position of some Honor. It was supposed to be for fighters who didn't have
a Lady at the moment and it was to become the Champion of all Ladies who did not have a Champion. The theory was that
exposure of the (eligible) fighter to the (eligible) Ladies would result in the fighter becoming ineligible to hold the office, causing
another tournament to have to be held.” – Frederick of Holland
B
“At last, we're back to something I was at.
“The first competition was definitely not for Ward-Lord. My memories are pretty clear that James was the first king to sponsor
a Ward-Lord competition.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I think that this is correct. It was probably something that Verena and I came up with for the younger unattached fighters, and
the name was chosen in the usual punning style- Ward Lord instead of War Lord. I remember the War Lord lists as being hard
and well fought- the equal of a Crown tourney for the time. Ward Lord- a couple of years later- was more for fun, and ended
up actually having its desired effect for a few fighters and ladies.” – James Greyhelm
2 “The War-Lord competition was, as I recall, using generally the less commonly seen weapons forms that were not popular
for use in Crown Lists. The idea was to find a War-Lord who could use several weapons forms very well and thus be able to
beat all challengers no matter what the choice of weapons might be. The King’s Champion on the other hand could use the
~ 58 ~
B
B
C
more popular combat forms at his/her discretion. I spoke of the War-Lord idea a lot when I visited Atenveldt off and on and I
think they held quite a few War Lord events (forms may have been different) over the years. (Didn’t Reynard win the first one
in Atenveldt?” – Henrik of Havn
“I'm sitting here looking at my photos of the event.
“The pictures start off with Henrik and Leanne approaching the throne with Leanne in her white, somewhat revealing dress
and a circlet of roses. I've got a good one of Stephen just placing the crown on Henrik's head. This was still the old West Kingdom
crown with the four crosses on a circlet.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Calling Leanne's dress "somewhat revealing" shows a true gift for understatement! For those who were not there, picture
a skirt of 4 panels -- back and side panels white, front panel white gauze. Worn over a white bikini. Add white shoes and a
crown. End.
“Even by the standards of the time, it was sufficiently in-authentic to produce lots of remarks. (What today's costume Nazis
would have to say boggles the mind!) Of course, the fact that Purgatorio was living up to its name, and Her Majesty was
probably the most comfortably dressed person at the event, probably contributed to the irritation of the complainers.” – William
the Lucky
“At one point, the crown called various folks together to honor them for costuming excellence. I can still recognize Barbara Swenson
(Gormflait na Cullacht sp?), Allison of Hightower, and Bob Brown and his wife (don't remember their SCA names).
“Oddly, looking over the old pictures, I find myself more interested in the people in the background. I have several pictures of
the knights swearing fealty with James in the background crowd holding Caradoc's banner. He was, after all, Caradoc's squire.
“It looks like there was an abduction of lady Geraldine of Toad Hall at this event from the pictures. There's also a lovely set of
fighting shots featuring mostly Jon the Lean and Stephen Blackeagle. Jon was using kite shield and flail and Stephen a longsword.
Stephen's armor looks quite nice being leather over the shoulders and scale down to mid thigh. No knee protection, of course. Jon
was wearing a freon gas drum helm and a piece of metal over his thighs with nothing else on the knees either.
“The whole thing closes off with some tilting shots with Robert of Dunharrow, Henrik, and Suzanne of Ravenhill.
“I remember having a lot of fun at this event. I was still stationed in Kansas with the USAF, and I think this was where I started
carrying on a bit of a long-distance, low-key romance with Allisande de Rohan, the sister of the above mentioned royal consort,
Meredith. Of course, coming from Kansas and the air force, I would have had fun at just about anything of an SCA nature.
“I have no idea what was really going on with the position of Royal Consort, but the rumor I got was that Henrik was interested
in Meredith and created the position to get friendlier with her. I could certainly understand the interest, for Meredith was a very lovely
lady. My understanding is that it didn't come to anything, but I can't really vouch for the truth of any of the rumors. It did cause a certain
amount of mild scandal-mongering among the populace.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Meredith’s being made Royal Consort had nothing to do with any romantic inclinations on my part (actually Blackeagle is the
one who was interested). It was simply a method that Leanne and I arrived at, after lengthy discussion, to reward Meredith for
a lot of her own efforts on behalf of the Kingdom as well as in our household. Meredith was a quiet person compared to her
older sister Allisande and we thought she should be brought out into the “Lime Light” instead of being in the shadows for a
change. This really just gave her the right to hang out in the Royal Pavilion during our reign without having to be a working
functionary.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“Sounds good to me. I admit to repeating hearsay something like third hand. I never really got to know Meredith well, but
she always seemed like a nice person. She really was gorgeous, but Allisande was always the one that garnered the
attention somehow.” – Steven MacEanruig
“In our second reign, I think, we decided to have a way for fighters who could not fight in Crown, because they didn't have a lady*,
to fight at the Crown events - where everyone notices the fighting. We had a ceremony officially declaring all non-championed
ladies** to be Wards of the Crown. Then, of course, we needed someone to champion these ladies on the field since the King did
not fight.*** Thus, the tourney to chose the Champion of the Wards of the Crown (or something like that) which very quickly became
the 'Ward Lord.'
“Only fighters who did not have ladies were eligible to fight. If the Ward Lord found a lady, he had to abdicate and another
tourney held. The purpose of this, as stated in the ceremony, was to enable unattached lords and ladies to meet each other and
become attached until everyone had a lord or lady so that everyone in the kingdom was happy and the position fell into disuse
(paraphrasing from memory....). This worked very well for awhile - I think we had 3 Ward Lord tourneys at one event!”
* lady-for-the-day hadn't been invented yet
**only men fought
***It was treason to fight the King and so, if the King went onto the field he would win by default. The King, being chivalrous,
did not fight. (This was the reason for "alternate persona"s for the King – so he could be 'incognito' and it was ok to fight him. Remember LeRoi of Clan Destine? or Bumble de Bee?)” – Verena of Laurelin
~ 59 ~
October 10, 1970 AS V
Held at the Airplane Field, Tilden Park, Berkeley, California. Henrik reigned (Leanne wasn’t there). King Henrik knighted Charles of Mercury.
Crown Lists were held. Sir Jean de la Grand ‘Anse won, defeating Sir Charles of Mercury. Ellen of the Gleaming Star was his lady. Sir Charles
of Mercury gave the MGC to William of York.
Comments:
A
“I was present when Charles of Mercury was knighted, and his ceremony involved a minor problem.
“When Charles was called forward to be knighted, there was some sort of an objection from Sir Thumas ne Leabar o Conaire.
I am unclear what that objection was. Now days, a Crown may grant a peerage after consulting with the order in question. When
I came along, the King granted a Laurel to whoever he believed to be deserving (Laurel councils did not exist), and, if I remember
correctly, Knight councils were not, as yet, completely formalized. My memory is King Henrik began the knighthood ceremony either
(a) without having consulted with the knights, and/or (b) the council was not 100 percent behind Charles' elevation. During those
days, it was unclear if a 100 percent agreement was necessary, or not, to proceed with a knighting – Edwin Bersark and Caradoc
ap Cador were behind the "100 percent" contingent, and Thumas was, I belief, also of that persuasion. I understand I have just
presented two conflicting stories (were there knights' councils or no? if so, was 100 percent consensus required or no?). If I sound
a little confused, I am. I was not a knight, I was new, and all I know is what I saw.
“In any event, Charles was called forward, Henrik offered him knighthood, there was some sort of discussion among a small
handful of the belts. There was some sort of a pause in the action, and I caught Charles' eye and he looked a little flustered and
frustrated. I told him, "Don't worry about it." He answered, "I'm not." A minute or two later, the ceremony continued and Henrik
knighted Charles. Sir Thumas, in an effort to make amends and to apologize to Charles for the embarrassment, took off his chain
mail, and gave it to Charles. (One story is Thumas dropped it at Charles feet. Another is Thumas handed it to Charles.) In any event,
it was quite a scandal and quite a gift. A hip-length shirt of mail being given to someone as an apology was extraordinary. Such a
shirt represented hours of work, was considered cutting edge technology, and few such items existed. Charles accepted the
offering of apology (either because he forgave Thumas, or he just wanted to own something really wonderful and unusual – I have
no idea of his reasoning), and wore it upon the field from that day until he left the SCA.
“My recollection was this was the catalyst which required kings to consult with the knights' council. My recollection is Henrik
was acting unilaterally when he called forward Charles to be knighted. Henrik's authority to do so was questioned because in the
ceremony, it specifically says, "...and mindful of the wishes of your peers..." Thumas, Edwin, and Caradoc had an interesting point
– how could the king act if the ceremony referred to some sort of a consultation, and a consultation had not occurred? To put oil
on the waters, Henrik agreed to consult from that day forward; therefore, it seems to me, as of that moment, knights' councils were
formalized.
“This story is not to be confused with Paul of Bellatrix's knighting. That was a different, and unfortunately, a far more ugly
scene.” – Anonymous
B
“An anonymous member of the list suggests that I ask about the evolution of the Knights Council, and about Charles of Mercury -for viewpoints ... this anonymous person sent me some stuff that they wish to go into the history but do not wish to open any old
wounds or cause any ill feelings among people on the list (see ‘A’ above) ...
“So, how did the Knights Council evolve?
“Anyone have any stories about Charles of Mercury?” – Hirsch [Editor]
1 “When debating the advisability of not consulting the knights - or the absolute right of Kings to knight, perhaps Aonghais's 2nd
knighting should come to mind. We've had nothing but trouble in recent years in Caid from this precedent. Maybe your Kings
have better judgement than ours of late.” – Charles of Dublin
2 “Physically, he [Charles of Mercury] has about the build of Radnor, but skinnier- tall and rangy, and very fast. He was the son
of Dorthea the Unsure and Edgar the Unready, both in Toad Hall. His parents were hard working and popular, so this may
explain why he was knighted when he was. I was not privy to that stuff at the time.” – James Greyhelm
3 “[...] But let's start with Charles of Mercury. I have to back off a tiny bit. HE (Charles), Steven, Jean, Hagen, Paul, James (YES,
my best friend) and a bunch of others annoyed the hell out of me ... I learned to be a killer fighter the hard way ... with absolutely
NO talent (ask Bob or Steve or any of those Goddamn Naturals) . At that particular time Charles was in fact - and not his own
fault - caught in the BIG confrontation about what KNIGHTHOOD was defined as being.
“Anyone who knows me has a pretty clear idea how I feel about the topic (I won't accuse Charles of more than being a
stick-jock).
“I've got bunches more to say. - And I'm sooooo happy to have stirred Stefan up. THAT I won't apologize for. (We've had
great talks for about thirty years now.” – Kevin Peregrynne
~ 60 ~
4
“Personally, I always got along with Charles just fine. He was young and a good natural athlete and fought well. I don't recall
much in the way of any real talks with him, though I ran into him any number of times later at fighting practices. I don't recall
that anybody was whispering in the corners at his knighting, but obviously I missed something.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“As I recall, Charles was knighted in a rather ad hoc manner by the king in question (Jean?). He was certainly an excellent fighter,
but was seen by some as young and not having many of the other knightly virtues. At the time there was much talk of earning one's
"merit badges" in things like dancing and chess and music before being knighted. Robert of Dunharrow can respond with Toad
Hall's reaction to that.
“So a court of something or other was called (don't think it was Curia Regis, but I'm not sure) after Jean was off the throne to
discuss how various folks thought knighting should be done. I know that Charles had definite opinions on the matter but Randal
managed to persuade him to say nothing. Meanwhile, it was one of the last appearances of Fulk de Wyvern, who showed up with
many ideas that would turn the SCA back into his game. Both Dorothea and my lady Luise taped the discussion, and I may have
a copy of it sitting around. (Unless, of course, I'm actually thinking of another hot and heavy political confrontation--always possible).
“I am pretty sure that this was the occasion when Caradoc and I came up with the idea that only knights should compete for
the crown, thus taking care of the problem of an unbelted fighter competing in the finals. One of the few times Caradoc and I were
in agreement, and no one else liked the idea. Probably rightly so ... Certainly, it did not meet any favor with Hagen, who had been
unbelted before winning the crown.
“This discussion did get everyone thinking about what to do in similar circumstances, and sparked the first of the Knights
Councils at a tournament.
“However, all of this took place in the following late Spring (after May) or Summer, as Jean was already off the throne.
“At the date given in the Subject line, Charles was just another good fighter who had been knighted. But you know, that doesn't
seem right either, because I think the meeting about knighting took place fairly soon after Charles was knighted. My memory is
obviously awry somewhere. Anyone else have a clearer recollection? Robert? Henrik? Dorothea? Jon? I believe Steven was still
commuting to occasional events from Kansas at the time.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers all too many confrontations about
knighting and fighting, and they all run together after awhile...
D
“I have been following the thread regarding Charles' knighting of October AS V, 1970, and this is what I recall. Charles was called
forward, the knighting ceremony began, there was a delay, King Henrik spoke to a small number of knights, the ceremony
proceeded and was concluded.
“As a result of all of this, I have the following questions:
“(1) I cannot remember if the knights, as an order, were called forward to kneel before their King and beside their soon-to-be
brother knight, as they do today. Were the knights called forward back then?” – Andrew of Riga
1 “No, the knights just stood with the rest of the populace.” – Stefan de Lorraine
2 “I don't recall it becoming customary until later ... an innovation resulting in part from this sort of stuff happening. I share
Stefan's aversion to unplanned dramatics at Court (something about refusals to accept peerage orders I think).” – Kevin
Peregrynne
3 “No, I don’t recall anything like that.” – Henrik of Havn
“(2) Should the King (now days, that should read, "Should the Crown ...") desire to elevate a candidate to the rank of knight,
consultation among the knights council must first occur. Back then, on the specific day of Charles' knighting, if the King desired
to elevate a candidate, was there any mechanism which required the King to consult with anyone, and if so, who and how? If there
was some sort of required consultation, in Charles' case, what when wrong?” – Andrew of Riga
1 “Not a bit. As has been pointed out in some of the other comments. I once advised Henrik, when he was thinking of knighting
Frederick of the West/Black Tower (adjective depends on where he was living at the time), that he was the king, he could knight
who he pleased. Sir Charles' knighting helped put an end to that concept.” – Stefan de Lorraine
2 “No, only peer pressure.” and “I don’t remember this but my intuitive guess is, some dissent was conveyed to me after it was
clear that Charles was to be knighted, and this mini-consultation was to mollify the dissenters.” – Henrik of Havn
“(3) In the case of Charles, exactly who caused the interruption of the knighting ceremony?” – Andrew of Riga
1 “Given everything else you said, I would assume it was Edwin and Caradoc and Thomas and possibly some others.” – Stefan
de Lorraine
“(4) Is my memory correct when I recall Sir Thumas gave his shirt of mail to Sir Charles as an apology for what he (Thumas) did?
If so, when did it occur? The day of the ceremony, or sometime thereafter? If thereafter, when and under what circumstances? What
was Thumas' part in the interruption of the ceremony?” – Andrew of Riga
“Lastly, the following question has plagued me for years.
“(5) In a stretch, I can understand the logic of a white belt being used as an accolade of knighthood in the SCA, as a sword
belt could be, and often was, associated with knights in the middle ages. Depending on the place and era, when one was knighted,
he was dressed entirely in white; hence a white sword belt. However, I do not know or understand what could be the origin of the
D
D
D
~ 61 ~
D
E
SCA's tradition of the knights' chain (the lamp shade chain). Who came up with this and why? For that matter, who came up with
the SCA's white belt?” – Andrew of Riga
1 “I'll bet the Hodgheads had something to do with creating the belts. They often had something to do with such things in those
days of the SCA. The chains are simply chains of office, which was very traditional during some part of the SCA's period. Of
course, usually officers of state wore chains, but early SCA usage tended to get ranks and offices confused a lot.” – Stefan de
Lorraine
I
“We'll have to ask whoever choreographed the mass knighting at William the Silent's Twelfth Night Court in January AS
III. My dim memory (it was my first event) has both belt and chain being featured. If I were to speculate though I imagine
the chains derived from period illustrations (e.g., the chain of S es and other similar marks of rank), lamp chain was simply
a cheap and available source of big gaudy chains.
“Of course there also was the rationalization that our Knights were belted Earls that was current then.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
2 “The "white belt" was a take-off of asian martial arts "black belt".” – Henrik of Havn
“And what ever happened to the "knights' knot;" the specific way a belt was looped to signify the wearer was a knight? Who came
up with that one? (This was before, and perhaps during early 1970. I believe, for the most part, it had died out by the time I came
along in late 1969.)” – Andrew of Riga
1 “The knot was part of the instant tradition, as far as I can recall. It disappeared because most knights could afford belt buckles
and, for that matter, could get themselves white leather for their belts. You may recall that I always wore my belt looped around
the buckle in a semblance of that knot.” – Stefan de Lorraine, whose leather belt (and awards baldric) are some of the few
bits of paraphenalia he has left.
2 “You know, to the best of my knowledge there is no such animal as a 'Knight's Knot'. The fighter's knot that is used on our
customary over-long sword belts is featured in many brass rubbings and other period illustrations and didn't originate with the
SCA nor as far as I can remember has ever been exclusive to the Chivalry. Our use of the doubled back and turned under knot
probably is a result of the first batch of knight's belts being lengths of cloth with a single metal ring for a buckle, the knot is about
the only way such a belt will stay on.” – Kevin Peregrynne
3 “The first Knight's belts were made of white cloth sewn into a long belt. The buckle was a gold colored ring. The only way to
make them stay up when worn was to knot them as the "garter" knot has been depicted.” – Henrik of Havn
“Oh shit ! I was still Robert's #2 squire ... Dai of the Tulips - the senior squire, was (as also I had been, eclipsed) as potential
knights by the bolus of Natual Athletes that dropped into the Lorainne - Dunharrow practices and the tourney field - (Jean, Steven,
Hagan, Michael, out of order probably) come to mind. Jim and Paul, who are natural warriors were right behind.
“Charles of Mercury fits right into the low end of this pattern - a natural athlete, who (I'm going to lay it right down on the table)
had a [negative number] conception of what knighthood was all about. There was an ongoing around-the-campfire debate about
what it meant and why a person becomes a knight and a significant proportion of the talkers agreed that Charles didn't make it.
To be blunt, I wasn't yet a Knight, but I had a Damned firm concept of what I was shooting for and it wasn't STICK JOCK of the day
(can you spell Gator-hide?).
“Dai gave up fighting because the risk to his legs was too acute. I hope Robert will back me up here, but Dai was right on the
bubble at getting admitted to a professional level dance-troupe training program, getting smacked on the knee by an SCA
broadsword was a big risk to what he really wanted to do.
“When it comes to Knights' Council - at this point in history I have to rely on Hear -Say (and reason in advance of our
chronology). But, among the populace, Charles’ knighting was considered to be too rapid by everyone I talked to.
“I've already commented as much as I truthfully can about Charles of Mercury. I wasn't a Knight's' council insider for yet another
year.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Now, Kevin, I don't think James is a natural athlete. I killed him in 2 blows in his first Crown tourney, when he was 16 or 17,
but he just worked really hard and persistently, and by the time he was 19 he won the Crown, then went on to make a habit
of it for 8 reigns over the next 15 years or so. Jim deserves credit for earning it by hard work with only average natural talent,
and that goes for you, too, Kevin. You did win a Crown & also Mists Coronet, and you earned it by hard work. You also deserve
a lot of the credit for making SCA combat much less hazardous by instituting real armor requirements as West Earl Marshal,
then Society Marshal.
“Chuck Blanton (Sir Charles) wasn't so much a stick-jock as just an affable young man who went along with his mother
& step-father (Dorthea the Unsure & Edgar the Unready, later Sir Edgar) and his younger sisters, Crystal & Celeste (remember
her as a 13-year-old belly-dancer?) to this great picnic and costume party of the SCA. We recruited them and got Chuck &
Edgar learning to fight. As to chivalrous behavior, if anyone needed help carrying heavy stuff or any other such task, Chuck was
right there doing it with a smile. I'll take that over certain other young fighters who could talk knowingly about the philosophical
aspects of chivalry but couldn't be bothered to help set up a pavilion as they strutted about in their finery. (However, one I
~ 62 ~
remember would show up later to sit in our shade.) I think a couple of teen-aged fighters who had been around for a while
resented this newcomer (Chuck) who could beat them most of the time.
“I had forgotten about Dai's dance ambitions. He was a fighter at 14 and chose to become a jester at 16 or 17, saying that
there were plenty of fighters but a shortage of fools. He and his parents moved from Berkeley to Vancouver Island (near
Nanaimo, BC), where Sterling & Aaron (my stepsons) & I visited them in 1977, but I lost touch after that.
“After Jean was crowned at 12th Night V, he called a meeting at Toad Hall to which all the Chivalry were invited, but not only
they, for I'm sure Geri was present & probably Queen Ellen, too. As I remember, Edwin, Caradoc, & Thumas wished to criticize
Henrik for knighting anyone without consulting all the knights, questioned the validity of Charles' knighthood, and wished to
assert that it required unanimous consent of the chivalry to knight anyone. When Thumas referred to "Charles", King Jean
interrupted him and said something like, "Let's get one thing straight. It's "Sir Charles", and that is not in question." Further
discussion led to an agreement that in the future Kings must consult all the Chivalry present at an event before knighting
anyone, but that the King made the decision. In other words, the knights could try to talk him out of it, but they had no veto, either
singly or even collectively. The same principle came to be extended naturally to the Laurel, and later the Pelican (when it was
created some years later.)
“Jean didn't knight anyone, but he made the 10th, 11th & 12th Laurels (Harold, Randal, & Johanna), his Queen, Ellen of
the Gleaming Star (whom he met & married through meeting her in our household) invented the Order of the Leaf of Merit to
honor Ellen Cross Quills (Mrs.Hodghead) for all her hard work at unglamourous but needed tasks for the SCA. Queen Ellen
made that first Leaf herself (she was a talented amateur jeweler) and I think it had green stones set on a silver base. After that,
the design was simplified for ongoing production. Also Jean agreed to let me expand Siegfried's written laws into a complete
& exclusive code of laws for the Kingdom. (I was getting really tired of the arguments over divergent memories of "The Law"
as an oral tradition.) I got it done just in time to be proclaimed at Jean's final court in May. Jean glanced at it for a moment and
said to give it to the Heralds to proclaim. Siegfried deserves credit for much of the core ideas in it, Jean for letting me do it, but
I'll have to take the blame for the last line saying that "all proclamations of previous reigns not herein included are hereby
rescinded" and the admonition that "all additions, deletions, and changes to Kingdom Law in the future shall be in the form
of amendments to this Code." Later Kings actually could have thrown out the whole thing, but it stuck because it was useful
and everyone could know what the rules were, so it has been continually refined ever since, and copied to a great degree (I
think) by other Kingdoms & Principalities.
“At March V Crown, King Jean loaned his Viking Roundshield to Hagen (who had previously used longsword in every crown
tourney, but I finally convinced him, too, to use a shield). Hagen won, defeating Sir Houri in the finals (Houri's 2nd time as a
finalist). Hagen had a sort of Civil Defense Helmet and a full hauberk of mail he had made (Hood to below the knee) but
nothing on his lower leg but khaki pants and was barefoot. He legged Houri, who then could not reach anything but Hagen's
forward leg. However, when Houri swung, rather than back up or block, Hagen lifted his leg for an instant, letting Houri's sword
pass below his bare foot, then brought his foot down again as he struck at Houri's head. Houri never touched him despite
desperate efforts to do so.
“This is too long and it's now 2 AM, so I'll have to save May & June VI for later, except to verify that Hagen (who was not
intimidated by Edwin & Caradoc's somewhat threatening dramatic gesture; in fact he - a Karate Blackbelt - could have broken
them both in two with his bare hands) indeed did say something like,"alright then, despite the wishes of your peers" and that
Steve (as the King's Seneschal) ran at them with his long red staff held horizontal, placing himself between them and the
throne. (I don't remember you calling them idiots, Steve, but I'm pretty sure you sort of growled, "You sons-a-bitches", between
clenched teeth as you ran at them from beside the throne.) Now I did half-draw my steel broadsword (worn for court) but not
to protect my lady and myself, but in an instant rage at what I perceived as something like treason. This was an unconscious
reflex, and I caught myself in a second or two, but didn't fully resheath it until they backed off. Of course, Edwin & Caradoc were
good friends and I wouldn't have dreamed of actually harming them, unless of course they had physically assaulted the King,
in which case I suppose my oath of fealty would have required me to skewer them, despite the mundane complications. (Yeah,
OK, I'm just kidding. I reminisced with Edwin at many New Years Eve parties at Greyhaven over the years until his recent
untimely death, and I saw Caradoc at Greyhaven last New Years, but he has been in quite poor health recently.)” - Robert of
Dunharrow
I
“Goody, goody, goody!
“Look at all this great insider history stuff from Robert. Sorry I pushed your on button so late in the normal waking
cycle, but I didn't conk out until 2:30 myself.
“OK I give up, Chuck was a nice kid (all of 18 months younger than me as I recall), polite and helpful at the drop of a
pavilion pole, for that matter Edgar, Dorothea, Chrystal and Celeste were good citizens too and fellow Toadies (I'm smiling
as I say that). But Robert's message confirms what I said about his Knighting being controversial and his natural athletic
ability.
“Mercifully I have forgotten the identities of the philospher-freeloaders Bob alludes to...Patti and I earned and wore our
Toad badges (No toadie, no eatee, no sittee in the shade proclaimed Geri).
~ 63 ~
2
“If Jim wasn't a natural it wasn't evident by the time I started fighting - being left-handed and fast was good enough
(to paraphrase P.T. Barnum you can beat some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time...which
is sufficient). Nuff said”
“Stefan quite clearly said to Edwin and Caradoc "You sons of bitches!" (his articulation always has been good it was
'of') through teeth gritted so tightly that they nearly threw off sparks. (Patti and I and a crew of the young crowd from both
households were only a meter or so away, huddled directly to Queen Ruth's left providing emotional support to Ginny and
Carol who were going through the "Oh Help they might make me Queen" syndrome for the first time.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“Actually, I never felt that either Stefan or myself was a natural. Whatever I came to in the end when I was still fighting, I came
to by hard work, not by any particular aptitude. I got knighted in the early days when the standard was somewhat lower. What
made me into a good fighter was a period in, I think, summer of 1971 when I went to regular practices with Paul, Thomas of
the Pines, and a few others. William the Lucky, William of Hoghton, Loren sur la Roche, and I were all graduates of that school.
“While they didn't make the history, the practices in those days were a lot of fun. We used to meet on Sundays at what we
called the "Dogs Must Be On Leash" park in Oakland, a tiny park with no known name just off of Piedmont. It had a lovely stone
bridge, just right for bridge fights, and a small open area for general practice. We'd get together, arm up, and start fighting. After
awhile everyone else would poop out and Paul and Thomas would fight until the rest of us got our wind back and fought some
more. Repeat scenario several times, add a fair amount of bridge fighting, and that was how it went.
“The hard core of the practice were Paul, Thomas, William, William, Larry, and I, with others like Andrew of Riga pretty
regular as well. I don't recall us doing a lot of teaching, but we certainly did a lot of fighting.
“Come to think of it, I think I'm one of the few people who ever fought Lady Diana Listmaker. That was way back in year one,
when she came to a practice session and wanted to learn a little about how to fight.” – Steven MacEanruig
I
“Once again I find myself a victim of my own imprecision in expressing myself. Those folk I named (Steven B., Jean,
Hagen, James, Paul et alia) - formed a string of fighters who, from my jaundiced point of view, got knighted and won
crowns with a physical ease and natural talent that made my efforts feel futile. They were the un-blameworthy targets of
my jealousy back then. Charles of Mercury was the one who came up in our dialogue (polylogue???) and was definitely
one of those fighting naturals (my Y chromosome is too dominant to judge how pretty he was). I had and have no quarrel,
other than generically, with his knighting.
“I named Robert and both or either Steve (de L or MacE) as witnesses to my own struggle and basic ineptitude, not
to cast any aspersions on their own hard work and training.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “Can't use me as an example, Phil. My first real memories of you were as a pretty good fighter. I don't recall your
knighting, so I assume it happened at a tourney I didn't make.” – Steven MacEanruig
i
“The practices at the little park off Piedmont boulevard - I remember as being hosted by House Lorraine (wasn't
Chaos Manor adjacent?) but almost always had a strong contingent of Dunharrow fighters in attendance if for no
other reason than we were more elusive than pells (that's self-deprecating humor).” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “It was at those practices at “Dogs Must Be On Leash Park” that Paul refined the snap and turned it into the
terror weapon of SCA combat. The idea actually came from Caradoc ap Cador, who had done some research
on the Gurkha and learned how they used their kukris. Houri the Savage got it from Caradoc and told me, and
I started passing this along to the people at our practice. Paul picked it up immediately and started working
with it and refining it and working on some of the basic principles behind it. If I go any further I'll just be
repeating material Paul put into a couple of articles that have appeared in various SCA publications.” –
Stefan de Lorraine, who was at most of those practices, too. We would retire to Chaos Manor and Luise
would have a big pot of Chaos Glop (whatever she had put in the pot this time) waiting for everyone and we'd
feast and talk into the evening. Good times ...
a “I can confirm this - Caradoc taught the blow to me, and called it the Kukri blow. But - there were
differences, and Paul refined it to where it was usable in a variety of motions - the one that Caradoc knew
was limited to beheading water buffalo ... (well, almost)” – James Greyhelm
i
“I had an off-line discussion with Stefan on this. I don't remember the conversation. In any case, my
earliest memory of where the 'snap' comes from is a side-arm throwing motion similar to the one
I used to throw with a shepherd's sling. The 'snap' never did include the technique of keeping the
last three fingers loose on the sword handle, and tightening them when throwing the sword. I
always kept the hand firmly on the handle, and the wrist stiff.
“I did use what Stefan described as the Kukri blow in a limited technique which brought the
sword straight down towards an opponent on his knees. It works quite well in this instance.
Unfortunately, I described that technique, with illustrations, in the first major paper I published on
fighting. Most people apparently just looked at the pictures, and that became the 'snap' in a lot of
places. I was constantly correcting that impression during many of my classes around the country.
~ 64 ~
I
III
III
F
“Of course, as I told Stefan, I have a spotty memory. Either I remember a thing in detail, or I
forget it nearly completely. No disrespect to Caradoc (or anyone else), but the Kukri blow is a
different technique from my 'snap', and has a different basis.” – Paul of Bellatrix
ii
“I have no dispute with the facts as presented, but my analysis is a bit different.
“Both the Khukri blow technique and the Snap were written up in TI (I still have the article that
Luise of the Phoenix illustrated for the latter). However, over the years Paul and I have discussed
the snap as his theories evolved ... originally he thought it was the hand-closure technique, but
eventually he and those of us who listened and tried realized it was more a matter of total body
mechanics starting from the ground-up, driving from the heel and all the way through until the hand
delivered all of the generated kinetic energy. Probably came from his black belt background if one
looks far enough into the technique's ancestry.
“As far as I remember (how many decades does it take bruises to fade from memory, anyhow?)
Houri didn't need Caradoc's technique, but when he learned it he hit even harder.
“Dogs must be on leash park got downright crowded with those dead water buffalo ... but what
barbecues!” – Kevin Peregrynne
“The practices there varied in size. I remember once John the Silent showed up and I got to fight him. I may have the
summer wrong, but by and large, I remember mainly the ones I named, Paul, Thomas, Lauren, William, and William.” –
Steven MacEanruig
“I remember Steven returning after his stint in the Air Force - still using the Ashenlands surname I believe (at least in my
mind [until then I only knew of him by hearsay]). As could be expected at first he was a bit rusty and out of touch with the
changes in the state of the art since he had been gone. By October of VI he was fully up to speed and was one of the
members of the first SCA Company of Arms troupe at RenFaire, which was at least one of the venues where a dozen or
so of us got the intensive concentrated fighting experience that put us out front of the pack. (OK - I caught up with some
of the naturals, I didn't want to remain a newt ... so I got better).” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “By October VI I was getting there, but I certainly didn't regard myself as fully up to speed. I do remember the company
of arms, though. That was a fair amount of fun to do and got us into the faire free. Given faire economics, that was
about all it did, but we had fun.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Steve's helmet nearly cost us the gig - during our audition I caught him right under the back rim with a wrap that shredded
his chin strap and sent the helm straight up (like an SRB twenty years before they had been invented). The THUD! when
it came back to the floor of the main stage was awesome - but the Faire representative was rather skittish until we all
reassured him that no one had ever really gotten killed in our sport.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “Here we have a clear disagreement. I have been telling that story for years and I have a perfectly clear picture of it
being my shot and Kevin's helmet. I check on everything else. Anyone else there remember the incident. I think Paul
and William the Lucky were there as well.” – Steven MacEanruig
i
“We're all heroes in our own saga ... looking at the flash photos in my memory it was certainly one of Jon's Freon
tank helms heading for the balcony. If Steve didn't own one, I did - so maybe I was the launch pad not him. It's
still a great story and it IS true in some virtual sense of the word. And if Steve did the launching, it's even more
impressive because mine was Jon's 12 ga. prototype helmet - so nearly twenty pounds of steel was launched
into a suborbital trajectory by a one-handed shot ... (who claims not to have gotten back into shape???). Other
witnesses we can poll are James, Siegfried and Frederick.
“Never mind ... I just asked Patti - Steve launched my helm.
“By that Faire I had only been Knighted since June and was rounding into shape to get smushed by Paul in
the upcoming finals. Then James, then ... (second place got real boring after a while). My recollection was that
I was a new knight when Steve and I first met at Chaos practice sometime in late summer.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“At Oct. V Crown, Henrik was in his 5th reign (of 6) (and 4th & last with Leanne) and would be until 12th Night. It was a great tourney
for my household (Toad Hall/Dunharrow Eored). I think we started with 24 fighters, single elimination, and after 2 rounds were down
to 6, including Jean, Charles, and me (my best-ever crown tourney showing). I had finally persuaded Jean to use sword & shield
for the first time, instead of two shortswords. He built a "Viking Round" and used it quite effectively (i.e. nobody got past it at all) Well,
in the 3rd round, I was paired with Charles and he beat me with his lightning-quick style. Jean & William Gordon of York also won
their matches (I think one of them beat Caradoc.) This left 3. Jean got a bye (by lot, I think, rather than by being the only then-belted
fighter of the 3). Chuck then beat Gordon.
“Until Jean had been knighted a while earlier, all the members of the Eored were my squires (if under 21) or men-at-arms (21
& up). With Jean's knighting, I named him Deputy Commander of the Eored and he took Charles, whose quickness matched
Jean's own, under his special tutelage. So when Jean faced a Crown final with Charles, he (Jean) asked King Henrik to knight
~ 65 ~
Charles first, before they fought, so that the finals would be knight to knight, not a knight vs. his own squire. Henrik, firmly believing
that the King's Word was Law, didn't consult anybody or hesitate at all, but called Charles up and knighted him. Then Sir Jean
defeated Sir Charles in the finals.
“Now to diverge to some comments in response to Sir Kevin's remarks about "natural athletes" &/or "natural warriors". In
general, I agree that some of us start with much less natural talent or previous relevant experience than others. Jean, Hagen, and
Paul all came to the SCA as martial-arts black-belts (in Aikido, Karate, & Judo, respectively, as I remember), Steven Blackeagle was
a well-coordinated, very strong, 6'4" tall high-school athlete (football, was it?- do you remember, Henrik? or anyone?) & he was the
only one to be King while still in high school (though turned 18 and in his last semester.) Charles of Mercury (Chuck Blanton) was
about 19 and a runner on his Jr. College track team, lean but strong, with a very fast reaction time (reminded me of Sir Kerry the
Rock, who was deadly fast at 16, and finalist in one of the early tourneys.) By Michael, I guess you mean Michael Walrus, (Mike
Peterson) also of our household. He chaired the Math Dept. at Marin Catholic High School and also coached wrestling & JV football
there. For a big & incredibly strong man, he was amazingly quick on his feet. He was also a very kind, considerate person and
surely would have been knighted had he kept at fighting longer. He got to the semi-finals (I think) one time when fighting for
Geraldine's handmaiden (& Sir Earl's little sister) Mitzi, who was 9 or 10 at the time. (He didn't have a lady to champion, so Geri
found him one.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I’m not aware that Steve played any football in High School other than whatever his regular P.E. class might have had him do.”
– Henrik of Havn
G
“I'm chiming in for the first time, as the discussion has reached my first 'real' tourney. From the point of view of the social/political
development of the SCA, a significant thing happened at this tourney, or so I was told at the revels afterward. Although a rank novice,
and greatly outgunned by the likes of Charles of Mercury and Jean de la Grand 'Anse, I did reasonably well in the lists, reaching
the quarter finals. I was the first 'outlander' to do so, and I have been told that during the lists, some of the organizers became
concerned with new questions if William of York won, would the next Crown Lists be held in LA? COULD the next Crown Lists be
called there? Such was the concern, I was told that night somewhat apologetically, that the matches of the quarter finals were
altered so that I would fight Charles of the Mercury. I was asked, “WOULD you have called the next Lists in LA, had you won?" I said
I would not, of course, since the thought of having several hundred people journey down to LA for a dozen or so natives seemed
outrageous.
“It was these questions, however, that caused the venue of the Lists to get written up in Kingdom "law" shortly thereafter...” –
William Gordon of York
H
“Getting back to October Crown, AS V, that was my first event. I didn't get to fight, because Edwin didn't have the leisure to qualify
me. It's probably just as well, since my swords were made of eucalyptus. I do retain several impressions. The main one was when
I arrived, and came out of the woods overlooking the field, just as a melee started. WOW. I also got a first impression of Jerry P.,
which didn't change during the years of our association. I got a much better impression of several others, including Randall of the
Far North, and Count Stephen, whose household I joined.” – Paul of Bellatrix
1 “Sorry I missed you there. I'm not sure when we met, but I think it was just after I got out of the Air Force. I remember trading
Kansas stories with you and talking about the first Reforger exercise just after I separated. For what it's worth, my impressions
of Jerry P match yours exactly. Randall was a heck of a nice guy whom I've actually seen once in the last several years when
he was back in the states. As I recall, he teaches in Scotland now, though I may have the country wrong. I remember killing him
in a tiny renaissance faire we were at. I had him on my knees, did a beautiful shield hook, hit him over the head with a mace,
and staggered off the field crying out in agony, having had my thumb between my shield and his for the shield hook. Such fun.”
2 “I remember the pile of weaponry Paul showed up with, all made of things like eucalyptus. Not just broadswords, as I recall,
but weapons of various compositions and sizes. None of them field legal. But the sheer work to amass this collection was very
impressive. Am I right in remembering that Paul was one of the folks attracted to the SCA through BayCon? Paul, Luise and
I are trying and failing to remember the Connection that brought you into our household. Did you know Gregory first? He wasn't
in our household, but as an assistant Seneschal he was someone I spoke to regularly. There was a mutual friend in there
somewhere, but which one?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who wishes to point out that at this point in the SCA there was already a
Count Stefan and a Count Stephen (except the rank of Count had not yet been inaugurated), and Paul and his family joined
Stefan (me) de Lorraine's household, not Stephen Blackeagle's household (which was pretty much just part of Havn, anyway).
Since my real name is spelled Stephen, confusion ensues amongst my friends who have known me in both Ids.
I
“I never went to BayCon. Wijade the Wondrous, he of the multi-colored plastic mail, was a classmate of mine in college,
before I went in the Army. He told me about this neat club where you could fight. I looked him up after I got out, and went
to October Crown, AS V with him. Carol and I even had the proverbial costumes made from the old curtains.” – Paul of
Bellatrix
~ 66 ~
a
3
“Of course. Wijade the Wondrous (Bill Denholm) had been hanging around the periphery of the group for some time.
I think I might have met him in fandom, as I remember he came to meetings of the Elves, Gnomes, and Little Men
Chowder and Marching Society. He built a suit of mail out of plastic rings and fought in it. Finding all the broken rings
after a fight was something of a tradition for awhile. I believe he was one of the people I beat to become King.
“I ran into Bill several times after he dropped out of the SCA. Our mutual interests in comic books and science
fiction and naval war gaming kept bringing us together again. And sometimes we'd just run into each other on the
street, which was odd since he lives on the Peninsula and I lived in the East Bay. Last I heard he was programming
somewhere in the Silicon Valley.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who also remembers Wijade being called the Psychadelic
Knight because of all the flashy plastic colors in the mail. Of course, he was never knighted...
1 “Someone at that event introduced me to you and Luise. I can't remember who it was, but I'm glad that they did.
I didn't meet Gregory until some time later.
“The first fighting I did was at Chaos practices in late '70 or early '71. I seem to remember a small demo in
there, somewhere.” – Paul of Bellatrix
“I doubt that it's any help ... my first clear memory of Paul was fighter practice at the pocket park adjacent to Chaos manor in
or near Piedmont (I am unclear on the specific municipal boundaries). Since Paul already had a very well developed leg shot
I doubt that it was his first practice, just the one that resulted in my using a cane to get around the UC campus the following
several days. No criticism of Paul implicit or otherwise ... shots to the knee were legal at the time and he had a doozy, but pain
has a way of reinforcing memories associated with it. Perhaps Andrew of Riga remembers more from his squirehood days
that more or less coincided.
“Switching emphasis, it might be fun to reminisce about some of those unique houses such as Toad Hall, Chaos Manor
and Greyhaven that formed defacto group capitols and corporate headquarters. Toad Hall as all will recall was notable for its
smaller mammalian citizen-owners, Bortai the War Puppy, Aunty Lobelia the feline owner of the universe, Charlie who never
could figure which of the three water dishes to step between and White Kitten the feline Xaveria Hollender of South Berkeley.
Chaos Manor's collection of books always made my mouth water, I probably was thought terminally anti-social because
everytime we visited Steve and Luise I would wind up curled around a book in a corner (consider a long delayed thank-you for
turning me on to John D. MacDonald as officially delivered). Greyhaven (AKA Elf Hill) was beyond everything else Mom
Zimmer's house - everybody loved Mom. Then there was the Black Hole of Calcutta in the Haight which combined all of these
attributes into one gingerbread Victorian confection.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“This was also the event where Headlesse House first made its appearance. Actually, I had been at the second day of Blackeagle's
(split) coronation and Reina de San Diego and I had caught a little of Purgatorio. But for October Crown we managed to arrive with
about 8 Cal students (mostly that nobody knew); in outfits which, if simple, were at least a step beyond the two towels over blue
jeans stage; and with pavilion. (I'm told it made quite an impression -- though of course we were too new, and too out of the social
milieu, to hear at the time.)
“Of the original group, Master Alan O'Doubda (sp?) was on the East Coast, last I heard, and still attending the occasional event.
Mistress Masae Lorane and I still turn up fairly regularly. Not a bad retention rate for 28 odd (very odd!) years.” – William the Lucky
J
“Somewhere in previous comments I made a dumb mistake, saying that Jean didn't create any knights. When Hagen defeated
Sir Houri in the Crown finals in March V (1971), naturally Jean then knighted Hagen. (I believe that every unbelted fighter who has
ever won the Western Crown has been knighted (or mastered) upon that occasion.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I am certain Hagen was knighted before he won the Crown. I am also certain he was knighted before the final round began.
“I was not an insider during those days, but the unmistakable rule of thumb was, if you made it into the finals, you were
knighted.
“As an illustration consider Paul's knighting. When he entered that final round as an unbelted fighter, any number of us
were wandering about in confusion because everyone who had ever won their semifinal round was knighted before entering
the final round.
“Knighting a man (no women knights back then – let alone authorized fighters) who did not prove his metal by advancing
into the finals of a Crown was a rarity – it did happen, but not very often. On those occasions where it did occur, in some
quarters there was a certain about of question attached to it ("But, how can he be a good enough fighter if he has never made
it to the finals of Crown?").” – Andrew of Riga
J
“In an attempt to clear up some bits of confusion, I offer the following: After Jean became the second knight in our household,
Charles came to be specifically HIS squire (whereas previously all 8 or 10 fighters were squires, if under 21, or men-at-arms, if
over 21, of mine, as head of the Eored.) At Oct. V (1970) Crown, with single-elimination, 24 fighters were reduced, after 2 rounds,
to 6, including 3 from Toad Hall/Dunharrow Eored (Jean, Charles, & myself - closest I ever came to crown finals). The other 3
included William Gordon of York, Caradoc (I think), and one other I forget. Well, Charles beat me, Jean & Wm. of York also made
~ 67 ~
the final 3. Jean either drew the bye by lot or by reason of being the only knight among the 3, I don't know which. Charles then
defeated William Gordon of York (who got much closer than quarter-finals, as I think he stated). At this point, Jean (having
remembered that Houri had been knighted before fighting his knight in Crown finals) publicly requested that King Henrik knight his
squire before the finals. Henrik did so, without any particular consultation, nor did he think it was required at that time. (Frederic of
the WestTower had been knighted at RenFaire, on the main stage in fact, on the spur of the moment after an impressive victory on
the bridge. There was an evident consensus of those present, but I don't think any formal council.) Since Thumas, Edwin, &
Caradoc had expressed concern over knightings without consultation (or possibly consent, or even unanimous consent), shortly
after Jean's coronation at 12th Night V, he called a meeting (held at Toad Hall) wherein it was agreed that in future, Kings must
consult the members present of a peerage order before creating a new peer. The Crown, however, has the sole final say, no matter
what.
“Apparently the concept that "the King's Word is Law" had not been fully grasped by Edwin & Caradoc by June Crown VI, when
they were unfortunately moved to challenge the authority of their Sovereign Monarch. The reaction of all the rest of us made it pretty
clear that they had no further support in this action. After Paul offered to decline, and then Edwin wisely took that opportunity to
withdraw his objection, Paul was knighted, and Hagen then called forth Fleig & Kevin, both of whom were widely accepted as being
ready for a white baldric or belt, regardless of the fortunes of the fights of that particular day.
“Hagen's 4 additions to the Chivalry are all still around almost 3 decades later, and among them have won something like 19
crowns & I don't know how many coronets.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “This is an interesting fact. Given that nearly all of the active fighters at the time have dropped out, I find it amazing that the four
that Hagen knighted continued. Three of us still fight, and I am sure that Kevin would also save for his injury. A strange
coincidence ....” – James Greyhelm
2 [At this point, Jean (having remembered ...) ...] At that Ren Faire where Frederick was knighted, I was spending the weekends
guesting at the then-home of Richard of Montreal, la Rana, Leanne, and a mutual friend named Tom whose family name
escapes me. At some point, and I'm not sure if it was before or after Frederick's spectacular victory at the bridge on the Faire
grounds, Henrik said to me that he was intending to knight Frederick, and was uncertain whether he should first talk to all the
other belted fighters. In my best Thomas Cromwell mode, I told him what he could knight whoever he wanted.
“I have no idea whether he consulted with anyone else on the subject and what they answered him if so. Perhaps he
remembers?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who has seen people arbitrarily knighted and people knighted with careful consideration
and consultation, and not seen much difference in their later conduct and longevity within the organization.
a “I believe that as Lord Chancellor of the Kingdom and attorney for the SCA I was consulted at the Faire on this issue and
confirmed then as well as later that while politics strongly suggest consultation, the King's decision is law, whether
arbitrary or not. I agree with Stefan that I haven't seen much difference in the quality of those elevated by either method.
All of such elevations have been of worthy people.” – David of Ilwheirlane
b “Tom Tomkins. I don’t recall if I did consult with anyone else. In those early years I didn’t do anything that didn’t seem to
be acceptable to the members of the Kingdom from my perspective. I may have only consulted a few people at times –
such as Steve, but those were people who I thought represented the perspective of the populace/peers and could speak
for them, even if the rest didn’t know what was being discussed at the time.” – Henrik of Havn
January 8, 1971 AS V
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Kensingt on, California. Henrik held court
(Leanne wasn’t there). King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to Christian of Orange,
Raymond the Mild, Rhiannen pen Tyrhon, Sheen of Ire, and Suzanne of
Ravenhill. He founded the College of Scribes. Then he crowned Jean and Ellen.
King Jean admitted Harold Breakstone, Johanna von Griffenhurst, and Randall of
Hightower to the Order of the Laurel. He made Louis de la Grand ‘Anse (his
father) and Robert of Dunharrow Crown Barons.
Jean de la Grand’ Anse - Azure, a natural dolphin
embowed argent above a sun Or.
Ellen of the Gleaming Star - Per fess rayonny and
per pale purpure and Or, in dexter chief a star of David arg
~ 68 ~
Comments:
A
A
A
“I don't remember a lot about the event, but I do remember Jean stating ahead of time that he didn't feel it was necessary for the
knights to swear fealty again. Mostly, this was because he knew he would probably be late and he needed to cut down court time.
I seem to recall court running until 10:00 pm or later anyway.
“I also remember that this was the event that Atenveldt petitioned for kingdom status with, I think, Michael of Moria reading the
petition which I recall as a bit long and melodramatic.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “The afternoon of the day before that 12th night, Michael of Moria appeared on my doorstep (expected, actually, we were always
hosting Atenveldters in those days) and said something to the effect of "Every Seneschal should have a crisis handed to him
just before a coronation," and handed me the petition.
“Both Kingdom and SCA had been thinking of making Atenveldt the next Kingdom already; this rather precipitated the
situation. Of course, there was no clear policy on what a Kingdom could or could not do about breaking off a part to become
its own Kingdom. I believe the "enough members to get its own bulk rate permit" rule was set down as a guideline, but this
was the first time it came into play, as I recall.
“The promise made to Atenveldt at that point was to make them a separate Kingdom as soon as it was possible. It turned
out to be possible fairly quickly.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“I think this was the event where a bunch of us went in the next day and had to sort the garbage into various types for recycling, the
Unitarian Church being big on that sort of thing. Perhaps Steve & Luise can confirm this.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I think my esteemed colleague in garbage sorting is entirely correct in this matter. About twenty of us showed up to clean up
the hall (we planned ahead much better the following years). Much of the garbage in the form of evergreen fronds and assorted
other greenery actually stayed in the back of my station wagon for several days until I could finally get it to the dump. The car
had the most interesting odor for months afterward.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who has never had quite the same response to
the scent of evergreens since ...
“We had several 12th nights there and all in all it was a pretty good site. Perhaps best of all was the magnificent view of the bay area
and San Francisco from out behind the church. It's built on just about the top of the Berkeley hills and the view is spectacular at all
times and best at night when the air is clear.” – Steven MacEanruig
January 16, 1971 AS V
First Crown Tourney, Kingdom of Atenveldt
Held in McCormick Park, Scottsdale, Arizona. At this tourney the Principality of Atenveldt became the Kingdom of Atenveldt. [This event
is covered in more detail in the Atenveldt section of this document ...]
March 20, 1971 AS V
Held in the San Francisco Theological Seminary, San Anselmo, California. Jean and Ellen reigned. King Jean admitted David of Ilwheirlane
to the Order of the Laurel. Boncueur and Jacapo van der Jacs were given Awards of Arms. Crown Lists were held. Before the final round,
Hagen the Strong was knighted. The winner was Sir Hagen, defeating Sir Houri the Savage. Ruth was his lady. William of York gave the
MGC to Jerald of Galloway. Frederick of Holland was given the Bone of Fafnir to aid in the healing of a broken bone in his hand.
Comments:
A
“This was my first Crown event in the West. Let me tell you the tale.
“Over the winter we had a new member come on the scene in 3 Mts. This man want to be known as Harold of Pleasure. His
plan was to introduce a Ren fair to the Portland area so he wanted to find out what the SCA was all about and how we could help
him. Harold owned his own plane, so Sir Fredrick suggested that we attend the Spring Crown which Harold agreed too. Fredrick
and I shipped our gear down on the Gray Hound, the plane was a small one, and when the time came flew down to Oakland. I won’t
swear to this but I think we stayed at Grayhaven, at any rate, it was in Berkeley. Now you need to understand that Fredrick was not
real forthcoming with information about who was who and doing introductions, so I didn't have a clue as to whom I was talking to
at times. I meet Houri that night and got ragged on as being a new fighter and what he was going to do to me the next day. My
response was "we'll see". This is most important, as to my lack of knowing who was a Duke (I knew what a Duke was but not who
was a Duke) or Knights nor anyone’s standing in the West Kingdom. To this day I think that lack helped me to no end. I also meet
Boncour that night, we didn't hit it off at first but over time became good friends.
“On the day of the tourney we got there early so I could qualify, even though I had done this in 3 Mts in front of and by Edwin.
Edwin conducted the match and it was (remember, I know nothing) between Paul and myself. I don’t know if Paul will remember
this or not but Edwin only qualified Paul to fight in melee's and challenge matches and I got fully qualified. I never understood that
call as we were both fighting on par with each other on that day. Must have been something going on that I didn't know about not
being in the area.
~ 69 ~
“If you'll recall, I was training all winter with a 20 inch round. For this even Fredrick had me make a 24 inch round, that 4 inches
made a difference. I also had a Morgenstern that was passed for use by Edwin at this event. When the first melee was call and
sides chosen (I think I was last chosen, nobody knew me either, first event and all) it was 15 men to a side. So here I am, a newbie,
fresh out of the bushes, and don’t know who's who. The first one I meet was Duke Henrik. How, I'll never know, but that’s what came
about. He was using this table top (about a 32 inch round) and I wasn't having any luck getting around it. Of course Henrik knew
how to fight against the Morgenstern as he had one of his own (not in this melee, thank you Lord). Somehow we got separated
and I ended up fighting with Stephen Blackeagle, from one fire to another, but I didn't know that until later. This, to me, was just
another fighter, big, but that’s no problem. I got that Morgenstern over the top of Stephen's shield (he was using a kite) and hit him
in the back of the neck, killed him on the spot. The only problem was he got tangled up in the tip of his shield and fell over, face
forward, and I ended up with my right arm and weapon under Stephen. Have you ever tried to get 250 lbs off your arm and get your
weapon back when there's no help from the "dead" body? It took some doing, but I finally managed it. Chain is real hard to get hold
of. When I got to my feet and looked around there were 8 men on their knees, not fighting with each other, so I assumed they were
all on the other side. I'm not sure just what to do it this point except carry on with the melee. I went to the closest fighter, you got it,
Duke Henrik again. I tried to use the reach of my weapon versus the reach of his sword. The only thing I did was snap the ball off
of the Morgenstern over Henrik's shield rim. Here I stand with no weapon, now what? I looked around and found Fredrick (dead),
walked over and took his sword. He and I used the same type of sword in those days so I was ok with it, nothing strange. I looked
at Henrik and thought that I would go and try someone else for a start as I wasn't doing real well (up to that point) against him. So
I went down to the other end of the "line" and started there. The first one I came against was Miles of the Shamrock. Now my shield
work was spot on that day, that helped build my confidence to no end. Miles and I threw some blows, nothing getting thru and I had
one of those flashes one sometimes gets. What would happen if I just faked a blow? Fredrick had never taught me anything of this
nature so I was on my own with this. I did it. Miles shield went up and then it came down and I killed him. This was great, worked
like a charm. I then proceeded to use the same fake on the next 6 fighters, never failed, they all fell for it. I couldn't believe it. This
is something I noticed – when I made my way to Henrik (the last one) – there was dead quiet. I've never heard that again at an event
– just that one time. Well, I walked up to Henrik, did my fake and nothing happened. To this day I swear he just sat there (he was
on his knees) and grinned at me. This was the start of one of the monumental fights of that tourney. Henrik wasn't getting thru my
shield work and I couldn't figure out how to get around that big shield of his. I swear to this day we fought for 10 or 15 minutes before
he shield hooked me (for the 3rd time) smashed my thumb in the process and killed me (Fredrick later said the melee took around
an hour to finish). But I almost got him once, about 1 inch too low, according to Henrik. Fredrick later said that he wanted to tell me
to stay away from Henrik but he was dead by that time and couldn't tell me anything. Hell, I didn't care, I had nothing to lose at that
event. It must have been somewhat of a shock to have this newbie show up and do that well. I have the photos from this melee,
and the one of Paul and I that was used on the San Jose Mercury Sunday supplement's front page. That was a great melee.
“By the end of the day (I acted as a marshal all day) my arm was so bad I couldn't hold a sword. Fredrick came over and told
me that the Knights wanted me to join the lists. I tried but just couldn't swing a sword by that time. To this day I wonder how I might
have done in that list. When the King called my name to receive the MGC again I didn't quite know what to do. Thank you Fredrick.
I was so green I didn't even have the sense to kneel to the King. I think it was OK, I do remember a lot of smiles in the crowd after
the King gave me the Clubbe. What an event, I was hooked after that one. I even rubbed two cans of wax into the clubbe.”
“Never did get to fight Houri but I'll bet it would have been interesting.” – Jerald of Galloway
B
“At this event, we attempted to have a council to determine who should compete in the Crown Lists. We ended up picking only one
person to not compete, a young man who had actually heard about the SCA through contact with me because we had fought a few
miniatures games on one side or another of a mutual friend's sand table. Barry of Judah (Barry Sandler(?)) had no people skills
whatsoever, and lived in Sacramento, so he didn't have closeness to let him grow on people. Given the politics of the time, we were
unable to agree on anyone else to eliminate.
“When he heard he was the only one, he protested, and the King felt that he had a case. So we put him up against Jon the Lean
in the first round, because Jon was not fighting for the crown. Jon won, and then various folks got upset because he was not
continuing in the lists. I'm sure the procedure of having people qualify with the knight and earl marshal derived at least in part from
this event.” – Stefan de Lorraine
C
“This was the tourney where Queen Ellen was abducted. She didn’t want to be abducted and protested quite strongly. My
recollection was that as the rescuing forces first engaged us, the abductors, we devolved into a lack of resistance and ended the
growing embarrassment.
“At this site (either at this event or a subsequent one, I don’t remember which) a young man in his late teens came barefoot
and shirtless, with a fiberglass recurve bow and wanted to use it as a club to fight me. He was told he could borrow gear to fight,
but couldn’t fight as he was, using his bow.” – Henrik of Havn
~ 70 ~
D
D
“The AoA's mentioned were Boncueur, who in addition to being a herald, became the first SCA Registrar, and Jacopo van der Jacs,
who was a member of Toad Hall. He was a physician (a psychiatrist, if I recall correctly) and I think he was a good friend of Queen
Ellen's.
“Some comments about the first 2 pairs of Toad Hall Royalty Neither Jean nor Hagen had any real interest (or even previous
knowledge) of SCA politics. They were experts in other martial arts who learned fast and enjoyed SCA combat. Neither had any
driving ambition to win the Crown; they just fought for the fun of it. For some time Jean used 2 shortswords and Hagen used only
longsword in crown lists, no matter who they fought or what their opponents used. Both did quite well against sword & shield
fighters, but could not beat the very best of them. I worked hard to convince them to try sword & shield in crown lists. They finally
each (in succession) tried it once, won, reigned, and never entered another crown lists. I think they were both in our household
because we invited them into our pavilion when they first showed up. Ruth was already married to Hagen, but Jean met Ellen in
our household & then married her. Ellen was an old friend of mine from UC campus radical politics in the late 50's/early 60's and
an old friend of Geri's through different Connections. Geri & I accidentally met her at the grocery store one day & she was amazed
that 2 old friends from different worlds were now a couple. We told her about the SCA and she joined our household.
“Anyway, since I was somewhat to blame for getting them into this, first Jean & Ellen, then Hagen & Ruth, sat with Geri & me
in our living room at Toad Hall to discuss what they were supposed to do. In fact, they did quite a lot. Ellen invented the Leaf of Merit
& physically made the first one, they elevated the founders of the College of Heralds to the peerage, and Jean let me expand
Siegfried's written laws into an exclusive codification of Kingdom rules & procedures. Ruth invented the Queen's Order of Grace
(& made the first 2, for just as Ellen was a talented jeweler, Ruth was a talented ceramicist.) She gave them to 2 young ladies
(Crystal & Shima) who she felt exemplified quiet dignity & grace (while also being unobtrusively helpful.) Hagen (an expert cook)
invented the Order of the Wooden Spoon and appointed Geri to run the contests. Hagen also raised 4 fighters to the Chivalry
(James in May, Paul, Flieg, & Kevin in June) who have served a total of 19 reigns as King among them.
“I must dispute a previous conjecture that Ruth didn't like the SCA much. She was a quiet person, rather reserved, but took her
duties seriously and put a lot of effort into it. The reason we lost them soon after is that Hagen (aka Doug Nelson) finished his Ph.D.
in Math at Stanford and they moved to Pittsburgh, PA for a job there. Doug took up bagpiping there, but we lost touch with them after
a while. Both Jean & Hagen showed they knew how to be King on occasions when someone dared to affront or challenge the
authority of The Crown. Both were easy to get along with but not anyone to be pushed around.” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I sit corrected. I never knew either of them very well.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“Meredith was indeed a lovely young lady. I used to enjoy dancing with her and Alisande & their friend Ann at the regular SCA dance
classes at LeConte School in Berkeley. Once in a little war (in the hills in Tilden Park, I think) between essentially my household
& yours (with some allies), I had actually managed to take your leg and was actively pressing my advantage when suddenly there
was Meredith about 4 feet to my right excitedly informing me that she had just shot an arrow into my right armpit (as my sword arm
was raised) from about 4 feet away. I hadn't noticed it (these 15" unfletched arrows with little rubber tips didn't travel far nor hit hard)
but it was obvious she couldn't have missed and so I had to say "Oh, darn, I guess I'm dead" and trudged back down the hill. I think
that was the war where the Shieldmaidens of the Eored first appeared as archers. (There were 6 - Geraldine, Verena, Patrice, Ellen,
Sir Earl's sister Trudy, and I think Stephan of Seawood's lady, Aurelia) They wore matching green dresses, brown jerkins, and small
roundshields slung on their backs. I should have had a couple of them guarding my back, but they went off hunting scattered
opponents on their own.
“Sir Hubert de Recoing's mundane first name was, I think, Pascal. He never was any kind of Robert I don't think. I believe I
was the only Sir Robert in the central area of the West until Westmarch, Kinslayer, & Woodsend came along.” – Robert of
Dunharrow
~ 71 ~
The Year Six
May 1-2, 1971 AS VI
Beltane Coronation Festival
Held in Briones Park, Homestead Valley, California. Jean and Ellen held
court. King Jean gave Grants of Arms to Pwyll pen Tyhron and
Talanque. Then King Jean created the Order of the Leaf of Merit, and
admitted Ellen Cross Quills as the founding member. He gave Awards
of Arms to Ellen Cross Quills, Rima of Rockridge, Sårkhånyl Gerö,
Samuel de Basset, and William the Lucky. Then Hagen and Ruth were
crowned by Jean and Ellen. King Hagen knighted James Greyhelm.
Hagan the Strong
Ruth
Comments:
A
“Now we come to my first event. I had come to UC Berkeley the previous fall, and had discovered Science Fiction Fandom with the
Elves, Gnomes and Little Men Science Fiction, Chowder and Marching Society. Through Little Men I heard about the SCA and I got
a ride to the May coronation with Boncueur in his famous chariot Gules (a red convertible with GULES as a vanity plate). Boncueur
was the taxi for many of us UC students to SCA events. I had met Adrienne-Martine Barnes (Adrienne of Toledo) in Little Men and
through her met Poul and Karen Anderson (Sir Bela of Eastmarch and Karina of the Far West.) I enjoyed the coronation and was
looking for something to participate in at SCA events. I consulted with Karina about my name and device, and Karina naturally
suggested trying out as a herald. As a trained singer, I had no trouble projecting my voice, and as a longtime punster I fit right in
with the rest of the heraldic crew. The rest, as they say, was history.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
B
“There was much trepidation at using this site. For one, the only access was a dirt road. For two, it was usually an active cow
pasture. By the present time, as far as I can tell on the SCA-West list, such hazards are commonplace and dealt with with aplomb.
In the time spoken of, if was whole new idea and we weren't sure how to deal with it.
“We were so worried about it that my lady and I and some members of our household, plus some folks from other households
including a bard named Gwydion who was generally following Caradoc, ventured out the previous weekend to clean up the field
and get a good idea where to situate the tourney in what is actually a good size area (though I have the feeling that a modern Crown
tourney would swamp it).
“The problem proved to be both insurmountable and ignorable. The field was well littered, but with old fewmets, the cows had
been moved out some weeks before. I did get to learn my favorite Druid riddle, from Gwydion. "Why is Stonehenge unfinished?"
"Because Druids have short attention spans."
“I believe this was also the tourney wherein Calafia made a major showing by arriving in a large RV and seeming to disembark
an endless stream of college students in excellent costumes with very impressive wargear and camping gear. Jeffrey Brokenblade
(Jeff Rogers) who I believe earned his name by breaking several sabersaw blades while he was making a shield facing or some
piece of armor, had been part of Henrik's household but moved to San Diego to go to school. There, he met several folk who found
the idea of the SCAfascinating. Combine this with the proximity of one Kirby deWise, who was just then getting newspaper coverage
as this recluse who had moved to the California desert to make armor, and you had a volatile combination that developed into
Calafia.
“I believe this was also the tourney wherein various members of my household decided to abduct Luise, aided by some of the
Calafians. The result was an uphill fight (and if you are familiar with the site, you know I mean Uphill) with the abductors including
Houri the Savage and Cormac (er, can't remember Cormac's last name. Do you remember Steven, he was your squire) standing
against all comers.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Cormac na Conacht, as I recall. I remember you introducing me to him when I returned from Air Force land. His arms were
very close to my original arms, being azure, a pale argent charged with a sword gules. My original arms were azure, a pale
argent charged with a heart gules. In the end, I abandoned them before heraldry became codified for my current arms.” –
Steven MacEanruig
“Of course, we held enough events at this field that I may be getting this confused with another of the Briones events. I remember
being very upset that members of Chaos would abduct the High Lady of the organization, but I guess that's why we had the name
...
B
~ 72 ~
“I think it was after this event that the Enigmatic Fu wrote "Oh, that Welshman" and precipitated quite a tempest in the teapot
of the local kingdom. Again, however this may have been later. They all tend to run together.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who always liked
the feeling of being isolated on the Briones field even while he was bemoaning (not very loudly) the lack of local convenience stores.
Fortunately, this was during the period wherein we didn't have a television, anyway.
C
“This was the event where I fought Lysander of Sparta, mentioned elsewhere.” – Henrik of Havn
May 29, 1971 AS VI
Queen’s Tea
Held in Ruth’s honor in Redwood Bowl, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. The Order of the Wooden Spoon was created, and
the first competition, for Medieval Confections, was won by Rima of Rockridge.
June 19, 1971 AS VI
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. Hagen and Ruth reigned. King Hagen gave Awards of Arms to André de Sevastopol and
Elizabeth Belleclerke. Crown Lists were held. Before the final round Frederick of Holland was made a Master, and Kevin Peregrynne and
Paul of Bellatrix were knighted. Sir James Greyhelm won, defeating Sir Paul of Bellatrix. Verena of Laurelin was his lady. Jerald of Galloway
gave the MGC to Sir Paul of Bellatrix. The Order of the Wooden Spoon Competition, for Salads, was won by Sharon the Meek.
Comments:
A
“THIS IS NOW Hear-Say! After Hourai's knighting, the kingdom bumped into a similar situation. James and Paul were one-and-one
in the Finals, Jim was already a Knight (brand new at Hagen and Ruth's Coronation), but Paul wasn't. Hagen called the Chivalry
together and after much discussion, decided to knight Paul. Paul can recite the drama when Edwin and Caradoc publicly objected
during court. The bit of inside information that I have is that Mistress Geraldine of Toad Hall leaned over and, after the decision was
made, whispered into Hagen's ear" Well now it's hit the fan ... why not spread it around a bit?" I leave it to Fleig to tell his own story,
but I (after being wiped out in the first round again) was astonished when I was Knighted.
“... it will come as no surprise to anybody that I have always viewed Knights' council as a conflict. With stick-jocks at one pole
and chivalry-idealists at the other and anybody who claims to hold the high-ground at one end or the other is lying.
“When we can get around to situations that I can give personal and present at witness chivalry council testimony to, I will.” –
Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Okay, we seemed to have jumped to June, AS VI, running us past some pivotal events that happened in March, when Hagen
won the crown.
“... the decision of the Knights Council at the Summer Tourney, AS VI, was to knight Paul if he won. This, at least, was the
agreement among the knights that Hagen said he would follow. Paul was relatively new to the group and far more interested
in the fighting than any other part of it, as I think he will agree. He also has the ability of a natural fighter combined with the ability
to analyze what everyone else has done and come up with new interpretations and expansions to the knowledge of the
discipline. In the finals, James won one, then Paul won one. Hagen chose to interpret that as the "win" and called Paul forward
to be knighted. Edwin and Caradoc chose to interpret that as a challenge and as the Herald (I believe it was Randal) said
"mindful of the wishes of your peers" They stepped forward and said, "AGAINST the wishes of your peers." I'm told that Hagen
was perfectly willing to say "all right, AGAINST the wishes of your peers." but I blew up completely and stormed out of the Royal
Pavilion (where I'd been standing as Seneschal) and called them idiots and various other things. I hate to see a scene spoiled
by non-scheduled theatrics.
“Probably not one of mybest moments, but things calmed down, Paul offered to not be knighted, Edwin decided that was
enough of a statement of chivalry to say it was okay by him to knight Paul, and the ceremony went on apace.
“And actually, Phil, as I recall, raising you and Flieg to the Chivalry was also discussed in the meeting and agreed to.
Despite your showing in that particular list, we all agreed that the two of you had earned your spurs through all of your activities
(though spurs were not being given out at the time).
“And I'm still confused about the timing of Charles being knighted and that convocation of Chivalry.
“Oh, and has anyone else mentioned that Charles was probably one of the handsomest young men in the local SCA at
the time and cut quite a swathe through the women of the group?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers Robert of Dunharrow
half-drawing his sword to protect himself and Geraldine from Edwin and Caradoc as they backed away from my Advance in
Wrath. Interesting snapshots the mind retains...
2 “As his excellency [Stefan de Lorraine] remembers, Randal was the herald. After the argument had raged for a while, in fierce
whispers over my head (I was kneeling), Randal leaned over and said to me, "You can stop this, you know." That's when I got
~ 73 ~
up and offered not to be knighted. Also, Hagan DID say, just as Stephen charged, "Well then, despite the wishes of his peers."
– Paul of Bellatrix
I
“Randall was a heck of a nice guy whom I've actually seen once in the last several years when he was back in the states.
As I recall, he teaches in Scotland now, though I may have the country wrong. I remember killing him in a tiny renaissance
faire we were at. I had him on my knees, did a beautiful shield hook, hit him over the head with a mace, and staggered
off the field crying out in agony, having had mythumb between my shield and his for the shield hook. Such fun.” – Steven
MacEanruig
II “Hagen, in my memory of this, was in mail (shiny - stainless?) hauberk, and crown. Stefan charged out from behind the
thrones with all the lethality and determination (and I admired his venom) of the strongest terrier ever invented (GREAT
seneschal drill) and went directly (can you say SHREDDER?) into Edwin's and Caradoc's faces. My emotional read was
that Hagen would have happily snapped either or both of them over his knee.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “That hauberk was made entirely of plated split-rings. They were maybe 1/2" in diameter. I borrowed it to go to
Westercon (if memory serves...) and Lynn Hollander wore it for the Lampoon "Tolkien" skit ("Boggies of the Sty" and
all that). After the 'con it was returned to Hagen.
“I think it weighed a bit less than 30 pounds. As I recall it had brass split rings for the bottom dags.” – Hal Ravn
b “The really shitty thing was the theft of Hagen's mail an event later in their reign. I can say little else than while he and
Ruth slept in the Royal pavilion (in it's first months' existence) the mail disappeared.
“* (I cheated because my father could liberate durable metals from the refinery's scrap piles, and I did something
similar) ... the white Knight was only an accident in one time line.
“Paul and I just reviewed his memories of this tiny chunk of time (which happened some 10 minutes before I got
caught in history) at Mists Coronet last week, there are NO disagreements.
“Did Jerry P. to make a good impression on ANYBODY?” – Kevin Peregrynne - Go Stefan ... Go it's only another
year.
III “This commentary brings up the Three Randalls. They were all active about the same time, and each had something in
common with the others. First of all, I believe the Randall of the Far North mentioned by Paul and Steven was actually
Ranulf of the Far North, though his real name was, indeed, Randall. Ranulf, along with Bergen Von Rausch and Elrin of
Hrassvelg and Elrin's then wife Katrina, founded the Province of Shasta, which was a fixture of the Kingdom for several
years until they all went their separate ways. Ranulf was a dedicated fighter who was, unfortunately, dedicated to a lot of
other things, like getting through school, and was not able to concentrate enough to get knighted before reality led him on
other paths. The other two Randalls are, of course, Randall of High Tower (Randall Garrett) who has appeared in these
missives several times, and Randy Millen (sp?), known in the SCA as Boncouer. While a person of immense dignity, he
insisted on being called Randy (when he wasn't being Boncouer) to distinguish himself from High Tower. A fascinating
individual who made his own mark on the SCA. Perhaps William the Lucky, who knew him better, could comment?” –
Stefan de Lorraine
a “You are correct. Ranulf of the Far North it was.” – Steven MacEanruig
b “Unless I have mistaken him for another Randall who was a Shastan, Randy's mundane last name was Rogers - he
told a hilarious tale of his efforts to convince his fellow students at Oxford (?) that his name REALLY WAS Randy
Rogers, not a dirty joke at their expense. (For those not up on their contemporary Brit slang it would translate as horny
f**cker.)” – Kevin Peregrynne
i
“What makes the name truly hilarious from the Brit viewpoint is that "roger" means the same thing as "randy"
when it comes to slanging around....” – Hilary of Serendip
A “Bonceur stories could proliferate almost indefinitely. My favorite one was when he encountered David Green
(Ruthven of Rockridge) at the San Francisco opera in the men's room line. David was on the BoD at the time.
So there he was standing in the line when Bonceur's impressive voice suddenly tolled out "Ah, your
excellency, so pleased to see you here." accompanied by a deep bow.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Deep bow??? The way I heard it, he fell to his knees.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
2 “When I heard the tale, B. said "Ah, Your Serenity ..." - which sounds plausible, that being the title the
Bodbeings arrogated to themselves when they were playing Imperial Electors.” – Hilary of Serendip
I
“Actually, the way I heard it was that the Heralds, mostly egged on by Sarkanyi Gero, who never met
a sumptuary law he didn't like, were all for the Board calling themselves the Electors, but the Board
had a rush of sanity (or felt a wave of protest) and decided that the Board should stay in the 20th
Century. Boncuer was, of course, a Herald, and wont to grab any stick and run with it without finding
out if the stick wanted to go anywhere ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, who thinks that keeping the BOD in
the 20th century is a really fine idea.
~ 74 ~
a
4
“The BoD's decision to stick to the 20th Century came much later, after the flack about the BoD
giving out Pelicans. Before that the BoD had one foot in each period. I think the Imperial
Electors idea came from Jon de Cles.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
1 “Yes - this is spot on the mark. I read all the surviving files - several file drawers' worth during my first few months as Steward, and the Board formally abandoned the Imperium
idea two or three years down the road from the time under discussion. It continued to use
the vocabulary in its own documents for two or three years after that, with gradually
diminishing frequency ...” – Hilary of Serendip
3 “Well, when David tells the tale, the greeting was "Fancy meeting you here, milord," booming from the
back of the urinal queue. And he has the advantage (?) of having been there.” – Rima of Rockridge
B “I also remember being in one of the porta-potties at a tournament when someone was going down the line
trying to find an empty one. Knock, knock. Occupied. Knock, knock, Occupied. Knock, knock, and Boncuer's
voice announcing "I Am Within."” – Steven MacEanruig
C “My favorite Boncouer story was when he switched off the microphone and stepped ostentatiously in front of
it and proceeded to rattle the partitions three rooms away with his un-assisted voice at Twelfth Night at the
Kensington Unitarian Church. He, Randall of High Tower and John ap Griffin are my top three voice heralds
of all time.
“Help me out a bit here ... I only remember Gonwyndlyn of Hrasvelg as Elrin's first wife but that was
during our Golden Rivers' days and we could have missed a previous wife in the earlier Bay Area years.
“Jerald may have up to date data on Boncoeur...” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “No, you are probably right about Gonwyndlyn being Karen's SCA name; I mis-remembered it. Very nice
lady, but when she and Scott (Elrin) Arquette split up, she disappeared entirely from everyone's radar,
even though there were many ladies, my own included, who really liked her.” – Stefan de Lorraine
a “That was Karen's SCA name. I can remember what we once called Hrassvelg's day. Elriin got
knighted and laureled and Gonwyndlyn got laureled all at the same tourney. She was not in
attendance, so Scott returned home and went to bed, leaving the two laurels and white belt hanging
on the bedroom doorknob for her to find when she returned.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “I never meant to imply that the Shasta crew ever lived in the Bay Area (though I saw Bergen (Larry
Penland) at a wedding a few years back and have no idea where they are living these days). It's just that
my parents and brother lived in Redding, so I saw a lot of the Shasta crew and thought of them as a
major part of the Kingdom, even if they were a four hour drive away. They certainly had a bigger impact
on the Kingdom than their size warranted. Who can forget the Shasta Mercenary Company motto? Or
their battle cry?” – Stefan de Lorraine, who always considered himself an honorary Shastan
a “More of my imprecision - I was referring to Patti and my pre-Sacramento period when we lived in
the East Bay, not inferring that the Shastans ever did (that mountain is too cumbersome to move
around with ease).” – Kevin Peregrynne
3 “Scott (Elriin) is somewhere down around Salinas, I think. I saw him at 12th night last year. Larry
(Bergen) is still in Redding, I think. Sam Brown (Maelgwynne de Lyonesse) still sees him frequently.
“For those that don't know, the motto of the Shastan mercenaries was "We may be dumb but we're
sure stupid." The battle cry was a simple “stupid”.
“I do remember Shastan talent contests. The one I most enjoyed were where William the Lucky and
I played a duet for spurs using Elriin as the instrument. He was wearing his Silver Mullet rowelled spurs
and we knelt behind him and spun them. I used to bug Elriin at knight's fealty ceremonies by kneeling
behind him and spinning his spurs as the herald read the oath.
“But are you a real honorary Shastan?” – Steven MacEanruig
C “Oh, yes. I think I've already mentioned the time when he was extolling that new-fangled Atenveldtian invention,
households, and when we disagreed he decided it was because we *didn't understand* and repeated the entire
argument over, and he spoke not in sentences but in paragraphs, and got livid if one interrupted.” – Dorothea of
Caer-Myrddin
“If at any time, however, someone is talking about Randall and political machinations, we are talking about High Tower, not
one of the others.
“Oh, and speaking of High Tower, it should be listed as a major gathering place for the SCA in those days, right along with
Chaos Manor, Toad Hall, Greyhaven, and the Black Hole of Calcutta (which was the home of Harold Breakstone for several
years). High Tower was in San Francisco, as was the Black Hole. The other three were in the Oakland/Berkeley region.” –
Stefan de Lorraine, who is remembering that Ranulf is the one who bought most of his early comic book collection so many
years ago...
~ 75 ~
I
II
B
“A good chunk of SCA history and a fair amount of the rules and traditions of the group evolved from the relationships of
those houses.” – Steven MacEanruig
“This is probably a pretty good place to add to Robert's comments of some time back about the early days of SCA
armoring. At this time, around ASIV-VI, the focus of armoring efforts shifted mainly to the Chaos Manor garage, presided
over by Jon the Lean, who lived with us at the time. An organization called the Armorer's Guild had sprung up around that
time (and this is probably the first time in 20 years I've remembered that name) and they accumulated a lot of metal cutting
and shaping gear that appeared in our garage. We had people from all over the kingdom appearing in that garage to work
on weaponry and armor, even Caradoc and Edwin showed up from time to time. This sometimes made for potential
embarrassment as our doorbell would ring at odd moments and we'd find an armorer on the doorstep looking for the key
to the garage.
“I remember James Greyhelm showing up one afternoon when Luise and I had decided to take advantage of a rare
period of no one else in the house... (another memory that hadn't come to the forefront in many many years.)
“The Battered Helm took shape in that garage, as a matter of fact. Jon and MacEanruig and Eliazar ben David (Louis
Freeman) and Warren the Strange were occupied in a project which they studiously kept me away from. I found out why
when I became the first recipient of the honor. Perhaps Jon or Steven could comment on how the object was created.” –
Stefan de Lorraine
a “As I recall it, the Battered Helm was a creation of William the Lucky and myself. We used one of the old Freon gas
drum helms (mine, I think), beat it up as much as we could, cut the blade buried in out of sheet metal, hacksawed
a slit in the helm, and pounded in the blade. Jon and Warren and Eliazar may have been involved, but William and
I were the main instigators. We wanted to encourage excellence in dying. A few months earlier, I had sponsored a
contest at a small prize tourney with a pair of old bayonets going to the best death and Bill and I thought making such
an event a permanent part of the kingdom would be a Good Thing.” – Steven MacEanruig
i
“Just our own tiny tidbit of OBH lore
“Patrice is to the best of my knowledge the only non-combatant female to have earned the award ... the rose
in the grille-work and the heart-shaped kiss/puncture on the helm's cheek are her contributions.Purgatorio chess
game - Douglas longshanks defeated me in the best mace fight I ever experienced Black-vs-White champion.”
– Kevin Peregrynne
b “And does anyone want to tell the story of the Society for Medieval Combat (or Society of Middle-aged Wombats, as
it was called in some circles)? I think by the time we are covering it had already arrived and departed the scene...” –
Stefan de Lorraine, who is always rather shocked to realize how much of the early history of the SCA took place in
that house, as well as all the others.
i
“The Association for Medieval combat was, as I recall just an association of a small group of fighters (including
myself, Richard the Short, Edwin Bersark, Jamie Oakenshield (I think), Robert of Dunharrow, Bela of Eastmarch,
and several others who I don't recall), so we could pool our resources -- financially mainly, so we could acquire
materials for gear. We met on a monthly basis and collected 25 cent dues and a few who were financially better
off sometimes loaned the treasury money so the Association could purchase bulk quantities of materials to be
sold to individual members at slightly above cost at unit prices. This allowed us to buy a hide of leather, box of
rivets, sheet of steel, etc., and then sell a piece of leather, a rivet, a piece of steel, etc., to a member at the item's
pro-rated cost. This lasted for less than a year, and died for lack of participation.” – Henrik of Havn
“Some background: At October V Crown, Stefan de Lorraine got up and announced that the Council of Seneschals would be holding
regular meetings, and anyone who wanted to know what was happening in the Kingdom should come. Being nosey, I went. From
this, much else followed, over the course of several years.
“Since everyone else in Headlesse House was going to want a report, I took notes. When I got caught at it, I got drafted as
secretary. At which point I was sucked in as a deputy seneschal. There was actually something for the various deputies to do Steve
instituted Throne Seneschals -- someone to stand beside the Throne (or accompany the King around, if He preferred) and provide
service and/or conversation and advice. From which you may correctly infer that the hordes of hangers - on we see now had not
yet appeared.” – William the Lucky
1 “Having had a long and fruitful association with William as a Great Officer of State (or several - considering the corporate level
stuff), this has to count as one of the great pieces of serendipity in Kingdom history. He was a worthy successor to Stefan.”
I
“In the early days, when it came to conducting routine support matters during court, the King and Queen had two groups
from which they could draw. The first was members of their own household (a system which sometimes worked and
sometimes did not), and the second was the throne seneschals. Most of the functions performed today by the Royal
entourage were performed by the throne seneschals. In fact, it was not the least uncommon for the K&Q to show at an
~ 76 ~
B
B
B
B
B
B
event with zero retainers in tow, and simply have the throne seneschals corps (or even members of the local group)
perform all of duties now associated with a Royal household.
“Today, to the best of my knowledge this is not done (unless the Royals are traveling a very great distance--but even
then, I am aware of Western Royals who have gone to great lengths to import their own retainers while attending Pennsic).
I suspect it is because the duties of the seneschalate and Royal retainers have become highly specialized.” – Andrew
of Riga
a “In the early days before the establishment of the "civil service" of Seneschals the Crown relied on various individuals
for support depending on the nature of the question(s). Frequently the Herald was consulted as to what was
happening on the field, the Chancellor was consulted on legalities, and the seneschal was consulted on procedures.
Always, the Crown's own household was consulted. These positions grew as their need did.” – David of Illwherlane
“I had started fighting over the winter (AS V), but managed not to get "qualified" at March Crown, or at Beltane, or at June Crown.
So I had lots of time to spend as Throne Seneschal during the June Crown Lists. And I was standing at King Hagen's elbow when
the last fight (only?) of the semi-finals finished. Which gave me at opportunity to trigger one of the bigger political flaps of my career
(arguably, the biggest).
“Several people have already written about parts of this, but I will try to go through the whole thing anyway. If only for my own
convenience -- it makes keeping the memory straight easier. Directions are all from the perspective of someone standing next to
the Throne.” – William the Lucky
“The Knighting of Paul of Bellatrix
“(As Paul wins the last fight of the semi-finals) William the Lucky (standing just to the right of the Throne, leans over to the King)
"Your Majesty, Paul has just gotten into the finals. Are you going to Knight him now?"
“King Hagen "Is it usual?"
“(At this point I had seen exactly two Crown Lists. In October, Charles of Mercury had gotten in to the Finals, and been Knighted.
In March, Hagen had gotten into the Finals, and been Knighted. So, in 100% of all know cases ....
“(I was later informed that the Chivalry had discussed the possibility before the lists <Paul was getting really good, really fast>
and decided that he should be Knighted IF HE WON. Naturally, I was in no position to know that.) William "Yes, Your Majesty."
“King Hagen "Let's do it."
“(I went off and rounded up a Herald to call the populace together. Randal of High Tower served as Herald for the Court,
standing to the King's right <with me between them and a couple of steps back>. The populace duly assembled. The King stood
before the Throne, holding the unsheathed Great Sword of State.
“Randal "Paul of Bellatrix, come before the Throne."
“(Paul came and knelt, a couple of yards from the Throne -- i.e. in full sun, which becomes a factor later.)” – William the Lucky
1 “I remember partly cloudy skies. Which does NOT mean that Paul was NOT in full sun it's that Patti and others clearly
remember the clouds parting and a sunbeam zapping me as I got the accolade some several minutes later. (By the by, I don't
know how precedence is determined, but Fleig is chronologically senior to me by roughly five minutes)” – Kevin Peregrynne
“King Hagen (prompted as necessary by the Herald) "Right mindful of your prowess upon the field, and responsive to the wishes
of your peers ..."
“(At this point, Edwin Berserk and Caradoc ap Cador enter from the left proclaiming "In spite of the wishes of his peers!" I'm
not sure which one stepped forward first, but the second one was only a couple of steps behind and his words started immediately
on the heels of the words of the first. They take position several yards behind Paul.” – William the Lucky
1 “My mind pictures them in the order stated - Caradoc on Edwin's heels. But both assumed the same wide-legged and armscrossed stance and were hairy and kilted, so I could easily be wrong. The dialogue (to confirm Bill's recounting) came out as
In spite ... In spite ... (in chorus) of the wishes of his peers!"” – Kevin Peregrynne
“(Enter Stefan de Lorraine from the right, carrying Seneschal's red staff. He plants himself dramatically between Paul and the other
two.) Stefan (as accurately quoted by Kevin earlier) "You sons of bitches!"
“(It was a stage whisper, clearly audible even to someone ten yards behind him.)” – William the Lucky
1 “My impression is that shrubbery and small warm-blooded creatures were fatally injured at much longer range - I never before
or since saw Stefan that angry.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“(King Hagen starts out from the Throne, handing the Great Sword of State to the Herald.) Randal (handing it right back) "You may
want this, Your Majesty."
“(King Hagen goes out to where the other three are gathered. The Great Sword of State gets the first couple of inches of its
point stuck into the sod. A long, intense, but inaudible, conversation ensues.” – William the Lucky
1 “(Sword wobbling pendulum wise to-and-fro) My impression that it was either stick the sword into the ground or into one or
the other of the two. Hagen wasn't happy either.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“(It seemed to last forever, but was probably only 30 minutes or so. Eventually, they disperse, the King comes back to the Throne,
and the ceremony starts over.)
~ 77 ~
“King Hagen "Well then, right mindful of your prowess on the field, and in spite of the wishes of your peers, We, the King, are
minded to create you a Knight ..."
“(Some years later, James commented that he thought that the only reason he won that tournament was that he spent a hour
lying down resting in the shade while Paul was kneeling in the sun with emotional argument raging about him.)” – William the
Lucky, who in retrospect wonders that he didn't get immediately booted from the Council of Seneschals.
1 “James neglects that Paul came off the field after the first match and wondered aloud why his shield-hooks weren't working.
The chorus from the Queen-Candidates' support crowd at Ruth's left of "He's left-handed!" I think may have embarrassed Paul
just a tiny little bit.”
“Paul was doing an interesting imitation of a spectator at a tennis match.” – Kevin Peregrynne
C
“6/19/VI was the day I somehow came out of my pupal stage and began to make a real nuisance of myself (how can a chunk of cloth
and a hardware store cut-to-measure swag lamp accessory have such an effect?) much, I'm sure, to the regret of some of our
correspondents ... and then Jim made me Earl Marshal within a year - the rest is violence.” – Kevin Peregrynne
D
“I mostly recall a sense of frustration, since I was still in Kansas at the time, not getting out of the air force until June 27. At the time
I would call Stefan de Lorraine (Steve Perrin) every Sunday evening (at least I think it was Sunday). I do remember that he gave me
an earful about Paul's knighting.” – Steven MacEanruig
E
“I'm pretty well tapped out on this tourney. The only other comment I have is to ask if this was the one where half of Three Mountains
showed up in rabbit fur bikinis (Okay, only a couple of women were wearing these, but they made an impression) and claimed that
they were all Northern Barbarians?” – Stefan de Lorraine
F
“Did I see reference to creation of the Chivalry at "12th Night III"? Perhaps a typo. The Chivalry (first 12), Laurel (first 2), and
Dukedom (first 3) all began at 12th Night II. Awards of Arms (first 5) and the first Court Baron were at 12th Night III.
“I used to run into Barry of Judah at RenFaire every year until recently (when I quit working it after 29 years). When he was a
teen-aged fighter, coming down from Stockton, he was thought by some to not count blows. However, once when I was sure I'd hit
him on the top of the helm in a melee and he went over backward to the ground, I later found him running around still fighting. I took
him to task about it, but he swore that my sword never touched him. Sure enough, Geri's films showed him a good inch ahead of
the sword as he fell. It was a strange defensive tactic, but he wasn't being dishonest.
“Paul's knighting I don't think it came after the semi-finals, as was said, but rather after James & Paul had each won one fight
of a best-of-3 final. Anyone else remember that?” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “I concur with Robert. It was after the semi finals, as I recall, that the chivalry met to decide whether to knight Paul, and only after
he had won one of the final matches that Hagen, prompted by my ever-helpful Deputy Seneschal, decided to knight him.”
– Stefan de Lorraine, who hopes he hasn't cut up Robert's comments so badly they are not comprehensible.
I
“Just to reiterate my own earlier observations, the knighting and accompanying drama was after the first two bouts of the
finals - a gaggle of us including myself, Patti, Carol, Verena, Kristina of the Runes, Kathea verKaysc and others (for some
reason I remember the ladies, and no other (non-finalist) gentlemen - that dominant Y chromosome again I guess [a
prettier cluster of blondes and red heads I can't imagine being among]) were clustered just to Ruth's left. The ladies spent
a good portion of their time fanning James and (no kidding) peeling grapes and feeding them to him in the shade while
poor Paul was kneeling in the hot sun with hotter words passing above him.
“Until the center-stage stuff began happening, Paul had been with us between bouts too (refer to my mention of his
forgetting Jim was left-handed in the first bout - Paul won the second bout and then the proverbial bucolic by-product
impacted the rotary atmosphere impeller).
“Things have changed over the years, but at the time, what I refer to as the younger crowd were pretty chummy - we
may have been partisan in rooting for one fighter or another but we were supportive of each other when getting trapped
in the power structure was impending.
“Ah! To be young again.” – Kevin Peregrynne
~ 78 ~
July 31-Aug 1, 1971 AS VI
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Hagen and
Ruth held court. King Hagen gave Awards of Arms to Nicorlynn of Caer Wydyr
and Tarysa of Rivendell. Queen Ruth created the Queen’s Order of Grace, and
admitted Crystal and Shima as founding members. Then James and Verena were
crowned by Hagen and Ruth. King James gave a Grant of Arms to Rima of
Rockridge. He then created the Office of the Protector of the Royal Wards (later
called the Wardlord by Lady Rima). A fighting competition was held to fill the
position, and Sir Charles of Mercury won. As he stayed ladyless for only a few
hours, another competition was held the next day, which was won by Lysander
of Sparta. Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin) won the Order of the
James Greyhelm - Per bend sinister, argent a sinister
dragon’s wing erased azure, and azure a pair of
spears bendwise
Wooden
Spoon competition for cherry pie.
Verena of Laurelin - Azure, in canton a crux ansata Or.
sinister argent.
Comments:
A
A
“An interesting event. There was a planned abduction of the king (James) by some of the ladies of Henrik's household (including
my lady). It turned out very poorly for a variety of reasons including poor planning and, IMHO [”In My Humble Opinion” – ed.], Jim
being young, touchy and a bit too full of himself. I remember the abductors finally sort of on trial before the king with me standing
behind them, sword in hand, seriously ready to cast down belt and chain and resign my knighthood if necessary. I was probably
about as angry as I ever get. Fortunately, things didn't come to quite that pass.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “It had more to do with the facts that I did not want to be held against my will by anyone - (too much time being held in jail, OK?)
and I really objected to being ridden down from behind, and slammed into the dirt face first by someone on horseback. That
really hurt, and that was what pissed me off. I was ok and in fairly good humor up to then ... As it was, I was calmed down
enough later that we had a mock trial and everything was ok. Jeez - I had forgotten about that incident ... It was hot, and mostly
we had a lot of fun that day.” – James Greyhelm
I
“It certainly was poorly planned. It wasn't clear at the start whether it was a mock trial or not and, trust me, you wouldn't have
forgotten about it if it was your girlfriend on trial. Fortunately it worked out ok afterwards. Suzanne was actually a lot less
bothered by it than I was.” – Steven MacEanruig
a “I think the reason Suzanne even did the abduction was because she had previously been giving James riding
lessons on her Percheron, Alberic. I believe she felt that since James had had some contact with her horse that she
could pull off the abduction without Alberic getting out of hand and without Jim getting freaked out by such a massive
horse (wide not tall). Horses, however, no matter what size, do not always do what their riders expect or desire. I am
sure that Suzanne didn’t intend that Jim would be knocked down hard, face first. Remember in the movies the good
guy always succeeds, even on horseback. Reality is generally different in some particulars.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “I was under the impression that it was Aurelia and her horse that knocked James down, but I may be recalling
other problems Aurelia had with her mount at tournies. It was not the most docile and well-behaved of animals.”
i
“Yeah - that was who it was! After I picked myself up, I looked around for a weapon to defend myself, as she
looked like she was going to come back for another pass. I picked up a rock or something and she said
"Don't you hurt my horse." This after she had just knocked me down! I just walked past her back to camp.”
– James Greyhelm
2 “As she told me, Suzanne thought it would be neat to abduct the King. Didn’t work out as planned, but at least it
ended with no casualties, either real or political.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Charles didn't stay ladyless for even that long. He thought the position sounded interesting, so he and his lady broke up before
it specifically so he could fight in it and then made up again afterwards.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“I have pictures of the grand March and coronation, with Randall and Boncueur handling the grand March and Karina doing the
coronation court. James and Verena both wore blue and white. (This was also the first event where I had my own costume, rather
than borrowing from Golden Key.)” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
B
“One event I missed was the SCA Court of Love held at WesterCon in San Francisco, CA on 7/4/1971. I have some pictures of it.
Countess Adrienne of Toledo presided. Gwydion pen Tyrhon sang and played the guitar.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
~ 79 ~
October 16, 1971 AS VI
Held at Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. James and Verena reigned. King James knighted Thomas of the Pines. He made Sir Earl
of Morris a Crown Baron. Queen Verena admitted Lyndyre of Valrenor to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Crown Lists were held. Sir Paul of
Bellatrix won, defeating Sir Kevin Peregrynne. Carol of Bellatrix was his lady. A competition for Wardlord was held. Andrew of Riga won.
The Order of the Wooden Spoon contest, for pickled anything, was won by Demoiselle Alania. Sir Paul of Bellatrix gave the MGC to Sir
Thomas of the Pines.
Comments:
A
“I have a lot of pictures of this one, which I'm looking at now. I remember I had made a new shield of plywood with leather facing.
No edge, of course, and in my first or second fight in the lists Gordon Monson (William Gordon of York) carved a great notch in it
with repeated blows of his rattan sword.
“Paul had two long fights with Lysander of Sparta in the lists. Lysander was using a light short sword and couldn't hit very hard
with it. He also wasn't particularly in Paul's class as a fighter. His defense was pretty good, though, and combined with solid armor
and a high pain threshold the fights went on forever.
“My memory was that both of the fights with Lysander were in the lists, the first being inconclusive and with no end in sight. A
break was called and Paul changed to a mace. This seems to be born out by the sequence of my pictures.
“Lysander also had some other things about his armor. He had a heavy crest on the helmet running from back to front and it
made him essentially unkillable from blows on top of his helmet. He also wore a red cloak that tended to muffle blows his back.
“I also remember Kevin's defensive ability. The fights took awhile. I have 22 pictures of the fights between Paul and Kevin.
“Interesting shots of Thomas of the Pines with a single plate on his right thigh, nothing on his left leg, nothing on his knees,
and bare legs. Ah, the bruises I remember. Also a nice picture of Kevin lying dead after his last fight with his sword neatly up in the
air hilt first, making a nice cross over him.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“I have noticed the use of the title "Crown Baron" in several postings.
“Until the second reign of James and Verena, there was no award or title given to a man who had reigned once as King. A
woman who reigned one time as Queen was awarded a patent, was referred to as "Mistress," and was admitted to the Order of
the Rose. The reason for this was quite logical – it was assumed a man who won was already a knight or MOA, and hence, did
not need additional recognition. Further, it was assumed a woman who was likely to become Queen did not have any awards,
ranks, or titles, and therefore needed to be elevated to the peerage in recognition of her past service to the Kingdom. In fact, to the
best of my memory, up to the second reign of James and Verena, for quite awhile thereafter, no woman who served as Queen was
a peer in her own right.
“Early on, in Atenveldt the tradition evolved of making a former first-time King a Crown Baron, and a former first-time Queen a
Crown Baroness.” – Andrew of Riga
1 “Well, I don't really know much about why things happened the way they did (in the West) regarding the Crown Baron/ess issue
but I can say that after being the second Prince of Atenveldt, while we were the first Principality in the SCA, (and part of the
West), I was told I was a Crown Baron, and was given a scroll saying "Crown Baron" on it. Later becoming King the first time
I don't remember ever being called a "count" but still Crown Baron. I do remember a time when we were told that "if we wanted
to" we could "trade in" the Crown Baron title for "count" (if we had been King or Queen once) but I never did and preferred to
keep what I was originally given (I think I was a Duke by then and it didn't seem relevant). As far as I know, I am still a Crown
Baron. If one had only been an "ex" prince or princess of Atenveldt in those days, I have no idea what people could have called
them. Not count or countess I wouldn't think ... but I don't remember "visc" being used back then either. I don't remember any
ex-Kings or Queens down here using the title Crown Baron (but that doesn't mean it didn't happen, I just don't remember it),
I only remember it as a title that Robert Roundpounder and I were given after being Prince. He no longer is involved in the SCA
and Richard Ironsteed (the first King) is also no longer involved, so I am not sure how they might look at it.” – "Crown Baron"
Arthur of Lockehaven
I
“Like so much else, we did it because we wanted to be different. We wanted one crown winner to have a title, too, and we
made it up. Can't remember who, exactly. Didn't have any great lines associated with it, so the memory strays.” – Michael
of Moria
a “I emailed P. Farmer (for those of you who do not know, she was the first Queen of Atenveldt) and asked her what she
know about the subject. She wrote the following:
“"I retired with the title Crown Baroness, but later after Countess became more the norm I began using that.
My scroll says Crown Baroness. I'm not sure I recall the specific reasons we used Crown Baroness."
“Putting together yours and Pattie's comments, it certainly appears the title of Crown Baron/Baroness was
given during the earliest days of Atenveldt to both their former Princes/Princess and one-reign Kings/Queens.
~ 80 ~
B
B
“Until I read your email I had no idea that specific title also applied to former Aten Territorial
Princess/Princesses.” – Andrew of Riga
“When Jean de la Grand' Anse and Ellen of the Gleaming Star were King and Queen, for whatever reason, Jean made his father
a (Court) Baron. This created some consternation, for there was no mechanism for granting or using that title. Further, it seemed
to conflict with Atenveldt's "proprietary" usage. I also suspect, because Jon de Cles fancied himself with the title "The Red Baron,"
and no one else used such a title, that also served to stir the pot. (John using that title so very early on is analogous to men showing
up at the first tourney and calling themselves Sir Whatever. At the time, there was no rule against it. Much later, I believe in 1974,
King William of Houghton made John a Court Baron.)
“In any event, after the dust settled with Jean, it was determined the King could grant the title of *Court* Baron/Baroness to
whoever he pleased – and it was hoped the King would use good judgment in doing so. (The differentiation of "Court" Baron was
instituted to respect Atenveldt's tradition.)” – Andrew of Riga
1 “In response to Andrew's comment about Jean making his father a baron but there being no mechanism for it, and also about
Atenveldt having priority use of the title, I must point out again (for anyone who hasn't read all this material from the start of this
project) that King Caradoc made Sylvanus Andere the first Court Baron at 12th Night III. No other King made another until 12th
Night V, when Jean made his father (Louis de la Grande 'Anse) and myself (head of the household that he & Ellen belonged
to) the 2nd & 3rd Court Barons. I think perhaps the title was simply "Baron" (not yet Court Baron, and almost certainly not Crown
Baron - I never heard that title except as used by Atenveldt). The term "Court Baron" was later defined to distinguish them (given
a permanent rank or honor, not an office) from Territorial Barons, who held that title only while they held the office. (Often the
latter were made Court Barons upon retirement from the office.) I think I may have invented the term "Territorial Baron" when
I wrote the Corpora section defining the 4 level branch structure. My compulsive nature was disturbed by the haphazard way
the Board was handling the creation of new branches. I wrote up a proposed Corpora section defining Kingdoms,
Principalities, Baronies/Provinces, Shires/Cantons (using the term "shire"was Geraldine's suggestion) with a required number
of subscribing members for each level (100, 50, 15, 3) and a required level of officers & activities. I then asked Diana whether
members were allowed to attend Board meetings. She supposed they were, though no one had ever asked before, and no
one had attended except the 3 Board members & other Greyhaven residents. So I brought them my proposal & they adopted
it, changing only the Kingdom level to 200 members to conform to Post Office mailing permit minima. I think what really made
me do it was hearing that Don named someone in Montana with a subscription & 2 friends a Baron of the Barony of Montforet.
It seemed like a 3-person branch needed to start out at a little less grand a level. So just like my writing the Kingdom Law
Code, this Corpora section worked and with modifications as we grew, it has stuck. (I should also mention again that King
Siegfried was the first to proclaim substantial written Kingdom Law, but the expansion of that which I wrote & that Jean had
proclaimed was what established a single unified code of laws as the only & entire Kingdom law. )” – Robert of Dunharrow
“Which brings us to James and Verena.
“During their second reign, they determined the appropriate thing to do was to grant the title of Count and Countess to men
and women who served once as King and Queen. At the time, only men and women who had served once and only once were
so named and titled. It is my recollection the title was eventually made retroactive, i.e., those men and women who were Dukes
and Duchesses were also made Counts and Countesses (Richard, Fulk, Henrik, Siegfried, Mary, Marynel, Leanne).
“Per usual, the Board of Directors took exception to this, but they backed down. In fact, if you read the early Corporas (I believe
it is Corpora I or II), wherein the title of Count(Earl)/Countess is codified, you will notice Atenveldt has a specific exception stating
in their Kingdom, and only their Kingdom, the title of Crown Baron/Baroness may be used in lieu of Count(Earl)/Countess. (To the
best of my knowledge, all Atenveldt Crown Barons and Baronesses traded in those titles for the more universal Count and
Countess; hence the exception no longer exists.) I might be wrong on this, but I seem to remember in the same Corpora the title
of Court Baron/Baroness is also legalized.” – Andrew of Riga
1 “There was a lot of talk before hand about going with Count and Countess, and myremembrance is that pretty much everyone
was for it. I clearly remember talking with Jim about it and I believe the idea goes back further than that. The problem was that
you needed someone to win the crown twice so he wouldn't appear to be granting himself a title.” – Steven MacEanruig
I
“That sits well with my memory too - many people wanted something like this to happen, and Verena and I happened to
be the ones on the throne at the right time. We did manage to go toe to toe with the BoD though. One fight after another
in those days.” – James Greyhelm
a “I have to admit to an ulterior motive in pushing the Count and Countess titles. The actual motive should be obvious.
Doing something like this was a topic of conversation for a while before it happened, having James do it after he was
no longer qualified was my idea.
“I cannot remember at this point whether James made the proclamation first and the BOD then acquiesced, or
whether we went through negotiation with the BOD beforehand. I do remember that the option of claiming the title Earl
or Comus, or anything else similar was part of the original proclamation. Caradoc, for one, didn't want to me known
as either Earl or Count, but was mulling over some of the more obscure Celtic titles. I think he eventually went with
~ 81 ~
B
Count as just being easier. Letting folks such as myself and Blackeagle claim the title was part of the original
proclamation, can't remember if allowing the Dukes to also claim the title if they wanted was part of the original or not.
“There's a whole debate about whether the title Count is really necessary and whether there should be a further
rank above Duke to honor those who have won many many times, but that's not really a subject for this list.” – Stefan
de Lorraine, whose short reign can claim (thanks to the research of William the Lucky) a disproportionate influence
on the Chivalry of the early Kingdom...
“Per my comment regarding the BoD backing down – I do not know if what follows in fact, but I have a suspicion. I might be
completely wrong on this, but here goes –
“The Board loved to meddle in the affairs of Kingdoms – especially the West. Don (John de Cles) genuinely believed he was
in charge of the game, and said so quite openly on more than one occasion. When Jim and Jenny created Counts and
Countesses, the Directors wanted to create a huff, but they quickly realized (a) it was not a battle worth fighting, and (b) they could
not win; hence, if they were destined to come out on what they perceived to be the short end, some sort of modification to the rule
needed to be made that had their signature on it, and in so doing would result in a "win," albeit minor. As a result, they allowed the
title of Earl to be used as an alternative to Count if so desired by the recipient. Thus, they had a short-term victory and managed
to save face.
“Regarding Earl of Morris – this is an interesting historical side street.
“Long ago and far away, the definition of a Duke was a man who had won two tournaments. Before Kings and Queens were
invented, institutionalized, and codified, Earl "won a tournament" at some sort of a science fiction convention. Hence, some argued,
Earl was half way to becoming a Duke, and now that the rules have changed and have been made retroactive, he should therefore
have the title and estate of a Count. I would point out, Fulk de Wyvern is a Duke, but has never served as a King. He simply "won
two tournaments."” – Andrew of Riga
1 “I humorously proposed back then that those who had served as King or Queen at least five times be referred to as His or Her
Grace Ace (or simply Grrr-Ace).” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
2 “Well that is slightly not completely accurate. Fulk did wear the Crown that I was crowned with at my first Coronation in March,
1967, as I processed up to the thrones, as he knighted me (with, one would assume the powers and authority of the King),
and as the coronation ceremony proceeded. During the Crowning process he removed the Crown from his own head and
placed it on mine. The question then is, was he King for the few minutes he wore the crown? And another part of the same
issue is, was I King from the moment I was given the scroll of proclamation at the end of the September tourney 1966, or was
I King after the moment the Crown was placed on my head in March, 1967?” – Henrik of Havn
I
“I am glad the following has come up again. After thinking about it for quite some time I am sure that Fulk and I sat on the
throne as King and Queen for at least one afternoon. Henrik remembers it slightly differently. The only difference of
opinion seems to be not whether we sat as King and Queen but for how long. I remember clearly sitting on the throne for
several hours. I am quite sure it was several hours as I remember being concerned about getting sunburnt as I burn
easily. I also remember vaguely some incidents that happened while sitting there that are not necessary to bring forward
here. They do serve to get me in a fine mood whenever I remember them.
“I also somewhat remember that we also expected to reign as King and Queen over another (perhaps the next?)
tournament during the day until someone won however were told that the throne would be occupied by the autocrats. I
can not clearly remember who the autocrats were, perhaps Siegfried and Marynel or Walter and Marion Breen, that part
is too vague. We were rather surprised but did not want to make a fuss over it at the time. There were so many fusses
going on and the "way things have always been done" was quite fluid.
“To say that Fulk was a Duke but never served as King I believe is mistaken.” – Mary of Tamar
January 8, 1972 AS VI
Held in the First Unitarian Church, Kensington, California. James and Verena held
court. King James admitted Master Frederick of Holland and Nicorlynn of Caer
Wydyr to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. He gave Awards of Arms to Christina
of the Runes, Gormflait ne Cuallachta, Gwydion Pendderwen, Reyna de San
Diego, and Sara of the Rushes. Then Paul and Carol were crowned by James and
Verena. King Paul admitted Luise of the Phoenix to the Order of the Laurel. He
admitted Boncueur de Myrobolan to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. He made Sir
Stefan de Lorraine a Crown Baron. He also gave Awards of Arms to Allen von
Ore, Charles Edward Alexander of Everman, Dorcas Dorcadas, Friedrich Erik
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three Helmuth
compass-stars von Rheinhausen, and Meggan mong Ruad (?). Verena of Laurelin won
palewise gules.
the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for a Soltotay.
~ 82 ~
Carol of Bellatrix - Per bend argent and vert, six
octofoils in bend three and three counterchanged, all pierc
Comments:
A
“I think this is one of the one's I autocrated, though I could be mistaken. Most all of the Unitarian Church 12th nights were autocrated
by Chaos, usually either William the Lucky or I, as I recall.
“My memories of these are all jumbled together. Generally it was a pretty good place for 12th night. It gave one some
possibilities of evading court, though court definitely dominated the event. Magnificent views of the bay area from behind the church
when the weather was clear, which I recall that it usually was.
“My favorite memories are of setting up with a small crew (William the Lucky, Trude Lacklandia, and I once did it by ourselves),
and of cleaning up afterwards with tired but mellow volunteers. The general rule was that the event ran until midnight and anyone
in the hall by 1230 was a volunteer to clean up. It had to be done fairly throughly since the church was, logically enough, used the
next day.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“The Baron of the Isles was William Tuning, a SF-writer buddy of Randall's. I can't remember his SCA name. Yes, he was kind
of coarse-fibred. He wrote a novel in H. Beam Piper's Little Fuzzy series, Fuzzy Bones. And undoubtedly other stuff I can't
remember.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
1 “Upon further reflection, my recollection is that Randall had told Tuning before the event that "The Calafian ladies really like a
good leching. They will make a show of objecting, but it's just part of the game." So perhaps not a frame, but a set-up. Some
friend!“ – William the Lucky
C
“I think that it was this 12th night that the Wizards decided to withdraw their support from the Kingdom though - led to some good
court drama, that at least one Fantasy writer later used in a story to good effect. Steve was still Seneschal, and I remember asking
him if there was anything that we could do about the wizards, and he reasonably said 'no', so we told them to go ahead and
withdraw their support ( I forget the issue - maybe they wanted awards and recognition for being wizards) anyway Isaac the Unlikely
turned to leave before I had finished speaking to him. Pissed me off, so I used command voice and said HOLD. He turned quickly
and I told him that if anyone came to harm through the wizard's actions or inaction, then on his head would it be. I then dismissed
him. Rousing cheers from the populace. Good theater, and one of the more interesting things that I got to do as King. This was
a great 12th night site, and I was sorry when we outgrew it - we really were growing fast then, and it got crowded.” – James
Greyhelm
1 “If I remember correctly Isaac and the wizards felt that they had been responsible for the good weather at tournies due to their
wizardly efforts. And if they did not get recognition they would no longer see to it that we had good weather for the tournies.
“Into each life some rain must fall” – Jon FitzRolf
2 “The wizards were, indeed, of the opinion that all of their efforts were not being appreciated. After all they were the ones doing
all the weather magic (go back and read the various posts about tournies that had to be postponed because of weather). They
also did a "blessing of the throne" ceremony at one tournament in this period that sounded as if they wanted the throne itself
to grow and multiply ...
“It should be pointed out, as King Paul did several reigns later, that the Kingdom enjoyed excellent weather for its tournies
for the next several years (though I remember a couple that I'm sure we'll get to ...) and King Paul publically thanked the wizards
for ‘keeping up not keeping up the good work,’ if I remember the exact phrase exactly.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who now wonders
what actually became of that particular throne ...
I
“That was about the way he put it. But with a great deal of pomp and show and threats. [Isaac was not a nice guy, prone
to convincing innocent little clueless newbies that he really was a wizard and could cast spells to do them injury unless
they did what he want. He is mainly what led to G&PD6.]” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
a “No threats. It was a brokered deal with various people like Harold of Breakstone signing the proclamation provided
it was done with no threats. In defense of Isaac, I always liked him and never had any problems with him. I never even
heard of threats from him and would certainly have a hard time giving them any credence. IMHO, Isaac actually
believes he is a wizard. He is long gone from the SCA but still around somewhere. A year or so ago I found his web
page.” – Steven MacEanruig
b “I am not sure about this last part- I think that the first sanctions against religion and magic occurred shortly after Jon
de Cles, Edwin, et al went up to An Tir for a tourney during Paul's reign. Miles of the Shamrock (mundane brother to
Duke Torgul) won the tourney, beating Edwin in the finals. He asked to 'speech', and was granted permission. He
then proceeded to 'witness' the assembled group - 'That it was the power of Jesus in his sword arm that allowed him
to win' Or some such thing. There was a hurried board meeting a short while later ...” – James Greyhelm
c
“And what is G&PD6?” – Stefan de Lorraine
i
“Oh, heck, have I misnamed it again? I was never too good at acronyms. Governing & Policy Decision No. 6, or
whatever its proper name is, the one that says you may not perform religious ceremonies at events under
~ 83 ~
3
circumstances that would make anyone an unwilling participant (e.g., by having a Mass or an Alfarblot or
something at Court) or imply that the SCA was sponsoring the ceremony.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
d “Isaac was prone to wearing his medievals around Berkeley (as did others) along with a Knights of Columbus sword.
I was told that one time, he was hassled by moderns to the point where he drew his sword and was subsequently
arrested. I think there was something about him protesting the charge of carrying a concealed weapon on the grounds
that the sword was clearly visible to anyone. But this may be verging into the realm of medieval apocrypha ...” – Brian
Dritar an Con
I
“Anyway, he came up with his little coven of five or six and announced portentously that unless his efforts to provide us with
good weather were recognized and suitably rewarded (not specifying what form that reward would take), he'd withdraw
his protection from our tourney sites and dates.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
a “Pretty much so, except they weren't his coven mostly.” – Steven MacEanruig
b “James, with perfect sangfroid, told Isaac that he could do, or not do, as he liked, but he could not compel others to
follow his lead.
“(We grow good Kings in the West.)
“So Isaac and company stomped off again, and what resulted is even funnier. It was shortly thereafter that William
the Lucky became Seneschal. During all his term, we had excellent weather for all our events. More than one person
was heard to remark that if this was what happened when Isaac withdrew his magical protection, he could keep it
withdrawn till Hell froze.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
i
“Too true. And as Stefan pointed out, Paul drew attention to it a year or so later. The wizards have never been
back.” – Steven MacEanruig
A “As I recall, that March (VI) we arrived in So uthern Shores for the Crown Tournament (at Coyote Creek, I
believe) to seriously overcast skies, not to mention a forecast of rain. I recall having someone come up and
ask with great concern what would happen if it rained on the event. "If it rains, we get wet." One of the few
times I actually thought of a good come-back in time to use it, rather than days later. But the skies cleared
and we had no rain after all.” – William the Lucky, who managed to avoid becoming Kingdom Seneschal
until at least June VII.
“Uh, Wizards?” – Roger of Belden Abbey, who knew about the SCA by his reading of SF periodicals, but lived in the US Navy
at the time.
I
“Back in the depths of time, One Phillip Edward Isaac Bonewits did appear. He was in the process of getting a degree
in Magic from UCB (no kidding - he got it, and that is what it said, signed by Ronald Reagan no less). He decided that we
needed to organize the Wizards, and he set up the Order of Wizard Lore (OWL...) and they would go around at tournies,
warding the field, doing weather magic, etc. If Verena is reading this, she could have some comments as well - Dorothea
has already mentioned some of Isaac’s habits ...” – James Greyhelm
a “If recollection serves, the degree Isaac the Bonewit got from Berkeley was in the History department. You could then,
may be still can, choose your own courses leading to a degree in History-of-Whatever. He sold his thesis (or
something based on it) to a regular paperback publisher (and it showed up on drugstore bookracks) as Real Magick
or some such title.
“I remember a tourney where, as Herald, I had a run-in with him. He stormed up to me and demanded that I
announce to all that the wind (which was fairly high, and giving some trouble) was the fault of Geraldine of Toad Hall
who had "-boasted of having caused it for the benefit of the kite-flying contest she was running.-" (The "-...-" represents
the sf-fanzine quasiquote, marking a quotation which was either intentionally modified or thought to be inaccurate;
it was done on a typewriter by striking the hyphen in the same space as the quotemark; is there a Net equivalent?)
She may have said it jokingly, as I do myself, as in 'What a nice day for a picnic.' 'Yes, I ordered it specially.' But Isaac
was dead serious. I said that I was the King's Voice, and would make the announcement if His Majesty ordered it, not
otherwise. Whether he asked the King (seems to me it was one of James's reigns) is not known to me.
“I remember, too, that Isaac petitioned the Crown at some point to have the College of Heralds ordered to grant
him a name and device, as was the right of every subject. This surprised me because I hadn't seen any application
from him; and when the herald who had rejected it out of hand brought it to a meeting, it was no wonder. I forget what
he wanted, but from end to end it was heavy power-magic. There was no way I would grant it.
“He or one of his adherents was probably behind a phone call I received, from a frightened young woman I didn't
know by name. She begged me (as a Herald) to do something about the curse "-the wizards-" had put on her, the
effects of which had included a sensation like the impact of a bullet on her neck. All I could do was assure her that
the Heralds had no truck with any kind of magic, and believed that wizards had no supernatural powers whatever, but
also that we had no authority over anything a self-proclaimed wizard said or did.” – Karina of the Far West
b “I keep *telling* people that Isaac was not just a harmless flake, and they keep saying, "Aw, I liked Isaac, what harm
did he do?"” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
~ 84 ~
i
1
4
5
“I don't recall saying he did no harm. I said I always got along with him and liked him all right. Definitely a flake,
however. I do remember being in his very tiny, very dark and dank, basement apartment one time while he told
me all about what magic was good for and I though about how much nicer it was to have a job, a nice apartment,
and decent possessions. Probably very material of me, but that's the way it is.” – Stefan de Lorraine
a “It was about that time that I took out a subscription to Green Egg, so I could recognize words and phrases with special
Wiccan meanings. I still groan mentally at the degree of ignorance that let the name "Gwydion Pendderwen," with a
device involving an oak tree, get by me.” – Karina of the Far West
“For those who might be interested, Isaac Bonewitz's game book, Authentic Thaumaturgy, which attempted to do for gaming
what his other book, Real Magic, did for "real world" magic, is currently being republished by Steve Jackson Games. I have also
heard about third hand that Isaac is in very poor health these days – possibly cancer. Perhaps a visit to his website would bring
up more information.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who has never quite forgiven Isaac for getting a cold sore and accusing a lady of
my household of giving him herpes. This accusation, I might add, was bruited about an entire RenFaire. Jon the Lean, also
in my household at the time, threatened to do grievous bodily harm to Isaac if he didn't shut up.
“When the BoD policy on magic and religion was issued, I made a point (as Earl Marshal) to take Isaac and his cohorts aside
and tell them that if I learned that anyone so much as even hinted that they were or had been using wizardry (or whatever) to
influence the outcome of tournament combat, whether positively or negatively, they would be in a world of trouble with my office.
“Personally, I gave no credence to his pretensions of magical prowess, but I wasn't about to let him mess with the minds
of fighters who might.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“Speaking of blessing thrones, Henrik and I were talking recently and I asked him about the "Throne Stone" that was made
by Francis Boyd (Scottish persona, just learning blacksmithing back then - can't remember his SCA name [“Francis the Smith”
– Henrik of Havn]) and presented to the king as a new piece of regalia back in the earlies. Henrik didn't remember the story
but suggested I post it here. This seems as good a spot as any to introduce it.
“Francis had scrounged an original, pre-1906 San Francisco cobblestone - which was fairly large and heavy - and had
chiseled a few SCA style designs on it in the hopes that it would become a relic along the lines of similar British boulders. He
presented it at court with little or no warning. I remember at the time, no one wanted to haul the damned thing back and forth
to tourneys, and the king used that wonderful phrase, "We return it to your keeping until such time as we have need of it." I
believe it was James Greyhelm joking with a bunch of us who suggested that if the stone was accepted as regalia, then
Francis should be required to carry the stone around the perimeter of the tourney grounds three times to formally "invest" every
event.” – Brian Dritar an Con
March 26, 1972 AS VI
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. Paul and Carol reigned. King Paul knighted Bruno von der Eiche and admitted Karina of
the Far West to the Order of the Laurel. He made Grants of Arms available to Minor Lords of State and to the Chief Deputies of the Great
Lords of State. He admitted Dorthea the Unsure and Richard the Mild to the Order of the Leaf of Merit, and gave Awards of Arms to
Dorthea the Unsure, Eliazar ben-David, Giesele-Hildegaard, Jerome Robert of McKenna, and Rowen-Lynn (then called Bonnie Bluebells).
Queen Carol admitted Margaret to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Crown Lists were held. Sir James Greyhelm won, defeating Sir Kevin
Peregrynne. Verena of Laurelin was his lady. Sir Thomas of the Pines gave the MGC to Andrew of Riga. Johanna von Griffenhurst and
Giesele-Hildegaard tied in the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for cold meat pie. Each got half of the spoon.
Commentary:
A
“This was one of my most memorable finals - Kevin and I were evenly matched - we practiced together, and fought a similar style,
so we went on for a while. We each won one fight, so it came down to the third - and Kevin whacked me good in the hip - so I
dropped, figuring that I was toast - he usually beat me when he took my leg.
“He looked down at me and told me to get up - I told him that I couldn't, as he had taken my hip. He looked very surprised, and
then saluted me and said congratulations, your Highness. I had apparently hit him in the head as he hit my hip, but he thought he
had hit my side - and so thought that it was a double kill. Afterwards, the bruise was authoritative - just below the pelvic flange,
striking down (no armor made it easy to tell where you had been hit ...) I had really mixed feelings about fighting my friends in the
finals, and still do.
“Nice day, if I remember- pleasant weather.” – James Greyhelm
1 “James rather glosses over just how closely we were matched, since he omitted the half dozen or so double kills that were
inter-mixed with the three clear victories. We were both in top form and both going into our second finals in consecutive
tourneys (omitting the one Jim had to sit out as King). I was told later by more than one spectator that, because he is lefthanded and I am right-handed, it looked more like one fighter sparring with a mirror, than two.
~ 85 ~
“I too had mixed feelings about fighting a good friend in the finals, but no misgivings about the outcome, close though it
was.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
B
C
“I remember that one well. At some risk of getting hassled about "The sacred confidentiality of chivalry counsels", I remember that
Bruno was being considered but not too many people knew much about his fighting ability. Paul asked several people to fight him
and give him their opinion. I was just starting to hit the curve to good but was still down towards the bottom end, but I volunteered
as well. In the end, four different knights fought Bruno, all four of us won, and he lost in the first round, I think, of the lists. However,
everyone reported very favorably on his ability and Paul went ahead and knighted him. The only case I know of where someone lost
every fight he had on the day he was knighted.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I can think of one more ... me.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“Eliazar ben-David was another interesting guy. He was a former speed freak and perhaps a bit weird but quite a nice guy. He was
the official Chaos household and, I think, Seneschal in charge of That. Basically when someone came up with a wild idea about
how to make everything wonderful by simple basic changes in the group they would be referred to Eliazar since he was the person
in charge of That. Louie would talk to anyone about pretty much anything for any period of time they wanted to spend, displaying
considerable enthusiasm in the process. And, of course, nothing ever happened.” – Steven McEanruig
“At one of the Coyote Creek tournaments, perhaps this one, MacEanruig challenged me for an office that had been established in,
I think, the second year of the SCA. Just after Steve left for the Air Force in Germany, Felice of Mayhem House petitioned the crown,
then Richard of Mont Royal, for a champion, since her household held no knights.
“Richard named himself, as Richard, not the King, as the champion. When Richard left for New Mexico, I took over. Aside from
running a few practice sessions until folks like Paul of Bellatrix started into gear in the South Bay, the job didn't entail much. Felice
was an old friend of both MacEanruig and yours truly, and if it wasn't for her probably neither of us would have been in the SCA (there
is some argument to the effect that there would not have been an SCA without Felice's mimeograph machine printing out the
original circulars). In any case, once he was back from Germany, Steve wanted the position of Champion of Mayhem House, though
there wasn't much need for one.
“We fought, he won. As far as I know, he is still Champion of Mayhem House.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who would also like to
point out that Mayhem House was responsible for a lot of the early activity of the SCA and some of its members went on to fame
and fortune elsewhere, including one Count (Duke?) of CAID.
1 “Damn straight, and proud of it too. Actually, I think a pretty good case could be made that without Felice there would not have
been an SCA. Kind of hard to remember in these days of computers what it was like then. Felice's mimeograph was fairly
massive. Stefan, Harold of Breakstone, and I all got into science fiction fandom through Felice and thereby into the SCA.” –
Steven MacEanruig
The Year Seven
May 6-7, 1972 AS VII
H eld in Briones Regional Park, Homestead Valley, California. Paul and Carol held
court. Queen Carol admitted Crown Princess Verena of Laurelin to the Queen’s
Order of Grace. Then James and Verena were crowned by Paul and Carol. King
James established the title of Count for those who had been King once, Countess
for those who had been Queen once, and Duchess for those who had been
Queen twice. Paul and Carol were acknowledged as Count and Countess, and all
past Counts, Countesses, and Duchesses were so acknowledged, dated the day
they stepped down after crowning their successors. King James made Geraldine
of Toad Hall the first Crown Baroness. Queen Verena admitted Ann Parkhurst of
Gatehouse to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Paul of Blackchurch won the Wardlord Verena of Laurelin - Azure, in canton a crux ansata Or.
spears bendwise Janice of Ilwheirlane was abducted and rescued by the hordes. Joan
competition.
sinister argent.
of Sea Keep won the Order of the Wooden Spoon for soup and bread. Gerald Whitebeard won the Kite Flying
contest. A live chess game happened on the second day and first night.
~ 86 ~
Comments:
A
“My then father-in-law (Geraldine's father, Gerald Duncan Wenker, aka Gerald Whitebeard) died in about April 1971, just 2 months
past his 65th birthday. Obviously he did not win a kite-flying contest in 1972, but rather the contest was The Gerald Whitebeard
Memorial Kite-Flying Contest, yet another Geraldine production, held to honor her father's memory. (He loved flying kites.) Gerald
Whitebeard was given an Award of Arms posthumously (by James & Verena, I think). He was always very generous in sharing his
beer and the olives he cured each year.
“For those who don't know already, Ann Parkhurst of Gatehouse (more often called "Lady Mom" or "Mom Zimmer") was the
mother of Paul Edwin Zimmer (Master Edwin Bersark) and Marion Zimmer Bradley Breen (Mistress Elfrida of Greenwalls).” – Robert
of Dunharrow
June 17, 1972 AS VII
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. James and Verena reigned. Crown Lists were held. Count Paul of Bellatrix won, defeating
Sir Steven MacEanruig. Countess Carol of Bellatrix was his lady. Andrew of Riga gave the MGC to Sir Steven MacEanruig. Sterling Beast
Tamer won the Order of the Wooden Spoon for Haggis.
Comments:
A
“That one I remember. I was finally starting to get good again. Of course, in the following crown lists I was killed in the first round,
but what the hey. I was wearing Jon the Lean's helmet for some reason (possibly mine was temporarily broken). Due to the tighter
fit, I came out of it with two small (now invisible) scars, both from Paul, just above my left eyebrow. The first one from a challenge,
the second from the finals, the metal edge of the eyeslit having been driven into my forehead from a snap.
“For the record, I never had any expectation of being able to beat Paul at that time and was rather surprised to find myself in
the finals anyway. Probably just as well that I didn't win, since I didn't have a lady I was fighting for at the time. I have no clue what
I would have done about that if I had won.” – Steven MacEanruig
Purgatorio Coronation Festival
July 29-30, 1972 AS VII
James and Verena held court. King James gave Awards of Arms to Gerald
Whitebeard and Hal Ravn, and admitted Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of CaerMyrddin), Hal Ravn, and William the Lucky to the Order of the Leaf of Merit.
King James admitted Allen van Ore to the Order of the Laurel. Then Paul and
Carol were crowned by James and Verena. King Paul then gave Awards of Arms
to Janay di Aquitaine, Kathea von Linz, Leodamas of Thebes, and William of
Hoghton. On the next day a contest for the Queen’s Favor was held, and Duke
Henrik of Havn was the winner. Dorthea the Unsure won the Order of the
Wooden Spoon for an economy dish.
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three compass-stars
palewise gules.
Comments:
A
“I remember the contest for the Queen's Favor. As I recall, it had to be fought with a different weapon in each round. I fought Henrik
in the first round with Greatsword and he defeated me quite handily, thank you.” – Steven MacEanruig
October 22, 1972 AS VII
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. Paul and Carol reigned. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Bergen von Rausch, Cija of
the Roses, Elriin of Hrassvelg, Gernot of Gallimaufry, Glynys of Arran, Gonwynnlynn of Hrassvelg, Grane the Golden, Jacynth of the Lion’s
Gate, Myles of the Shamrock, and Ranulf of the North Country. Queen Carol admitted Gwen, Johanna von Griffenhurst, John of Woodwose
Hall, Robert the Lutemaker, and Susan of Woodwose Hall to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King Paul of Bellatrix knighted William of
Hoghton, and authorized Sir Frederic of the West Tower to Knight Jerald of Galloway at the upcoming Madrone tourney. The Board of
Directors of the Society, under the name of the Imperial Electors, created the Imperial Order of the Pelican, and admitted Boncueur de
Myrobolan as the founding member. Crown Lists were held. Duke James Greyhelm won, defeating Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit. Duchess
~ 87 ~
Verena of Laurelin was his lady. Sir Steven MacEanruig gave the MGC to Ranulf of the North Country. Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of
Caer-Myrddin) won the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for Sausages.
Comments:
A
“I was feeling good going into this tourney. After all, I'd been in the finals last crown. So, of course, I lost in the first round after a very
long fight. Ah well. The knights were a bit polarized at that time, so it was a pleasant surprise that everyone totally agreed on the
knighting of William of Hoghton. To be honest, I don't remember any hassles over Jerald's knighting either.
“This was during the period where the BoD was trying to act in both the real world and the SCA version of the middle ages. This
caused any number of problems and at one point or another there was a strong feeling that it was too bad the West Kingdom
couldn't ring Greyhaven with swords and burn it down. Probably would have been bad press for the group, however.” – Steven
MacEanruig
1 “Steven forgets the full plan. First we call on them to send the women and children out, then we burn it down. No one had any
quarrel with Diana or Lady Mom or Tracy, and Ian and Fiona were too young to have made enemies ...” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “I forget. Was the Board at this time still Don and Diana and Harold Breakstone, or had Ruthven of Rockridge stepped into
Harold's place by this time?” – Stefan de Lorraine
a “I think Clint (Harold) was off by then. My memory is that he was succeeded by Doug Olson, but my memory is sometimes
more faulty than I would like to believe. Don still seemed to mostly run things.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “My best read of the 1972 BoD minutes indicates that during that year, the Board consisted of Don, Diana, and David. I am not
completely certain, but I believe Douglas became Clerk during 1972. Clearly he had been appointed to that position no later
than February 1973.” – Andrew of Riga
a “Douglas Brownbeard was definitely Clerk of the Board in the fall of '72, when I first came on board -- he enlisted me as
a subclerk at that time, my only stint of "civil service." I seem to recall that this is also the era of some variants of Imperium
Compound -- is there some specific SCA term for what in scifi circles is called a "filk song?" or is the overlap of personnel
such that filk song is indeed the correct term?
“I've been meaning to ask a couple of questions, prompted by earlier notes. There was a mention of dance classes
at LeConte school in earlier years. By Oct. VII these were at the Kensington "Youth Hut", with Jon DeCles still acting as
Dance Master. When did the venue change?
“Also, the College of Bards has not been given much if any notice so far. There was the one note about the event at
John and Susan of Woodwose's place, but that was (shortly) before my time, and I really don't know much about the earlier
period. Yeah, I know -- I could just ask Rima -), but I *am* interested in what y'all my remember about this...” – Simon von
Wernigerode
b “Andy is perfectly correct. When Clint left the Board, David came on as the designated quiet voice of reason, serving in that
office for far too many years. Douglas came into our lives circa 30 years ago, arriving at his first event [a Beowulf reading
at our place, attended by me, David, Diana Listmaker, both of whom were then on the BoD, and Lexy, then aged 5] with
a library copy of the Old English text and a sixpack, possibly of Old English 800, in hand. He was clearly destined to go
far.” – Rima of Rockridge
1 “Mistress Rima (Sharon) speaks truly that Father Ruthven (David) was a voice of quiet reason on the SCA BoD, as
he always was everywhere. However, I would like to point out that Diana was also generally given to calm and reason.
She once told me that despite a widespread assumption that she & Don/Jon dominated the board as a couple, in
reality in every single case where a vote was not unanimous, it was Don in the minority of one. Don Studebaker (Jon
de Cles), who is still my friend & was Best Man at my wedding to Geraldine in AS IV, is a creative person with a rather
mercurial personality who had some sort of grand scheme in his head for the SCA (though probably not really clearly
defined) and he thought he had a mission to carry it out and felt others should not interfere. He was not an easy teamplayer.
“On the other hand, I think Diana was mostly trying to steer the SCA through the complexities of growth and to
strengthen its institutions. Establishing the Pelican at the Board level first was probably politically unwise, but the
concept of distinct orders of peerage for service & for arts and sciences was obviously proper, as validated by
subsequent history.
“I remember the night Don resigned as chairman & member of the BoD, and pretty much from any active part in
the SCA. Since the time I had been the first non-BoD-member (aside from other Greyhaven inhabitants) to attend a
BoD meeting, the habit of attendance by leading members of the West Kingdom had grown substantially. That evening
Don had phoned Toad Hall to be sure Geri would attend, as he was feeling beset by foes, or something like that. So
we went. I don't remember the issues, it was more a clash of personalities than substantive matters, but Don
launched into a tirade against the "damned West Kingdom" who were all trying to subvert him in some way or other.
When he finished, Geraldine stood up and said something like, "Don, the people you are yelling at are my friends too
~ 88 ~
1
and I can't put up with you treating them like that." Don, in his typically dramatic fashion, then threw his pencil (I think)
down on the table and said, "My last friend has deserted me. I resign." He then stomped out of the room. Diana
remained calm and I guess she must have signaled Douglas Brownbeard to take the chair, whereupon the meeting
resumed. (Douglas must have previously moved from Board Clerk to BoD member, but I can't recall whether the
Board had grown from 3 to 5 by then.) Diana stayed on the Board quite a lot longer, and finally decided to give up her
seat only if Geri would take it. Geri found all that administrative stuff painfully boring, and quit after about one year. She
did, however, convince them to raise dues from $5 to $7/yr. (Some folks howled about this, claimed we would lose
lots of members, but if you're selling below cost, volume won't make up for it, and we were 3 months from insolvency,
anyhow, the people who wouldn't pay $7 had already quit when it went from $1.50 to $3/yr.) Everybody out there,
please correct any errors or omissions I've made. Some of you were there, I know. I can't recall the timing of these
things.” – Robert Dunharrow
[Stefan de Lorraine], who remembers the Fellowship of Chivalry, a group based around Chaos, Toad Hall, Headless House,
Havn and Montroyal (which included Rockridge) that was starting to make serious plans to become its own group and leave
the SCA entirely. The main thing that stopped us, aside from general laziness, was the thought that we didn't want all the SCA
to be stuck with Greyhaven, which is essentially what we felt would happen. Calmer heads prevailed, mostly Rima of
Rockridge's – a born peacemaker – and we decided to see what we could continue to do from within.
a “Truth told, I never regarded the Fellowship as able or willing to leave the SCA.” – Steven MacEanruig
i
“The ancient files - either the Steward's or those of the West Seneschal, I can't recall which - included a file on the
encounter. As far as I could tell from the assorted notes therein (and to the extent that memory serves), the Board was
sufficiently impressed with the Fellowship to accommodate the essential demand, which was mainly to let the West
do its own thing, thereby averting what could have been a genuine departure.” – Hilary of Serendip
b “Ah, that was its name? I've been blanking on it for years. I assume this was the time when Hal and I, as editors of the
Page, received the WK Mailing List on a long strip of gummed paper and spent several evenings one month cutting it into
manageable strips and xeroxing it, just in case we had to send out one last mailing, "We're splitting, send a postcard if
you want to be on our list ...."
“Which, fortunately, we didn't.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
January 6, 1973 AS VII
Held in the First Unitarian Church, Kensington, California. Paul and Carol held
court. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Rachel Col-de-Cygne, Sieglinde von
Krause, and William of York, and admitted Rachel Col-de-Cygne to the Order of
the Leaf of M erit. Then James and Verena were crowned by Paul and Carol. King
James gave an Award of Arms to Esther, and admitted Stefan de Lorraine to the
Order of the Laurel.
Verena of Laurelin - Azure, in canton a crux ansata Or.
dragon’s wing erased azure, and azure a pair of spears bendwise
sinister argent.
Comments:
A
“I "think" that most or all of the First Unitarian 12th nights were run, more or less, by the Chaos crowd. I remember autocrating 1
or 2 of them with William the Lucky doing another 1 or 2. Lots of good events there and at least one that was probably the biggest
downer event I've ever attended. I was autocrating that one, but that wasn't the reason it was a downer. Most of them blend in my
memory, but the bad one came later when Andrew was king. More when the time comes.” – Steven MacEanruig
March 24, 1873 AS VII
Held in Kennedy Grove Park, El Sobrante, California. James and Verena reigned. King James gave Awards of Arms to Eilonwy de Lyur, Jean
of Crawfordsmuir, and Paul McDaniel. Queen Verena admitted Andrew of Riga to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King James made Pwyll pen
Tyrhon a Crown Baron, and admitted Christina of the Runes to the Order of the Laurel. Crown Lists were held. Duke Paul of Bellatrix won,
defeating Sir Thomas of the Pines and Andrew of Riga. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was his lady. Ranulf of the North Country gave the MGC
to Garryl Harper Flaming Sword. Aaron of Toad Hall won the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for Haggis.
~ 89 ~
Comments:
A
“Yep, the finals went to three people. Paul took Thomas out in one blow, which called out a "Damnit, Paul" from Thomas, who had
been looking forward to an extended battle. Andrew managed to hold on a bit longer ...
“The Haggis story is also rather interesting. It seems that Geraldine wanted to demonstrate to the Celtic contingent (Edwin,
Caradoc, Thumas, etc.) that everything Celtic wasn't wonderful. So she and her sons followed the traditional recipe (as much as
Geri ever followed a recipe) to make some haggis – sure that it would be awful. Wrong, it was so good that they decided to keep
it to themselves. Aaron, who won several cooking competitions over the years, obviously used the same recipe. I never managed
to taste any of it (though I ate many of Geri's dishes over the years) and I am bemused by people whose taste I respect who say
they have had it, frequently in Scotland, where one would expect it to be done right, and it's terrible. What did Geri do right that they
don't do in its homeland?” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“Slight correction, I think it was Joan of Crawfordsmuir. I remember Thomas and Paul facing off in the finals and Paul one-shotting
Thomas with his first blow. Tom said "Ah shit, Paul" in a voice that certainly reached all the knights on the field and died.
“Kennedy Grove was a nice spot but they later decided to only allow groups like the Boy Scouts there due to some unfortunate
happenings with other groups. Not, by the way, with the SCA.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“Joan of Crawfordsmuir was a very talented portrait photographer at SCA events. She had a disarming habit of coming up to one
and handing them a color portrait photo she had taken at an earlier event. I never saw any ‘bad’ shots of hers. They were all
impressive!” – Henrik of Havn
1 “She was indeed an excellent photographer. I still have a photo or two of hers around somewhere in myseveral photo boxes.”
D
“Thought I might remind people of Thomas' unique helm, which was essentially a heavy-gauge stainless steel bucket with the bail
removed, pierced all over with 3/8" or 1/4" holes, with chin strap and neck protection added but failing to disguise the helm's prosaic
origins. I recall two different story variations on its creation, one had Thomas starting with a solid walled bucket and drilling all the
holes and the other had it as an already pierced maritime bait bucket with Thomas adding additional piercing for frontal visibility.
It looked odd but protected him well and had admirable ventilation.
“Regarding Haggis - I've had it a number of times and Geri's was decidedly superior to any other I've sampled. It helps if one
enjoys the flavor of organ meats, but when a haggis is not excellent it serves only to excuse the consumption of quantities of singlemalt (not an altogether bad thing in my book).” – Kevin Peregrynne, whose mundane highland ancestry is showing.
The Year Eight
May 5-6, 1973 AS VIII
Held in Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. James and
Verena held court. King James gave Awards of Arms to Annette of Faire Monte,
Bevin Fraser of Sterling, and Debreceni Ilona. Then he knighted Andrew of Riga.
Then Paul and Carol were crowned by James and Verena. On the next day a live
chess game was held, and then a competition for Wardlord, which was won by
Ulfgarth von Bergen. The Order of the Wooden Spoon Contest, for a Brawn, was
won by an anonymous entrant, as was third place.
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three compass-stars
palewise gules.
Comments:
A
“I remember the chess game. Having nothing much visible to mark the squares, whoever was running it ended up mowing alternate
squares. As I recall it, the mowed squares were fine but the unm owed ones came up above the knee, hampering mobility
somewhat. I think I was a bishop in this one (mace and round shield).” – Steven MacEanruig
~ 90 ~
1
A
B
“I went out to the site with a gas mower and did the deed, along with the help of Richard of House Havn (whose father loaned
us the mower). The squares were eight feet on a side with an eight foot wide border all around the chess board.” – Henrik of
Havn
1 “I wasn’t the autocrat but I volunteered to set up the board.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “I believe Harold of Breakstone and Jerry Jacks were the chess masters.” – Annette of Faire Monte
“Ulfgarth was loosely associated with Chaos. A big strong guy who was around for several years but never got serious enough to
get knighted. I have this vague memory that he married someone who wasn't much interested in the SCA and sort of faded away.”
“There was a fair sized group of Atenveldters at this event. We stayed, mostly, at Caos Manor or with Duke Siegfried. I remember
going out to Big Trees with Henrik on the Weds. before the event and mowing his pavilion area and the chess board. I got in a lot
of great fighting on Saturday before getting a few fingers broken during a late afternoon melee. Siegfried was also injured (in a flag
melee with the kids, I recall) so we both had to sit out the chess game. Major bummer! But a great weekend!” – Denis of the Titans
June 23, 1973 AS VIII
Held in Kennedy Grove Park, El Sobrante, California. Paul and Carol reigned. King Andrew of Seldom Rest and Queen Anne of Seldom Rest
of the Middle were present. King Paul gave an Award of Arms to Lawrence of Canterbury, and admitted Jeanne of Portland to the Order
of the Leaf of Merit. He then gave Grants of Arms to André de Sevastopol, Dorcas Dorcadas, Edgar the Unready, Jerome Robert of
McKenna, Leon de Asturias, Sheen of Ire, and William the Lucky. Crown Lists were held. Duke Henrik of Havn won, defeating Sir Andrew
of Riga. Seitse was his lady. Garryl Harper Flaming Sword gave the MGC to Elriin of Hrassvelg. The winner of the Order of the Wooden
Spoon contest for parsnip something was Dorcas Dorcadas.
Comments:
A
A
“An interesting event for me and others. I lost to Andrew in the finals (damned kite shield). Probably just as well, since I was fighting
for Eilonwy again despite the two of us having broken up not long before at the last Calafian event. Andrew decided that Henrik was
glaring at him from across the field as we neared the finals and he pretty much went to pieces. I have no idea if Henrik was actually
practicing psychological warfare or was just setting in his pavilion resting, but Andy was definitely pretty much beaten before the
fighting ever started.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I am nearsighted and never wore contact lenses and so in order for me to see at a distance I need to squint my eyes. I never
wore my glasses at events in those days. Perhaps that is what made Andy think I was glaring.” – Henrik of Havn
a “I had my doubts that Henrik was actually glaring at Andy. Andy was certainly convinced, however.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “As we all know, all conflicts, be they battles between two armies, or combat between two individual opponents, begin long
before the initial clash. All fighters have their own means and methods of personal preparation, and, dare I say this,
psychological warfare.
“Henrik was quietly sitting in his pavilion with his household gathered about him. He was solemnly looking at the field,
readying himself, with an occasional glance in my direction. I, on the other hand, am the type of person who, before a combat,
needs to pump himself up; but there is a fine line between being pumped up and becoming nervous. I crossed the line – in
a big way. Looking back on it, Henrik was doing little if anything to me. I psyched myself out.
“Trite but true we learn far more from our failures than our successes. And this incident (and numerous others) taught
me valuable lessons regarding personal preparation which I carried with me. Specifically, winning or losing a fight is largely
irrelevant; the issue is, you're not beaten unless you feel beaten.
“Incidentally, when it comes to psychological warfare, in my opinion, William of Houghton was the best.” – Andrew of Riga
a “He was certainly damned good at it in his prime. Not that he wasn't a good fighter too. He's still the only one I recall who
successfully defeated his opponent in the finals of a crown list after losing an arm when his opponent kept his shield.”
“I actually have the impression that it was the king of Atenveldt that was present, not Andrew of Seldom Rest, but mymemory has
plenty of holes in it. I remember it as Richard Ironstead, however, not Andrew. There was some light discussion before hand about
holding a battle of the kings but Paul sat on it firmly.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I was not there, but I don't see how this could have been Richard Ironsteed as King of Atenveldt as he was our first King, and
that was in Jan of 1971 and he did not rule again. By the time mentioned here (June 1973) I believe the King in Atenveldt was
"Reynard the Red Fox" who had been coronated with his lady Kathleen MacChlurain in April of 1973. Perhaps it was "Reynard"
and not "Richard" being remembered, but I don't know if Reynard (Rick) attended this event or not.” – Arthur of Lockehaven
2 “The visiting King at June Crown was Andrew of Seldom Rest. He was (is?) an R.N., and when I had an ankle injury in the
finals, of those who came to my aid, it was he who took the lead.” – Andrew of Riga
~ 91 ~
I
3
C
“Your Grace, HRM Andrew traveled through Atenveldt on his way to the West in 1973. He went to FP here and went to the
event that has been mentioned in the West. Paul of Bellatrix can confirm. I got my tales of this event from him.” – Denis of
the Titans
a “I sit corrected. Damn. I was sure it was the king of Atenveldt.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Richard Ironsteed was indeed at one of our Tournies- I had a fight with Miles of the Shamrock, and there was
a question about blow counting- I was wearing the old hedlighthelm, the one with no padding, and I knew that
Miles blow had glanced- Richard hit me with Miles' mace, and I assured him that Miles' blow had not been that
hard...I think that was the fight that I stuck a short sword up under Miles' camail, and left it there- quite a visual
image. I don't think that it was a Crown fight though- just a challenge or something.
“BTW- Historical note- Miles is/was Duke Torghul's brother.” – James Greyhelm
i
“I distinctly remember somebody sticking his shortsword up under Miles' camail (his armor was a little
odd because the camail was attached to the lower edges of his great helm), since I recall being relieved
that he didn't get his larynx crushed; but since I went Japan in 1972 and didn't come back until 1974, this
happened either at some earlier tourney than the one under discussion or there are two separate
incidents of this. I didn't know it was you that had done it, but I do remember the sword dangling there.
I doubt I saw it on the astral plane, so I have either created an image based on a story I heard later, or
the dates are wrong. Is there anybody else who remembers this?” – Earl of Morris
A “It was me- I trust up and then left it there hanging. It was pretty cool. I actually think that you were
there, Earl. It happened really early on in my career.” – James Greyhelm
“Sir Richard attended, but it was HRM Andrew of Seldom Rest and his Queen who we're the visiting Royals. HRM Reynard was
king of Atenveldt at the time.(I was Warlord)” – Denis of the Titans
a “Thanks. As I said, my memory is not always of the best. Actually, Reynard sounds right as well. I do not think that it was
Andrew. He did visit later, but not, I think, at that event.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Around then, bit I don’t know which year or month, it was but another King of Atenveldt – Stephen von Geist and his Queen attended
a Western tournament at Coyote Creek Park. Also at the same site (but perhaps again a different time, or maybe at the same event)
the Atenveldt blacksmith Kirb Wise (Zoltan Kovaks) attended and demonstrated his 600 lb. draw crossbow that he had made, by
firing a bolt at my viking round shield. The head penetrated about ½" beyond the back.” – Henrik of Havn
July 28-29, 1973 AS VIII
Held in Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Paul and
Carol held court. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Anne of the White Tower,
Barbara of Galloway, Gino de Palrescenico, Malene of Gamaliel, Paul the
Barbarian, Roger the Goliard, and Suzanne of Woodwose Hall. Queen Carol
admitted Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood), Faith, and Robin
(Davina Serpentsheart) to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King Paul gave charters
to the various baronies. Then Henrik and Seitse were crowned by Paul and Carol.
King Henrik named Jasmine and Sabrina de la Bere as his Royal Consorts, and
gave them Awards of Arms. The next day a competition for the Queen’s Favor
was held, and won by Duke Paul of Bellatrix. At closing court King Henrik gave Seitse - Vert, mullety pierced argent.
Awards of Arms to Krzysztof z Lublina, Martin of the Fallen Star, Meg Shelford,
M ichael the Dane, Michaela de Neuville, Morrigan Cailte, and Steven of the Lance. Then he admitted Dorcas
Dorcadas, Elriin of Hrassvelg, Gonwynnlynn of Hrassvelg, and Gormflait ni Cuallachta to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. He knighted William
the Lucky, and admitted André de Sevastopol, Sir Bela of Eastmarch, Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin), Rima of Rockridge,
and Ruthven of Rockridge to the Order of the Laurel. The Order of the Wooden Spoon competition was for Cheese.
Comments:
A
“I believe there was also some fighting on Saturday. At least, I managed to get hit on the point of the right shoulder somewhere
along the line -- which I remember vividly (at least that I had gotten hit there) for reasons which will become apparent.
“The Queen's favor competition came about in this wise Her Majesty was (at most) in Her early teens. Not surprisingly (in
retrospect, probably not even unreasonably), His Majesty spent a good part of his time Saturday after the Coronation with a young
lady closer to His own age. Predictably, this occasioned muttering in corners; someone (it might have even been me, I simply don't
remember) suggested that we hold a competition for the Queen's -- as I recall, we thought this would illustrate our somewhat
~ 92 ~
jaundiced view of how the King was spending his time. (Hey, we were young. We were idealistic. We were obnoxious. Anyone
who draws pointed comparisons to me at my first Coronation will not be appreciated. Justified, but not appreciated.)
“Since I was Kingdom Seneschal, I got to spend much of the evening going around to members of the Chivalry and dragooning
them into entering the competition. ("The point is to have a large number of entrants. Feel free to go out and lose in the first round.
You can do that, right?") So Sunday morning there were indeed a large number of fighters, including a large portion of the Chivalry,
signed up got the competition. I likely would not have entered myself, because my shoulder was still giving me problems -- like,
I could lift my right arm about 3/4 inch away from my side. (It didn't hurt to have the arm up, at least it didn't hurt more, it was just
the muscles wouldn't move it.) But since I had pressured all these other people into entering, I didn't really have a choice.
“I did discover (after struggling into my armor) that I could bend my sword arm at the elbow and slap the blade across the face
of my shield by way of a salute. Then by swinging the sword downward hard the momentum would carry by sword back around and
leave me in position to swing a blow. So long as I followed through on every blow, I could keep getting the sword in position again.
And besides, I could do just what I had recommended to others and die quickly, right? (After all, June Crown was the first time I
had ever managed to win even one fight in a Crown Lists. Most of these guys could beat me without breaking a sweat.)
“Good luck in the first round I'm up against Duke James. And then I'm standing there looking down saying "Jim? Jim?" (What
is wrong with this picture?)
“Second round, almost as good Count Stefan de Lorraine ... "Steve? Steve?"
“Third time's the charm, perhaps Sir Steven MacEanruig ... "Steve? Steve?"
“So, in spite of my best intentions, I find myself in the finals against Duke Paul. Someone had decided to make the finals best
two out of three. (And I am feeling really picked on!) And then, I manage to get a double-kill in one of the fights! This was at the
time when Paul was enough better than everybody else that he could essentially win every fight if he put his mind to it, so a doublekill was something of a feat. But since all I wanted to do was get killed quickly so I could go lie down, I was unimpressed. In
addition to prolonging the agony, the double-kill had one other effect I got hit (hard) at the base of the neck -- which apparently had
an effect on the nerves to the shoulder, because I could now raise my arm a whole 3 inches away from my side! Whoopee.
“There is a lovely picture (yes, I have a copy) of me kneeling to get knighted – which is certainly an in-appropriate reward for
having organized the competition in which I had gone so far! I still cannot lift my right arm, so I have my left hand holding up my right.
Henrik has apparently done Himself an injury as some point as well, because His left hand (wrist?) is swathed in an ace bandage
with just the finger tips showing. ("Fighting isn't really very dangerous. Really. Trust me!") The maimed knighting the maimed!”
– William the Lucky (who probably still owes Henrik an apology.)
B
“Between May Coronation and Purgatorio I had become Warlord of Atenveldt. At the time, very few Western fighters ever fought with
anything but a sword and shield. Swords were not even allowed in the warlord list ... so HRM Paul decided that an exhibition was
in order. With the aid of Count Stefan de Lorraine and the fighters of Chaos Manor a challenge match was arranged between Paul
and myself. We would use as many different weapons forms as possible without ever touching a broadsword. I spent the week
before the event building weapons in the Chaos armory (worked on a new helm with Jon the Lean while I was at it) and turned out
matched greatswords, bastard swords, maces, short swords, etc. I had two clubs with me and Paul had borrowed two fine axes,
from Henrik, I believe. Paul and I had a ball! Remember ... we're fighting with weapons that were seldom seen, much less used,
in the West. We had many fights, broke a few weapons(on each other), and finally yielded to each other as we could no longer afford
the expense of continuing. What a grand time!!!” – Denis of the Titans
1 “No, I didn't have any axes at this point, since my tourney axe had been loaned earlier to a high school for use as a prop in a
presentation of Richard III. On the day of the final performance, after the end of the scene where it was used, it was liberated
by parties unknown.” – Henrik of Havn
C
“Reading over this, I am saddened to remember of Master Allen's passing. He was a very accomplished young man, an excellent
dancer. He took over the instruction of the Dance class in Berkeley, and ran it well, if memory served.” – James Greyhelm
1 “I just unearthed the poem I wrote for Master Allen:
Poem for the Royal Dance Master
Who taught Anachronists to dance
In olden days, before Van Ore
Came forth, our revels to enhance,
Our ancient graces to restore?
We who attempt these steps from France
Cannot but reverence those of yore
Who taught Anachronists to dance
In olden days before Van Ore;
And yet our artists still advance
~ 93 ~
In knowledge as in grace Come glance
At Twelfth Night's overflowing floor
Where Allen's pupils cry, "Encore!"
And show in every step and stance
Who taught Anachronists to dance.
– Rima of Rockridge
“Allen was a fine dance leader. When I read James's tribute, I thought of this poem and wanted to share it with you all.” – Rima
of Rockridge
Summer, AS VIII
“One event not in the formal record, since it was not an official event, yet of historic significance, was the 5-hour long, 8-remove feast
prepared by Baroness Geraldine, OL, OP, OGP, etc. for all the then existing Laurels and Pelican (Boncueur was then the only Pelican in the
SCA.) It was in late summer, after August Coronation, for Henrik & Seitse were King & Queen. They were seated at the center of the high
table, flanked by Geri & myself, and at the ends were Jon de Cles, Diana Listmaker, Ruthven of Rockridge (then the Imperial Electors, as
the 3 board members were called at that time) and Rima of Rockridge. The 20 or so others were seated along either side of a U-shaped
arrangement of straw bales & tables (It was in the front yard of Bufo Halle in Lafayette, where we had 2 acres.) There was a fire pit in the
center & all guests were facing it, with the servers working from the inside of the "U", with a serving table just beyond the open end. All
the serving for the whole 5 hours was done by 7 young people between 8 & 16 in age My squire, Glen Halfdan (then 16, who heralded &
managed the entire crew & schedule); Christopher, Alison, & Robin of Hoghton (then 14, 13, & 11, I think); Faith (Richard the Mild's
daughter, then 10); and our own boys, Sterling Beasttamer & Aaron the Mighty (then 9 & 8). (Aaron was given that name, by the way, by
his master, Count Sir Steven Blackeagle, who promoted him from page to squire at age 8.)
“It was a warm, clear evening and Jupiter shone brightly in the sky. Master Allen van Ore rose and made a toast, proclaiming the feast
worthy of the gods, and since Jupiter shone on it, naming it "The Feast of Jupiter." Diana wrote an article about it in T.I. (I forget which
issue, my T.I.s are at the other house.) We had most of the then Laurels, I think (though Marion sent regrets from NY, it being a bit far),
plus the sole Pelican.” – Robert of Dunharrow
September 30, 1973 AS VIII
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. Henrik and Seitse reigned. At morning court, Carlo di Perelli-Minetti, who is a real Italian
Count, was presented to King Henrik. Crown Lists were held. Sir Andrew of Riga won, defeating Sir Kevin Peregrynne. Salomé de las
Palomas was his lady. Elriin of Hrassvelg gave the MGC to Sir Kevin Peregrynne. The Imperial Electors admitted Douglas of Hvitamyrr and
Robert of Westmarch to the Imperial Order of the Pelican. King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to Alys von Markheim (Alison von Markheim),
Ann Dudley, Barbara Fitzhugh, David of Castlwhyte, Douglas of Hvitamyrr, Eadmond du Battlemont, Israel ben Jacob, Maire Aislinge na
Sleig Nor, Micna, Renfield of the Inland March, Sheryl of Castlwhyte, Tyra Stuart of Moray, Virginia Bright Angel, Waldt von Markheim,
Wilhelm von Schlüssel, and Ximena Aubel de Cambria. Queen Seitse admitted Amy of the Barque, Sir Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf), Sir
William the Lucky to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King Henrik admitted Annette of Faire Monte, Renfield of the Inland March, and Tyra
Stuart of Moray to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. He gave Grant s of Arms to Gormflait ni Cuallachta and Morrigan Caillte. Then Geoffrey
of Speraunce and Rachel Col-del-Cyngne were admitted to the Order of the Laurel. Order of the Wooden Spoon Competition was for Stuffed
Marrows.
Comments:
A
“This tourney was, to the best of my knowledge, the earliest appearance of the Wreath of Chivalry. Henrik and Seitse awarded one
to me after the conclusion of the lists at evening court (Rosemary sprigs bound with white ribbon). Henrik may know more
regarding the award's origins.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Actually, I started both the wreath of chivalry and the wreath of valor during my first reign. They're painted inside the lid of the
Royal Suitcase along with other scenes from that reign.
“The rosemary was 'for remembrance', the wreath of chivalry had a white ribbon, and the wreath of valor had a red ribbon.
These were presented by the Queen to those she deemed most worthy at the Crown Tourney. Generally speaking, the Queen
would ask other ladies to watch and advise her.
“ Are they still being given? I know they were most of the time for many years.” – Verena of Laurelin
a “They are still given. In fact it would be considered a serious breach of tradition if they were not given. Or perhaps a serious
smack to the fighters. In any case, it would require lots of explanation.
~ 94 ~
A
B
“The wreath of chivalry is still given by the Queen (or Consort), but the wreath of valor is given by the King (or
Sovereign). The Crown usually enlists one of the chivalry to solicit opinions on who should receive chivalry. Valor is typically
given to the unbelted fighter who progressed furthest in the list.” – Gabrielle of Greenwood
“Getting the MGC was quite a surprise, I mean ferocious was not my image, and how foolhardy can you be when you one-shot every
opponent (exception - Jerald took two) until the finals???
“By this tourney I'd been Earl Marshal for about a year (James' reign the previous Purgatorio through twelfth Night). Patti and
I had moved to Golden Rivers in early July but had just gotten in touch with them earlier in September. (Commuting to Ren Faire
every weekend from Sacramento had used up all of our energy until it was over).
“The original Knight Marshal's handbook was in its final stages of preparation and would be published by Twelfth Night.” –
Kevin Peregrynne
[King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to ... Wilhelm von Schlüssel ...] “This Award of Arms marked the beginning of my rise in heraldry.
I had been a member of the SCA for 2 years and a herald for one. I was now the Nebuly Pursuivant for the Province of the Mists
and on my way to becoming Greencloak Herald the next year and Vesper Principal Herald the following year. I believed in knowing
and doing all aspects of a herald - field herald, court herald, book herald and administrative herald. As a trained singer, actor and
public speaker, I had no trouble being heard 100 yards away, and I found the field of heraldic devices fascinating.” – Wilhelm von
Schlüssel (who enjoyed the opportunity to meet, observe, and talk to all of the good fighters without getting hit and bruised by them!)
Fall, AS VIII (Not related to any events ...)
“I should add here that around this time (1972-1974) a lot of SCA’ers in the Bay Area were given the opportunity to assist at a 5 day
jousting performance of shows at the San Francisco Cow Palace put on by a group called the British Jousting Association, lead by Nosher
Powel. They were starting a planned tour of the US and opened at the Cow Palace. Many of us got to be their ground crew/pages/squires
at the shows. They performed much as is done today at theme restaurants in LA, Las Vegas, etc. After their last show on Friday night they
treated us volunteers to a feast in the center of the Cow Palace arena on trestle tables. We gifted them with a steel great helm (similar to
the Black Prince’s) since the helms used in the show were made of plastic. They also had 2 aluminum cylindrical helms for foot combats
where the helm is knocked off of the loser’s head by a sword blow. We invited them to come to a tourney that Andrew? Was King at and
it was too wet with mist for much fighting. A few came I think, the next day, Saturday.” – Henrik of Havn
January 5, 1974 AS VIII
Held in the First Unitarian Church, Kensington, California. Henrik and Seitse held
court. King Henrik gave Awards of Arms to Aurelia de la Licorne, Conrad von
Regensburg, Erzebet Tycodi, Irene of the Marsh, Jehan de la Pelegrine, John of
Ravenwolf, Karen, Katherine of Northall, Linda-Muriall von Katzenbrasse,
Matriona du Cameliard, Patrice di Coeur Fidel, Richard of Thistleshire, Sharon the
Meek, Siolaughe Siobhean na Lia Fail, Sten av Norden, and William of Woodland.
Then he admitted Ardis an Dearg, Sir Christian of Orange, Giesele-Hildegaard,
Patrice du Couer Fidel, Piers Howells de Cambria, and Ximena Aubel de Cambria
to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Henrik gave a Grant of Arms to Ranulf of
the North Country. Then he admitted Boncueur de Myrobolan and Gormflait ni
Andrew of Riga - Sable, a wivern volant azure fimbriated
Salomé de las Palomas - Azure, upon a lozenge argent a
argent.
Cuallachta to the Order of the Laurel. The scroll for Boncueur was signed by the rose gules barbed and seeded proper, a bordure of rose vin
argent.
Kings and Queens of all four Kingdoms, as his work as Society Registrar
benefitted them all equally. Then King Henrik created an order among knights, the Order of the Silver Molet, the symbol of which is the
wearing of roweled spurs. The Order admitted those among belted fighters who are noted for honour, chivalry, courtesy, gentleness, and
service. King Henrik admitted Sir Bela of Eastmarch and Sir Robert of Dunharrow as founding members. Then Queen Seitse admitted
Countess Ardis an Dearg and Huldah von Jäl, Principal Herald in Atenveldt, to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Then Andrew and Salomé were
crowned by Henrik and Seitse. King Andrew gave Awards of Arms to Anne Marie Vaarë of Helsingor, Catriona nicChlurain, Däwyd Äspärä
Suomainen, Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood), Edward of Stonehaven, Gwendolyn of the Thistle, John of Woodwose Hall,
Lysander of Sparta, Miranda of Silvandel, Neil of Gyr, and Robert of Westmarch. He admitted Adrienne de Toledo, Bevin Fraser of Sterling,
Eilonwy de Lyur, Jana d’Aquitaine, and Sir Steven MacEanruig to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Andrew then admitted Dorcas
Dorcadas, Sir Robert Dunharrow, and Sir William the Lucky to the Order of the Laurel. King Andrew knighted Edgar the Unready. Queen
Salomé admitted Duchess Carol of Bellatrix, Countess Luise of the Phoenix, Duke Paul of Bellatrix, and Count Stefan de Lorraine to the
Queen’s Order of Grace (Duchess Carol was already a member, but Queen Salomé insisted). Then King Andrew made Sir Kevin Peregrynne
a Crown Baron. Sir Steven MacEanruig instituted a new award, the Order of the Battered Helm, for those fighters who die the best at crown
~ 95 ~
tourneys. He gave it to Count Stefan de Lorraine as the initial holder. Then revels commenced with Lady Adrienne de Toledo being chosen
as Queen of Misrule. Duke Paul of Bellatrix won the ducal kissing contest.
Comments:
A
“An interesting event, indeed. I was the autocrat and this was all around the least pleasant event I ever attended in the SCA. I hasten
to mention that the only person responsible for making it so was me. Likewise, that it was only totally unpleasant for me, not for
anyone else.”
[Salome] “Really nice lady. Not really involved in the SCA, but altogether a really nice person as far as I got to know her.”
[Andrew] “I like Andy a lot and, of course, he's on this list, but I could probably have cheerfully killed him a time or two during
this event.”
[Awards given] “All perfectly reasonable awards. Boncueur was always an interesting guy to be around, if a bit weird. He also
really did get the registrars office working. Everyone should remember that this was before the days of home computers when such
things were mostly done on cards and, sometimes, on main-frames where members worked.”
[Silver Molet] “First big disaster. Lets just say that Henrik had not discussed this with much of anyone before, sprang it on the
knights, and split them into two camps. I can't vouch for those who approved of it, because I was definitely and altogether of the other
camp. My initial reaction to the order was absolutely negative and never really changed despite having been offered membership
and having my best friend (Stefan de Lorraine) become a member. My basic reaction all along was that if you aren't noted for
honour, chivalry, courtesy, gentleness and service, you damned well shouldn't be a knight. I was admittedly taking the SCA far to
seriously at that time, but I still dislike the order and was very pleased to hear, years later, that it had been disbanded.”
[Andrew gave Steven MacEanruig his Leaf of Merit] “Gee thanks, Andy. In his infinite wisdom, Andy gave me my leaf at the same
time he gave one to Bevin and Eilonwy, my last two ex-girlfriends, calling the three of us up at the same time. Bevin and I had never
really been that serious and were long over anyway. Eilonwy was a different case. I hadn't seen her since we had split up a few
months previously, was by no means over her, and was seriously unhappy. I got a very nice scroll for it, made by the same person
who later spent some time cuddled up with Eilonwy at the event, and I was altogether a very unhappy camper by then.
“The whole thing wasn't helped, probably, by spending half-an-hour outside waiting for the ambulance to come for another lady
who had slipped and dislocated her knee in the hall. My friends later claimed it was easy to find me at the event. They just had to
look for the black cloud hovering in the hall and there I was under it.”
[Old Battered Helm] “That was probably the only part of the event I enjoyed. We took an old freon gas drum helm, beat it up pretty
good (and the thing was tough), hacksawed a slit in it and buried a piece of steel roughly cut in sword shape. Can anyone tell me
if the award is still being given. BTW, my remembrance is that it was given jointly by William the Lucky and I. The genesis of the
event was the a previous event on the day following the Rieslingshire tourney. I had offered a pair of bayonets for the best death.
Bill and I got the idea to try to establish it as a kingdom level award.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“12th Night VIII was a memorable occasion for me, of course. I had no idea that Henrik was going to create the Order of the Silver
Molet (KSM)- I believe it was the joint idea of Henrik & Siegfried and a surprise to everyone else. When the herald read the founding
proclamation, including the criteria for membership in it (stopping barely short of "walks on water"), my immediate thought was "My
god, who could meet that?", followed in a split-second by "Of course, it's got to be Sir Bela!" In a moment I was proven correct,
but further amazed when my name followed his. Good heavens, was I going to have to live up to the standard of chivalry & total
human decency so marvelously exemplified by Sir Bela of Eastmarch (aka Poul Anderson)? Well, it looked like I had better try, since
the populace appeared largely to approve. Looking back, a quarter-century later, I'm still not sure whether it was a good idea or not,
but we tried to make the most of it.
“After Andrew's coronation I got another total surprise, the Laurel. (In those days it was not required to tell someone in advance
before calling them up in court to give an award, even a peerage.) In August, IX, when the Pelican was first released to the
Kingdoms (after the Board had given 3 or 4 to Corporate-level civil servants), I successfully petitioned the Crown & the Board to
allow me to exchange the OL for an OP dating from Jan VIII, which is why I have the senior non-Board Pelican in the SCA. Andy still
feels that my decade as Exchequer deserved the Laurel, since finance was a period art or science, but then I never kept accounts
by period methods. Anyway, I did (and still do) appreciate his consideration in recognizing my efforts for the Kingdom. Later, in May
XXII, I received a Laurel for dance, a field in which I felt more comfortable in accepting it, although it was again a total surprise out
of the blue, so to speak. However, this time I was asked privately if I would accept it before being called before the Throne.” – Robert
of Dunharrow
C
“I may as well put my two bits about the KSM in here. As one of the two members of the second batch my response was an echo
of Robert's described below - ME??? Invited to join with and live up to those two AND Stefan in courtesy, chivalry and water walking?
Pinch me so I wake up! On the other hand, it was totally impossible to refuse such an invitation from those individuals and try be
worthy, else I might as well turn my belt and chain back in.”
~ 96 ~
C
C
C
C
“I have long considered it one of the saddest aspects of my long acquaintance with Steven and William - markedly one of
respect and friendship, that we are so deeply divided on this issue. It is especially ironic in light of the fact that, unaware of their
strong opposition to the entire concept, that the four of us unanimously wished to have them join the order in the third batch. Stefan
and I each quietly sounded them out only to discover that they wouldn't accept induction even if it came with green stamps. I have
to admit that it was very difficult to resist taking it personally.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I'm afraid that I stand firmly with William and Steven on this one. I thought that the Order was a bad idea, and was a step in
the wrong direction. I would have much rather had the effort into improving the Order of Chivalry as a whole.
“In addition, I was also sounded out, and not only did I find it easy to refuse, I wouldn't have taken it with green stamps,
either.
“I wish to make it clear that I am not discussing the relative merits and worthiness of those who were in the Order. My
problem is with the Order, itself.” – Paul of Bellatrix
2 “Actually, I would agree with you totally about this, though obviously not from quite the same perspective. It was never personal
from my point of view with any of the members of the order. Indeed, I regard all of the ones so far mentioned with a great deal
of respect. The one thing that I could never quite understand was their inability to see that dividing the chivalry into (as you say
below) the knights and the knighted was a bad thing. I realize that Kevin didn't quite mean it that way, but that's the way I saw
it.” – Steven MacEanruig
“I won't put words in Henrik's mouth, but I believe his intent was to say as I once did to William (or he to me, I'm vague on which one
was writing to the other but it was in our frequent official correspondence when I was Earl Marshal and he Seneschal) - "There are
the Knights and then there are the knighted." To this day I don't know which individuals' attention Henrik was seeking to get (in the
manner of the proverbial 2"x4") but I'm positive that neither Steven nor William were on his list.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I also understood it, possibly incorrectly, to be Henrik's intention. And, of course, the 2"X4" approach was exactly what I
objected to the most. I admit that I tend to overreact when people want to mess around with the chivalry, whether to change the
order or change the oath of fealty. I've mellowed quite a bit since then, but I still feel that my stand on this one was correct.” –
Steven MacEanruig
“Internally our biggest problem was that no one could have deliberately chosen a group of people who were more likely to consider
all sides of a question to death and eventually put making the decision off until next time. This is the primary reason that the order
grew so slowly - each new member decreased our ability to elect the next one (unanimously remember) because the process was
exponentially more slow and difficult.
“Sir Robert is his usual tactful self when he describes the Order's interaction with Geoffrey. My perception was that it was more
in the nature of an ultimatum "Fix the Order or lose it ... here's OUR ROYAL SUGGESTION as to how." (Though I also thought the
idea imminently sensible too). There was also continuous pressure for the Order to DO SOMETHING in order to justify its continued
existence (no other order has had that demand made of it). Oh well! It's all over now ... just another footnote in history.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
1 “Yeah, that's about how I remember it, too. (I also remember several long sessions with him about the virtues of closing an
order over disbanding it.)” – Frederick of Holland
I
“It's a bit sad in many ways. I don't suppose it matters so much at this remove, but I do feel it weakened us at the time. I
admit, I think a fair amount of the blame should go to Henrik (and no, I don't hold it against him at all now). In general,
though, in the SCA it is better not to spring major changes on people. If you let everyone know what you want to do and
discuss it, you can generally get away with it even if people don't like it much at the time. I still regard the KSM as a bad
idea, but the creation of it was done with bad tactics as well.” – Steven MacEanruig
a “Steve’s right about that. I should have talked to more people and given them a chance to tell me what they thought.
The BOD’s Major P.R. disasters tend to revolve around the same thing.” – Henrik of Havn
“Shifting focus back on the event ... I don't think Andrew realized how much confusion making me a Court Baron would cause.
Golden Rivers had only a month before petitioned for Baronial status, and for most of the shire's people Twelfth Night was only their
first or second kingdom level event (i.e., they were clue impaired about honors and politics). I spent a good part of the remainder
of the evening explaining over and over that NO King Andrew had NOT appointed me as Founding Baron of Golden Rivers in place
of David of Castlewhyte as we all expected, it was just a Royal Whim award with no responsibilities or powers.”
[Later] “Just to avoid misconceptions about the Knights/knighted quote - at the time the remark passed between Bill and I (to
be honest I've always claimed it, but it grew a life of its own) I had not been inducted as a KSM and, if memory serves, the order
hadn't been created yet. In that letter, if I recall, I was commiserating with William about the fact that some Knightly people hadn't
been through the ceremony (or even noticed) and that some of those who had been knighted were notoriously letting down the
Knight-team behavior-wise.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I suspect that you invented it, since I don't recall ever hearing it before. It does sum things up nicely. Both you and Bill have a
good sense for a well turned phrase, however.” – Steven MacEanruig
“As far as ‘... inability to see that dividing the Chivalry ... was a bad thing.’ I only wish to offer in defense that (as noted above) I was
for some time rather upset at occasions where the Chivalry image was being frayed at the edges by individuals. (Steve, lots of us
~ 97 ~
C
C
C
D
D
D
took/take the Full Chivalry Monty seriously elsewise why the hell are we here?) When Henrik created the order, please remember
that only he and Siegfried were in on it. (By the way I agree that the tactics [don't consult the affected group and use a 2"x4" upside
the head] in the long view were not good ... reminds me of the reason we started asking people if they wanted to be inducted into
a Peerage Order). The main thing is to repeat what Robert said - we couldn't refuse even though we didn't feel arrogant about being
invited.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “We were all a bit upset, as I recall, and I certainly always took the Full Chivalry Monty (I like that phrase) seriously, as did Bill.
I never doubted that others did as well. At this remove, I tend to view the whole thing as a textbook case of how not to do things.
I don't think I would have ever liked the order but springing it on us made for a good kick-start towards real hatred.
“I did eventually tone down my comments a bit, since many friends of mine were in it. My dislike of the order in no way
extends to any members of it.” – Steven MacEanruig
“The other thing is that I have always preferred the carrot to the stick - reward good behavior, and people will try to earn that reward
as opposed to punishing bad behavior (which in the SCA was always hard to manage). Henrik pulled off his coup, Bela and Robert
accepted and I have to lay my soul on the line and admit that I felt" ‘od, please make me a good enough Knight to earn that one!’"
1 “The carrot is generally nicer. I would have liked to have seen what we could have done if we had been given a chance to
discuss the whole thing openly. In a way, it was a great lost opportunity.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Poul, Bob, Steve (P), Steve (H), Bill, whoever else gives a damn - I saw a goal not a division. It wasn't until I talked to the two of you
after I became a KSM that I realized there was a "Loyal Opposition" (for whom I never lost respect).
“For all of the rest of you, I apologize for involving you in our psychodrama.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Hey, it's an interesting segment of West Kingdom history and I feel that it's actually good for us to finally discuss it out in the
open.” – Steven MacEanruig
“If I were to note the real negative impact that this whole container of worms had it was that it divided the WK SCA knights, at the
time, who should have all been agreeing that there was a problem (no question I think ... and what should be done [big
disagreement]). That we were then and are still now cordial and civil just goes to prove that it hasn't gone away as a problem, but
we've all figured out that it was a just ways and means issue we disagreed over. If we could reinvent the order with full advice and
consent I hope that the original and intended members would all belong ... (as should every KSCA).
“Is it possible to feel proud and sad at the same time - that's how I've felt for a couple of decades now.
“We all wanted to do it right, and I'm ashamed to say it the 'knighted' never had a clue and probably still don't.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
1 “Yeah, I feel that way too.” – Henrik of Havn
“Thought I'd step in with a couple of observations.
“After a bit of thought on just why I accepted the Molet and supported the Order, I think myattitude was that it was an award for
being a knight that did not involve winning a tournament. It was an acknowledgment by the Kingdom for doing things that did not
depend on your fighting skill.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “It's a theory, although not the one I subscribe to. It's interesting to me that only at this remove are the bunch of us talking about
what we actually felt at the time. My own attitude was, as far as I recall, that it was clearly created to make some knights better
than others. In retrospect, I don't think that my theory was correct and that it was more intended as a carrot than divisive move.
I would still oppose it, however, since I feel we need more togetherness and group effort than we do divisiveness.” – Steven
MacEanruig
“Given that I felt that (1) I had no chance of ever winning the Crown again and (2) that I had done things for the Kingdom and for the
Order of Chivalry that there was no in place way of rewarding/acknowledging, I thought the Order was a damn fine idea. And, having
now given it some thought, I still think so.” – Stefan de Lorraine
1 “Fair enough. Needless to say, I disagree about it being a fine idea. I do regret that we had no chance to consider it in council
and come up with something that might have been more workable. In essence, I have the same feelings about it that I do about
things like Stephen Blackeagle’s Arch-Duke announcement long before.” – Steven MacEanruig
“It should have come out of the massed Chivalry of the Kingdom, but it didn't. Perhaps there should have been some criteria
established for entry, but I think if you look at the membership you'll see that any criteria that would have been established was, in
fact, followed. The membership took their responsibility to create new members very seriously, perhaps too seriously. If we had
acted less like an exclusive order, perhaps it would still be a viable concern.” – Stefan de Loraine, who still feels a pride in having
been chosen to walk with the Knights of the Silver Molet
1 “Purely in my opinion, I felt that the membership of the order mirrored exactly that of the general group of knights. I agree that
the members took their responsibility very seriously. I don't agree that they always made the right choices.” – Steven
MacEanruig
~ 98 ~
2
2
E
“Sir Robert has mentioned (perhaps not in these pages yet) that the Order grew slowly intentionally. I don’t recall that to be part
of the original design. I think if it had grown more quickly it may not have been viewed as an exclusive Order as much.” – Henrik
of Havn
I
“I don't believe I ever viewed it as an exclusive order. I was troubled by its existence, not its membership.” – Steven
MacEanruig
“It comes to my mind that a lot of the beginning of the SCA was not by mutual consent, but rather through individual
pronouncements, some became accepted and ultimately custom and/or tradition, others were ‘bombs’ and sooner or later
faded from sight, or changed.” – Henrik of Havn
“Ok. The can of worms [The Order of the Silver Molet] has been opened, so I figure I might as well throw out some questions.
“Not having been around when all this happened, and never having been involved with the Order of Chivalry directly (as an
Order), but having heard things when I moved to the central part of the West Kingdom (from Alaska/Oertha) 12+ years ago ...
“The rumors or stories I heard, and I know others heard them as well were that the KSM was really an attempt at having an
"inner circle" within the Order of Chivalry ... (we don't like him, but he's a knight -- how can we have a special group he's not part of
..?) I never heard a name (or names) of those who the Order was supposedly created to "keep out" ...
“Now, I know several of the members of the order, and I happen to like the folk I know who are in the order, and while I suppose
anything's possible, I have never been comfortable with this particular concept.
“So ... I guess the question is, is there any truth to this?” – Hirsch von Henford
1 “I guess that I'm the surviving (vehement) KSM on the History dialog (apologies my siblings), and I guess that in a sense it's
my own fault. I experienced and love so much of the history of the SCA and we're right on the event horizon when I was big time.
The other thing is that (as Steven M. protests "I take it all [at least making it work {kp}] very seriously).
“This seems to at the moment to be a dialog between Steven and I. There are a load of other folks who should have stuff
to say, but it's probably best if they have a good chunk of inside information about the story.
“Again, I will wait for Henrik to speak for himself ... but I will say, on my own personal honor (NOTHING was said or implied)
that the attitude that Hirsch reports "I'm Knightlier than thou and in the IN GROUP" (yes we were aware of it eventually) never
crossed our minds. In the first group of four members of us ... (to quote Steven Stills at Woodstock"We were scared shitless")
no way! I beg those of you who have known us for decades to even pretend that we thought we had a slam dunk on everybody
else (if you fail, what did I do wrong?). Actually the (innocently believing bunch of us) thought it was an idea worth exporting to
other Kingdoms. (Did you know that?)
“Elsewise I think that Steve and I have set out the philosophical disagreement and its resolution and if you weren't there
you're just burnin' powder.” – Kevin Peregrynne
2 “I'm perfectly willing to believe that there was no intention of an "I'm knightlier than thou" attitude. But that is certainly the way
it came across from the outside. And not just to the other members of the Order of Chivalry. I recall hearing at least one nonpeer saying to another "Oh, that's an order for knights who fulfill all the requirements for knighthood."” – William the Lucky
I
“I doubt there was any such intention and I don't think the members in it mostly felt that at all. I know others did, myself to
some degree among them. My own perception would be that I don't want elite groups within the order even if I was to be
one of them. I realize the order itself is, to some extent, an elite group, but I don't claim consistency in my beliefs.” – Steven
MacEanruig
2 “The perception of an "in group" was enhanced by the fact that we all have slightly different ideas about who would deserve
to be part of such an order. Which means that, while some members were unquestionably worthy, it was all too common to
know both non-members who should have been included and members of the Order of the Silver Molet who would have been
one's last choice for an order of exemplars. So, having seen little correlation between great chivalry and membership, the
obvious conclusion is that who your friends are matters more than how you behave.” – William the Lucky
I
“I will say that there was never anyone in the order who would have been my last choice. There were a couple of later ones
that definitely wouldn't have been among my first choices or even high up on my list. Basically, as I said before, I came to
the conclusion that the order was pretty much a reflection of the order of chivalry itself.” – Steven MacEanruig
II “Keep in mind – “great chivalry” as “beauty” is in the eye of the beholder. I believe there are people whose conduct is
unchivalrous according to my set of values, but that same conduct is not unchivalrous according to another’s set of moral
values. I can also attest that during discussions of prospective candidates for the KSM that I participated in, there was at
times a strong reminder of the difficulty a unanimous agreement was to find with a candidate.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “As was noted earlier in the discussion, the Order of Chivalry had some problem members. I think virtually all of us who were
around at the time would agree that far -- while possibly disagreeing over who they were. But it seems to me that if you have
even 20% bad apples, you work on reforming or tossing them out -- you only set up a new order if you have more like 80% bad
apples. And I never thought for a minute that we had even 10% bad apples. Well, maybe 11%.” – William the Lucky
~ 99 ~
I
3
F
F
F
F
“I couldn't have said it better. I note that a good part of what we all thought about it seems to come from our different
perceptions of just what the order was. This strikes me as another reason to have public or semi-public discussions about
such things before springing them on everyone.
“Oddly enough, while I felt as strongly as anyone about the KSM, I never considered touching it when I was later king.
Partly that was because many of my good friends were in it, but partly it was also because while I felt I was right about it,
I was by no means unbiased or in a position to evaluate it dispassionately. In effect, I disqualified myself from any formal
actions regarding it.” – Steven MacEanruig
II “How does one “reform” bad apples? My approach was an attempt at leading by the example of the best who weren’t “more
holy than thou” in attitude as perceived by the chivalry as whole.” – Henrik of Havn
“I’m glad this is being discussed here. I hadn’t gotten to this page when I explained on Steve’s message page – why and how
I intended the Order to develop. But keep in mind that the Order was on its own after Sir Bela and Sir Robert were inducted into
it. After that point, the Order was independent of any outside direction, be it the Crown’s or anyone else’s.
“To answer your question – the KSM was not intended to be a special exclusive group that would keep out anyone. There
was no “list” of “un-worthies” that I ever heard of. It was to lead by example only. I can very honestly say that when my name was
called as a candidate for the Order, I didn’t know it was me being called until I saw people around me turning to look at me and
then it started to sink in and my jaw dropped. I didn’t feel I was as worthy as some of the other members of the Chivalry present,
and only hoped any example that I might be able to set would be a compliment to the SCA, the West and the Order.” – Henrik
of Havn
“My intention for creating the order was several fold (is that a word?)
“Firstly, I thought the Order of Chivalry was rather 2 dimensional at the time. Once one was a belted fighter, there was no further
place to develop - except by improving one’s fighting ability and winning a title. For those not able or willing to win a title, there was
always the Laurel and Pelican to strive to earn, but nothing as a Knight. I thought of Bachelor Knights, but that didn’t sound like an
incentive to develop within the Order of Chivalry. The Order of the Silver Molet was meant to be like a 2nd Dan in the Order of Chivalry
that didn’t rely on better fighting ability. I hoped other Monarchs would create other comparable Orders of Chivalry – to enhance the
general Order overall.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “And there was one of my major problems with the Molet. I never understood why the knights should need anything further to
develop in the SCA when the Laurels and Pelicans didn't. The belted fighters already had control of the crown and greater
public recognition than the other orders. To give them something additional is kind of like an odd combination of saying that
they deserve something more than the other orders while at the same time saying that they need further inducement because
they aren't capable of living up to their ideals otherwise.
“I think I would have been less bothered by the Molet if it had initially been created with members of all three orders (or,
for that matter all four if you consider Masters at Arms a different order). By the time that came along, however, it was far to late
to mend the order for me.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Duke Siegfried helped me a lot with the wording of the ceremony, and he was the person who suggested Sir John Chandos as
the historic model, and using his arms differenced by the Crown of the West as the Orders’ arms.”
“The autonomy of the Order’s structure was designed by me since I felt that some Kings had created Knights who did not
satisfy all the requirements of Knighthood, but were just good fighters at the time.” – Henrik of Havn
1 Not dissimilar from the other orders.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Only those of the Silver Molet could propose new candidates, and only the Crown could admit a candidate to the Order. This way,
both the Crown and all the members of the Order had to agree to a candidate, before the candidate could be added to the Order’s
membership. True, it might have seemed that the Order was composed of a bunch of “Better than You’s”, but I hoped it wouldn’t
be the case.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “My arguments with the order never extended to the members of it. I was sorry that some of them couldn't see what seemed
to me to be quite clear, that the order was basically bad for the knights, but that's the way it goes. And, of course, I have to keep
in mind what Steve Perrin said to me recently. It's good to remember that we were all quite young at the time.” – Steven
MacEanruig
“Another reason for the Order was that I hoped that a stronger element of color and pageantry would develop at tournaments – with
the Order hopefully sponsoring non-title tournaments and other events aimed at Chivalric concepts. I think the current growing
popularity of Pas d’Arms movement is part of what I had envisioned.
“But I was also wanting the Order to promote one of the main goals of the SCA, Inc. – Education. To that end, the Order
sponsored in late 1970's and early 1980's weekly fighting practices and a mini-lecture series where guest lecturers gave a 30 to
60 minute talk on a variety of period historical topics, including Chaucer, Falconry, Elements of Historical Costumes, etc.
“Final Note, the Order of the Silver Molet hasn’t been disbanded, it is just not a Kingdom created order anymore. It’s members
are not active as a collective entity, but some continue to wear the Orders’ regalia at events.” – Henrik of Havn
~ 100 ~
G
“I have been very remiss in commenting on your distributions and others' comments -- about as remiss as I could have been given
that I haven't responded at all. But the collection of comments on the Silver Molet [interspersed throughout], and poor Henrik twisting
in the wind, cause me to make a point which (I must admit) I don't know whether anybody else has made or not.
“Although I don't know who all Henrik consulted in the process of setting up what we originally called the Order of Chandos
and which became the Silver Molet, I know he and I spent a lot of time talking about it. One theme I recall very strongly, and it relates
to cultural assimilation. During that period the SCA in the West was going through rapid growth and, as so often happened in SCA
groups, consequent acculturation rapid growth was paralleled by the existing structures being unable to absorb and assimilate
new people quickly enough. Whenever that happened we wound up with (typically) youngsters who had latched onto some notions
(like fighting) as nifty, but who had not really come into contact with or internalized the overall ideals and ideas of the SCA. My strong
recollection is that Henrik thought of the new order as one which could visibly be seen as upholding the non-fighting ideals of
Knighthood, and thus by example extol and represent those virtues to youngsters who saw Knighthood only as the culmination of
fighting ability. In other words, from a P.R. perspective it was largely aimed as aspirant fighters in the hopes that they might broaden
their appreciation of the goal towards which they strived, and not intended as a "higher and greater" goal for existing Knights.
Certainly that was my understanding of it and why my suggestions were as they were. This isn't to say that its other purposes as
identified for better or worse by other contestants -- er, communicants -- were not real; it's only that I didn't notice this (once major)
purpose being discussed. Which isn't to say it wasn't just that I missed it.
“As others have pointed out, of course, the unintended consequences of the OSM, as with so many things in life, had furtherreaching and greater ramifications that its original purpose.
“Having said all that I'm proud I had something to do with its inception; I believed in its stated goals and still do; however
detached I still feel its purpose was worthy and its recipients largely worthy as well; and I, as others, still appreciate very much being
honored by the invitation to walk with the Order.” – Siegfried von Hoflichskeit
1 “As Dave [Siegfried] notes, we had some significant assimilation problems in the mid-1970's. We were going through a period
when a significant number of members felt that expanding the size of the group was an absolute good.
“My belief (then and now) is that we were setting ourselves up for trouble because we were taking in people faster than
we could absorb then and teach them how the group worked. It is one thing to absorb new people when there are a half dozen
old hands for each new one -- there is plenty of time to spend with each one talking about how the group works. What is
important. And generally getting the idea across that, while we are very tolerant of people with an odd kick in their gallop, there
are some basics which are not negotiable.
“But we took in enough people to nearly double our numbers every year or two for a while, and it made a mess. One or
two individuals who simply don't know and don't care about the things that are important to us can be dealt with as individuals;
a dozen or more present enough of a bad example that extreme measures have to be taken -- meaning that sometimes we
found ourselves with new knights who simply knew nothing about the Society or the Kingdom outside of how to fight. Other
times, we discovered that we had acquired a sub-group which knows only that Society events provide them a great place to
party -- and some of them who have come to events for years have made remarks like "You're Queen? How do you get to be
Queen?" I submit that any significant number of attendees who, after half a year of coming to events, could ask such a question
is an indication that we're in danger of losing something important.
“Of course, the acculturation problem occurs all the time in new, and outlying, groups. Which is why it is so important that
some of us make the effort to travel around the kingdom.
“In short, the symptom that the Silver Molet was attempting to address was all too real. But the difficulties were that a) it
did not succeed in solving the problem -- which is not to say that it shouldn't have been tried, and b) it wasn't clear that that was
what it was for. Certainly I have heard lots of comments from those who had a hand in setting it up which reflect ideas which
I had never even suspected before. And I was definitely around the whole time.
“I don't think we are leaving Henrik to twist in the wind (alone or otherwise). I wasn't trying to anyway. Rather, I think we are
doing exactly what this forum was set up to do reviewing events and setting out what we did and why we did it. The more
different perspectives we can bring, the better. No doubt the discussion may get a little caustic -- we are, after all, a fairly
opinionated bunch. But so far nobody has descended from opinion to insult.” – William the Lucky, who would be called the
Oblivious if he hadn't locked on to another epithet first (which may discount the last sentence, I suppose).
B
“When Henrik created the Silver Molet at 12th Night, VIII, and named Sir Bela and myself to it, he did not give us any detailed
instructions on what to do next (beyond what was in the formal proclamation further members had to be knights, had to be
nominated by the order and created by the Crown, were supposed to be chosen for exemplifying chivalric values - however that
might be interpreted - and that the order would constitute an honor guard for coronations, that being the only actual duty specified.)
“Naturally, I immediately spoke with Sir Bela about what to do next. He agreed with me that two did not make much of an honor
guard and we sought to add two more promptly. I asked around mostly of ladies I knew and Stefan & Kevin were oft mentioned.
So were some others who, however, had quietly let me know that they would rather not be considered. So after 4 months, we grew
to four. Then at the next 12th Night, it seemed only fitting to add Henrik & Siegfried, whose brainchild it all was, and to whom the
~ 101 ~
inspiration of Sir John Chandos was so taken to heart. After that it got harder, not to find knights who we could unanimously agree
were worthy, but to decide who among many worthies should come next. We only considered those who had been knights for at
least 2 years, but most had been around for many years. All 6 created in AS 8 & 9 had joined the SCA in AS I or II, I believe. In other
words, there was an extensive track record.
“By AS XX, we had added 6 more (Elriin of Hrassvelg, Lorin sur la Roche, Jon FitzRauf, Mark von dem Falconsfenn, Edward
of Southhaven, James Greyhelm) and 7 of us attended the 20 Year Celebration in Ansteorra, where we conducted two seminars
on chivalry and led the procession of 11 sets of Kings & Queens at the great May 1 ceremony, as honor guard to their Western
Majesties. Henrik & Siegfried carried the historic Original Crowns made by Master Beverly on small cushions.
“In AS XXIII, King Geoffrey asked us to extend eligibility to Laurels & Pelicans. This had not occurred to me before, but was
eminently logical, since the requirements other than fighting, which was NOT a Molet criterion, were identical for all 3 orders. We
then added (all at once) Hilary, Annette, Aislinn, and Master Beverly. But before long, some other King (I forget who it was [Jade
of Starfall – ed.]) decided to close the order, so unless some future King re-opens it (which seems unlikely) the membership will
remain at 16, or rather 15 now, since Master Beverly's passing.
“In proposing members, I think I looked for those who gave a lot of themselves to the group as a whole, while of course treating
everyone of whatever station with courtesy and consideration. I do not tend to equate chivalry with showy forms of courtly behavior,
but more with deeper traits of character. Of the first 12, by the way, 7 were triple-peers, 2 others held two peerages, most had
served in various offices & functions and some were prime instigators of whole areas of SCA activity. Siegfried, of course, largely
invented current medieval combat, and served extensively at Kingdom & Corporate level. Henrik, more than anyone else, developed
tilting at rings & quintain in the SCA and engineered the necessary equipment, among many other services, including the SCA
Board. Stefan built the Seneschalate into a well-functioning organization. Kevin, as Earl Marshal & then Society Marshal, created
the armor standards that have made it possible to keep doing the heavy combat we do at the scale it is now done without a
disastrous casualty rate. Bela headed the College of Bards. Jon almost single-handedly made archery a major SCA-wide activity
with his creation of the Royal Round, the IKAC & the IKCAC, and his administering it for years on end. James, along with Verena,
got the Land Fund (now Kingdom Historical Trust) going and put much work into it.
“I regret that we didn't move faster to induct more of the deserving candidates. In some cases, knights who were quite
acceptable to all became inactive before we got around to them, and since we did the honor guard thing, I think we tended to go
first with those who would be likely to attend all 3 coronations each year.
“As I approach the 30th anniversary of my knighting this May, I must say that I have largely very good feelings about the Order
of Chivalry at present. We seem to have developed a culture that values behavior that might be defined as chivalric in the best
sense. With the huge numbers of fighters at present, and the level of expertise among them, it appears that these values are
generally pretty well inculcated in fighters well before they reach the level of skill and experience to be knighted. Perhaps the entire
Chivalry (and indeed the other peerage orders as well) have largely developed into what Henrik intended to encourage by creating
the Silver Molet.” – Robert of Dunharrow
H
[The scroll for Boncueur was signed by the Kings and Queens of all four Kingdoms, as his work as Society Registrar benefitted
them all equally.] “I believe that the all-kingdom scroll was my idea. We wanted a way to recognize Boncueur's contribution to the
entire SCA. The Board of Directors had made him the first Master of the Pelican on 10/22/1972 AS VII. That proved to be an
unpopular action not because it was undeserved but because people resented the BoD inserting itself into the Current Middle Ages
as the Imperial Board of Electors. The Laurels agreed that Boncueur deserved recognition both for his continued efforts and for
the art of bookkeeping. (He kept his records by hand in the medieval double-entry bookkeeping ledger style. I had a thorough
introduction to this when I went down to help him one afternoon.) My then Lady and wife, Mistress Annette of Faire Monte, was
Chancellor of the College of Scribes and she arranged for the scroll to be secretly made and shipped to each pair of monarchs
to be signed and sealed. I have a picture of Boncueur at court kneeling with dropped jaw as Mistress Karina of the Far West, then
Vesper Principal Herald, read the unique scroll and ended with the four pairs of signatures and seals. Boncueur's surprised
expression was priceless!” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel (who is still proud of one idea that really worked)
March 10, 1974 AS VIII
Feast of Three Tastes
Held in the First Unitarian Church, Kensington, California. Lady Adrienne of Toledo hosted this benefit for T he Page. King Andrew
attended.
Comments:
A
“His Majesty spent a goodly part of the evening sitting on various ladies' laps among other good natured flirting (this has bearing
on events in a few more months). As Henrik noted - Sir Earl of Morris (recently returned from Japan) and his lady's tandem
performance of Iaido kata was a high point.” – Kevin Peregrynne
~ 102 ~
Held in Neptune/Seawind Area, Alameda State Beach, Alameda, California. Andrew and Salomé reigned. King Andrew gave Awards of
Arms to Allyson of Dunrobin, D’Vanya de Tourbullion, Douglas Longshanks, Gilmirron of the Blue Flame, Guillaume de Vinvert, Johann
Heinrich Michael Siemon von Werniergerod, Maelen of Kynge’s Lea, Marisela of Muninsgaard, Michael the Black, Nathan de Bläser,
Patricia of Roscommon, Sholom ben Avram of York, and Sumingo of Amaranth. He admitted Robert of Winchester to the Order of the Leaf
of Merit. King Andrew knighted Elriin of Hrassvelg and Sean Macarailt of Sandyhume. He admitted Adrienne of Toledo, Annette of Faire
Monte, Ardis an Dearg, Elriin of Hrassvelg, Gonwynnlynn of Hrassvelg, Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf), Margaret of Ashford, and Robert of
Winchester to the Order of the Laurel. Elriin was thus the first ever to join the Orders of Knighthood and the Laurel at the same time.
Mistress Geraldine of Toad Hall petitioned King Andrew to take back her Laurel, and to ask the Board of Directors to release the Order of
the Pelican to the four kingdoms, and then give her one, for she felt that the Order of the Laurel was being improperly given for service.
King Andrew took the matter under consideration, but declared he would not be the King to take back her Laurel. Crown Lists were held.
Sir William of Hoghton won, defeating Duke Paul of Bellatrix. Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood) was his lady. Sir Kevin
Peregrynne gave the MGC to Elric de Cassell. Count Stefan de Lorraine gave the OBH to Brian Dritar an Con. Master Raymond the Mild
won the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for Strudel.
Comments:
A
“Maybe the first really rainy Crown tourney - I remember seeing Henrik sitting at the edge of the lists, using his round shield as a
rain hat - it fit in top of his helmet. Many of the names mentioned here went on to great deeds and are remembered well, others
fell away.” – James Greyhelm
1 “It was indeed rainy (though I recall one at Coyote Creek where the distinction between creek and field was quite vague) Patrice and I brought an old vinyl waterbed liner to use as a floor inside our picnic shelter/household sized umbrella. The usual
socializing was a process of scurrying from pavilion to pavilion. If I recall the fighters had Royal dispensation from falling down
when defeated. It was either this one or the aforementioned Coyote Creek March Drown where Brian Dritar an Con cracked
everyone up by showing up for one round of combat wearing scuba gear.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“I don't think it was Brian in the scuba gear; I think it was William the Lucky.
“But I could be wrong.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
II “It was Brian. I remember the actions of my brother-in-law quite well. And if it had not been so wet, I might have been rolling
on the ground laughing.
“At the same event I also remember someone's houndskull basinet getting stuck in wet and muddy field after the
wearer died face first into it.” – Jon FitzRolf
III “I don't know if it was Brian, but it definitely was not me. Never been in scuba gear in my life. (Though it might be fun ...)
“I thought one of the best parts was right at the beginning when someone came up to me (I was Seneschal, and
therefore theoretically in some kind of overall charge) and asked with great seriousness "What happens if it rains?"
“"If it rains, we get wet."
“Obviously I have insufficient concern for any Wicked Witches of the West who might be subject to melting. I guess
that after some of those tourneys in An Tir, the prospect of water didn't concern me as much as some.” – William the Lucky
a “My memory of the tournament was Bill saying "It's not raining," repeatedly, as well as various questions such as "what
rain?" And as I recall the king called him forth to honor him for some reason and the sun came out ...
“There are reasons why he is known as William the Lucky ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, whose memory of this event
is just flashes of various people in various kitbashed rain gear having a great time. On the other hand, memories of
it are much nicer twenty years later in a dry office ...
2 “This was at Coyote Creek. Unlike the Alameda tourney, which may well have happened the same year, the Coyote Creek
tourney was a constant rain. Geraldine stood in the middle of the field yelling "This is assholism!" but we continued to fight until
a winner was chosen, then did a record time dispersal to various impromptu revels.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who was willing
to admit Geri was right but kept right on keeping on ...
3 “Marsh Crown was indeed a wet event, and Brian's antics with the scuba gear was hilarious. I was the field herald during the
challenge matches before the crown lists and came out to announce one of King Paul's challenge matches. The ink ran off
the card before I could read the challenge! I went back to the Lists to find out what the challenge was, and then went to my
pavilion and came out with an umbrella, so the rest of the cards wouldn't run. Paul, still standing there on the field with the rain
running down his armor in sheets, called out, "Come on. It's not that wet!"
“I wrote a song at that event, which I will share [see Appendices, page 368].” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
4 “It was a 28" viking round with leather handgrip inside the central boss. The rounded top of my spangen helm fit nicely inside
the boss.” – Henrik of Havn
~ 103 ~
5
“By this time, there were a few fighters who were really into schtick – Brian Drittar an Con, Bern Bellower, and Martin the
Temperate immediately come to mine. Brian and Bern, especially in this department, were often teaming up and made a
formidable pair. My recollection is that Bern first took the field, announced something which I do not recollect, and Brian came
running out in his wet suit, tank & regulator, mask and hood plus sword and shield, squared off against Bern, a marshal (who
may or may not have been part of this) came running up and would not let them fight (which was a good thing, because Brian
was not wearing a helm) – then Brian went running off the field. A couple of years later, when I took up scuba diving, Brian sold
his equipment to me, and I still have the tank & reg and a few other items – but the wet suit shrank, so I gave it away.
“‘Marsh Crown’ evolved to become a catch-all phrase for ‘March Crowns whereat it rained,’ and there was more than these
two, and it quickly evolved to retroactively cover March 74 – but The Marsh Crown and Brian's scuba schtick was 1975.” –
Andrew of Riga
B
“A soggy event, though not as much so as some later. I remember this one for several reasons. For one thing, my mother was there,
and for another, the park was pretty public with what I remember as hoards of people wandering through.
“Paul fought throughout the tourney with greatsword, made the finals, and lost two straight to Hoghton quite handily. I remember
him afterwards telling me that he rather expected to lose, but not that fast.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“Patti and I both remember it as being the Coyote Creek event that 1. Brian did the scuba bit, and
2. We (all of us) came up with the label "Marsh Crown"
"Marsh Drown" and other Bons Mots came later (had El Nino been popularized yet)?” – Kevin Peregrynne
D
“Nothing special to note save that this is my first crown tourney experience. With so many new sights and so many new faces, most
was a blur. Henrik under his rain shield stands out. I remember Andrew's declaration as to Mistress Geraldine's Laurel, (my first
glimpse of royal presence,) and I lost in the first round to Brian Dritar an Con. So I drove all night, 6 hours, to sit in the rain, fight
for 30 seconds, and go home wet and cold. I loved it.” – Martin the Temperate
The Year Nine
May 4-5, 1974 AS IX
Held in Alexander Ranch, Briones Regional Park, Homestead Valley, California.
Andrew and Salomé held court. King Andrew gave Awards of Arms to Bern
Bellower, Fiona di Varanus, Philip Dyemoke, and Robert Prospero de RuyterNorthkirk. He admitted Bergen von Rauch, Meg Shelford, and William of York to
the Order of the Leaf of Merit. He gave Grants of Arms to Bevin Fraser of Sterling
and Brian Dritar an Con. He made Morrigan Cailte and Trude Lacklandia Crown
Baronesses. He admitted Dierdre Muldomhnaigh, Grane the Golden, and Suzanne
of Woodwose Hall to the Order of the Laurel. At the recommendation of Sir Bela
of Eastmarch and Sir Robert Dunharrow, King Andrew admitted Sir Kevin
Peregrynne and Count Stefan de Lorraine to the Order of the Silver Molet. King Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of
William of Hoghton - Per bend sinister sable and
Or, in
Andrew
knighted Douglas Longshanks and Robert of Westmarch. (Before Willowwood) - Or, a bend sinister wavy vert, between two
bend two towers palewise counterchanged.
weeping willows proper.
stepping down, in a moving speech, King Andrew persuaded Mistress Geraldine
to retain her Laurel.) Then William and Donna were crowned by Andrew and Salomé. (Since William the Silent had previously reigned,
this made Sir William of Hoghton King William II.) King William II created the Queen’s Guard, to consist of the best unbelted fighters, and
admitted Bern Bellower, Brian Dritar an Con, Eliazar ben-Dovid, Loren Sur la Roche, Orric the Woody, Philip Dyemoke, and William Allen
as founding members. On the next day, Sir Steven MacEanruig won the Queen’s Favor, while Master Raymond the Mild became Wardlord.
Master Raymond won the College of Sciences Armormaking Contest. Mistress Annette of Faire Monte won the Order of the Wooden
Spoon competition for crepes made on the spot. At final court King William II gave Awards of Arms to Celeste, Crystal of Hightower, and
to Pierre Lyon Goules. He made Sir Bela of Eastmarch and Master Beverly Hodghead Crown Barons, and Ellen Cross Quills and Mistress
Karina of the Far West Crown Baronesses.
~ 104 ~
Comments:
A
“Andrew was not the only one exercising Royal Whims - Salome gave me my second QOG (I believe the others were first time
recipients) - she'd been told I already was a member of the order, but she said that it was the Queen's award to give and I had made
her (and others feel welcome {I’m NOT bragging that's what she said}), making me either the first or second (William the Lucky
was the other) to become a QOG-Squared.
“There had been for several years an "unofficial" selection of the Lecher of the Year" at Beltane. This had, at the time, been
a way, for the ladies to get teasingly back at those 'gentlemen' who in their pursuit of the fair sex had displayed Little or NO romance
in their approach. Queen Donna was not of the ribald spirit to encourage this particular definition, so it was changed to Philanderer
of the Year to allow her to shift to a carrot vs. stick approach. {Mind you, I learned all of this from Patrice later}. The upshot was that
brand new ex-king Andrew and baby KSM Kevin tied and shared the title.
“The weird part - A Queen's Order of Grace, election to the Silver Molet AND Philanderer of the Year in 12 hours?????
“... go figure” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“This was the first tourney when I really began to develop my own relatively distinctive style of fighting. I was hot that day and I was
trying some different things that had been sort of working around in my head for awhile. It was also the event where I got a real taste
of fear in fighting. The Queen's Favor was fought with different weapons and in, I think, the semifinals, I fought Paul of Bellatrix with
maces. We both ended on our knees and I caught him with a real solid combination to the back of the helm, more or less knocking
him down. That was ok, but then when he started to get up he managed to get to his hands and knees and fell again, more or less
unable to move. Scared the hell out of me. I remember ripping my helmet off and shouting something like "Paul, are you ok." Which
he wasn't. Fortunately, it developed that he was suffering more from exhaustion (not much sleep the night before), compounded
with anti-histamines. Still, one of the most nervous moments I've had.
“The final was between William the Lucky and I and we ended up writing two songs about it for our song book, Axing
MacEanruig and Macing the William.
“It's good to see some of the other names mentioned. Bern Bellower was a really nice guy who eventually headed off to New
York to try to make it in the acting world. I don't know what happened to him after that, since he pretty much dropped out of touch
completely. He was also one of the best greatsword fighters I ever met.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
“It may be at this event or possibly the crown where Baroness Jessica Lyrinndi of Northmarch (Isles) and I present and perform
for the first time at court. In this case it is a song about Bern the Bellower, which seems to be appropriately coincidental to the
commentary. [See Appendices, page 371]” – Martin the Temperate
D
[He made Sir Bela of Eastmarch ... Court Baron] “Are we sure that this happened in May and not at Purgatorio? I could have sworn
I witnessed it, but I was only at Purgatorio as my Northern event for this reign.” – Charles of Dublin
June 22, 1974 AS IX
Held in Kennedy Grove Park, El Sobrante, California. William II and Donna reigned. King William II gave Awards of Arms to Alice of
Briarbrook, Alys of the Midnight Rose, Audun Ulfsson, Celeste Lamuray de Provence, Clarissa of Red Crab Manor on the James, Daniel
the Bard, Kreimhilde of Stonecroft, Edward Ziffran D’Gendy, Elaine of Gad, Elisabeth de la Capucine, Elrond of Gornath, Fionna O’Morain,
Francesca the Bemused, Geoffrey of Ramsgate, Gerald Bright Angel, Jeann of Oakenshield, Jeffery Brokenblade, Kathë Feghut von
Munchausen, Kelson de la Croix, Rand of Dunbar, Richard of Havn, Rodrigo de Cerdaña, Rosemary of Talmont, Steingrim Wulfharesson
(Steingrim Stallari), Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft, Theodulf of Borogrove, William of Gad, and Yolanda de Campo de Cerdaña. He
admitted Catriona nicChlurain, Gilmirron of the Blue Flame, Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf), Carol of Bellatrix, Martin of the Fallen Star, Michaela
de Neuville, Morrigan Cailte, Paul of Bellatrix, Ranulf of the North Country, Roi de Cascades, Sheen of Ire, Siegfried von Hoflichskeit,
Sumingo of Amaranth, and Talanque to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Then Crown Lists were held. Sir Douglas Longshanks won, defeating
Count Andrew of Riga. Lorna of Leeds was his lady. Elric de Cassel gave the MGC to Bern Bellower. Brian Dritar an Con gave the OBH
to Christopher of Hoghton. Mistress Geraldine of Toad Hall won the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for rose recipies. Visiting
were, from the East, Duchess Diana Alene of Tregirtsee, Lady Liossliath of Donelly, King Asbjørn Gustavsson, Duke Cariadoc of the Bow,
and Sir Patri du Chat Gris, and, from Atenveldt Sir Ton the Traveler. At final court King William II made Countess Luise of the Phoenix and
Patrice du Couer Fidel Crown Baronesses. He gave Grants of Arms to Alys von Markheim (Alison von Markheim), Jessica Lyrindi of
Northmarch, Piers Howells de Cambria, Rowen-Lynn, Waldt von Markheim, and Ximena Aubel de Cambria. Suzanne of Ravenhill was
admitted to the Order of the Laurel in a new, and elaborate ceremony. Then King William II admitted Craig of the Chambers, Gilles of Lennox,
Hal Ravn, Mark von dem Falkensfenn, Rand of Dunbar, Ranulf of the North Country, Waldt von Markheim, and Warren the Strange to the
Queen’s Guard. Then Queen Donna admitted Jean Teresa Violante and Duchess Marynel of Darkhaven to the Queen’s Order of Grace.
~ 105 ~
Comments:
A
“You know, I'm not at all sure that Luise ever heard about this. For the first time since the second tourney, we missed a crown event
because we were invited to a coronation in Atenveldt. Our Atenveldter friends wanted Luise to dance for the king. Now I'm trying to
remember who the king was, but I think it was Reynard. He was either coming on the throne or stepping off it. We stayed with him
and his then wife and had a great time hanging out with them and other friends like Denis of the Titans, William of the Shire, and
others.
“The down side was that we missed the visiting SCAers and I have yet to meet any of them face-to-face.” – Stefan de Lorraine,
who always remembers Atenveldt hospitality fondly ...
B
“I'm probably wrong again, but I have this strong sense of Douglas having defeated William the Lucky, not Andrew. Somebody tell
me if I'm wrong. I did meet my new lady, Margaret Threadbare, at this event, as I recall. She went to the tournament with a friend
who's car ran out of gas and I happened to be the next one along. I drove her to the gas station, got the car started for them, later
asked if I could fight for her, and got into the semi-finals, giving her a substantial scare.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Nope, Doug beat Andy. He beat me a year later (June 1975).” – William the Lucky (who has a list of all of the finalists from
the first tourney through 1996 -- and really must get around to updating it for the last couple of years before everybody forgets
the details.)
August 3-4, 1974 AS IX
Held in Big Trees Camp, Oakland, California. William and Donna held court. King
William instituted the Kingdom Order of the Pelican, and named Sir Stefan de
Lorraine as the Principal of the Order. He then admitted Geraldine of Toad Hall,
Karina of the Far West, Bevin Fraser of Sterling, Hal Ravn, and Robert of
Dunharrow to the Order. Sir Robert turned in his Laurel in return for his Pelican,
and his Pelican was backdated to the time of his Laurel. Sir Steven M acEanruig,
Harold of Breakstone, and Jon de Cles were made Barons and Ann Parkhurst of
Gatehouse, Janet Breakstone, and Diana Listmaker were made Baronesses. King
William gave Awards of Arms to Warren the Strange, Geoffrey Pendragon, Mark
von dem Falkensfenn, Aldrick the Woody, Loren Sur la Roche, Craig of the
Douglas Longshanks - Sable, a pentaskelion of armoured
Lorna of Leeds - Or, an escarbuncle of six flory azure.
Chambers, Joy of the Mountain Wilderness, Jeanne Teresa Violante of Heather
legs argent.
and Arn, Orric of the Spur, and William Allen. King William admitted Wilhelm von Schlüssel to the Order of
the Leaf of Merit. Queen Donna admitted Diana Listmaker to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Then Douglas and Lorna were crowned by William
and Donna. King Douglas named William Count and Queen Lorna named Donna Countess. Then a competition for Her Majesty’s Favor
was held on the field, and the First Annual Arts Pentathlon was held off the field.
On the second day a live chess game was held, which white won. At the completion of the game the remaining pieces fought it out.
Mark von dem Falkensfenn almost turned the battle by singlehandedly defeating all but one of the white pieces, including Duke Paul of
Bellatrix. Sir Kevin Peregrynne was the white piece which finally defeated this black holdout. At closing court King Douglas reinstituted
the old awards of rosemary wreaths for valour, which he gave to Mark, and for courtesy, which he gave to Master Raymond the Mild. Sir
Steven MacEanruig was awarded the Queen’s Favor. The winner of the Sciences competition for the best eating utensil was won by
Suzanne of Ravenhill, for a beautiful salt cellar carved from a whale’s tooth. King Douglas admitted Josquin du Bois Vert and Jean Paul
Monraith to the Order of the Leaf of Merit, and gave them Awards of Arms. Queen Lorna admitted Amanda of Cawdor to the Queen’s Order
of Grace.
The grand winner of the Arts Pentathlon was Geraldine of Toad Hall, with Trude Lacklandia taking second place. They were the only
ones to enter all of the categories. The individual winners were: Cooking - Marisela of Muninsgaard for spiced prunes; Brewing - Master
Beverly Hodghead; Instrumental Music - Julia des Grenades; Dramatic Reading - Julia des Grenades; Singing - Julia des Grenades; Musical
Composition - Julia des Grenades; Metal- and Wood-craft - Johan Heinrich Michael Siemon von Wernigerod; Stitchery - Diana Listmaker;
Costuming - Janet Breakstone; Dancing (tie) - Fiona and Marisula of Muninsgaard; Calligraphy - Geraldine of Toad Hall; Poetry - Rima of
Rockridge.
~ 106 ~
Comments:
A
A
A
“Mark [von dem Falkensfenn] was really on a roll that day, and fighting on the defensive at that. After his first victory - our
chessmaster threw every thing but the moat monsters at him and he kept on winning. I think two factors allowed me to get the job
done - I had been training him at Golden Rivers' weekly practices so I knew most of his moves and, more importantly, he had just
finished half a dozen consecutive and increasingly difficult fights by the time I got thrown at him. We nick-named him Super Pawn
for the remainder of the event.” – Kevin Peregrynne, White Queen's knight
1 “Another nice guy. Mark was good, left-handed, and quick. I always found him a tough fight. I might have beaten Douglas in the
semi-finals the second time he won the crown if I hadn't fought Mark just before in one of the longer and more exhausting fights
I remember from many years of long exhausting fights. Of course, I might not have beaten him anyway. Mark was also a fine
jeweler and did first class cloisonne work.” – Steven MacEanruig
“I just happened to remember that Mark - (who, by the way is still around - Mark, his Lady Diane, Patti and I, Andrew of Riga, Richard
of house Havn, his Lady Karen, Henrik and Yoko and several other Calderians had dinner together about a month ago) - right about
this time in WK history happened upon a book about the archeological work that took place in the early 1900's in Wisby Denmark.
He built a replica of the 'Wisby pattern' coat of plates armor and wore it to a Golden Rivers practice. It was an immediate sensation flexible yet impact-resistant armor that anybody could build with a minimum of tools. I recall building a duplicate of his with my white
leather gambeson cover, scrap 20 gauge galvanized steel, tinsnips, a drill, a file, a bag of Tandy speed rivets and a hammer in
the spare bedroom of our rented house on Acacia Avenue in Sacramento in the week following his armor's debut.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
1 “Not Denmark! Wisby is on the Island of Gotland and belongs to Sweden.” – Henrik of Havn
“Mark's research led to the rapid spread of simple yet effective plate armor throughout the West that (IMHO) prevented many rib and
kidney injuries (real SCAers don't notice bruises) that might have otherwise occurred. Likewise, as many of us found out how easy
most sheet metal work was, leg and forearm injuries diminished. Conversely the internal SCA market for complex armoring (knee,
elbow and period helmets such as bascinets) was beginning to grow. Techno-economic history has caught us.
“In Rieslingshire, later, but also in the approximate period we are looking at, the Bliss brothers (Douglas' AoA's to them were
in a recent entry) were introducing full 15th century plate armor to the WK consumer - culminating with Douglas' Black Gothic, Paul's
Maximilian, and Olaf the Medi-Ogre's infamous Volkswagen Peasecote back and breast (lift the hood but don't touch the dipstick).”
B
“Sometimes William was an evil man. I was solidly in my ‘no more awards’ phase by this time but he called me up anyway. He later
told me I fit his picture of a baron, stomping around and grumphing at people. I have to admit some truth to this picture.” – Steven
MacEanruig
C
“At that time, this was one of my proudest moments in the SCA. I, a relative unknown was chosen to be the other white knight with
Kevin Peregrynne (my real knight.) I don’t remember doing anything spectacular during the game it was just being chosen that
made it memorable.” – Rand of Dunbar
September 21, 1974 AS IX
Held in Kennedy Grove Park, El Sobrante, California. King Douglas and Queen Lorna reigned. King Douglas admitted Master Raymond
the Mild and Michael the Black to the Order of the Laurel. Crown Lists were held. Duke Paul of Bellatrix defeated Count William of Hoghton
for the crown. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was his lady. At final court they were made Crown Prince and Princess. King Douglas knighted
Bern Bellower, who was also admitted to the Order of the Battered Helm. The Order of the Wooden Spoon contest was a tie between Duke
James Greyhelm and his lady, Duchess Verena of Laurelin. A bakeoff at Twelfth Night was declared. Sir Bern Bellower presented the MGC
to Martin the Temperate. Count Stefan de Lorraine won the Queen’s Hand Kissing contest, and received the Queen’s Garter.
Comments:
A
“Carol was expecting Brion [of Bellatrix] at the time and wasn't exactly pleased that Paul won (or so she said).
“I believe Cariadoc of the Bow was visiting at this event, I remember fighting a match with him just before the quarter final round.
He challenged me to recover the honor of his mentor Master Edwin who I had dispatched in an earlier round. The fight dragged
on interminably - me on my knees and him circling out of range until he finally closed in and stayed a moment too long for his
purposes. However, though I won, I was so pooped that I lost in the next round. My Lady soundly castigated me for my judgement
error in fighting an unnecessary bout while I was still in the running.” – Kevin Peregrynne
~ 107 ~
B
“How I earned the MGC. I'm still in my first year in the SCA. I had rapidly come to the conclusion that if I were to improve my fighting
skills, it would be more efficient to fight my betters whenever possible, rather than my unbelted peers. So I pretty much limited
myself at crowns and coronets to challenging the knighthood. Among others that day, I challenged Paul of Bellatrix and gave him
a good tune-up fight, in fact, I won that challenge. And the next as well. Around this time the practice of arranging the first round of
crown by challenge was established, with unbelted fighters challenging knights. Before the first unbelted fighter in line could speak,
I jumped out and demanded the honor to challenge Paul (and not because I had won the two challenges but because I wanted
to fight the best, which he proved to be that day). Well, of course, as he was highly motivated that day and I had already eliminated
any chance of surprising him with my newly learned skills/tricks, he beat me. I forced him to take both legs and both arms. He only
killed me when I tried to bite him. Bern Bellower, on awarding me the MGC, said I had shown the necessary ferocity in killing Paul
twice and the necessary stupidity in challenging him the third time when everyone knew he wanted to put Carol on the throne again.”
– Martin the Temperate
January 4, 1975 AS IX
Twelfth Night Coronation
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Berekely, California. King Douglas and Queen
Lorna held court. Prince Hugh and Princess Rosemary of Caid attended. Queen
Lorna established the Queen’s Cypher, a nonarmigerous award, distinguished by
the initials of the presenting queen, and given to whoever the Queen finds
worthy. Then she gave her Queen’s Cypher to Duke Paul of Bellatrix and
Duchess Carol of Bellatrix, Mark von dem Falkensfenn, Duke Siegfried von
Hoflichskeit, and Trude Lacklandia. King Douglas gave Awards of Arms to
Amanda of Cawdor, Edward of Southhaven, Iain of Cawdor, Galina de Keri,
Josette de Chanticleer, Julian the Purple, Kerry Ranaurora, Meggan of
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three Thistledown,
compass-stars
Marie of Glendower, Arthur of Glendower, Robin Devilmark and
palewise gules.
Amynta the Innocent. Then he admitted Alice of Briarbrook, Arthur of octofoils in bend three and three counterchanged, all pierc
Glendower, Edward of Stonehaven, Marie of Glendower, Persephone of Woodland, and Steven of the Lance
to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Douglas then admitted Anne Dudley, Barbara Fitzhugh, Dorcas Dorcadas and Dorothea of Paravel
(Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin) to the Order of the Pelican, and Janay d’Aquitaine to the Order of the Laurel. The Grand March was then
formed, and Douglas and Lorna crowned Paul and Carol. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Cadhla Morag nicChlurain, Eyana bat-David
nicChlurain, Jessica Firestar, Maihe MacFergie, and Martin the Temperate. Then he admitted Jessica Firestar to the Order of the Leaf of
Merit. Sir Bela of Eastmarch, for the College of Bards, presented the Order of Calypso (for poetry) to Rima of Rockridge, and then turned
the office of President over to Sir Steven MacEanruig. Sir William the Lucky named André de Sevastopol as Acting Kingdom Seneschal,
and Sir Jon FitzRolf similarly made Brian Dritar an Con Acting Master of Sciences. The Order of the Silver Molet inducted Sir Henrik of Havn
and Sir Siegfried von Hoflichskeit. Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin) passed on the Muckin’ Great Clubbe to Gormflait ni
Cuallactha. Mistress of Arts Christina of the Runes presented the Arts Pentathlon Medallion to Geraldine of Toad Hall, who in turn
presented the Wooden Spoon to Duchess Verena of Laurelin, winner over her lord in the bakeoff. Court adjourned and all proceeded to
dine and revel. Count Douglas Longshanks got the bean in the cake and became Lord of Misrule.
Comments:
A
“I can't guess what it was that Dorothea passed on to Gormflait, but it can't have been the MGC. There are two reasons - First,
neither Lady is a tournament fighter and it is a fighting award (though Dorothy's lord Hal Ravn was a fighter, Gormflait's then lord,
Andre de Sebastopol was not, so that can't account for it either) Second, the MGC was awarded at Crown Tourneys not Coronations
at that time.
“Maybe Dorothea can enlighten us.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “It wasn't the Muckin' Great Clubbe that I presented to Gormflait. It was the Muckin' Great Cubbe.
“It was a joke.
“I had recently given birth to a very large baby, and Gormflait had just done the same. I think what I gave her was a large
teddy bear.” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
B
“Since, I was present when the cypher was first discussed, here is a little bit of background.
“Discussion between Queen Lorna, Duchess Carol, Andrew of Riga, myself, a couple of other ladies of the court, and later in
the conversation King Douglas, and Duke Paul. The problem -- there needed to be a way to thank the people without whom the
Royalty could not reign effectively (the special people who make it all work) and the QOG was thus, it appeared, being given as
much as a thank-you as for courtesy. Therefore, how to maintain the "way cool - specialness" of the QOG?
~ 108 ~
“Answer - create the Cypher.
“Thus, there would be no restrictions on the cypher and it was meant to be a public acknowledgment for all the help (of all kinds
- from the ear that listens, to the best advice, from the little bit of help that is essential, to the hours upon hours of help and support).
“In looking back, it looks like the goal was met.” – Sabrina de la Bere
1 “At this time in SCA History, although the Queen’s signature was required on all scrolls, the giving of honors with the exception
of the Queen’s Order of Grace (QOG) was entirely up to the King. The problem was that while I wanted to reward several
deserving members of the populace, many of them had already received a QOG from my predecessors. I felt that we queens,
especially new inexperienced queens, needed a way to show gratitude for those who helped us through our reign. For this
reason I initiated the award of the Queen’s Cypher. The term cypher was chosen for its meaning “a combination of symbolic
letters; esp. the interwoven initials of a name.” The idea was that a queen could use her first initial plus the R in regina to create
a medallion. Thus if a monarch were to reign more than once, she could change the design with each reign and give the same
award to the same person if desired and it would still be unique.” – Lorna of Leeds
March 22, 1975 AS IX
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. King Paul and Queen Carol reigned. In between torrential downpours the crown lists were
held. Count Andrew of Riga was the victor, defeating Count Douglas Longshanks. Patrice d’Cilla was his lady. At closing court they were
crowned Prince and Princess of the Mists (this title started to be used for the Crown Prince and Crown Princess at this time). King Paul
gave Awards of Arms to Alyson of Hoghton and to Robin of Hoghton. Upon the request of the knights of the West, King Paul knighted
Mark von dem Falkensfenn. The Principality of Caid then announced the first Southern Rebellion. Martin the Temperate gave the MGC
to Einar Aus Envelt.
Comments:
A
“Unbeknownst to most, I built a tourney legal Mucking Great Clubbe, (rattan core, several wraps of carpet, covered with brown tape,
Styrofoam spike covered in silvered tape). I challenged and attacked Bern the Bellower (who had awarded me with the MGC the
previous crown.) When I first walked onto the field, he eyed me somewhat suspiciously, then I let him have a close look. He smiled
and we fought several passes, in most ferocious and stupid fashion as we could muster. Most onlookers thought we were
choreographing a comedy skit until I clearly hit him full force. Several marshals rushed out to stop us before they realized I wasn't
using the real MGC. A great spoof. Unfortunately it was poorly constructed as the clubbe didn't last the day.
“Einar made a most admirable showing at that crown, mostly because of the awful weather, the footing was extremely poor,
Einar was wearing cleats and pushed his advantage far beyond his expectations, certainly a show of ferocity.” – Martin the
Temperate
1 “Bern Bellower and I always loved fighting theatrics. It was he that fought me with a trident when I was in scuba gear at Marsh
Crown. We had arranged this with the Marshals ahead of time and after some initial posturing and growling, we were thrown
off the field - me for my non-regulation "armor" and Bern for lack of a fishing license. I recall that it was Sir Kevin who did the
ejecting.
“Another time, I think at Big Trees, Bern and I cooked up a fight that caused cardiac arrest for several marshals. In
retrospect, I should have briefed them in advance, but I was young and foolish ... Anyway, I had taken a wooden tanto (made
for martial arts practice) and covered it with silver mylar tape. From a few feet away it looked like real steel. Bern challenged
me or I challenged him and we fought a few passes until he took my leg by prior arrangement. On dropping to the ground, I
flung away my shield and sword. Bern demanded to know if I would surrender (in his very loud and very theatrical voice). I cried
"Never!" or words to that effect, and pulled the tanto from out myboot. Flashing it upwards to catch the sun and the spectator's
attention, I pulled it down into my stomach, making the obligatory hara-kiri cuts. Bern raced forward and beheaded my corpse
just before the marshals descended upon us to see what the hell was going on. The tanto was passed around and agreed
that it was safe enough, but we were thoroughly chewed out (and deservedly so) for creating the illusion of real steel in combat.
“Bern was particularly inventive in his challenges and whenever someone came up with a weird weapon, technique, or
stunt and asked him if he wanted to fight, his response was "Far out!"” – Brian Dritar an Con
I
“Yes it was me who stopped Brian and Bern's aquatic antics. They had clued me in ahead of time and asked me to bring
the performance to some sort of appropriate close, since they obviously couldn't fight to a regulation tourney ending. Bern
indeed had a tourney-legal trident either cobbled together on the spot or a Retiarus relic of some of the earlier attempts
at gladiatorial combats - I forget how Brian was armed, though an unloaded spear gun floats murkily beneath the surface
of my mind.
“Several of the other lighter-hearted moments that I recall fondly include the quasi-annual Shastan Melees (one of
which was divided on the basis of the fighters' preference between different flavors of Callard and Bowser candy).
~ 109 ~
II
“And then there was Edward Zifran's unforgettable challenge to Henrik of Havn. In song, with soft-shoe dance
accompaniment - a tune with the refrain of "For you are the Duke, you're the Mighty Arch Duke!" to the tune of "King of the
Jews" from Jesus Christ Superstar.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“A lot of us used to do more off-the-wall things than now seem to happen. I recall one event where Brian and I fought with
"two-handled" swords. His was Y shaped. Mine stemmed from the time when I first read The Incomplete Enchanter and
ran across mention of a two-handed sword. I had pictured a sword with a hilt on each end. (And had an interesting time
imagining how one would design a scabbard which would hold the sword and allow it to be drawn!)
“I have a lovely photo of Brian on his knees, me standing behind him with my knee between his shoulder blades and
the sword across his throat, industriously sawing back and forth. Don't know exactly when it happened, but it's black-andwhite, so it must have been mid-70s some time.” – William the Lucky
a “Now how could I have forgotten that silly battle having written an article on rare two handled swords for TI? Danny
Carnahan was my co-author and he produced some wonderful medieval style illustrations of two handled sword
combat. We even got in some references to the Shastans as being the last descendants of the medieval Europeans
that first developed these swords. Interesting to hear where Bill's idea came from - I think my ideas on the subject
sprung from reading some newspaper story where the reporter got his terminology wrong - hence the idea for a two
handled sword. My sword, with the Y handle, was extremely practical as it could also be used as a dowsing rod.
“Thanks for the memories, Bill!” – Brian Dritar an Con
i
“I seem to recall that a sarcastic rebuttal to an article by Edwin Bersark, which criticized a TI cover by Elriin of
Hrasvelg depicting two longsword fighters, was involved too.
“Wasn't the Y-shaped sword called a Grattleswax? I remember using the term in the first Pandybat melee's
announcement.” – Kevin Peregrynne
A “I recall that Sir Edwin blasted the artist about greatsword technique and that there was no way anybody who
knew what they were doing could have got in that position. Eventually concluded that the two fighters must
have been so tired that they were just propping each other up.
“The Y sword wasn't Grattleswax, at least mine wasn't - I never named any of my weapons. Besides it
was only made for that one time fight with Bill. Perhaps that was something else?” – Brian Dritar an Con
The Year Ten
May 3-4, 1975 AS X
This was originally scheduled for Mill’s College, but was changed to a new site,
Coyote Hills Park, when it was discovered in April. The Park Rangers went on
strike and four days before the tourney the site again was moved, to Joaquin
Miller Park. The morning of the tourney saw the field beset with pea soup fog,
constant drizzle, and forecasts of rain. So the outdoor part of the first da y ’ s
events were postponed and the tourney was moved to the Church of the Good
Shepherd in Berkeley.
King Paul and Queen Carol held court. King Paul admitted Däwyd
Suomalainen von Markheim to the Order of the Laurel. Everyone adjourned to the
crowded chapel, where Andrew and Patrice were crowned by Paul and Carol.
Patrice d’Cilla - Sable, in base a horse passant argent, in
argent.
Then the sun came out. King Andrew and Queen Patrice held court in the main canton a dove descendant gules, fimbriated argent.
room. Gifts were presented to their majesties and humorous songs were sung.
Several members of the Royal Jousting Society from England were present and paid their respects. King Andrew made John of Morris, their
spokesman, an honorary knight of the West. A potluck dinner was held and revels commenced.
The following day’s events were held in Tilden Park in Berkeley, under clear sunny skies. Master of Archery Neil of Gyr turned the
office over to Aurelia de la Licorne. Lists for the Queen’s Favor were held. Duke Paul of Bellatrix defeated Sir William the Lucky to win the
favor. Lists for the title of Champion of the King’s Wards (Wardlord) were held. Einar aus Envelt was the winner, and had to hold the
Maypole while all the wards danced around it, and, when he was suitably tied down by the streamers, they came and kissed him one by
one. A body-looting contest was held by the College of Sciences. The winners were Duchess Carol of Bellatrix and Eilonwy de Lyur, who
used Carol’s fur cloak to drag the loot back. Neil of Gyr won the archery contest. Einar aus Envelt was presented with the Old Battered
Helm. There was no award for the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for cassoulet, but Ruthven of Rockridge received an honorable
mention. The Arts held seminars throughout the day on various subjects of interest.
~ 110 ~
Comments:
A
[Knighting of John of Morris] “An action that didn't sit well with a number of the Chivalry after John of Morris' condescending speech
which denigrated our collective martial skill and stated that none of us could take one of their 'knights' in single combat because
they were tougher and more skilled. Since they were essentially stuntmen with phony (painted knit fabric) mail and helmets that
wouldn't pass a marshal's inspection for SCA combat, this didn't sit well. There was considerable muttering about putting it to the
test, but nothing came of it.”
[Body Looting Contest] “This was one of those contests where the spectators got convulsed with laughter. It was quickly apparent
which contestants were familiar with the workings of armor and which weren't and just how difficult it is to get armor off of a warrior
who wasn't cooperating (they were all realistically limp). There were numerous minor abrasions and contusions as chinstraps
were overlooked, camails caught on noses, mail snagged hair, limbs bent at uncomfortable angles and so-on (the 'corpses'
complaining loudly and giving directions).” – Kevin Peregrynne
June 21, 1975 AS X
Held at Briones Park, Alameda County, Calif. Andrew and Patrice reigned. At opening court King Andrew gave Awards of Arms to Dorothy
of Mossy Dell Fief, Katrina Ravn, Kerinda of Kymry, Maelgwyn de Lyonesse, Merewyn de Lyonesse, and Samuel of Mossy Dell Fief. He
then admitted Amanda of Cawdor, Aurelia de la Licorne, Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani), Daniel the Bard, Elayne of Gad,
Gwendolyn of the Thistle, Iain of Cawdor, Johann Heinrich Michael Siemon von Wernigerod, John ap Griffin, and William of Gad to the
Order of the Leaf of Merit. Queen Patrice admitted Morven of Carrick and Sarah of Southdowns to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Crown Lists
were held. Count Douglas Longshanks won, defeating Count William of Hoghton. Countess Lorna of Leeds was his lady. At closing court
Douglas and Lorna were invested as Prince and Princess of the Mists. The winner of the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for
dolmas was Sumer Redmaene, Duchess von Hoflichskeit. The Muckin’ Great Clubbe was presented to Sir William the Lucky. King Andrew
admitted Sir William Gordon of York to the Order of the Laurel, and Duke Paul of Bellatrix and Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit to the Order
of the Pelican. King Andrew knighted Edward Zifran of Gendy and Iain of Cawdor.
Comments:
A
[Duchess von Hoflichskeit] “This last statement reflects upon the crux of a debate that stormed on and on (as far as I know all the
details have not yet been settled). The 'Royal peerage' titles had more or less been settled years before, by the grand-fathering of
the winners-of-two-tournaments (before we had the Crown), with the title of Duke. Later we sprouted Duchesses and later still
Counts and Countesses.
“Two things had been overlooked (at this point in history) - the fact that marriage/significant-othership wasn't permanent in the
mundane world, and the reality of fighters of the female gender. The reference to "Sumer Redmaene, Duchess von Hoflichskeit
was Siegfried's effort to address the former issue (Ardis was, after all, a Countess in her own right having 'served as queen' once).
The corollary question of what do you call the male consort of a Queen or Princess as far as I know is still moot since in the
instances I'm aware of, the consorts already had 'Royal Peer' ranks of their own. But it does dig deep down into our collective
concepts of what the titles mean (I admit, I would have little martial respect for a Duke who 'earned' his title for twice having served
as consort).
“At any rate, this was my first opportunity to toss yet another controversy into the exchange.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“Iain and I were the first "double" knighting in the West I believe. Thus, I became the 50th Knight of the West (57th Member of the
Chivalry). Andrew and Patrice had run out of the cloth white belts that were usually given at the time. Andy asked for the belt, and
there was a pause as this realization came to light. Then, Sir Steven MacEanruig, stood up and removed his own belt and handed
it to Andy. I was still in a daze but realized the Honor done to this little An Tirian. (I passed Steve's Belt on a few years later. I am told
that it is still in use in An Tir. I don't know but that belt has to be at least, what 20 years old now? ... Is there any in use that are
older?)” – Edward Zifran of Gendy
1 “Not to rain on Edward's Parade, but his was by no means the first double-knighting. Even if the original mass knighting at
Twelfth Night II is discounted, Paul, Fleig and I had a double-knighting plus a mastering (if that is an acceptable term) three
years earlier, and I'm by no means positive that it was the first plural knighting. (Weren't Hourai and Hubert knighted at the
same time?).” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “I knighted them both, but I don’t recall if it was the same day. In any event there were not knighted simultaneously in a
single ceremony. They were knighted in separate ceremonies.” – Henrik of Havn
2 “Actually, Andrew knew I was going to donate my belt to Gendy. It wasn't an uncommon practice at that time and, I hope, still
isn't. Many years later at TYC [Twenty Year Celebration] in Texas I struck up a conversation with a knight and found he was
~ 111 ~
3
4
wearing my old belt and was able to recite it's genealogy. He had heard of me but we had not met before.” – Steven
MacEanruig
“I don't know when the first double Knighting took place in the SCA, ( after the original "mass knighting" which sorta started
in all ). The first double Knighting in Atenveldt was done earlier than the one referred to recently on this list, (June 21, 1975)
however. As King of Atenveldt I Knighted both Reynard Foxmoore (later Duke) and Jonathan Whitewolfe (later Count) in a
double Knighting ceremony which took place at a tournament held Feb. 17-18, 1973.
“As a Master at Arms, and to maintain the unbroken chain of Knighthood, Duke Henrik of Havn and Sir Stephen Blackeagle
held the sword with me, during the ceremony. After Reynard and Jonathan were called up before the court I announced that
since Reynard and Jonathan called themselves brothers, and having grown up with a brother myself I knew how much
brothers could fight over just about anything, that I was afraid that which ever one of them I Knighted first their "seniority" might
lead to a conflict between them, so I had decided to Knight them simultaneously ... if they had no objection. They didn't.
“I had not been aware of any other such multiple ceremony (again, other than the "mass" Knighting with Henrik and all)
when I did this, but it appears there were several of them. So, when was the first multiple Knighting (after the "mass"
Knighting) and what were the circumstances ?” – Arthur of Lockehaven
I
“Digging around in the awards list data ... After the "mass" knighting here are the first two multiples Oct 4, AS IV (1969)
Houri the Savage and Hubert de Recoing, and March 21, AS IV (1970) Arnulf Silkhair, Jean de la Grand 'Anse, Robert
Roundpounder, Stephen Blackeagle.” – Hirsch von Henford
a “Houri was knighted on the day he lost the finals to Stefan de Lorraine (whose squire he was), and Hubert (who had
fought well all day and lost in the semi-finals ... it was single-elimination in those days) was knighted as well, but I
think separately. Blackeagle was knighted and Arnulf made Master just after the former had defeated the latter in the
crown finals. Steve was Henrik's squire and Arnulf was, I think, Master Edwin's man-at-arms. I distinctly recall that
both were called up together and asked whether they would accept the belt or the baldric, so to speak. Arnulf said
something about Vikings having no master, followed by Steve saying something like "Indians are loyal to their chief"
(The name, Blackeagle, came from his previous activities in American Indian lore & dance, I think.)” – Robert of
Dunharrow
1 “My memory has Houri and Hubert kneeling together in front of Henrik but I could be wrong. Houri was knighted
just before meeting me in the finals.” – Stefan de Lorraine
a “However, Jean de la Grande 'Anse (who became the 2nd knight in my household less than a year after myself) was
knighted at an event in Atenveldt (then part of the West, of course) which he and the King (was it Henrik?) attended,
but I didn't, thus missing his knighting. I suppose Robert Roundpounder was probably knighted at that event, too.
Incidentally, Jean's lady, Ellen of the Gleaming Star (later his Queen) then bought some white leather and came to
me to help make 2 belts, one as a surprise gift for Jean, and one to replace my cloth one. So I suppose my white belt,
which I still wear to events, mostly in the Barony of Darkwood, is only about 29 years old, though this coming May is
my 30th anniversary of knighthood. Some other belts must be older. (This last in response to earlier comments about
ages of belts. However, I never passed mine on. Seven of my squires/men-at-arms were knighted and I would have
been making new belts forever.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “As far as I know, the only Atenveldt event that Jean attended in that period was the time that he went there with
myself (I was then king) and Henrik and Jon the Lean and various others, as detailed in a story I put into this list
some time back. To the best of my knowledge, the only Western fighter I knighted at that time was Jon the Lean,
and ran into a fair amount of flak for doing it there instead of in the West, tho no one doubted Jon's worthiness
to be a knight. Mostly they were sorry they missed it. But most of Jon's closest friends were there in Atenveldt with
us.
“I did knight Jean, and I think I did it at the same event I knighted Roundpounder (a knighting in the West that
caused repercussions in Atenveldt), the same March tourney that Blackeagle won. At one point, my knighting Jean
meant that I was the "great grandfather" of most of the knights of the West, as he knighted Hagen, who knighted
Paul (and James?) who knighted a lot of people over all of his reigns who knighted a bunch more...
“Oh, and Robert remembers the circumstances of the Knighting of Blackeagle and Mastering of Arnulf very
precisely ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, who managed to pack quite a bit into one reign and has enjoyed (most of) the
memories ever since...
2 “Vis-a-vis old belts - I'm still using mine, which I got from Sir Hugh the Undecided. It dates from October 1973
when he was knighted. “ – Charles of Dublin
“There seems to be a small amount of confusion here. When Edward spoke of the first, "double knighting," he meant, literally,
a "double knighting."
“I have no idea why I did this, it just took on a life of its own. Patrice and I called both Iain and Edward before the thrones,
and asked them at the same time if they would accept knighthood. They both answered ‘yes’, and the ceremony proceeded.
If I remember correctly, and my memory is foggy, I said, "Humm, I think I will do you both at the same time." There was a look
~ 112 ~
of, "Huh?" on several faces. "To do this, I think I will need the help of my lovely lady," and I looked to Patrice. There was a slight
pause as she looked at me as if to say, "Andrew, what ARE you doing?" but she stood up, moved closer to my left side, and
quickly got into the spirit of the thing.
“Patrice and I held the sword (swords?) on which fealty was to be exchanged, and with arms crossed (my left arm under
Patrice's right so that both Patrice and I were holding one hand each with both Iain and Edward), we proceeded to
simultaneously receive and give oaths from and to both Iain and Edward. After oaths were exchanged, I dubbed Edward and
Iain (Iain and Edward?) separately. Belts and chains were vested, both were personally congratulated by Patrice and me, and
both were sent out to meet their peers.
“There have been several instances of two or more peerages being given out; however to the best of my knowledge, all
have been separate ceremonies. Edward and Iain, to the best of my knowledge, was the only true "double knighting" to have
taken place in the SCA. If I am wrong, please let me know.
“Again, my doing this double ceremony was completely unplanned and was spur of the moment.
“Lastly, to all of our grief, Iain of Cawdor died a couple of years ago.” – Andrew of Riga
I
“In the West, there have been at least two true "double-knightings". Steven of Norham and Eric Foxworthy, and later Gareth
of Crawford and David of Aragon.” – Eilis O’Boirne
C
“Didn't Douglas beat William the Lucky in the finals? I'm pretty sure the song honoring Douglas, that I sent you is correct, (it
constitutes lore, as it was written at the time and "chronicles" the win in the last chorus.)” – Martin the Temperate
D
“This is part of a conversation Martin and I had concerning the event where Rick Mantegani was wearing Paul of Belatrix's armor,
and I chipped three of his teeth. With a bit of editing, most of my last reply is relevant to the June Crown Tourney following the First
Rebellion, and I have always felt it was one of those pivotal events in the development of the use of pole arms in SCA combat.”
“I think the armor change occurred at June Crown, when a melee was held with 18 fighters on each side (almost as many as
the rebellion). This was about two months after the rebellion, and I had concluded that thrusting was the best way to use the
weapon. I remember chipping Rick's teeth very clearly, as this was the first time I injured someone with the halberd. The melee
teams were being picked by two new fighters, who picked the best fighters they knew, and then picked whoever that fighter
recommended. I was on the side lead by Duke Paul, who had managed to get five other strong swordsmen and all six polearms
on his side. He then assigned a polearm to each of his best swordsmen, and filled out each group with a less experienced
swordsman, who was told to protect the polearms man. Each of the six teams was to maneuver as the lead swordsman thought
best. Just before the lay on, he told everyone to spread out, about six feet apart. I thought that was a large interval, but Paul assured
me it would be fine, and he was right, because as long as I stayed within six feet of Paul no one rushed me. The tactic worked like
a charm, as I would follow Paul around the field, and if the person Paul attacked blocked Paul's first blow, when they lowered their
shield to see, they saw the tip of my halberd headed for their eye slots. I suspect I killed 5 or 6 before I came to Rick, who was on
his knees, engaged with a swordsman. The thrust wasn't particularly hard, but Rick's chin strap didn't keep the helmet off his face,
and I chipped three teeth. At the time I was told that Rick had bought the helmet from Paul, and that it had cheek pieces which
obviously didn't fit right. I had apparently hit William Gordon of York much harder, because after the melee he urged Paul (who was
king) to ban the weapon, concerned about whiplash and neck injuries. Paul said there was nothing wrong with the weapon, people
just weren't used to fighting it. A commission was appointed shortly thereafter, headed by Douglas Longshanks, to review polearm
thrusting. I was included on that commission, because of my polearm experience, and the final report they wrote recommended
that chinstraps must keep the helmet off the fighter's face.” – Robear du Bois
1 “I guess only by asking Rick will we know if it was at the rebellion (and described later) or if it was at a later date that the armor
switch occurred. After all, it was some 25 years ago.” – Martin the Temperate
2 “As I noted in an earlier message, I talked about the rebellion and his teeth with Rick last weekend. The teeth were damaged
during a melee at a regular tournament some weeks after the war.
“Otherwise the circumstances of the injury were just as Martin says except according to Rick the helmet did have a chin
strap, but it didn't prevent the impact.
“Robear's account of the rebellion fits my recollection and sparked some additional memories. My glaive did indeed break
(on somebody's head no doubt) by coming apart where the blade (one piece of padded and shaped rattan) was pegged and
glued to the rattan shaft. This left me with a shortsword and the bare shaft and promptly riddled with Caidan pole-weapon
thrusts.
“The fighting against the castle took place as described. One odd aspect from my point of view was being in the front rank
of the storming party and falling over the wall untouched then buried under the bodies and under the feet of the following
Westerners. I gradually wormed out from under the heap, picked a pair of feet belonging to the nearest fighter that I recognized
as Caidan and stood up inside his guard and gutted him with my shortsword.
“I had not yet gotten fully erect when Hugh the Undecided whacked me with his halberd repeatedly but I was too close and
they all bashed me with the haft.
~ 113 ~
3
E
“I recall shouting something along the lines of "Damn it Hugh, kill me, don't beat me to death!" Hugh obligingly choked-up
on his grip got me with the head only for me to discover that I was so mired in corpses and living fighters that I couldn't fall.
“Both sides learned some interesting lessons from the first rebellion, and as a result, the second rebellion more closely
resembled a clash between armies instead of a pair of armed mobs.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“After reading Robear's account, I'm pretty sure it was in the castle skirmish, where Robear describes thrusting Paul in the
face (the first time he used the thrusting tip on his halberd), that it really wasn't Paul. I know this because Rick got his tooth
chipped by that thrust.
“He had been wearing Paul's armor and fighting tunic. The helmet didn't fit him tightly enough, and it didn't have a chin
strap. (None of the helmets required straps back then. It was Caiden soldiers who introduced spears and halberds into
western SCA fighting.)
“It's amazing how our memories focus different parts. Robear's accounts are very accurate by my memory.” – Martin the
Temperate
[Katrina Ravn ...] “Actually, though her name is pronounced Katrina, it's written Catherine. (Hal's sister, hasn't been active in
decades, now living in An Tir.)” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
August 2-3, 1975 AS X
Held in Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Alameda County, California.
King Andrew and Queen Patrice held court in the shade, owing to the excessive
heat of the day. Karina of the Far West announced her new position as Lady
Laurel, King-at-Arms, for the Society. She then turned over the office of Vesper
Principal Herald to Wilhelm von Schlüssel. Leon de Asturias was made Green
Cloak Herald, and Sir William the Lucky was made Banner Herald. Sir Jon Fitz-Rolf
turned over the office of Master of Sciences to Brian Dritar an Con. The
engagement of Hugh ap Llewellyn and Eilis ni Roihard O’Boirne was announced,
as was the birth of a daughter, Kelly Christine, to Sir Kevin Perygrynne and Lady
Patrice di Cour Fidele. The resignations of Founding Baron David of Castlewhyte
Douglas Longshanks - Sable, a pentaskelion of armoured
Lorna of Leeds - Or, an escarbuncle of six flory azure.
and Founding Baroness Sheryl of Castlewhyte as Baron and Baroness of of
legs argent.
Golden Rivers were read. King Andrew appointed Sir Kevin Peregrynne and Lady Patrice di Cour Fidele Baron
and Baroness of Golden Rivers. King Andrew gave Awards of Arms to Grey Colin of the Axe and Valency Quicksilver and admitted
Matriona du Cameliard to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Then he gave a Grant of Arms to Wilhelm von Schlüssel. King Andrew admitted
Alice of Briarbrook to the Order of the Pelican, and Bevin Fraser of Sterling, Tyra Stuart of Moray, Johann Heinrich Michael Siemon von
Wernigerod, Jean-Paul Menraith, Josquin du Bois Vert, Piers Howells de Cambria, and Ximena Aubel de Cambria to the Order of the Laurel.
To the cheers of all present he then knighted Terrence of Halliday. Queen Patrice presented her Queen’s Cypher to Bern Bellower, Carol
of Bellatrix, Martin the Temperate, and Orric of the Spur. King Andrew appointed Baroness Geraldine of Toad Hall to be Ambassadress
at Large during her forthcoming travels through the country and over to Great Britain. Then in his last official act as King, King Andrew
presented Awards of Arms to Aaron and Sterling of Toad Hall.
Following a break for lunch, King Andrew and Queen Patrice crowned Douglas Longshanks and Lorna of Leeds King and Queen of
the West. Queen Lorna reformed the Queen’s Guard, appointing Rand of Dunbar Captain, and admitting Olaf the Maedi-Ogre, Ladbrag
Houndstooth, Craig of the Chambers, Richard of Havn, Trude Lacklandia, Christopher of Hoghton, Martin the Temperate, and Lorin Sur
la Roche. Following court, the Arts Pentathlon and Queen’s Favor competition were run. The next day saw the fighters fighting a Viking
Holmgang. A square is set up, and a fighter wins if he kills his opponent, or drives him outside of the square. Final court began with a
performance of belly dancing by the dancers in House Dragon’s Faun, and the passing of Ye Royal Pygge. The winner of the Order of the
Wooden Spoon contest for chilled fruit soup was an anonymous entry with gaspacho. Second place went to Steven of Northfield. The
winner of the Order of the Crock contest for brewed anything was Master Beverly Hodghead for ginger beer. Second place was Orric of
the Spur for root beer. The winner of the Queen’s Favor was Duke Paul of Bellatrix. King Douglas presented Duke Paul with the rosemary
wreath for Most Valourous. Queen Lorna presented Duke James Greyhelm with the rosemary wreath for Most Chivalrous and Courteous.
The Archery contest was won by Neil of Gyr. The Old Battered Helm was passed on to Morven of Carrick. The Grand Winner of the Arts
Pentathlon was Baroness Trude Lacklandia, the only one who entered all fifteen categories, followed by Lady Adrienne of Toledo, who
entered all but one. The individual winners were: Gurning - Ronal Negra-Kohn; Costuming - Linda-Mureal von Katzenbrasse; Stichery Amanda of Cawdor; Metalworking - Henrik of Havn; Brewing - Rima of Rockridge; Singing - Rima of Rockridge; Dancing - Janet Breakstone;
Musical Performance - Philip the Fierce; Calligraphy - Trude Lacklandia; Illumination - Amanda of Cawdor; Poetry - Amanda of Cawdor;
Musical Composition - Kathea ver Kaeysc; Woodworking - Adrienne of Toledo.
~ 114 ~
Comments:
A
“The entries for the kingdom events are much longer starting here, as this is when I took over as Vesper Principal Herald. As the
court herald, I submitted writeups of these events to the Page, and thus became the unofficial kingdom historian. I also attempted
to recast the Order of Precedence to reflect the actual day each event was given. (Previously it was just done by month.) This was
because the College of Scribes needed to know the day of each award, and the King and Queen who gave it, so the scroll backlog
could be dealt with. So I expanded the search to identify for each event which awards were given to who by whom. I went through
past issues of the Page to get the events, and any writeup of the event, and then tracked down each past monarch to determine
who bestowed each award. This finally led to the full Chronicles we are now commenting on.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
B
“Interesting, I always had the impression that Douglas appointed us, though somehow I should have known better, it's probably
because we swore our oaths to Douglas at the next event. This is one of the few major events that we missed during this part of
our careers, but bringing Patti and Kelly home from the hospital had priority.” – Kevin Peregrynne
C
[Re: Laurel King of Arms] “There are two inaccuracies here. I didn’t use King, I used Queen; and I followed mundane usage as in
“Garter King of Arms.” My title was thus Laurel Queen of Arms. “Lady” was an extra courtesy prefix, as in “my lord King” (cf.
Shakespeare), and not part of the title.” – Karina of the Far West
D
“Thought you might like this. I transcribed this recently for Lorna of Leeds. This was written and sung for Douglas at Doug and
Lorna's (second?) coronation, commemorating his win. This would be the crown tourney in which he beat William the Lucky in the
finals (as "implied in the last chorus.) [See Appendices, page 372]” – Martin the Temperate
September 27-28, 1975 AS X
Fall Crown Tourney
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Alameda County, California. Douglas and Lorna reigned. This was the first overnight
crown tourney. At opening court, following the Grand March, the Prince and Princess of An Tir, Edward Zifran, Bastard of Gendy and Fiona
di Varanus, leading a delegation from the Principality of An Tir, swore fealty to their majesties Douglas and Lorna. King Douglas gave
Awards of Arms to April of the Dales, Donn an Bronach, Katherine of Sheppy, Maurice Negri-Kahn, and Rondal Negri-Kahn. He then
admitted Arabella Rohnesse de Lyonesse, Duke James Greyhelm, and Duchess Verena of Laurelin to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Scrolls
were handed out and Baroness Trude Lacklandia presented King Douglas with two last cans of Beck Beer. The formation of the Veterans
of the Pennsic Wars was announced, whereupon one member asked if it would be raining at the meeting. Lady Adrienne of Toledo
announced her intention to travel to the East and offered to carry his Majesty’s greetings. The Order of the Wooden Spoon contest was
held and the Crown Lists were run. In a hard fought final Count William of Hoghton defeated Duke James Greyhelm to stake his claim on
his second crown. Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood) was his lady. At second court, upon the request of the Knights of the
West, King Douglas knighted Rand of Dunbar. Count William of Hoghton and Countess Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood)
were invested as Crown Prince and Crown Princess. Sir William the Lucky passed the Muckin’ Great Clubbe on to Christopher of Hoghton.
Court then adjourned for the Royal Potluck Dinner, which was followed by general revelry and a bardic circle.
The following day saw the completion of the Queen’s handkissing contest and the archery cont est, along with numerous challenge
matches, melees, and a Viking Holmgang. At final court Queen Lorna admitted Fiona MacGregor (Natalya de Foix) to the Queen’s Order
of Grace. The winner of the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for Meal-in-a-Loaf was Annette of Faire Monte. The winner of the Archery
Contest was Dell of Dragonsforge, followed by Ann Dudley de Brandhard. The winner of the Queen’s Handkissing Contest was Martin
the Temperate, who received the Queen’s Garter as his prize. King Douglas gave Awards of Arms to Frances of Dragon’s Forge and
Hallgerd Egilsdotter. Hallgerd has made a needlepoint tapestry of King Andrew’s first reign in a manner similar to that of the famed Bayeaux
tapestry. Her tapestry was displayed to the astonishment of the populace. King Douglas then admitted Duke Henrik of Havn to the Order
of the Leaf of Merit. The knights of the West then petitioned the Crown to knight Morven of Carrick, which King Douglas did. He then
admitted Trude Lacklandia to the Order of the Laurel, and, in a first, admitted Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani) and Linda-Muireall
von Katzenbrasse at the same time to both the Order of the Laurel and the Order of the Pelican. The populace was then dismissed to clean
up and depart.
Comments:
A
“Unless one was present at court and close to the throne, Rand's responses and recitation of the Oath of Fealty was all but
inaudible. At our household encampment during lunch, one of the ubiquitous yellowjacket wasps crawled into Rand's sandwich.
All unaware Rand bit his sandwich and the sandwich bit back - repeatedly until the wasp was crushed and the bite of bread etc.
spit out. By the time of the ceremony Rand's mouth and tongue were quite sore and swollen (no allergic reaction thank goodness)
~ 115 ~
and he had to mumble through the ceremony. I donated mybelt and chain and the household chipped in for a pair of spurs for the
ceremony.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “For a further small take on Rand's knighting. The next day I came across him, still in his sleeping bag and just starting to crawl
out. It developed that he had partied a bit and finally crawled in to sleep still wearing his full leg armor. He admitted that he
thought his legs felt a bit odd, but that he was too sleepy and/or inebriated to notice much.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “Rand was wearing his armor when he was knighted, and he continued to wear it through dinner and into the evening's revelry.
He would, after all, have to take his belt off in order to take his armor off. He didn't remember when he went to bed, but he woke
up in the middle of the night and slowly realized he was REALLY uncomfortable. It took a while to figure out why he was so
uncomfortable, but he finally realized he was still wearing his armor. I don't know if this is a first, but I suspect that very few
fighters have gone to bed in their armor. Perhaps I don't want to know if they have.” – Robear du Bois
I
“It probably was a first, and a very Rand sort of thing to do. Patrice used to force him to do his armoring in the back yard
because she didn't want passing motorists and small children to see him shaping his cuisses by hammering sheet steel
over his bare thigh.” – Kevin Peregrynne
3 “I wish to state for the record that everyone in the Kingdom knows that Rieslingers were a gentle people and not heavy partiers,
that said I will continue with my story. After I was stung in the mouth by the yellowjacket, everyone around the eric kept offering
me something alcoholic to drink (for medicable purposes only). That is the true reason I got falling down drunk it wasn’t my
fault -- really. (If you believe all that I have a bridge to sell you.)
“Anyway the next morning, as it was traditional for an old knight to challenge the new knight, I was expected to fight despite
one of the worst hangovers I have ever had. My challenger was Duke Aonghais, who, according to Douglas came to him to
get pointers on how to kill me. I am glad to say that I killed him and was able to swagger off the field before spectacularly
throwing up.
“My knighting -- Kevin is slightly mixing up events. I didn’t receive spurs at that time. I was given spurs as a gift from Phil
and Patti at the next Twelfth Night. They have horse hoofs on them and I will always cherish them.” – Rand of Dunbar
B
“Lorna was quite proud of herself as well. During her first reign, Ian of Cawdor had been captain of her guard and went on to be
knighted. Rand was the current captain of her guard. Upon his knighting he relinquished his captaincy. Lorna honored me with the
post. She would go three for three within two months.” – Martin the Temperate
C
[ ... admitted Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani) and Linda-Muireall von Katzenbrasse at the same time to both the Order
of the Laurel and the Order of the Pelican.] “I remember John op Griffin saying that he had gone to Big Trees with a wife and came
back with two Mistresses!” – Fredrick of Woodlyn
1 “I'm glad to have this settled. John remembered my getting those awards from Kevin Peregrynne and I thought it was Andrew
of Riga (another chalk-mark for increasing short-term memory!)
“It was a complete shock. I'd long ago resigned myself to not being with the "SCA in crowd" and also to being just enough
of a voice-raiser to preclude ever getting such awards.
“In a strange way, getting both awards at the same time was a disappointment, because it would have been nice to spread
it out a bit ...
“But John's comment made the day!” – Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani
January 10, 1976 AS X
Held in the First Unitarian Church, Berkeley, CA. The day began with a
Coronation Mass in honor of Crown Prince William of Hoghton and Crown
Princess Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood). Then King Douglas
and Queen Lorna held court. In an impressive ceremony they welcomed first
Denis of the Titans and Samantha of the Shire, King and Queen of Atenveldt and
their Royal Consorts Megan St. George and Sir William of the Shire, followed by
a delegation of Atenveldt armigers. Then they welcomed Michael of Boarshaven
and Zarina Daeth, King and Queen of the Middle and their subjects. Then came
Aonghais Dubh Mac Tarbh, King of the East. Finally King Douglas and Queen
Lorna welcomed Gregory of York and Vivian Aurora de la Mer, Prince and Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of
William of Hoghton - Per bend sinister sable and
Or, in
Princess
of Caid. This was the first time in the history of the West that such a Willowwood) - Or, a bend sinister wavy vert, between two
bend two towers palewise counterchanged.
weeping willows proper.
gathering of royalty had assembled in one place, including all of the reigning
Kings of the Society. The stage just barely fit the necessary nine thrones. Next came numerous presentations from the populace to their
various Majesties. Duke Paul and Duchess Carol of Bellatrix presented King Douglas with a bowl of magic tablets from the mighty wizard
Al Kaseltzer to ease the aches and pains of the crown. King Douglas then handed out a number of scrolls from past reigns. He gave Awards
~ 116 ~
of Arms to Fionna MacGregor, Guinever Elspeth Malyn, Lodbrog of Houndstooth, Luise Chaille, Mary Colleen of Eglemont, and Nathan
de Sänger. He admitted Avram of Mercia and Donn an Branach to the Order of the Leaf of Merit, giving Avram also an Award of Arms,
as he was previously non-armigerous. King Douglas then admitted Carol of Bellatrix, Robin Devilmark, Sumer Redmaene, and Sumingo of
Amaranth to the Order of the Pelican and Anne of Caerdydd, Aurelia de la Licorne, Michaëla de Neuville, Krystoff z Lublina, and Theodulf
of Borogrove to the Order of the Laurel. Douglas Brownbeard then came forward and announced that Robin Devilmark and Linda-Muireall
von Katzenbrasse had been admitted to the Society Order of the Pelican by the Board of Directors. Queen Lorna bestowed her Cypher on
M atriona du Cameliard, Rand of Dunbar, and Baroness Jessica Lyrindi of Northmarch. She admitted Christopher of Hoghton to the Queen’s
Order of Grace. King Douglas gave a Grant of Arms to Conrad von Regensburg. Conrad was not there and the announcement was saved
for Southern Twelfth Night. The Grand March culminated in the coronation of William of Hoghton and Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of
Willowwood) as King and Queen of the West by King Douglas and Queen Lorna. The assembled royalty then greeted their new Majesties.
The Queen’s Guard was reinstated with Benjamin von Armentrodt, Bergen von Rauch, Brian Dritar an Con, Christopher of Hoghton, Craig
of the Chambers, Jeffrey Brokenblade, Loren Sur la Roche, Lodbrog Houndstooth, Olaf the Maedi-Ogre, Richard of Havn, Cadwalladyr
Stone of Stonecroft, Theodulf of Borogrove, and Trude Lacklandia being admitted. Queen Donna named Lorin Sur la Roche Captain of the
Queen’s Guard. Numerous presentations to their various Majesties followed, led off by the Province of St. Andrew, which presented their
Majesties with beautiful six-foot long Royal banners on twelve foot banner poles, and a marvelous soltetay: a cake with a sugar castle
surrounded by knights with the arms of the kings and notable knights hand painted on their shields. Hans von Bremen and Kathea of the
Citadel, from Atenveldt, presented their Majesties with a three story revolving carousel with hand painted miniatures of several knights
and ladies of the West. Duke Paul and Duchess Carol of Bellatrix presented a bowl of aspirin to King William, who remarked that he did
not get headaches, he only gave them to others. King William gave an Award of Arms to Jennet of Two Minds and admitted Geofffrey
Pendragon to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King William established the University of Ithra, based in Madrone. Several changes were
made in the Kingdom Laws. The Order of the Royal Shaft, created by King Denis of Atenveldt, was recognized in the West and Dorcas
Dorcadas, Linda-Muireall von Katzenbrasse, Raymond the Mild, and Father Ruthven of Rockridge were admitted. Baroness Trude
Lacklandia had been admitted by King Denis previously. Several scrolls from their previous reign were given out. Agincourt played and
sang anthems for King William and Queen Donna. Court was finally ended, to everyone’s relief, and the populace proceeded to the potluck
feast and then to the revel, which was highlighted by a masque, which ended with Their Majesties leading the Great Lords in a pavanne.
Comments:
A
A
B
“I seem to recall that either I or William the Lucky or perhaps both of us autocrated this one. We suggested, with a certain amount
of amusement, that Michael from the middle and Aonghais from the east be seated side by side, since they were what might be
called not exactly best friends. William of Hoghton vetoed the idea quite firmly. It was a pretty good crowd, though.” – Steven
MacEanruig
1 “Trude Lacklandia was autocrat of this event .... She became ill during the 5+ hour court. I took over with a lot of help from
friends, Steve and Wm., and had a great time as autocrat/visiting king. This was the second time I had done this ... The first,
Western 12th Night in 72, was occasioned by the autocrats (Steve and Luise Perrin) suffering whiplash following a rather
severe auto accident. I still remember being last out of the hall with Jon the Lean(now FitzRolf) as we hauled the trash to the
dump.” – Denis of the Titans
[Court was finally ended ...] “It wasn't that courts were longer, but rather that the Unitarian Church was one great big hall with a few
side rooms. There weren't a lot of places to go if you wanted to get away from court. Nice view out back though with the whole bay
area spread out before you.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “The Jan. 76 court was the longest in my experience, at that time. And. ... since Trude had been feeding us beer all the way
through ... it got a little sleepy after 5+ hours ... but a lot of fun.” – Denis of the Titans
“This was the famous Court of Four Kings. As Vesper Principal Herald, I was the Court herald. I was aware of the hatred between
Michael and Aonghais and I worked with William and Douglas to keep them apart. Denis was sent to pick up Aonghais at the airport
and to stay with him until it was time to come in to the stage, while William had Michael under his wing. We seated Aonghais at
extreme stage right and Michael at extreme stage left, with Atenveldt and Caid seated next to Douglas and Lorna. It was done
smoothly enough that it wasn’t until the end of court that Aonghais turned to me with a surprised look and said to me, "You're
keeping me and Michael apart, aren't you?" To which I replied, with a smile, "Yes, Your Majesty." "Good"", he replied. (It was one
of my prouder moments.)
“The stage really just barely fit the nine "thrones". We were hard pressed to find seven throne-like chairs at the church to go
with the Western thrones, and Aonghais started off with the Church Secretary's chair covered with a cloak. Unfortunately, it was a
true secretary chair with wheels, and Aonghais almost rolled right off the stage when he first sat down! (I had to send back for
another chair and then quietly substitute it during a break between presentations.)” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
~ 117 ~
C
“Unless I have another Twelfth Night at the Unitarian Church mixed up with this one (a decided possibility) there were also
numerous contests - I forget what all of them were, but one was a 'Design a Castle' contest which my plans for a castle atop Albany
Hill (as it was prior to Interstate 80) emerged as the judges' choice.
“I recall that the costume contest was Tudor Court costume, both the men's and women's divisions were won by Clarissa of
Red Crab Manor on the James for Patrice' and my costumes - hers was copied from the statue of Queen Isabella of Spain in the
state capitol building's rotunda, mine from portraits of Henry VIII at the Field of the Cloth of Gold.
“I also recall a subtlety contest, which I believe Verena won (but that happened fairly often so I could be off about this particular
event).” – Kevin Peregrynne
March 20, 1976 AS X
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. The day began at ten in the morning with challenge matches, followed by three melees.
At noon King William and Queen Donna held court. The Queen’s Guard presented Their Majesties with the Kingdom War Banner. King
William named Michael of Dragonwood and Alyanora of Vinca to be Baron and Baroness of the Barony of Adiantum. King William gave
Awards of Arms to Eilis ni Roibeard O’Boirne, Joanna de Paquerette, Kaththea verKaeysc, Mary Taran of Glastonbury, Melanie of the Coll,
and Stephen von Behrend. Baron Mahie McFergy presented Their Majesties with a pair of straight trumpets for fanfares. Following court
the Crown Lists were held, as was the Wooden Spoon competition for yeast breads. Duke Paul of Bellatrix defeated Sir Terrence of Halliday
in the Crown Lists. At afternoon court, Duke Paul and his lady, Duchess Carol of Bellatrix, were crowned with laurel wreaths and proclaimed
Crown Prince and Crown Princess of the West. Master Beverly Hodghead presented His Majesty with the Order of the Crock award for
the Twelfth Night mead competition, in which King William had placed first, second, and third. Guy de Montfort was awarded the Muckin’
Great Clubbe. Gray of Ravenshold was the winner of the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest. King William admitted Amanda of Cawdor
to the Order of the Laurel. Queen Donna admitted Sven MacChlurain to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Duchess Marynel of Darkhaven created
her own personal Duchess’ Order of Grace, and admitted Daphne of Dubray, Diana av Fjell Tusenfryden, Erinn of Lemati, Michael of
Dragonswood, Kera, Prescilla, and Phillip of the House of Cruzan. That evening a revel sponsored by the College of Equestrian Arts was
held at the National Guard Armory in Sunnyvale.
The Year Eleven
May 1-2, 1976 AS XI
Beltane Coronation Festival and Decennial Celebration
Held in Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. King
William and Queen Donna held morning court. Court was begun in a most
impressive manner with Their Majesties riding in on horseback along with their
retinue. A flight of pigeons was released at the end of the procession. Lady Luise
of Woodshome, Ambassadress from Atenveldt, presented her credentials.
Numerous beautiful scrolls were handed out. King William gave Awards of Arms
to Benjamin von Armentrodt, Brian the Reticent, Colleen Elizabeth de Cassis, Su
of the Silver Horn, James Cameron, Karl of Clan Colin, Mary of Uffington,
Morimoto Koryü, Nicole du Havre des Chouettes, Roderick dhu MacRae, Sean
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three a’Claidheamn,
compass-stars
Serena, Suzanne Justine of King’s Harbour, and Wilowen of
palewise gules.
Stuarts. King William then admitted Cristòbal degli Glicine che Mangia Uome, octofoils in bend three and three counterchanged, all pierc
Alison von Markheim, Douglas Longshanks, Jessica Llyrindi of Northmarch, Leon de Asturias, Liam of the
Barque, and Lorna of Leeds and Serena to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King William gave a Grant of Arms to Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya
de Foix) and admitted Ellen Cross Quills to the Order of the Pelican. Mistress Ellen had made a beautiful maypole for use that afternoon,
an example of the reasons for which she was admitted to the Order. Queen Donna admitted Beverly Hodghead, Adrienne de Toledo, Ellen
Cross Quills, and Olaf the Maedi-Ogre to the Queen’s Order of Grace and gave her Queen’s Cypher to Duchess Verena of Laurelin. Duke
Aonghais Dubh MacTarbh, newly arrived from the East, swore allegiance to King William, announcing his residency in the West. Among
the numerous presentations to their Majesties was a corduroy gage (glove) thrown at Their Majesties’ feet by Lady Beagle de la Souris
Folle as a challenge to the Kingdom to match the $100 contribution inside to the Land Fund.
Following court were challenge matches, equestrian competitions, a Wardlord individual melee, and the first part of the Great Deccenial
Quest. The winner of the Wardlord melee was Mary of Uffington. These were followed by the Coronation. Prince Paul and Princess Carol
rode up on horseback. Just as the procession came to a halt Duke Henrik stepped forward and begged leave to present Their Majesties
~ 118 ~
a gift to end the first ten years of the Kingdom and begin the next. He then unveiled two beautifully crafted cast silver crowns, the Queen’s
ornamented with roses, the King’s with oak leaves, each containing a piece of the Ancient Crowns as part of the metal. The Ancient Crowns
were given to the Royal Archives as a historical treasure of the kingdom. Then, using the new Royal Crowns, William and Donna crowned
Paul and Carol King and Queen of the West. Numerous presentations were made to Their Majesties. King Paul gave an Award of Arms
to Ealasaid NicChlurain. Then Count William of Hoghton and Countess Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood) came forward and
King Paul and Queen Carol named them Duke and Duchess of the West. Queen Carol reinstated the Queen’s Guard, appointing Bergen
von Rauch, Brian Dritar an Con, Christopher of Hoghton, Craig of the Chambers, Karl of Clan Colin, Lodbrog Houndstooth, Lorin Sur la
Roche, Mary of Uffington, Olaf the Maedi-Ogre, Richard of Havn, Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft, Theodulf of Borogrove, Trude
Lacklandia, and William Allen. Following court was the Royal Potluck, served in reverse order of precedence, the May wine competition
for the Arts Pentathalon, the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for seafood dishes, the second half of the Great Deccenial Quest,
and a bardic circle. The ladies of the Kingdom assembled after court to choose the Philanderer of the Year. At morning court the next day
it was announced that Duke William of Hoghton had won, beating out Duke Aonghais, who was told by Queen Carol to try harder for next
time. Their Majesties accepted the presentations from the populace and announced the activities for the day. A live chess game was held,
won by white. The wards of the kingdom danced around the maypole, held by Mary of Uffington, the new Wardlord. Archery and
equestrian competitions were held. The gurning and dancing competitions of the arts pentathlon were held. Challenge matches were fought.
At final court Queen Carol named Heinrich Palantine Queen’s Champion for his performance in the chess game. Morven of Carrick awarded
the Old Battered Helm to Bergen von Rauch for his performance in the chess game. Gray of Ravenshold announced the winners of the Order
of the Wooden Spoon competition to be Baron Sir Kevin Peregrynne and Baroness Patrice du Couer Fidel. Neil of Gyr won the standard,
timed, and high point contests in the Archery competitions. Mark von dem Falkensfenn won the wand contest and Henrik of Havn won
the tilting and jousting contests. Countess Patrice d’Cilla and Duke Andrew of Riga won the Squire Rescue Race. Susanne of Ravenhill
and Irene of the Marsh won the the Damsel in Distress contest. Duke Andrew was the high point winner. Jeanette La Rue Du Cheval won
the costume contest. Queen Carol created the positions of Queen’s Advisor for the Arts and for the Sciences, and named Cristina Giuliana
dell’Onda to the Science post and Theodosia Arcadiana to the Arts position. Sir Kevin Peregrynne announced that Sir Ian of Cawdor would
be his successor as Earl Marshall after a training period. Duke James Greyhelm announced that the populace had more than met Lady
Beagle’s challenge, contributing $150. Amanda of Cawdor was presented with her Award of Arms scroll and a laurel medallion made by
Master Beverly Hodghead. Master Beverly also presented the kingdom with a laurel medallion to be used in future ceremonies. At last,
to the cheers of the populace, Their Majesties gave the populace leave to depart and go home to rest after a very busy tourney.
The winners of the Quest were Bevin Fraser of Sterling, Morven of Carrick, and Gwydion. Queen Carol’s ladies in waiting were Suzanne
Justine of King’s Harbour, Gabrielle NicChlucain, Fiona MacGregor (Natalya de Foix), and Virginia of Enso.
Comments:
A
A
B
[Among the numerous presentations to their Majesties ...] “Also, the very first Earl Marshall's Pandybat melee competition was
announced at court, to be held at the next (Purgatorio) Coronation.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Just an editorial note, the Pandybat contest announcement had no Connection to the gauge challenge ... I simple announced
it at court as a routine heads-up to go with the written announcement in the Page.” – Kevin Peregrynne
[He then unveiled two beautifully crafted cast silver crowns, the Queen’s ornamented with roses, the King’s with oak leaves, each
containing a piece of the Ancient Crowns as part of the metal.] “Henrik had gotten much of the silver for the (oak leaf, rose and
acorn) castings from Patrice and I at the Bemews housewarming the preceding spring (his funds and time had been running short
{though he did not tell us then what he wanted it for}), in exchange he was to re-mount a katana blade I had obtained years before
(I hadn't begun fighting yet when I got it) in exchange. To Henrik's credit (and to add to his legend) he delivered the sword on the
occasion of Patrice and my Silver anniversary. (i.e. > 15 years later) In the short term Richard of Havn's 16 mm movies of my face
during the presentation was prima-facie evidence of high treason (I swear I was only thinking "So that's where the silver went!"
honest, really, don't you believe meee....)”
[Gray of Ravenshold announced the winners of the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition to be Baron Sir Kevin Peregrynne and
Baroness Patrice du Couer Fidel.] “Chiaopino - secret ingredient - fresh abalone. (It helped that my parent's house was only 20
minutes away...it was FRESH)”
[Sir Kevin Peregrynne announced that Sir Ian of Cawdor would be his successor as Earl Marshall after a training period.] “My
printers had told me that the Fighters' handbook would be ready by then, I'd been Earl Marshal for nearly four years and I couldn't
see much else that needed doing. (I didn't know it was loaded, honest).” – Kevin Peregrynne
“I’d like to give a few particulars here, which may be of interest. First, I don’t think the term “cast silver crowns” is correctly applied,
since they are not entirely cast. “Solid silver crowns” would be much more accurate.
~ 119 ~
“The idea for the crowns came simply from the realization that after nine years of learning and growing in knowledge and skill
in the SCA, more sophisticated projects should be tried. I took a jewelry class at the College of Marin and learned the basics of the
lost wax casting process and additional techniques of metal forming and fabrication that my earlier Engineering and Materials
classes hadn’t covered.
“I was also inspired by the gift of a large and small Tudor rose pendant that a friend had brought back from Europe. The idea
of translating a wreath of roses into a metal form finally was do-able. Although laurel and ivy wreathes were most frequently given
to the winning fighter, oak leaf wreaths were used a few times also in the West. Laurel seemed too typical of Ancient Greece and
ivy is certainly not as regal as oak, so oak leaves were chosen for the King’s crown.
“The oak leaves on the King’s crown were created using the lost wax casting process. Real leaves were carefully selected for
size and shape and were picked off an oak tree which grew on the side of the hill in San Anselmo, Marin County (Caldarium),
overlooking and in direct view of the San Francisco Theological Seminary, where several of our early crown tournaments were held.
A thin layer of wax was then carefully applied to the backs of these leaves in order to bind them together in their cluster format and
to stiffen them so they would not curl as they dried, and to give them sufficient thickness so that the silver leaves they would become
would not bend or break easily when dropped or otherwise be stressed. Also the extra thickness would allow for soldering breaks
together again if necessary.
“A sliver of the first copper King’s crown [“The Ancient and Honorables” – Hirsch] was then embedded in the wax of one of the
clusters. The clusters were then encased in their respective molds. The molds were then baked at around 1000 degrees to melt
and turn into fine ash any parts of the wax and leaves in the mold. (The copper did not melt.) This left leaf cluster shaped cavities
in each mold, into which molten silver (a mixture of 40% coin silver, 50% casting silver and 10% sterling silver scrap) was then
poured. The molten metal filled the cavities and when cooled were removed from the molds and became the leaf clusters for the
King’s crown. All the surface features of the real oak leaves were preserved in the outward surfaces of the silver castings. Similarly
real acorns were used to create the silver acorns for the crown.
“The bands of both crowns are made from 16 gage sterling silver bands where were double edge fluted by hand on a 2 piece
fluting tool that I designed and made.
“The roses for the Queen’s crown were made individually of wax and were then cast using the same procedure mentioned
previously. One of the roses has a sliver of the first copper Queen’s crown [again, the “Ancient and Honorables” – H] in it. Final
assembly consisted of making special rivets – partly copper, with silver head covers, and riveting all the pieces to the bands. The
King’s crown weighs about 1 ½ pounds, the Queen’s crown weighs about 1 pound. The lining materials are extra weight and allow
for adjustment to different head size. The Queen’s crown will fit up to about 7 ½ hat size. The King’s crown will fit up to about 8 ½
hat size (as I recall).” – Henrik of Havn
1 “Some of that silver was leftover from a casting project that Henrik did for me. I was happy to contribute something to the worthy
cause, and SCA historians may be amused to know that incorporated into the silver crown with the fragment of the first crown,
was silver which came from the sterling electrical plugs of a WWII era, portable X-Ray machine. How I came by them is another
tale ...” – Brian Dritar an Con (Who was variously known as Brian Dritar an Con, Brian the Unpronounceable, Brian of the
Hounds, Brian Dripping Oil Can)
Women Fighters (No specific event copy ...)
“Forgive me if I've missed this in an earlier missive, but I've been distracted and we have been discussing the time when I was slowly but
surely withdrawing from the SCA. At this point I think I was doing the occasional Molet thing and going to tourneys to see my friends.
“However, the mentions of Mary of Uffington and Trude Lacklandia brought to mind that at this point, women were already on the
field after many years of being essentially forbidden from the lists. There had been a lot of controversy when Trude and then Mary insisted
on fighting, and many fighters, belted and otherwise, refused to fight them. Two of the then strongest objectors to women fighting are on
this list, Sir Steven MacEanruig and Duke James Greyhelm. I'm not sure just when James changed his mind, but I remember with fondness
the event, a simple principality or even provincial event in Berkeley, when the herald announced that Sir Steven MacEanruig wished to
announce he had changed his mind about women fighting, and invited Trude Lacklandia onto the field so that he could demonstrate his
change of mind. Perhaps he remembers his challenge with more clarity than I have presented it.” – S tefan de Lorraine, who also remembers
when Mary of Uffington was qualified as a fighter and immediately challenged Duke Richard of Montreal to come out on the field and "pick
on someone his own size."
Comments:
A
“Actually, though it has been mentioned in passing, the AHP has not yet focused on the events surrounding the first women being
allowed to fight.
“Following the debacle of Nora's attempt to mix it up with the big boys back in AS I or II, there was a long period when women
were tacitly banned from SCA combat, though nothing was put in writing. Around late AS VII and early VIII a number of young, athletic
~ 120 ~
ladies had begun a campaign centering on forcing the male fighters to justify not playing co-ed. The rationalizations put forward
by the established fighters varied but boiled down to three assertions - (1) It wasn't period, (2) A chivalrous gentleman cannot
knowingly strike a lady, and (3) The gurls wood get hoit.
“The ladies' responses were - (1) Presenting tons of historical evidence that women had participated in combat, not dozens
but probably hundreds of times, and a dearth of proof that they never participated in tournaments and some evidence that they may
have. (2) Asking how can you tell gender in armor?? / Offering to adopt incognito male personae (Trude's was Cadwyn ap
Chesshire), and promising not to complain of their opponent's lack of chivalry for hitting them. (3) Stating bluntly "We'll take that
chance, thank you very much". In addition it became apparent that the SCA was skating on thin ice civil rights wise (though NO ONE
advocated a ladies division, that being considered hopelessly 20th century by both sides of the debate).
“Since Trude is my oldest friend, she wouldn't let me get away with ducking and dodging, much less spouting arrant sophistry,
and so (probably much more rapidly than if someone else had been EM) I decided that it was something that had to be done (just
as standardizing the combat authorization procedures and guidelines had been earlier).
“If Trude and Mary deserve the credit for their campaign's success, I deserve the blame for how it was done. As Earl Marshal
I published two regulations - one was a statement of the age, consent and other requirements to participate in SCA combat, which
specifically left gender out; the second was the now infamous "No title not earned on the field of combat may be used on the field
of combat" edict. The idea was of course that if no one is announced as 'Lady', 'Baroness', 'Countess' and so on then the opponent
could pretend that he did not know the fighter's gender.
“Immediately thereafter, first Trude, then Mary were authorized to fight and the gates opened, if not to a flood then to a steady
stream thereafter.
“Later on of course there was the question of what to call a female knight, after some hitches with the first few, it boiled down
to "Whatever she damn well wants." Soon they decided that a knight is called "Sir" regardless of the dispos ition of his or her
plumbing.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “So THAT'S where the "titles earned in combat" rule came from. (No doubt it seemed like a good idea at the time.)
“It occurs to me that, if the Earl Marshal thought it up, an EM ought to be able to change it. (And about bloody well time, too!)
“Hmmmm . . .” – William the Lucky, who may have just found a new crusade ...
B
“I don't know that I would have regarded myself as one of the strongest foes of women fighting and James and I have certainly
disagreed enough over the years. The actual circumstances, however, are pretty much as Stefan remembers. The specific
arguments which changed my mind were twofold. First, fighting is fun and why shouldn't women be permitted to have fun? Second,
there is some documentation about the occasional woman fighting in medieval times. There is no evidence women were allowed
to be seneschals or heralds and we allowed that so why not allow women to fight as well.
“In my defense I was always in favor of training women and I helped train both Trude and Mary.
“As I recall the actual fight, Trude and I fought with axes and no shields and I seem to remember that she killed me.” – Steven
MacEanruig
1 “I held the opinion that it was unchivalrous to fight or strike a woman. On the other hand, I realized that we lived in the 20th
century, and by this time the armor was good enough that no one was going to get hurt every time they fought. It took me awhile
... Anyway, I now have two woman squires, so things, and opinions, change ...” – James Greyhelm
June 19-20, 1976 AS XI
Held in Big Trees Park, Redwood Regional Parks, Oakland, California. King Paul and Queen Carol reigned. At morning court Queen Carol
admitted Astrid of the Two Towers to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Astrid of Two Towers and Yaeger
Broken Nose. Astrid, the mother of Sir Bela of Eastmarch, celebrated her 80th birthday complete with angelfood cake decorated with her
name and a large gold candle. Following court the Crown Lists were held in a double-elimination format. The finals pitted Kevin Peregrynne
versus Rogar Greywolf (an alias of Duke William of Hoghton). After each had one of the two-out-of-three contest there was a spectacular
double-kill. The winner at last was Sir Kevin Peregrynne, who was carried off the field on the shoulders of several fighters. Sir Kevin and
his lady, Patrice du Couer Fidel, were crowned as Crown Prince and Princess of the West by King Paul and Queen Carol. Mistress Rima
of Rockridge read the winning and losing fighter poems. (She had been waiting three years to read Kevin’s victory poem.) The Order of
the Wooden Spoon contest for fruit pie was won by Katiana Amaralnaya for her blueberry pie. Trude Lacklandia and Olaf the Maedi-Ogre
resigned from the Queen’s Guard due to outside commitments and Heinrich Palantine was admitted. That evening there was a bardic circle.
At opening court on Sunday King Paul knighted Lorin sur la Roche. Daniel the Bard read a poem for the Invocation of the Lists. That
afternoon saw the First Annual Earl Marshall’s Pandybat Contest, which was won by the Squire’s Guild for their five man human battering
ram team. Earl Marshall Kevin Peregrynne awarded them their prize, the Pandy Bat (a toy panda bear with bat wings). Then the Ducal Pie
Throwing Auction was held for the benefits of the College of Sciences, sponsored by Lord Brian Dritar an Con. Targets for the auction
were their Graces: Duke Aonghais Dubh MacTarbh, Duke Andrew of Riga, Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit, Duke Douglas Longshanks,
~ 121 ~
Duke William of Hoghton, Duke Henrik of Havn, and Duke James Greyhelm. As a surprise addition Lord Brian’s assistants put Lord Brian
himself up for auction. Altogether over $400 was raised.
At final court, Sir William the Lucky presented the Muckin’ Great Clubbe to Mary of Uffington, as Guy de Montfort was not present.
Queen Carol presented her Queen’s Cypher to Duchess Lorna of Leeds and Olaf the Maedi-Ogre. Amanda of Cawdor, Mistress of the Arts,
announced the winners of the various Art Pentathlon events held that weekend. Musical performance was won by Heinrich Palantine,
Calligraphy by Merewyn de Lyonesse, and Dramatic Recitation by Johann Heinrich Michael Siemon von Wernigerode. The winner overall
in the Archery Contest was Geoffrey Brokenblade, who also won the Warfare contest. The crossbow contest was won by Christopher of
Hoghton.
Comments:
A
[Lord Brian's assistants put Lord Brian himself up for auction. Altogether over $400 was raised.] “Humorous note The Pies were
whip cream filled pie tins, each with a succulent fresh "ducal" strawberry. Each strawberry was fed to the duke prior to receiving the
remainder of the pie to the face ... All except for the unfortunate Duke Douglas Longshanks. His pie was purchased by his good
friend Sir Ian of Cawdor, who ate the strawberry himself and then, as everyone including Douglas was laughing, he deposited the
pie in Douglas' face with a unique motion that forced large amounts of whipped cream up and into every facial orifice of the good
Duke, mouth, nose and ears all included.” – Martin the Temperate
1 “As a minor aside, Duke Aonghus requested and was granted a chocolate pie to be splattered with (it seems he was deathly
allergic to strawberries). Wendy (Lady Gwendylon of the Thistle who was later Gwendylon Firousi) nailed me with her own pie.
Duke Henrik had a broken nose (perhaps from a horseback accident) at the time and his pie had to be carefully delivered to
his profile.” – Brian Dritar an Con
I
“I had a deviated septum from being bucked off a horse at a recent equestrian arts tournament – it was my fault I got
bucked. My recollection is that the pies were real - crust and filling too in the aluminum pie tin – strawberry cream,
chocolate, and lemon meringue for Brian. I have an after photo of me with red and white goop on the side of my face
dripping down on to my tunic.” – Henrik of Havn
B
[The finals pitted Kevin Peregrynne versus Rogar Greywolf (an alias of Duke William of Hoghton).] “This was the first doubleelimination Crown Tournament in the WK. It bears mentioning that William entered the finals undefeated while I had lost an earlier
bout - also against William (quarter finals or the round before as I remember). Paul offered him the option of doing the finals with
deaths retained or starting over best two-out-of-three. William said that he felt that the finals should always be best two out of three,
and that's how it was done, setting WK precedent from then on. As for the fighting, I was so focused on proving that I had really come
back from my broken elbow that I don't remember who I fought (except losing to William) or in what round until the finals.”
[The winner at last was Sir Kevin Peregrynne, who was carried off the field on the shoulders of several fighters.] “A
photographer/writer team from Sunset were there that day, I forgot giving the photographer permission to shoot from the field (after
briefing him on how to stay safe and not block people's views) until days later. The scene described above was the lead photo of
the article when it appeared months later. I haven't looked at it recently, but I recall that Duke Andrew and Sir Steven were two of the
hoisters.”
[Earl Marshall Kevin Peregrynne awarded them their prize, the Pandy Bat (a toy panda bear with bat wings).] “The judges thought
that the fact that the 'ram' (face-down through the entire proceedings) gave the orders to the other four for direction of attack (which
they obeyed literally) was the quintessence of the Pandybat concept.” – Kevin Peregrynne
C
[At final court, Sir William the Lucky presented the Muckin’ Great Clubbe to Mary of Uffington, as Guy de Montfort was not present.]
“And few people ever deserved it more. Mary fought with such enthusiasm that it was easy to lose track of the fact that she was a
relatively short and small-boned teenage girl. And anyone who did not lose track of the fact tended to end up very dead, very fast.”
– William the Lucky
1 “Short, yes. Small-boned, no. Mary was solid all the way through and the Mannion family, as Larry explained to me once, runs
to large bones.” – Steven MacEanruig
“When talking about the first two prominent lady fighters, someone once explained that the difference was that ‘Trude loves to fight,
but Mary loves to kill people.’” – William the Lucky
1 “I'm not positive, but I believe that the MGC presentation was when Mary's insider's nickname went public - "Mary of OOF!ington".
I once described her style as that of a rabid squirrel - she climbs up your torso, inside your face plate and chews you to death.”
I
“But Kevin, I guess I'm not an insider since I never heard that nickname for Mary. The only one I used to refer to her, mostly
to irritate her, was Mary the Muffin. Your description of her style, however, is perfectly accurate.” – Steven MacEanruig
C
~ 122 ~
D
[The Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for fruit pie was won by Katiana Amaralnaya for her blueberry pie.] “Yup that was a prize
winning pie, one of my random early memories. There are probably embarrassing photos of me with blueberry on my face to prove
it.” – Eden of Lionsguard
July 31-Aug 1, 1976 AS XI
Purgatorio Coronation
Held at Big Trees Park, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. King Paul
and Queen Carol held court. Prince Morven of Carrick, Prince of Caid, was
present. Baron Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland and Baroness Amanda Kendal
of Westmore land were presented with the Baronial Charter for the Barony of
Lion’s Guard. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Geoffrey of Northhaven, James
Drakeslayer, Kahina Dhahabiya al Lailat, Lucinda Cottonwoods, and Markus the
Blue. King Paul admitted April of the Dales, Edward of Southhaven and James
Drakeslayer to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Paul then admitted Allysen of
Dunrobin to the Order of the Laurel. Queen Carol expressed her thanks to the
of the Queen’s Guard and to her Ladies-In-Waiting. Then Queen Carol
Kevin Peregrynne - Sable, on a bend sinister members
argent, a
Patrice du Couer Fidel - Argent, upon a heart gules
peregrine falcon descending talons extended and wings addorsed
gave
her
Queen’s
Cypher to Ealasaid NicChlurain, Su of the Silver Horn, Virginia another Or, within a bordure engrailed azure.
azure.
of Enso, and finally to King Paul of Bellatrix. Queen Carol then admitted Fiona
Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix), Gabrielle NicChlurain, Matriona du Cameliard, and Susanne Justine of King’s Harbour to the Queen’s Order
of Grace. She called up her Queen’s Advisors to thank them for their research papers. Prince Kevin Peregrynne turned the office of Earl
Marshall to Sir Iain of Cawdor, naming him Acting Earl Marshall. Irene of the Marsh turned the post of Royal Archer over to Sir Jon FitzRolf. Sir Robert of Westmarch turned the office of Constable over to Olaf the Maedi-Ogre.
The coronation began with a Grand March. At the end of the march came the members of the Barony of Golden Rivers, all dressed in
blue and white, who formed an aisle for the coronation party. Preceded by the Knights of the Silver Molet in their white cloaks, Prince Kevin
Peregrynne and Princess Patrice du Couer Fidel came forward to the thrones. After swearing an oath of fealty and protection to the
populace of the West they were crowned King and Queen by Paul and Carol. After the Knights and the Great Lords of State had sworn
fealty, the other Peers of the Realm (The Orders of the Rose, the Laurel, and the Pelican) were invited to swear fealty. Many did. King Kevin
and Queen Patrice then accepted presentations from the populace, including a replacement pandybat for the Princess Kelly. King Kevin
gave Awards of Arms to Holly of Charlesboro and Virginia of Enso. The Martial Arts Pentathlon, the Wooden Spoon Competition, and
several categories in the Arts Pentathlon occupied the rest of the day.
The next day saw the conclusion of these events, an archery competition, and the abduction of Baroness Amanda Kendal of
Westmoreland by a group of fighters led by Baron Waldt von Markheim. The ensuing rescue attempt failed and the Baroness was rescued
only by the fact that the abductors then fought over her and killed themselves to the last man. At closing court Baron Gerhard Kendal of
Westmoreland declared that a state of war existed between the Barony of Lion’s Gate and the Barony of Dreiburgen. Baron Waldt von
Markheim returned the declaration of war. About the time that they were discussing a fight in the neutral no man’s land in-between to
determine who got the unclaimed territory in-between them, King Kevin stood up, called for the Great Sword of State to lean on, and
declared: “You fellahs are gonna get youah party crashed.” Order was attained, with Baron Gerhard saying that he was only trying to be
in period, and his research had indicated that barons were always stirring up trouble so ...
King Kevin then gave an Award of Arms to Christopher of Hoghton and a Grant of Arms to Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft. King
Kevin made Clarissa of Red Crab Manor on the James, Kaththea verKaeysc, and Matriona du Cameliard Court Baronesses. Adrienne of
Toledo was the winner in the Wooden Spoon contest for “Snowbound.” Jeffrey Brokenblade won the Archery contest. Bergen von Rauch
presented the Old Battered Helm to Martin the Temperate. In the Arts Pentathlon, the Music Composition category was postponed,
Duchess Verena of Laurelin won the Cooking and Costume categories, Singing was won by Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix), and Poetry
was won by Rima of Rockridge. The winner of the M artial Arts Pentathlon was Duke Paul of Bellatrix, followed by Duke James Greyhelm
and Sir Martin the Temperate. Neal Gyrfalcon had the highest score for a noncombattant.
Comments:
A
“During Their Majesties Kevin and Patrice's first court, They were presented with our children for the weekend. We said that we
would feed, sleep, etc them, but that they would be in service to Their Majesties if they could use them. Our children were Melissa
Kendal of Westmoreland, then 12 and Andre Lessard, then 10. Melissa, who found out many things by being in service at that event,
went on to become a Pelican, Queen of AnTir for Twenty Year Celebration, and the person who did the bid for 3YC. She also teaches
a class on History of AnTir (lots of war stories, 11 hrs long last time). Andre spent much of the time at that event, trailing after His
Majesty as he circled the eric, holding an umbrella over His Majesties head (and needing to be on tiptoes). Andre went on to invent
~ 123 ~
El Tablero de Gucci (now played world wide) and win the El Tablero World Championship among other things. Sorry - the ramblings
of a proud mother.”
[... the abduction of Baroness Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland by a group of fighters led by Baron Waldt von Markheim.] “Not
Me!! Not Me!! I would have loved to be abducted by Baron Waldt. He actually abducted a lady (although she calls herself a
possession and not a lady, she has strange attitudes) who looks amazingly like me and is part of our household. Her name is Sem
Sem, she is from Morocco, she wears strange (at least to my eyes) garb, and jingles when she walks. She was absolutely
devastated by that abduction, not wanting to have all that attention (she is much more retiring than me) or bringing worry to her
master - Gerhard. This abduction led to the first of Lions Gate's many wars. But we are a peace-loving Barony.
“BTW, many years later, I was standing duty at the gate of a July Coronation in AnTir with a gentleman from West Kingdom. As
is usual, we started to talk about how we first found out about the SCA. He said that he and his lady wife would have joined 12 years
earlier than they did, but when they phoned Milpitas for information back in August of 1976, everyone was talking about a baroness
being abducted. They didn't want to join any club that had abductions. They didn't know that the whole thing had been planned. I
believe that the war was to decide where the dividing line was between the two Baronies.” – Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland
Sept 18-19, 1976 AS XI
Held in Big Trees Park, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. King Kevin and Queen Patrice held court. Michaela de Neuville and
Karina of the Far West were the winners in the Order of Arachne’s Web contest for lace. In order to do penance for the treasonous crime
of having eaten the King’s Chocolate Chip Cookies, Duke Andrew of Riga (all the while protesting that he had been framed) came forward
with a plate of said cookies which he had baked by the ladies of Brian Dritar an Con’s household. Duke Andrew was forced to stand
through court, guarding the cookies and not eating any. Sir Steven MacEanruig, Sir William the Lucky, and Tamsin of the Raven Tresses
presented a song that was inspired by the deeds performed at the Shasta War. King Kevin instituted the Order of the Bridesmaids for those
intrepid fighters “Who Didn’t Win The Crown.” It was a red ribbon that said Second Place, and had a laurel wreath encircling a torch. It
was presented to Sir William the Lucky and Sir Steven MacEanruig. Andréi de Sevastopol turned the office of Seneschal over to
Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft. King Kevin gave Awards of Arms to Beagle de la Souris Folle, Elliott of Ruxton Hall, Quiauhxochitl and
Strider the Persistent. Then King Kevin admitted Joan of Crawfordsmuir, Mark von dem Falkensfenn, and Strider the Persistent to the Order
of the Leaf of Merit. The Board of Directors admitted Duchess La Rana to the Society Order of the Pelican. Duke Richard of Mont Real,
in his turn, refused the honor, saying that the honor of being the first Duke and the first Master of Arms was sufficient.
Following court, the Crown Lists were held in a double elimination format. In the finals Duke Andrew of Riga defeated Sir Iain of
Cawdor for the Crown. Countess Patrice d’Cilla was his lady. A contest for the best challenge was held during the day. The winner was
Mary of Uffington, for challenging Duke Richard of Mont Real “because she had been told to pick on someone her own size.” Second place
went to Brian Dritar an Con, for persistence. That evening there was a bardic circle.
At closing court the next day Heinrich Palantine and Sir Martin the Temperate sold his Majesty his own squires, in a hilarious “UsedSquire Sale.” The ladies-in-waiting bought the squires for the round sum of ten dollars which was matched by Sir Martin, Heinrich, and
the squires. The monies were donated to Ye Royal Pigge. Queen Patrice admitted Karen, Duchess de Wyvern, to the Queen’s Order of
Grace. King Kevin admitted Sir Iain of Cawdor to the Order of the Bridesmaids. King Kevin admitted John ap Griffin to the Order of the
Pelican and Duke Henrik of Havn to the Order of the Laurel. Sir William the Lucky turned down admission to the Order of the Pelican saying
that his membership in the Order of the Laurel was sufficient for his past deeds, and that he had yet to earn membership in the Order of
the Pelican. Duke Henrik said the same thing and also rejected membership in the Order of the Laurel. Lora du Griffin and Tonda were given
scrolls done by Mistress Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani) and signed by Queen Patrice for their ‘yeoman work at the Crown
tourney by helping clean the camp area’. Sir William Gordon of York was announced as the Grand Winner of the Arts Pentathlon, and
received the champion’s medallion.
Comments:
A
[Sir William Gordon of York was announced as the Grand Winner of the Arts Pentathlon ...] “Two things I found amusing about this
although I won overall, I did not win a single event! This probably remains a record, of sorts ...
“The other was the "champions medal" at this time, it had been decided to upgrade the visibility of the Pentathlon, so as winner
I not only got a harp medallion, but a gigantic and highly visible wreath of golden poppies. I was told that I was now a member of
the Order of the Golden Poppy, an order which I think was intended for Arts Pentathlon winners ...” – William Gordon of York
B
[Duke Henrik said the same thing and also rejected membership in the Order of the Laurel.] “The event that led to consulting with
the candidates BEFORE they are brought into Court becoming nearly mandatory, instead of occasional as it had been up until then.
What an embarrassing plague of humility among the Peerage!” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I think it kinds of adds to the drama to have an occasional refusal.” – Steven MacEanruig
~ 124 ~
B
“At the weekend's Chivalry council I pulled one of my most cherished dirty tricks. Duke Aonghais got into loud altercation with Sir
Martin (I forget what it was about, but Aonghais instigated it). After I had restored order and concluded the meeting, I privily asked
Duke Richard if he would, as a favor to his King, explain to Duke Aonghais how one was expected to conduct ones self in a West
Kingdom Chivalry Meeting. From the outside it merely appeared that Richard chatted quietly with Aonghais while puffing on and
occasionally gesturing with his pipe. When the opportunity occurred he approached the throne and apologized for his conduct (read
- groveled theatrically).” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “The altercation was about blow counting, as I recall. I seem to recall that Aonghais did most of the talking and the rest of us
sort of stood around open mouthed and a little too shocked to do what we should have done which was to tell Aonghais to shut
up and go to hell. Martin got a fair amount of commiseration afterwards, but he shouldn't have had to go through it in the place.”
I
“My memory of this altercation remains vivid, as this scene made the behavior of Aonghais crystal clear to me. What
happened, as I remember, was this: Aonghais had suggested knigh ting one of the southern fighters. The King quite
naturally turned to Martin, who I think was Prince at the time, and asked his opinion. Martin thought it over and then allowed
as how he thought the fighter in question needed more time to season before becoming a knight, and the King nodded.
Aonghais then stepped forward and volunteered the suggestion that since Martin did not count blows, his opinion should
not be asked or heeded on the matter, and a disbelieving hush fell. Many (including myself) were enraged that such a
serious accusation was advanced simply to further a knighting, instead of to a marshal’s court (if true) or not at all (if false).
I remember that I was the first to speak I stepped up to Martin and said, "How many years have you been with us, Martin?",
to which he responded (as I recall) "Seven." I then said to Aonghais, "How many years have you been with us, Aonghais?",
to which he responded "One." "I rest my case!" I grated, and stalked off ...
“Aonghais’ later behavior made it quite clear that his major avocation in life was to cause trouble whenever and
however he could. I once told him that I couldn't understand why he had come to one of the West-Caid wars after he was
kicked out of Caid, when it would just make trouble for everyone. His response was, "But you're not SILICIAN!", in a
manner that made it obvious that the trouble was exactly why he was there ...” – William Gordon of York
a “Actually, as I recall, Morven was Prince at this event, Martin's Investiture was in November, so he may have been heir
to Caid's coronet at the time (though the history indicates that the Coronet he won was the following weekend). Other
than that, the description matches my memory exactly - my main recollection is that I was totally appalled that an actual
shouting match was going on in our chivalry council ... THEN I remembered to get Royally pissed off (as opposed to
personally).
“Perhaps siccing Richard on him was too subtle?” – Kevin Peregrynne
b “Thanks for the memory. When I first read this, I didn't really remember it as an "altercation" because I was so stunned
by it that I didn't think I had responde d. (More likely I turned somewhat red-faced in anger/embarrassment.) I do
remember trying to calm myself so that I could think of some appropriate response but what could one say without
being pulled down to my attacker's level, yet I thought I would have to say something ... when someone (you) came
to my defense as you described. (I hope I had the presence to thank you at the time.)
“Virtually every knight in attendance commented to me on my self control, indicating they would have "hauled off
and hit him." (Again thanks for the prompt intervention, who knows what I might have blurted out in the next few
seconds.) By the end of the day I was actually happy the incident had occurred because Aonghais had been actively
campaigning to discredit me, but behind my back and through innuendo. It was a clear miscalculation on his part
to do so openly and in that forum. More importantly, it was the first time he had actually "shown his true colors." I think
a lot of people finally began to realize what he was about and "came off the fence" so to speak.
“To my brother knights,
“My other important memory from all this is how you and everyone made me feel that day. Forgive me if this lacks
the proper eloquence but, never before in my life had anyone outside of my immediate family "come to my defense"
never before did I feel so accepted by those around me, never before did I realize how many friends I had. It may be
out of place to say this here but I was too young to realize I should have said it then. You'll never really appreciate how
much you all mean to me. The life lessons I learned about truth, trust, solidarity, and mostly about friendship. Facets
of honor and chivalry. Lessons I've been able to apply to every part of my life.
“It's all still with me here and now, so again I say, Thanks for the memories.” – Martin the Temperate
c
“That meeting was definitely not one of the prouder moments of the Chivalry of the West. I don't recall an actual
shouting match going on in the council -- more that the candidate's name was put by for the moment (since, as Martin
had pointed out, he wasn't ready) and things wound down.
“I remember talking to Martin afterward, and making some cutting remark about Aonghais' behavior. Martin
expressed some surprise, or at least doubt about the universality of my opinion. I assured him that it was damn near
unanimous.
“He said, "I thought since nobody said anything, maybe they agreed with him <Aonghais>."
~ 125 ~
B
C
“To which I replied "No, everybody was just speechless with shock and amazement." Obviously we should have
had a shouting match right at the time, but we blew it.
“I believe, in retrospect, that even Aonghais knew that the individual was not ready. But it was such a golden
opportunity to stir up trouble. Something he clearly regarded as vitally important. We have had others of a similar
inclination, but fortunately none who were quite so accomplished at it.” – William the Lucky
i
“I don’t recall having been present at this event, so I can’t comment about it – but it strikes me that comments
about Aonghais liking to stir up trouble – may be a bit presumptuous. My own experience with him over the years
of his various controversies (and Kingdom residences) would suggest that he simply did and said whatever he
wanted to in order to further his own ends – without regard for others and their feelings, and without consideration
or thought of who else may or may not get hurt in the final outcome. Like a kid pushing through a crowd as fast
and as hard as necessary to get through in as short a time as possible with toes being stepped upon and some
people being knocked down and hurt. He seemed to focus on the end result of what he wanted, not how it would
affect others in the process.” – Henrik of Havn
A “My own experience with Aonghais tallies with Henrik's - with the addition that his own ends tended to be
toward trying to oust the mighty by hook or by crook just so the field would be clear for him. It is my
recollection that when he came out here, both Martin & Hugh made him welcome as well as may be - he
started with them, not the other way around. I got along well with him, even when he tried to undercut me as
Earl Marshal (to me it just meant I had something valuable to him).You see, I am from Brooklyn, too.” –
Charles of Dublin
1 “I was luckier than most. The first three sentences Aonghais spoke to me, were all I needed to know to
stay away from him. It the first tournament I fought in, Aonghais was an opponent. I lost. After the
tourney, he came to me and said, "You're going to be a good fighter. I've never been hit that hard"" At
that he lifted his kilt and showed me a bruise on his left leg from hip to knee. Naively, I asked, "If it was
that hard, why didn't you accept it?". He turned and walked off. Several months later, with never a word
said to me, the third sentence came. After Lyndia and I were announced as the next Baron and Baroness
of Angels, Aonghais came up to me and throwing his arm around me proclaimed, "I can make you a
knight!". It was my turn to walk away.” – Fredrick of Woodlyn
2 “After reading the comments of others, the Aonghais/Martin incident comes back in my memory. However what has always
been my primary memory of this event was another Aonghais episode. During the list finals, the sun was going down and it
was getting darker and harder to see just what was happening to the combatants. When Andrew killed John (Ian) I thought at
the time that it was a double kill [please keep in mind that I didn’t at the time and still don’t believe that Andrew was not
honorable and called it as he believed it to be]. At the time I thought that it was a double kill and that they were going to fight
again, when out from the ring of knights runs Aonghais yelling congratulations at the top of his lungs and lifting Andrew into
the air. Needless to say this exhibition snowballed and the lists ended there. I believed at the time and still do that it was just
another example of Aonghais poor taste and toadying ...” – Rand of Dunbar
“Later that evening Aonghais was heard to describe his encounter with Richard along the lines of "He picked me up by my belt
walked me backwards into the tree and proceeded to shout 'THIS IS THE WEST!' (pantomime of being slammed into a tree trunk),
'NOT THE EAST!' (another slam), 'THIS IS THE WEST!' (slam), 'NOT THE EAST!' (slam), then he dropped me on my ass and told
me to go apologize to the King."” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “Richard can sometimes give that impression when he thinks he is being calm and controlled. When he gets angry he can
really make an impression. Good choice of someone to talk to Angohais, though. My congratulations.” – Steven MacEanruig
[Sir William the Lucky turned down admission to the Order of the Pelican saying that his membership in the Order of the Laurel was
sufficient for his past deeds, and that he had yet to earn membership in the Order of the Pelican. Duke Henrik said the same thing
and also rejected membership in the Order of the Laurel.] “This wording is in error. As you will recall in previous communication
over this – we clarified that I was offered dual peerage by His Majesty Kevin. My response was “Yes and No!” I accepted the Laurel
but felt I didn’t deserve the Pelican and declined it. (I didn’t realize that his majesty had been turned down two times earlier for his
offer of Pelicans to Duke Richard and Sir William – since I had missed most of the two courts.)” – Henrik of Havn
~ 126 ~
January 8, 1977 AS XI
Held in the Richmond Civic Auditorium, Richmond, California. King Kevin and
Queen Patrice processed in to start first court, followed by Prince Theodulf of
Borogrove and Princess Anne of Caerdydd of An Tir, Prince Martin the
Temperate and Princess Arabella Lyon de Rohese of Caid, and Crown Princess
Caellyn Fitzhugh from the Middle Kingdom. Master Hal Ravn and his lady,
Mistress Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin, presented their Majesties with a pair of
beautiful handcarved and painted wooden thrones, decorated with the arms of
the King and Queen, and with the personal arms of all the past kings and queens.
Several beautiful scrolls were presented. King Kevin gave Awards of Arms to
Alexandra of Armageddon, Christiana Guiliana dell Onda, David du Lac, Hilary
Patrice d’Cilla - Sable, in base a horse passant argent, in
of Serendip, Leila of Anatum, Raymond of Anatum, Robert Kinslayer, Trelon of canton a dove descendant gules, fimbriated argent.
argent.
the Woods, and Treya N’Iurge a Glanabred. Then King Kevin admitted Christiana
Guiliana dell Onda, Kriemhild of Stonecroft, and Merewyn de Lyonesse to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Kevin gave a Grant of Arms
to Olaf the Maedi-Ogre. Then André de Sevastopol transferred the office of Kingdom Seneschal to Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft.
Amanda of Cawdor was appointed Kingdom Mistress of Arts. King Kevin confirmed Iain of Cawdor as his successor as Earl Marshall. Then
the knights of the West were called up and King Kevin knighted Strider of Duramen, the Persistent, and Bergen von Rauch, who took the
name of Sir Baidaan. The Knights of the Silver Molet then came forward and King Kevin admitted to their Order Sir Elriin of Hrassvelg.
Queen Patrice admitted Rima of Rockridge to the Queen’s Order of Grace and bestowed her Queen’s Cypher on Aehlwyth of Coventry,
Matriona du Cameliard, and Ursula Bhouglesbayne.
Following a short break the Grand March was held, culminating in the coronation of Andrew of Riga and Patrice d’Cilla as King and
Queen of the West. Oaths of Fealty were exchanged between his Majesty and the Knights, Great Lords of State, Peers of the Realm, Princes
and Princesses of An Tir and Caid, and the Barons and Baronesses of the various Baronies. Sir Kevin Peregrynne and Patrice du Couer
Fidel came forward and were proclaimed Earl and Countess of the West. Then Prince Martin and Princess Arabella, along with most of the
officers and nobility of Caid came forward to present King Andrew and Queen Patrice with petitions requesting kingdom status for Caid.
King Andrew expressed his approval of the petitions and pledged his support to Caid’s request to the Board of Directors for kingdom
status. Christopher of Hoghton and Paul of Hamildone were presented with the baldrics of office as Co-Champions of the Royal Wards.
Phillip the Fierce was appointed Royal Fudge Maker, and quickly produced a tray of same for his Majesty. King Andrew admitted Edgar
the Unready and Dorothea the Unsure to the Order of the Pelican. Then King Andrew admitted Wilhelm von Schlüssel to the Order of the
Laurel. The various members of the Order of the Leaf of Merit were called up and presented with their medallions of office, a silver laurel
leaf on a grey ribbon. King Andrew also admitted Earl Kevin Peregrynne to the Order of the Pelican. King Andrew raised Douglas of
Hvitamyrr to the rank of Court Baron. The members of the Barony of Angels performed a new variation of the traditional gold, frankincense
and myrrh ceremony. A song written for the occasion was sung to a traditional Jewish Sabbath tune, and six members came up holding
candles and ribbons so as to form a star of David. King Andrew gave an Award of Arms to Christina Northlander.
Then there was a break as the hall was cleared, followed by the banquet. Following the banquet the revelry began with a revel court,
in which King Andrew and Queen Patrice received further presentations from the populace and the traditional Twelfth Night Cake was
passed. Cameron of Caldoon received the piece with the nut. Against the passionate pleas of Prince Martin and the rest of the Caid
delegation, King Andrew crowned Cameron and his lady Lord and Lady of Misrule for the evening and departed the throne. Revelry
commenced. A masqued-ball was held. The winner was Princess Anne of Caerdydd. A contest for pickled anything was won by Duchess
Verena of Laurelin for pickled quince. (At King Kevin’s last court he presented Baron Sir Stephen Compte de Lorraine, O.L., O.P., with a
merit badge sash for SCA Troop 001, compete with a merit badge for each honor which Stephen had attained.)
Comments:
A
[The members of the Barony of Angels performed a new variation of the traditional gold, frankincense and myrrh ceremony.] “After
the Barony of the Angels had done their thing with the gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Hal's sister Catherine Ravn (by special
arrangement with the Heralds) was the next item on the agenda she presented Their Majesties with (home-made) bagels, lox, and
cream cheese. Andrew's comment "Hal, God's gonna get you for that."” – Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin
~ 127 ~
March 19, 1977 AS XI
Held at Sigmund Stern Grove Park, San Francisco, California. Thomas for the Interim and Debreceni Ilona were the autocrats. King Andrew
and Queen Patrice held opening court at noon. After the presentations from the populace King Andrew gave an Award of Arms to SerhanaGrey of Ravenshold and admitted Alewaulfe the Red, Eyana Bat-David, and Megan of Thistledown to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King
Andrew then conferred upon John ap Griffin the title of Baron. Scrolls were handed out. Then court ended and fighting began. There was
a Shastan Melee where the captains and strategists were two ladies, Lady Alyson of Hoghton and HRM Patrice (Alyson’s side won). In
the second melee Duke Paul of Bellatrix successfully held off five attackers. Then Crown Lists were held. In the finals Sir Terrence of
Halliday defeated Sir William the Lucky, two fights to one. During the day Queen Patrice held her birthday party (Viscount Morven of
Carrick had presented her with four cheese cakes). There was an abduction of Tamsin of the Raven Tresses. While the abductors were
fighting the rescuers, Tamsin, who is a qualified fighter in her own right, snuck off and armed herself in Sir William the Lucky’s armor and
stormed back to rescue herself, only to find that the last abductor had died. Not wanting to waste all that effort of arming, she attacked the
rescuers instead. At final court King Andrew and Queen Patrice called Sir Terrence of Halliday and his lady, Jennet of Twominds, forward
and crowned them Prince and Princess of the Mists and Crown Prince and Princess of the Kingdom. Tamsin of the Raven Tresses was
awarded the Muckin’ Great Clubbe for her actions in her abduction. At the close of Court everyone scrambled to pack up their gear and
depart as night fell very quickly.
Comments:
A
“And she was rather irked to discover that the abductors had lost, as she had plans to kill them off after the rescuers had failed.
But attacking the rescuers mostly made up for it.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“Martin - Was the Crown Tourney at Stern's Grove the event where you and Loren sur la Roche challenged Paul and William the
Lucky, and you killed three out of four while losing the fight? I don't know why it seems like it occurred there, but I don't think it was
at a Big Trees event. Hope your memory is better than mine at placing this unique combat.” – Robear du Bois
1 “I don't remember what Stern's grove looked like. I would have said it was at Big Trees but wouldn't wager for or against it.
Paul might remember as I remember him being particularly tickled by the whole event. I made all the kills, 3 of 3. I also think
it was Duke Richard of Montreal (sp) and not Lucky, but again I can't be sure.
“Loren held Paul at bay while I dispatched ?Richard? I rushed over to double team Paul. I overshot Loren as Paul backpedaled. We traded leg blows and (I think) literally jumped over mine just as Loren caught up to us and my follow through
caught Loren hard across the thighs. We sparred with Paul for a moment and he opened up for a rising snap. He had been
practicing bobbing his head back and the tip of my sword couldn't have missed by half an inch, but miss it did. Once again
Loren was the unfortunate beneficiary of the follow though as I cracked him across the eye slots. While I do remember Loren's
initial look of dismay as I cut his legs out from under him, it didn't compare to his utter disbelief as I took off his head. His dying
words were simple and eloquent, something on the order of "You fool" which considering my situation I could not deny nor take
umbrage. Paul was so amused he was literally bouncing up and down on his toes. I asked him to back off a step and I
finished myself off with a "salute style" shot to my helm. And that is how, in a four-man melee, with only two opponents, I
managed to kill three of the combatants, and lose the match.” – Martin the Temperate
I
“Stern Grove is in San Francisco; a park with a little lake in a deep valley, a couple of miles south of the Golden Gate Park
on 19th street. We had a couple of one-day Crown Tourneys there, and some principality events.
“I wuz there for the encounter Martin describes; it was one of the all-time great moments of my SCA life. I think it was
Richard rather than Lucky - but that part of the memory is more or less blanked out by the white light surrounding Martin's
kill on Loren and subsequent suicide.” – Hilary of Serendip
2 “It was at Stern's Grove. And I'm still tickled by it.” – Paul of Bellatrix
3 “Hey, wait a minute, I remember this melee! You don't forget things like the great suicide salute! Yeah, it was at Stern Grove
... There's a field down in the lower end of the grove.
“One thing I'm finding out from this list is that I was going to Kingdom events earlier than I remembered. (For some
reason, I was suffering from the delusion that my first Kingdom tourney was June '78 – when I joined the Constabulary – but
I know now it wasn't. Especially since I remember carpooling with Tarnmisties, and I moved to the Bay Area in March of '78...)”
– Jilara of Carrowlea
~ 128 ~
April 23-24, 1977 AS XI
Coronation Festival
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. The court
of King Andrew and Queen Patrice began at noon. King Deaton Claymore and
Queen Care Cheri from Atenveldt were visiting, as were Prince Martin and
Princess Arabella from Caid. Scrolls were handed out. King Andrew gave Awards
of Arms to Guy of the Silver Horses and Kathleen of Kittens and admitted Duryn
the Red, Randolph the Devious, Rodrigo de Cerdaña and Yolanda del Campo de
Cerdaña to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Then he made Bjo of Griffin (Flavia
Beatrice Carmigniani) and Ximena Aubel de Cambria Court Baronesses and Piers
Howells de Cambria a Court Baron. The Order of the Pelican was called forward
and Beverly Hodghead and Gabrielle Deveraux NicChlurain were admitted. Then
Terrence of Halliday - Per bend sinister azure and
of Twominds - Per pale argent and sable, a sun in
the overall
Ordera helmet
of the Laurel was called up and Morrigan Cailte Fitz-Rolf was admitted. Jennet
counter-ermine, a sword bendwise sinister argent,
his splendour throughout of the field, rayed and featured c
facing dexter argent, plumed, a bordure Or.
Then the knights of the West were called up and Gregory of York was knighted. changed.
Queen Patrice admitted Baroness Rowen-Lynn of Woodvine to the Queen’s Order of Grace and gave her
Queen’s Cypher to Cristiana Gulliana dell Onda, Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix), and Suzanne Justine. Then Their Majesties accepted
presentations from the populace, including a pair of goblets with their personal arms painted on. Lady Mary Taran of Glastonbury brought
the greetings of the King of the East and his invitation for the West to join with the East to crush the Middle in the Pennsic War. The
assembled fighters expressed their approval. Earl Merowald of Sylveaston, from the Middle, countered with a request for fighters to aid
the Middle and an offer of hospitality at the war site. Earl Merolwald, by way of Duke Aonghais, presented their Majesties with two copies
of his map of the Knowne World. King Andrew commented on the expanded size of the Middle and the diminished size of the West. Sir
Strider of Duramen, the Persistent, presented Earl Kevin Peregrynne and Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel with a gorgeous cut glass window
with their arms, their household badge, and the arms of their Barony etched onto the glass. The Order of Arachne’s Web admitted Beryl
of the Valley of the Moon as the winner of their latest lace contest. Gormflait ni Cuallachta transferred the office of Seneschal of the
Province of the Mists to Michaela de Neuville.
There was a break and then the Grand March, followed by the coronation of King Terrence and Queen Jennet. King Terrence and
Queen Jennet named Patrice d’Cilla Duchess of the West. Queen Jennet reinstated the Queen’s Guard and admitted Christopher of
Hoghton, Mary of Uffington, Karl of Clan Colin, Lodbrog Houhdstooth, William Allen, Heinrich Palantine, Brian Dritar an Con, Marshall
of Eaglesbane, Edward of South-Haven, Richard of Havn, Sven MacChlurain, David Westerville, Sten Halvorssen, and Benjamin von
Ermantrodt. Queen Jennet named Dritar an Con as Captain of the Queen’s Guard.
King Terrence gave Awards of Arms to Allyn Samildanach, Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine, and Nicholas Worthington.
Then King Terrence admitted Baron Sylvanus Andere, Sir Sean Macarailt, and Duke Andrew of Riga to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King
Terrence called forward Duke Siegfriend von Hoflichskeit and prepared for him a proper gin and tonic. (Some years before Duke Siegfried
had observed His Majesty mixing a gin and tonic with inferior materials and had insulted the drink enough so his Majesty challenged him.
The challenge, however, was never fought, so His Majesty decided to thus resolve it.) Their Majesties accepted the presentations from
the populace, including a supply of gin and tonic, thirteen other alcoholic beverages plus a six pack of beer and a Mead cake, along with
four goblets, three plates, mixed tea, herbes, a boar’s head, and a salt cellar with salt. Sir Loren Sur La Roche presented his current Majesty
with a “Currant King”, a box of currants with attached head, arms, and legs of paper. Duchess Lorna of Leeds, having noticed His
Majesty’s interest in navels, presented him with a navel orange. After court the arts pentathlon held five contests. The Equestrian
Tournament was cancelled except for the Equestrian Archery. There was a bardic circle in the evening.
The following day saw the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for breakfasts, the archery tournament, lists for Wardlord and Queen’s
Champion, dancing, and a Maypole. The ladies of the kingdom gathered to vote for the Philanderer of the Year. Formal closing court was
held early in the afternoon, for the benefit of those from the farther reaches of the kingdom who had a long way to travel.
King Terrence and Queen Jennet held court. Duchess Verena of Laurelin announced that there was a tie for the title of Philanderer of
the Year between Robear du Bois and Earl Kevin Peregrynne, who was co-winner the previous year. The Olde Battered Helm was presented
to Karl of Clan Colin. King Terrence gave Awards of Arms to Allyson Silvermeadow, Arcadia de Bella Fortuna, Catarenya Adkoshka,
Cliveden d’Cheiux, Duncan Greencastle, Elaine of Wogen Cavern, Deborah Dreamspinner, Sten Halvorssen, Sven MacChlurain, and
Tamsin of the Raven Tresses. David Westerville was invested as the new Wardlord and Sir Steven MacEanruig was proclaimed the Queen’s
Champion. The winners of the Order of the Wooden Spoon contest were April of the Dales and Tadhg, who tied. Aarond the Grey won
the Equestrian Archery contest, receiving a handmade quiver as the prize. The winner of the Order of Arachne’s Web floral motif lace
contest was Yolanda del Campo de Cerdaña. Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel presented the actual cyphers which she had given in name
during her reign last year. Court was closed and people began packing, with the archery tourney still in progress. With the sky threatening
~ 129 ~
rain a short court was held to announce that Rodrigo de Cerdaña was the winner, with Orison of the Golden Sword taking second place.
Then all fled the scene to avoid the threatened rain.
Comments:
A
[King Andrew gave Awards of Arms to Guy of the Silver Horses and Kathleen of Kittens] “... at the time she received her award of
arms Kathleen of Kittens was 8 years old & probably the youngest person to receive such an award to that date.” – Eden of
Lionsguard
The Year Twelve
June 18-19, 1977 AS XII
Crown Tourney
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. The Tourney began under a cold cloudy sky, a condition that was
to persist throughout the event. After some challenges and melees the first court of King Terrence and Queen Jennet began at noon. Prince
Balin and Princess Lorrisa of Caid sat with them. Mistress Johanna von Griffenhurst, O.L., and Lord Allyn O’Dubhda the Macemaker were
introduced as emissaries from the “New World”, the Protectorate of Thairis (Europe). Mistress Johanna is their Mistress of Arts and Allyn
is the Aurochs Pursuivant. Both were long time residents of the West before moving to the Protectorate. King Terrence read his law on
the jurisdiction of the Rules of the Lists and his proclamation on the disposal of monies from principality events. (The Rules of the Lists
apply only to events inside the Eric, and all moneys from the principality events, after expenses, go to the Principality.) Duke Siegfried von
Hoflichskeit presented their Majesties with a handsome matched pair of Jaegar daggers from Atenveldt. King Terrence gave Awards of
Arms to Alejandrina Rosa Amanda y Selena de la Islas Nacimentes, Colin de Wyndmere, Eudaimon of Alexandros, Knud Kaukinen, Lewis
the Landless, Megan of Starforge, Paul of Hameldone, Sharilyn de la Zaiyeets, and Siegfried von Rion. Then King Terrence admitted
Guinevere Elspeth Malyn, Joselyn Elspeth Fitzharry of Gillyflower, and Josette du Chanticleer to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Most of
these were accepted by representatives, as many were not present. The tradition of posting announcements behind the Royal Pavilion was
begun. Court ended after a little more than half an hour, record time in recent years. Crown lists were begun, with fifty-two fighters entering
the double eliminations. After over one hundred combats, plus several melees and challenges in between, Duke Paul of Bellatrix defeated
Sir Strider of Duramen, the Persistent. At second court shortly afterwards, Duke Paul and his lady, Duchess Carol of Bellatrix, were invested
as Crown Prince and Princess of the Mists and crowned with the wreaths of laurel and roses. King Terrence then called up Sir Strider and
presented him with his red second-place ribbon, admitting him to the Order of the Bridesmaids. Tamsin of the Raven Tresses presented
Sir Strider with the Muckin’ Great Clubbe for his ferocity on the field. The winner of the Wooden Spoon contest, for her bread, was an
anonymous lady from Shasta. The College of Bards read the winning and losing poems for Duke Paul and Sir Strider. The Office of Games
and Jollities announced the winner of the Children’s Poetry Contest to be the lady Leprechaun. Tristen de Montesporre presented Princess
Lorissa with a scroll and Maras presented their Highnesses with jewelry. Jeosigh M acCrimmon gave a bottle of champagne to King
Terrence and the Shire of Allyshia presented the king with his tithe from their loot from the recent war with Shasta: one-fifth of the one coin.
Then court ended and the populace adjourned to eat and revel for the night.
The following day saw the archery competitions, several events in the Arts Pentathlon, and various challenge matches and melees.
At final court it was announced that the winner of the archery contests prize of a pair of matched goblets was Aaron the Grey, closely
followed by Rodrigo de Cerdaña. The Shire of Tarnmist petitioned the King for protection and recognition as part of the central kingdom,
which was granted. Mistress Amanda of Cawdor, Mistress of Arts, announced that the winners of the Arts Pentathlon contests would
be announced at the Purgatorio coronation. Court ended with the population then adjourning to pack up and get in a few last challenge
matches.
~ 130 ~
July 30-31, 1977 AS XII
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. The day
dawned clear and warm, and rapidly became hot, which was the condition for the
rest of the event. King Terrence and Queen Jennet called their final court. The
Shire of Allyshia petitioned his Majesty to approve their petition to become a
barony with Maelgwyn and Merewyn de Lyonesse as Baron and Baroness. King
Terrence said that he approved and would so tell the Board of Directors. After
the presentations King Terrence passed out scrolls for past awards and then
gave Awards of Arms to David Westerville, Deporodh of Rannoch, Elspeth
Swanwing, Esmirelda Dancingstar of the Emerald Isle, Brianne of Silvergrove, and
the Fierce. Then King Terrence admitted Elspeth Swanwing, Galina de Keri,
Paul of Bellatrix - Sable, on a bend Or three Phillip
compass-stars
palewise gules.
Genevra of Astolat, Catherine Winifred of Tor Bitterroot, and Styrbjørn Hrolfsson octofoils in bend three and three counterchanged, all pierc
to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Amelung von Kriegsheldenburg was pronounced Baroness of Three
Mountains, and Frederick and Lyndia of Woodlyn were made Vicar and Vicaress of the Barony of the Angels. Queen Jennet gave her
Queen’s Cypher to Duchess Verena of Laurelin and Mistress Annette of Faire Monte. Prince Balin and Princess Lorissa of Caid sat with
Their Majesties and Princess Lorissa presented Her Majesty with a bottle of bath salts she had made herself. There was a break followed
by the Coronation Grand March.
At the end of the Grand March, the members of Helmsgaard snuck up wrapped in cloaks and were announced as Clan Destine (King
Terrence, during his reign, fought under the alias of Leroy of Clan Destine). Then Duke Paul of Bellatrix and Duchess Carol of Bellatrix came
forward, and for the sixth time were crowned King and Queen. After the various oaths of fealty Queen Carol reinstated the Queen’s Guard
with Brian Dritar an Con as Captain and consisting of Christopher of Hoghton, Mary of Uffington, Karl of Clan Colin, Lodbrog
Houndstooth, William Allen, Heinrich Palantine, Marshal of Eaglesbane, Edward of Southhaven, Richard of Havn, Sven MacChlurain,
David Westerville, Sten Halvorssen, and Benjamin von Armentrout. Terrence of Halliday and Jennet of Twominds were proclaimed Earl
and Countess of the West. There were numerous presentations both to and from their Majesties, including free riding lessons, a scurrilous
song for his Majesty, a large silver drinking thimble, a chessboard, a statuette, and several bottles.
King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Antonia de Castile, Aarond the Grey, and Gordon of Conulupus and then admitted Mary Taran
of Glastonbury to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Paul admitted Michael the Black to the Order of the Pelican and gave to him an
augmentation of arms: an inescutcheon sable, thereon a lamp within a laurel wreath Or, representing the University of Ithra, which Michael
founded.
During the rest of the day there were competitions in the Arts Pentathlon, and archery. The oppressive heat delayed fighting until late
afternoon. Then the Queen’s Favor Lists were held. Duke Douglas Longshanks was the winner. There was an Order of the Wooden Spoon
contest. At evening court, King Paul knighted Maelgwyn de Lyonesse and Christopher of Hoghton. In the evening there was a Ninja War
contest, with ninjas with boffers trying to assassinate a well guarded daimyo (Olaf the Maedi-Ogre).
The next morning Paul and Carol held court. Queen Carol admitted John ap Griffin to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Yolanda del Campo
de Cerdaña was presented with the Wooden Spoon (for Strawberry Soup). Prince Balin, with the approval of King Paul, gave Awards of
Arms to Duchess Lorna of Leeds, Duchess Patrice d’Cilla, and Queen Carol, for their contributions to the Kingdom when not on the throne.
Prince Balin also claimed Paradise, California (home of Countess Patrice d’Cilla) and Black Fen (home of Master Michael the Black) as Caid
Protectorates. Eilonwy de Lyur presented the members of Rieslingshire with a beautiful banner of the shire’s arms. Richard of Havn
announced that Joseph of Novgorod was the grand winner of the Ninja War, with Bodo the Brutal getting honorable mention. The winners
in the children’s division were Sean of Hrassvelg, Stephen of Bellatrix, and Trelon of the Woods, who walked up to Olaf saying they weren’t
playing, and then assassinated him. A confrontation was staged between a border lord and the highland peasants, leading to a chess game
to settle the affair. White won, as always.
At afternoon court Queen Carol gave her Queen’s Cyphers to Gerhard and Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland. Duke Douglas
Longshanks received the Queen’s Favor and was proclaimed Queen’s Champion. The Principality of the Mists was proclaimed the winner
of the Tri-Principality Archery contest, with the members from Golden Rivers taking most of the credit. Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland,
Baron of Lion’s Gate, announced that he had defeated Waldt von Markheim of Dreiburgen in personal combat, ending their war with Lion’s
Gate victorious. Domina Trude Lacklandia, first female knight of the SCA, swore fealty to King Paul, except when her fealty to Atenveldt
took precedence. The Old Battered Helm was presented to Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel for her death scene at the chess game, when
Earl Kevin Peregrynne was her Queen’s champion and was defeated. Cormac of the Bow won the general archery contest. Sir Jon the Lean
(Jon FitzRolf) gave new shields to the new knights, Sir Christopher of Hoghton and Sir Maelgwyn de Lyonesse. Amanda of Cawdor,
Mistress of Arts, passed out the scrolls for the Arts Pentathlon. The Grand Winner was Renfield of the Inland March (Edmund Renfield
Wanderscribe), who had not won any events but had entered thirteen of the fifteen events and took second in most. Rima of Rockridge
~ 131 ~
was second, and Yolanda del Campo de Cerdaña was third. Rima of Rockridge won in the categories of Jesting, Dancing, Poetry and
Cooking. Yolanda del Campo de Cerdaña won in Dramatic Reading. Louise of Woodsholme won in Brewing and Costume, Simon de
Spalding won in Musical Performance, Christina Northlander won in Music Competition, Merewynn de Lyonesse won in Calligraphy, Allyn
Samildanach won in illumination, Eriad of Eire won in stitchery, Mark von dem Falkensfenn won in metalwork, and Hal Ravn won in
woodwork. A motet was performed for their Majesties. With that court ended and everyone fell to packing and left the field to escape the
heat. A potluck revel was held at the new Helmsgaard.
During the afternoon and following the chess game, the Equestrian Arts held the second annual Pie Throwing Auctions. Such notables
as Duke Andrew of Riga, Viscount Morven of Corrick, Baron Waldt von Markheim, Duke Henrik of Havn, and Duke Douglas Longshanks
volunteered. After White won the chess game, the remaining pieces fought a free-for-all melee, with Jason Griffiths of Shadowhurst
emerging as the sole survivor. The defeated Black side promised never again to play their bagpipes under the White king’s bedroom
window.
Comments:
A
[At the end of the Grand March, the members of Helmsgaard snuck up wrapped in cloaks and were announced as Clan Destine
(King Terrence, during his reign, fought under the alias of Leroy of Clane Destine).] “It should be noted that the cloaks were plaid from such notable highland clans as MacThrifty and Paeless of Glen Discount.”
[A confrontation was staged between a border lord and the highland peasants, leading to a chess game to settle the affair. White
won, as always.] “Probably because we wore white, we were hot but the black side must have broiled. I was fortunate in that I was
privileged to share the shade provided by Patrice's Parasol Bearer while every one else had to stand around in the direct sun glare.
The only part of me that was out in the sun was the toes of my (unfortunately) black boots. After the event, when I changed shoes
I discovered that I had rows of second degree burn blisters along the tops of all ten toes.”
[The Principality of the Mists was proclaimed the winner of the Tri-Principality Archery contest, with the members from Golden Rivers
taking most of the credit.] “At this distant remove I can only remember that Jon FitzRolf, Rodrigo de Cerdana, Aarond the Grey and
myself were four of the five Mists team members (the fifth may have been either Llerret de Grenada or Rodrigo's son Ammerlyn).
The other two teams were massively demoralized when our team lined up for the first contest and promptly shot five bull's eyes
one after the other from left to right - like a looping film sequence.”
[The Old Battered Helm was presented to Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel for her death scene at the chess game, when Earl
Kevin Peregrynne was her Queen’s champion and was defeated.] “The battle was between myself and Duke Douglas Longshanks,
the Black Queen's Champion at the outset of the endgame. We fought with maces and it was the best such fight I ever was in, we
started out at the usual 'let's have fun and bash each other pace', when we failed to penetrate the other's defenses we accelerated
again and again until at the last we were both at the pitch of the third fight of a Crown Finals and held it that way until Doug's greater
reach finally turned the trick and I fell in a heap from his blow (I may have wounded him but I forget).
“Patrice stood bolt upright from her seat, gave out an ear-piercing shriek and collapsed to the ground in a swoon. She has
always maintained that her Parasol Bearer deserves a share of the credit - he stood at attention, folded the parasol and, holding
it at present-arms, toppled at her feet.
“The heart-shaped puncture on the OBH's right cheek is her contribution (delivered left-handed with an axe I had built
specifically for her by Bodo the Brutal, its spike has a heart-shaped cross-section) ... as is the plastic rose that it wears through the
mouth region of its face guard.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
[Prince Balin also claimed Paradise, California (home of Countess Patrice d'Cilla) and Black Fen (home of Master Michael the
Black) as
Caid Protectorates.] “Isn't that interesting? Did these two protectorates revert when Caid became a Kingdom or are
they still "part of " Caid?”
[... Domina Trude Lacklandia, first female knight of the SCA, ...] “Is this true?? I thought it was Mary of Uffington?” – Martin the
Temperate
1 “I don't have the date of Trude's Knighting, but Mary is listed as September, 1977 ...” – Hirsch von Henford
I
“Trudy was first, Mary was second and I was third. I'm very sure of this. Mary and Chris Hoghton went up at the same time.
I seem to remember, "Whose sword do you wish to be knighted by?" "The sword of my father." said twice. Bill verifies this.
Talk about your three hankie court! And yes, 1977 sounds about right.” – Maythen Gervaise
II “Trude was knighted in Atenveldt which may account for your not having her knighting date in the WK records. As I just
wrote Martin, Trude was both the first authorized female fighter (I did it during my first year as Earl Marshal) and the first
female knight.” – Kevin Peregrynne
III “Trude Lacklandia was knighted by Deaton Claymore on the day he won the Aten crown in April 1977. He finaled against
me. Had I won, Trude would have been my queen and a knight that day.” – Denis of the Titans
~ 132 ~
September 24-25, 1977 AS XII
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. The first day began cool and foggy, becoming pleasant and clear
in the afternoon. The second day was somewhat hotter. King Paul and Queen Carol held first court in the morning. FfellyanDrac the Blind
(Harvey the Blind) presented a petition from the Creatures of the Forest asking royal protection and gave a report on the Royal Hunt held
in Allyshia. His Majesty promised protection. The Order of Arachne’s Web admitted Gormflait ni Cuallactha, who won the contest for Cut
and Drawn lace. King Paul created the office of Royal Chamberlain, and appointed Sean a Claidheamn to the post. King Paul gave Awards
of Arms to Juliana du Corwyn, Merin Trefon Sazirr Aela Aerione, and Miranda of Underwood. Then he admitted Geoffrey of Northhaven
and Stephen von Behrond to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. The belted fighters were called forward and Heinrich Palantine was Knighted.
Immediately after court a box lunch auction for the benefit of The Page was held, with the ladies providing the lunches and their
company and the men bidding for them. Her Majesty’s lunch sold for $20. Then the double-elimination Crown Lists began, with some fifty
fighters entered. In the finals Earl Terrence of Halliday defeated Sir Steven MacEanruig, two out of three, to win the crown. Alejandra
Olympia Martiessa de Constantine (Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine) was his lady. At evening court they were crowned with
the laurel and rose wreaths and invested as Crown Prince and Princess of the Mists. The College of Bards read the winning and losing
poems for the finalists. King Paul admitted Viscount Morven of Carrick to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. The office of Games and Jollities
announced that Sean had won the Dart Throw, with Prince Steven taking second place. Court ended and the populace moved over to the
fire circle to see the lantern-lit wedding of Sir Heinrich Palantine and Nancy O’Morain. Revelry followed long into the night.
The next morning Their Majesties held morning court. King Paul invested Maelgwyn and Merewyn de Lyonesse as Baron and
Baroness of the new Barony of Allyshia, and oaths of fealty were exchanged. The Veterans of Pennsic War VI reported on the war. King
Paul announced the formation of the Royal Army and predicted imminent war with Atenveldt (as soon as a good pretext and site could
be found). The winner of the Wooden Spoon’s salad contest was Darian de Loo. King Paul commended the Constables, and granted them
a patch on their baldrics in recognition of their service. The belted fighters were called up and Mary of Uffington and David Westerville
were knighted. Mary chose to be addressed as Lady Mary of Uffington, rather than Sir Mary. There was a Curia Regis after court at which
King Paul proclaimed a number of laws, among them the creation of ruling Barons, extending the Principality of the Mists, starting Coronet
Lists in the Mists, and altering the chain of command in the civil service. The College of Science held the Sciences Pentathlon. A Royal
Stag Hunt was held, with the Queen “shooting” the stag (who was played by FfellyanDrac the Blind (Harvey the Blind)). There was a Royal
Round and an Archery Duel.
At final court Queen Carol admitted Allyn Samildanach and Nicholas Worthington to the depleted Queen’s Guard. Countess Patrice
du Couer Fidel, holder of the Olde Battered Helm, said that Duke James Greyhelm died best at this event. Sir Strider the Persistent presented
the Muckin’ Great Clubbe to Marshal of Eaglesbane. Sir Iain of Cawdor transferred the office of Earl Marshal to Duke William of Hoghton.
Cormac of the Bow won the Archery Duel, with Earl Kevin Peregrynne second. In the General Class Trelon of the Woods won, with Master
Wilhelm von Schlüssel second. In the Sciences Pentathlon Duke Henrik of Havn was the overall winner, winning in Metalwork and Military
Science. Hal Ravn won in Furniture, Däwyd Suomalainen von Markheim won in Astrology, and Michäela de Neuville won in Medieval Hunt
and Feudalism. Then all broke camp and left. A potluck revel was held at the home of Duke James Greyhelm.
Comments:
A
“An interesting event and possibly a classic example of how winning the crown can be bad for you. I was asked afterwards by
various folks if Terry was counting my blows and when I later looked at the films I did see some that appeared questionable.
However, I felt then and still felt that the fights were nice and clean and I had no problem with them whatever. It sort of makes a good
case for the fighters being the best judge of what is good.
“Alas, Terry went on to what was probably the roughest reign anyone has had in the West Kingdom. I won't go into details at
this time, but his time on the throne, IMHO [In My Humble Opinion] and to all outward appearances, basically drove him out of the
SCA. It might have been better for Terry if I had won since he wouldn't have been in quite so public a position when it all hit the fan.
Wouldn't have been better for me, mind you, and I'm ever so glad I lost and didn't have to deal with things.”
[The belted fighters were called up and Mary of Uffington and David Westerville were knighted. Mary chose to be addressed as Lady
Mary of Uffington, rather than Sir Mary.] “That was fun. In retrospect David should have been knighted first since he was well liked
and would have received a perfectly reasonable welcome. Mary just about blew everyone away in semi-hysterical joy, however. Mary
had always wanted to be knighted in a dress and we informed her she was going to be knighted by several of us (I remember her
father Loren, William the Lucky and I, there may have been others) going up to her and telling her to put on her dress. We were all
delighted.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “I'm particularly proud of that dress. Earlier in the year, I asked Mary how she thought the people who objected to women
fighting would react if she showed up to get knighted in a dress. (Mind you, virtually nobody in the SCA, except her father, had
ever seen her in one.) The argument proved compelling, and we spend a couple of months making a heraldic gown -- in spite
~ 133 ~
of the fact that her arms are much better suited to a heater shield than a dress shape. At least it made the point that it was
actually her dress, not one just borrowed for the occasion. (Much harder to justify taking offense that way, 'cause you can't prove
it was a deliberate affront.)” – William the Lucky
B
“Some three weeks after this event, I won the Coronet of the Principality of the Sun. My investiture was the first weekend in
November. The following week, I was in the West and spent a few days with Paul, who asked my assistance in getting the war
machinery rolling. Paul made dinner while I worked (very hard) to come up with the appropriate insults to cause WAR between His
Majesty's Kingdom and my Principality. It was a great evening and, before we were done, we had the basics for what is now Estrella
War. I promised to find a site that was not "in town" and that everyone had to travel to(no home field advantage). I also promised
to autocrat the event (actually, I did the first three. I had too much fun to stop after just one.) and Paul promised an army to fight; ie.
"You do it, we'll be there." When I called our Aten King, Koris of Natterhelm, I started the conversation with the line..."Dad, I need
you help" He asked what I had done, I told him I had insulted the Crown of the West and He, me and we had agreed to disagree.
Koris basically said, "You do it, I will bring the rest of the Kingdom to save your Princely butt.” The war took place just three months
later. More info to come as we approach Feb. 78 in our studies.
“Remembering things that, if you told someone you did it in three months, they would swear you were lying ... or crazy ... but
we did ... from nothing on the calender of either kingdom and no site, to the first Estrella ... it all came together in three months.
FUN!” – Denis of the Titans
1 “And I don't think I've ever forgiven you for scheduling your war the same weekend as the DunDraCon convention I help run and
cannot, therefore, skip. I guess I'm fated never to see a war ...” – Stefan de Lorraine, who wouldn't miss DunDraCon for the
world, but is still allowed some regrets.
I
“My feelings also. I didn't even manage to go when I was king, a year or so later. I seem to recall telling everyone to go and
have a good time, I wouldn't be able to make it.” – Steven MacEanruig
January 7, 1978 AS XII
Held at the Richmond Auditorium, Richmond, California. The hall opened at
2:00 PM and the court of King Paul and Queen Carol began at 3:00 PM with
Their Majesties and their attendants processing in, escorted by Clan Colin.
King Paul announced the February war with Atenveldt, and invited all to
attend. The Order of the Silver Molet was given a formal charter. The Order
of Arachne’s Web announced the winner of the latest lace contest to be
Deporodh of Rannoch, who was admitted into the order. Beryl of the Valley
of the Moon was authorized to found a branch of the Order in the Middle
Kingdom. Sir Jon Fitz-Rolf, Royal Archer, announced the winners of the
Royal Round Archery Competition, which had gone on all year. Cormac of
Terrence of Halliday - Per bend sinister azure and
the overall
Bow awas
counter-ermine, a sword bendwise sinister argent,
helmetfirst, followed by Aarond the Grey and by Rodrigo de Cerdaña.
facing dexter argent, plumed, a bordure Or.
Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine Then various scrolls for past awards were handed out.
Argent, a dragon involved in annulo Or fimbriated sable, surround
Queen Carol called forward the members of the Queen’s Guard and presented each of them with a red double rose gules seeded Or.
leather baldric to wear as a sign of their membership in the Queen’s Guard. Queen Carol then admitted
Kriemhilde of Stonecroft to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King Paul called forward Colin of Duntamknackan
and, to the cheers of Clan Colin, made him a Court Baron. King Paul then gave Awards of Arms to Alfric Favnesbane and Eowyn
Amberdrake. Following this, King Paul admitted Cedric the Dark, Elwyn Greystar (Aelfwynn Gyrthesdottir), and Jason Griffiths of
Shadowhyrst to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Paul called forward Sean a’Claidheamh and his lady, Marilyn a Leisiere, and gave them
the titles of Court Baron and Court Baroness. Lady Kriemhilde of Stonecroft was called forward and sworn in as the new Mistress of Arts
of the Kingdom, succeeding Amanda of Cawdor. Queen Carol then bestowed her Queen’s Cypher upon Lady Kriemhilde.
The members of the Order of the Pelican were called up and King Paul admitted Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix) to the Order. The
members of the Laurel were called forward and King Paul admitted Genevra of Estolat and Hal Ravn to the Order. King Paul then decreed
that he was investing Baron Theodulf of Borogrove and Baron Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland with the titles of Viceroy of Madrone and
Lion’s Gate, respectively. The belted fighters were called forward and King Paul knighted Balin of Tor. King Paul proclaimed Frederick and
Lyndia of Woodlyn to be the Vicar and Vicaress of the Barony of the Angels, and gave a scroll of appreciation to Don Jose Martinez, who
has supplied much of the kingdom with rattan.
King Paul then called forward Prince Martin the Temperate and announced that the Board of Directors had agreed to upgrade Caid
to the status of a Kingdom, and announced that the upcoming coronet tourney would be the first Crown tourney for Caid, and that the
June Investiture Tourney would be the first Coronation Tourney for Caid, at which point, with the crowning of its first King, Caid would
officially become a kingdom. King Paul displayed the scroll with this proclamation and announced that it would be presented at Southern
~ 134 ~
Twelfth Night. Maythen of Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) presented King Paul with a scroll thanking him for activating the Principality of
the Mists and making her the Seneschal. She announced the first Coronet Tourney in May. Alewulfe the Red presented King Paul and
Queen Carol with a pair of napkins which had their personal arms embroidered on them. King Paul thanked Clan Colin for their service as
Royal Escort during his reign and paid them their wages. Then the Grand March was held. Following that the members of the Order of the
Laurel were called forward and Sir Mark von dem Falkensfenn was admitted to the Order.
T hen Terrence of Halliday and Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine were crowned King and Queen of the West. Oat hs of
fealty were exchanged between King Terrence and the officers and peers of the realm. Queen Allissandra called forward the members of
the Queen’s Guard and gave them her favor and named Brian Dritar an Con as Captain. Simon de Spalding then presented their Majesties
with a performance of a motet written for them.
King Terrence then gave Awards of Arms to Cerf Agile, Chloë de la Solidaze von Shoenwald, Elisabeth dei Geminiani, Gerhard von
Nordflammen, Jana Seasgair, Leon von Schrecken, Owain Apeceon, and Paul yn Darragh y Ellen Vannin. King Terrence gave a Grant of
Arms to Hilary of Serendip, and then called forth the members of the Order of the Pelican, and admitted Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft
to the Order. Master Stone announced that Earl Kevin Peregrynne was his Chief Deputy Seneschal. The schedule for the revel was
announced and then King Terrence adjourned to the Entertainment Room for Presentation Court. This was then moved back to the Main
Hall. The House of the Anonymous Bosh presented Their Majesties with four cheesecakes. Benjamin von Armentrodt presented a check
for the Land Fund from the sales of the Land Fund Calendar. Randolph the Devious and Jane Ann presented their Majesties with
stationary. Mistress Louise of Woodsholme made a final presentation to Queen Allissandra and the court was adjourned so the hall could
be cleared for the revel.
The revel featured an Exhibit Room, with displays of Society Arts and Crafts, which was very popular, a film room, where the Pennsic
War film by Duke Henrik was shown to popular acclaim and where James Drakeslayer performed his Magic Act. The Entertainment Room
featured a number of performers, and the Main Hall had several forms of dancing, to the music of a hardy band of players. The Oak, Ash
and Thorn singers were in charge of the entertainment for the evening, and performed several times. A Lady of Misrule was chosen by
means of the Twelfth Night Cake with the misrule bean enclosed within. Food and drink and informational material was sold in the lobby.
The revel lasted until midnight, when the happy revelers finally left the hall, after a most enjoyable Twelfth Night.
Comments:
A
“Is this the one where King Terrence was in bad odor, shall we say? I seem to remember carrying Prince Martin's belt up when
I went to swear fealty & I was not the only Knight who was also representing someone else. I have some of the story behind this
but there are gaps. Someone care to fill them?” – Charles of Dublin
1 “It is indeed. I'm working on it. It isn't easy to do without stepping on a few toes, however.” – Steven MacEanruig
I
“Let me try describing the results first. (I'm not quite brave enough to take first shot at the causes. Good luck, Steve!)
“When Balin was called up to be knighted, there were 2-3 dozen knights assembled before the Throne.
“When the Knights were called to swear fealty, there were six (count'em 6), not including those present by proxy -- and
a couple of those 6 came up to the rest of us later asking, roughly, "Where was everybody???" It was about as dramatic
a commentary as a group could make without anyone organizing something or anyone getting up in court to sound off.”
– William the Lucky
2 “I do know that this one had a chance of splitting the Silver Molet permanently. One of the few times that Sir Robert and I were
politically opposed. The Order eventually decided that those of us who wanted to would march with the King, those who didn't
wouldn't, which was probably the sanest solution.
“It was one of those interesting situations in which what the King did in his private life spilled over onto his SCA life. In
retrospect, I have heard of a lot worse done by other kings. As far as I can tell at this remove, Terence was just leading his
usual life and had no idea that what he did with it could impact his situation in the SCA. It is to his credit that he fulfilled all of
his duties as King and performed them well in an occasionally adversarial situation.
“If this had happened in the first five years of the SCA, it might not be around today.
“In general, Terence's conduct on the throne was, if not exemplary, at least reasonable and well within the usual
parameters.
“Okay, everyone who doesn't know is asking, what did he do? Essentially, he broke up with his girlfriend (Jennet of the Two
Minds, who was the mother of Queen Seitse and somewhere around here was a member of the Board of Directors) and took
up with a new girlfriend – an underage girlfriend – and made her his Queen Alissandra. He was associating with her against
the wishes of her parents, if I remember correctly. At this point, I cannot recall if he was fighting for Jennet and then switched,
or had already broken up with Jennet.
“The Kingdom immediately divided along Family Values lines . As a gross gross gross oversimplification, all the 60s
hippies and 70s swingers in the group thought there was nothing wrong with this and all the fathers and folks from strong
~ 135 ~
nuclear families and traditional values thought there was something very wrong with this. Words like honor, example of
behavior, chivalry, Courts of Chivalry, and so forth were bruited about and a lot of folks were really upset.
“It didn't help that the swingers and traditional values folks had already had several set-tos and a lot of bad feeling was
simmering under the surface. It made for interesting social/political dynamics because people who were politically opposed
on some issues might be, if you'll pardon the expression, bedfellows on this one.
“Is that controversy still hanging around the SCA these days? Or has everyone come to realize that the organization is a
community and a community will have lots of life styles? I'll point out that I'm mellower about these things now than I was then,
though I was never amongst the more vocal of Terence's critics. I was already fading out of the group and this was just another
good reason to steer clear.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who had too many friends in each camp to be militant about either ...
I
[It is to his credit that he fulfilled all of his duties as King and performed them well in an occasionally adversarial situation.]
“I don't think I could say that. I don't regard storming out on the field to accuse people of cheating in the lists fulfilling one's
duties. Especially when both fighters and all three marshals did not think there was a problem.”
[At this point, I cannot recall if he was fighting for Jennet and then switched, or had already broken up with Jennet.] “As
I recall, Alissandra was not the 13 year old, though heaven knows my memory is shaky enough as it is. It would have been
a bit difficult since at that point the police were looking for her as a runaw ay. Again, that's just my ancient and creaky
memory.”
[Words like honor, example of behavior, chivalry, Courts of Chivalry, and so forth were bruited about and a lot of folks
were really upset.] “It wasn't altogether about family values, although they certainly came into it. The father of the girl was
making serious legal threats against the SCA and those were the days of little money to deal with such things. Actually,
my memory is that it didn't revolve about hippies, swingers and traditionalists.
“With the sole exception of Terry's personal friends, pretty much everyone thought he had screwed up big time. The
issue was, in part, whether his actions outside of the SCA should affect his term as king. He had met the girl outside of
the SCA and did not involve her there much if at all as I recall.
“As I remember my own take on it, it was closer to not wanting to be involved with or swear fealty to someone I
regarded as seriously morally reprehensible.
“I fought Terry in the finals. I'd always gotten along well with him. I had no doubts that he had won the lists that day
straight and clean. I also decided after the events above and one or two other more minor things that he was a sleazeball.
That's a feeling that I still hold today.”
[It made for interesting social/political dynamics because people who were politically opposed on some issues might
be, if you'll pardon the expression, bedfellows on this one.] “There had certainly been set-tos. I still remember vividly the
great morality crusade which has had some effects come down from it to this day. I don't think Terry was considered to
be part of that whole problem, however.”
[I'll point out that I'm mellower about these things now than I was then, though I was never amongst the more vocal
of Terence's critics. I was already fading out of the group and this was just another good reason to steer clear.] “My
impression is that the group is a bit mellower about such things, but I don't know enough about the current interactions
to swear to it. Society has changed a bit since then and the SCA has changed with it.” – Steven MacEanruig
II “I was king at the time, and had to make the decision of continuing with the coronation, or not. I decided to continue, since
whatever was happening was not happening in the kingdom. Neither choice was a good one.
“Whichever group I fell in (hippies or swingers), I certainly did not approve of his conduct in this matter.” – Paul of
Bellatrix
III “I am minded of another 13 year old, who, when first seen by many, would elicit comments along the lines of ... “She’s only
13???” This was about 12 years earlier, and tended to generate a paternally protective response in those of us who were
her friends. Perhaps memory of that time and lady, added to the strength of some people’s attitude and reactions.” –
Henrik of Havn
a “One comment and one addendum ...
“The comment ...The young lady from the early years, if I am thinking of the same person (and if I am, she's on
this list), did indeed elicit comments about her surprising youth both because of her physical maturity and because
of her adult outlook and assumption of equality with the older SCAers of the time. (I remember one revel where Jon
DeCles was found banging his forehead gently against a wall muttering "She's only 13, she's only 13!”).
“The significant difference was that she was immersed in the SCA and its culture (daughter of a knight) and never,
as Henrik noted, lacked for friends to look out for her interests. Terrence's young lady lacked that benign chaperonage
and look how it worked out.
“The addendum ... And then there was Manson Family alumnus Squeeky Fromm who dropped by Golden Rivers
Sunday practices a time or two before she took her pot-shot at Gerald Ford.” – Kevin Peregrynne
b “Well, I must be the person referred to as "the young lady from the early years." I don't know if the two very different
experiences reflect what was just happening in the SCA , or the outside culture in general. At the time I was 13-18
~ 136 ~
3
4
(when I then moved away from the Bay Area and the SCA), there was a strong social agreement that underage girls
were off limits sexually. Yes, there was certainly kissing and flirting, but the concept of "jail-bait" was firmly in place.
Had I been trying to have sex, I'm sure it would have happened, but the cultural context was that it wasn't appropriate,
which suited me just fine. The SCA of that time and area was a safe place to grow up, "try on" different roles, and have
a large number of adult mentors available.
“Anyway, there is the chance for teenage girls especially to seek status through sleeping with people. Adults of
all ages should help them learn that there are other ways to that end.” – Astrid of Hawkridge
“I guess that I ought to put in my two bits worth here. In large part I concur with what everybody has said - there were at least
three separate areas in which one could find grounds to not approve of Terrence' behavior at the time. Each person's individual
blend of which grounds, how strongly they disapproved and their own style and background made for a very confusing
atmosphere when the matter was discussed.
“Personally, my strongest objection was centered on Terrence' behavior while on the throne. As one of the marshals of
the fight mentioned where he stormed onto the field, I found his behavior extremely unseemly (to understate and grossly
simplify in my turn). I also found such activities as setting off firecrackers in the dry grass of Big Trees during a high fire danger
season to be irresponsible in the extreme not to mention dangerous and risky to the SCA's relationship with the Regional
Parks Administration. Likewise my concern about the underaged lady was based on her parent's reputed feeling that the SCA
was at fault which, if true, threatened our existence as a group if legal action resulted.
“The 'underage lady' eventually was divorced from Terrence and (last time I saw her) is a happily married Duchess in this
kingdom.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“With regard to the facts of the matter, I offer some points germane to our history and the legacy of its people and actions
for clarification/perspective. The facts are indisputable, the perspective empirically unassailable. The vitriol is all mine.
“Terrence was 32 yrs. old, a graduate student at Cal and the young lady 13, attending 8th. grade. The young lady had
fallen for him in the way one can only fall when doing so for the first time. Terrence was aware of this and pursued the
relationship regardless. The parameters of his pursuit were no different from those of an adult relationship. To defend
this in the context of the acceptable "irrationality" of love is romantic ignorance.
“The young lady's parents were adamantly opposed to the relationship. They told Terrence so. She ran away from
home, taking her school books (she was an "A" student), and was fostered by friends of Terrence. All SCA friends.
Terrence, while King, broke laws that in today's legal climate would have put him in Federal prison for many years. He
also implicated, through his relationships built as a person of consequence in the SCA, a number of SCA members in
some of these crimes in their roles of aiding and abetting.
“After his stepping down Terrence married her; breaking even more laws along the way. Applying the word
"honourable" to this act is stomach turning. His expressed motivation at the time was to attempt to lessen the severity of
the legal repercussions should he be caught (they were living as fugitives at the time). Further, it ignores the reality of
making a decision like that part of the reality of a 13 yr. old's introduction to adulthood. They move out of state to establish
the facade of an adult union. The youth is separated from friends, family, and education. Her entire socialization is crafted
to avoid detection and exposure. Her peers suddenly are professional adults 15 to 20 years her senior for whom she is
supposedly in her mid 20's. No slumber parties with her best friends trading make-up. No flirtatious crushes with the cute
boy in home room. No High School and its introduction to higher education. Her childhood ended less than 8 months
after her first kiss. This act was remarkable in its cowardice and selfishness.
“After bearing two children, specifically denied the option of returning to school or pursuing employment to that end,
she divorced Terrence in her 20th year.
“The young lady has since grown and has taken herculean steps to make up for the material elements of education
denied her. She raises her children with the wisdom of one many years her senior, wisdom bought at a great price. Her
middle child, my step-daughter, is sixteen. She is a 4.0 student in high school, has a crush on the drummer in a rock
band, and is never given a reason to realize the flavor of her excited recountings of life are being heard by her mother for
the first time.
“I take these uncomfortable steps, my friends, to cry the reality of Terrence of Halliday's acts and his place in our
history. What he did, and continues to do, defines the antithesis of honour.
“The SCA was fortunate to have survived him. Others were not so lucky.” – Respectfully Submitted, Radnor of
Guildemar
“I'm going to make an Auntie Jilara observation about some of the discussion that has gone on relative to Terrence, and why
it seems to have such power, even now.
“We set out to create something of a medieval utopia, "the Middle Ages as they should have been," and found out that
people were people, with all their considerable flaws, and that our recreation was perhaps a little too accurate in many ways,
more like the Middle Ages as they really were, in all their dysfunctional glory.
~ 137 ~
“One of the reasons that I pretty much dropped out was that after years of doing the Constabulary, I had stopped looking
at the people of the SCA as boon companions who shared the dream, but rather looked at them more as potential perps. I
saw a little too much of the real people inside the dream.
“I saw a bit too much of what a lot of others didn't see, the abuses, the rapes and attempted rapes, the drunkenness, the
domestic violence, the dishonorable and unbecoming behavior, and the just plain stupidity. I can cite notable personages and
occasional peers who, in some other time or venue, might well have been arrested for their actions. One Notable Person
whose name has appeared in these accounts is currently serving a life term for murder. Another person whose name has
appeared here turned out to be an accomplice. I knew of a couple girls who were fourteen and fifteen and passing themselves
off as in their twenties at tourneys because they equated sex with validation. I've been yelled at and insulted by a Queen
because I wouldn't let her park in a fire lane, and once was sexually assaulted by a drunken peer. It's part of our unofficial
backstory that we wish would go away, all the character flaws that came in from the "real world."
“I even recall an Esfenn event where a small oriental man tried to convince us he was a dangerous ninja who had killed
people, and we patted him on the head and said "Yeah, right, Charlie." That man was Charles Ng, recently convicted of a string
of serial murders back in that time frame. The SCA has had all kinds. Some of them unfortunately rose through the ranks.
“We wanted our kings, our peers, our SCA role models, to be Heros. We wanted them to epitomize the chivalry we wanted
the group to embody. Maybe we really believed in a variation of Trial by Combat, in choosing our Kings, where the Worthy were
those who would triumph. We wanted everyone to be only the best and brightest, but some were simply flawed people with
feet of clay. And that realization hurt, and the outrage is still with us.” – Cynical, but still working toward The Dream, Jilara of
Carrowlea
I
[Cynical, but still working toward The Dream] “"The Dream" is something I've always been a little fuzzy about. I don't recall
the term until sometime after year five or so and it's never struck me as anything any of the SCA founders I knew would
use.” – Steven MacEanruig
a “Regarding the term "The Dream"---This term was not in use when I joined in AS IX, nor do I recall it being used while
Caid was a Principality. The term "the Current Middle Ages" was widely used then, and I would guess that "The
Dream" came into use in the mid 80's. It obviously struck a chord with many of our members, considering how widely
it is used now, but I must confess I prefer the old term.” – Robear du Bois
1 “"The Dream", I don't recall it being around at this point in our timeline (my first Crown Tourney was when Gregory
and Bevin were on the Thrones). I think one of the reasons the term has caught on is simply because it is so
subjective, and is generally acknowledged as such. When folks talk about "The Dream" they are, perhaps,
reducing the descant "The middle ages as they should have been." Hence, its extension "In Service to The
Dream" is not dogmatic, rather it speaks to our collective manifestation of the pursuit of something special.
“Besides, I kind of like the metaphorical application I dearly love dreaming, it's a magical world where I get
to live out my fantasies; but when that alarm goes off, I get up and go to work. If it was an especially good dream,
it can linger in my waking frame and make me a little better by it.
“-"I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was." --Shakespeare” – Radnor of Guildemar
A “The problem is not with "Dream", it's with "The". As "The Dream" (Das Traum) came to be applied to Society
activities, it became more and more "My Dream ... and if you don't feel exactly the same way I do, you're
scum." That's why many of us refuse to use that phrase -- and why we were, for a time, promoting the
"Dream-Aid Bardic Circle”, a benefit fund-raiser for sufferers from "The Dream" (TM).” – Eilis O’Boirne
2 “The word was around for a while before then, but I trace THE DREAM as a social phenomenon to the SCA's
twentieth-year celebration. Duchess Sieglinde Syr -- who has a truly magnificent voice -- sang the song that
begins "Come, share the Dream/Come, hold it in your hands ..." and it galvanized the great hall. It was later
printed on the cover of TI 80 (Fall 1986).
“The Steward's correspondence was never the same again.
“It really is/was a grand song ... but the effect was to provide an instant weapon for those who wanted to
assert that anyone who didn't agree with them was a traitor to all things good and wonderful -- and who uniformly
denied any such intent when called on it. Nonetheless, it was almost always the least reasonable and most
manipulative letters that made use of the image, and that spoiled the word for me (I'd initially rather liked it) very
rapidly indeed.” – Hilary of Serendip
c
[“The Dream” is something I’ve always been a little fuzzy about.] “Ni-ag-ra Falls ... Slowly I turned, step by step, inch
by inch ... Every time I hear that term “The Dream” I get riled. I mean no disrespect to those in the SCA who feel
strongly about “The Dream”, but as Steve says – this wasn’t started out as a “Dream”, it was a fun sharing of fantasy
and reality of heros and talents, and “I wish I coulds” and “I dids” and color and pomp and splendor and found family
and different friends and common ideals and uncommon learning how things and people were and can be, how a
how a silk purse can really be made out of a sow’s ear, how playing as a grown up is ok, how being a grown up as
a child is ok too. Its calligraphing a single letter during class on the inside flyleaf of a book instead of doing an
~ 138 ~
assignment, it’s going to a dance class at a collegium, it’s looking through a bookstore’s section of cookbooks, trying
to find a recipe for a feast, it’s going to a flea market to find something that works for a tournament or feast or prize,
or costume, or a gift to an SCAer, or armour, or ... it’s finding a “significant other” who has gotten the same ride with
the same friend to the same war, it’s getting on a horse for the first time in your long life, and finding it fun and
marrying a horse owner within the next 24 months, it’s, it’s Monty Python and the Holy Grail ... it’s a Pas d’Arms, it’s
a demo for the second grade class when they are studying the middle ages, it’s knighting a child at court who has
terminal cancer, through contact from Make a Wish Foundation. It’s not a Dream, it’s a better life than some ever had!”
– Henrik of Havn
B
“As a kid during the whole Terrence uproar, I thought it was completely hypocritical that in a group where we (the kids) were exposed
to drugs, child molesters & rapists on a regular basis, everybody was in such a big uproar over a teenager involved in a consensual
situation.
“As an adult I agree that what Terry did was wrong, stupid, immature etc, but I still hold that compared with a lot of the stuff that
went by without comment in those days, the outrage over this situation was/is excessive.” – Eden of Lionsguard
1 “I have very mixed feelings about many things from this era in my life. And in the center the SCA. It was the best of times, it was
the worst of times ... I loved the SCA and learned a hell of a lot, and it saved me in a lot of ways. It for better or worse molded
me. But as I look back on the era and the things that were accepted, it rather horrifies me. I felt the same way at the time as
Eden. I still do. It isn't even that men in "positions of power" had sex with underage girls, that is not unusual. It was that this went
on rather openly and the only comment that I ever heard was that there were a few among the peers that would come up the
gent (or lady I knew some young men rather mangled by being passed around as well) in question and say "Did you know she
was under age?" That however (obviously) was not an issue for some. I very clearly remember two different 14 year olds I knew
well candidly discussing their sex lives. I have also from the same era had more than one friend molested by a Kingdom officer.
I was in a sexual relationship with a Kingdom officer when I was just 17 (different officer ) his wife and other peers knew this.
It was not legal, it was a bad idea and ultimately we were both hurt by it. I did however learn a love of Japanese culture and
treasure the things we shared. I have always felt sorrow because I ended it badly - I was thinking about that this afternoon. It
is amazing I feel responsible after all these years for hurting someone who was twice my age. It does make me wonder who
the real child was? The thing that makes me sad is I know at least three guys from my age group in the SCA who have been
in legal trouble for relations with underage girls. Is this from example or grosse stupidity? Both I'm sure, it also shows a lack
of respect for people that has intensified over the years within the SCA. One of the reasons I no longer play. Forget "the Dream"
a modicum of consideration and courtesywould go a long way. Fortunately I had adults that I could look up to as well (I am glad
to see you here, Doug and Lorna) and it's their SCA I miss so much) I am sorry if my honesty makes some of you
uncomfortable, if this isn't the SCA you remember or that you want remembered, it is however part of my and many others
experience and though we were not "peers" (at least then) we were as integral a part of the SCA and its development as Joe
Blow stick jock. (Actually I was a stick jock though I doubt many remember any more) It does seem we as an organization had
a bad case of Utopia and free love gone bad and the concepts were just twisted into licence to do as you please. Like the spoof
serial "Crowleyo's" eat what thou wilt is the whole of the law ...” – Jana Seasgair
February 18-19, 1978 AS XII
The First Estrella War
“The most important event of this month was, of course, the First War between the West and Atenveldt, now known as the Estrella War.
It was held at Burro Creek Campground, near Wikieup, Arizona, on February 18, 1978.
“On Saturday several battles were fought with mixed sides, so everyone could get to know each other, and fighting convention were
clarified. In one of these battles I lead a six man force with orders to "kill Douglas Longshanks", while another six man group had been
assigned to "kill Paul of Bellatrix". Unfortunately for us, they were fighting within a few feet of each other, with William the Lucky and
several other knights, which made our task very challenging. When I had only two men left, I told them to charge Douglas, in hopes of
killing him in the confusion. They did a good job, dying in the process, and I hit Douglas on the back while he was killing the second, but
he was turned away, and his plate armor distributed the blow so well that he didn't notice it. I now found myself behind their lines, chest-tochest with Douglas and feeling very alone. I asked Douglas if he felt the blow on his back, and when he said no, I told him that I would
forget the blow if he would let me escape. He agreed, and as I ran back through their line, Lucky took a shot at my leg, but I caught it with
the shaft and got back to my side, feeling very lucky to still be alive.
“The war battles took place on Sunday, and I only can recall 2 battles, but it seems like there must have been more. I think the West
fielded just over 50 fighters, and Atenveldt just under 60, giving them a slight numerical advantage, but not enough to matter. This is the
first SCA war with more than 100 fighters on the field west of the Mississippi.
“The Western Army was divided into three battles, with both northern and southern troops in each. The right flank (the van?) was
comprised of the Brotherhood of the Blade and Rieslingshire, and was to be commanded by Duke Douglas Longshanks. After the
~ 139 ~
command meeting Douglas asked me if I would like to command our battle, as he would prefer to fight with the Rieslingshire shield wall,
and with no hesitation at all, I accepted his gracious offer. Both Rieslingshire, and the Brotherhood of the Blade, led by Sir Hugh, had
fielded 4-5 person shield walls, supported by 1-2 polearms, and we put together a three man reserve made up of people with tourney shields,
led by Sir Rand of Dunbar. We had between 16 and 18 men, and I think the left flank had similar numbers, with the
main battle slightly larger.
“Both field battles were fought in the upper (dry) portion of the riverbed, between the river and the camp. This was a sandy area with
clumps of willow and an occasional cottonwood. The combination of sandbars and channels, while fairly level, would sometimes provide
embankments up to three feet high.
“For the first battle, the West was to select a position to defend, and Atenveldt was to attack, and the roles would be reversed for the
second battle, with Atenveldt selecting a position to defend.
“The West chose a position near the camp, with the edge of the battlefield just to their rear. The main battle filled a gap between two
clumps of willow, and the left flank was refused about 60 degrees, also in a gap between clumps of willow. The right was also refused, but
lacked an anchor, with the edge of the battlefield about 30 yards away. The Aten Army closed with the left and center and begin sparring,
while another unit probed our right flank. They would extend around our open flank, and we would refuse our flank further, slowly pulling
back until we were almost back-to-back with our center. By this time another unit was also watching them, at right angles to our line and
to our right. We could hear the fighting at our back, but seemed to have a stalemate with their flanking force. Then they suddenly charged
the unit to our right, and we enveloped them from the rear. In a few seconds they were all dead, and we heard a call that the center was
about to break, so we reformed behind the center, but found it was still holding. In less than a minute the left flank collapsed, and an Aten
line was closing on our left. Calling for Douglas and Hugh to wheel the line and charge, I led the reserve in a charge at the flank of the Aten
line, and in less than a minute Riesling and the Brotherhood had crushed their last attack. Before we could rally, the center had gone on
the attack, and the battle was over.
“Atenveldt then chose a position that had been used on Saturday, a sandbar with a short steep slope one side and a screen of willow
along the other. The slope was divided into three segments by cottonwood trees, and the height of the embankment varied, being only
about a foot at our left, about two feet in the center, and about three feet on our right. Due to this, our attack would be concentrated on
our left, with the center to engage but not push, and the right to close and be a threat, but not to try to attack up the slope.
“These tactics worked fairly well, and we played a static role during most of the battle. They were able to pull a few individuals from
their left to reinforce their right, but their right was slowly driven back, allowing the center and left wings of our army to join together in
the attack. Realizing that their position was failing, the Aten troops above us suddenly charged down the embankment. We suffered fairly
heavy casualties, but also did a lot of damage, and a few troops from the center were sufficient to mop up their survivors. The battle was
almost over at this point, and nothing else significant happened on the few survivors.
“The war ended with both sides looking forward to a return engagement, and I don't recall any blow acknowledgment or fighting
convention problems, primarily because the leaders on both sides worked very hard to keep them from happening. This event occurred
exactly one year after the Principality of Atenveldt / Principality of Caid Peace Mission (read War) which had been held at Estrella Park,
which the War would eventually return to and finally outgrow.” – Robear du Bois
Comments:
A
“I believe that this is the War in which my current gent, then known as Robert of Gallowglass, gained his reputation as "The
Laughing Pikeman." I'll ask if he has anything interesting to add ...
“It also spawned a great song by Wilowen of Stuarts, to the tune of "Finnegan's Wake." Does anyone have the words to it?
Should I got hunting through my circle to try to find someone who does? It's a true SCA classic...” – Jilara of Carrowlea
B
“I have 16mm (black&white) footage of that war. Since enough marshals knew I knew how to fight, I was allowed to film from the
field, so a lot of the footage is fairly close in.
“I was usually standing on brush-covered rises in the creek bed and the fight tended to flow around me.
“Dorothy and I left the kids with her mother in LA on the way down. It was quite cold at night, but we had a 500-to-8000 BTU
catalytic heater in our viking tent and were far more comfortable that most.
“One fellow left a glass of water beside his sleeping bag when he went to sleep and woke up in the morning to find it frozen
solid.” – Hal Ravn
March 18, 1978 AS XII
Held at Coyote Creek Park, San Jose, California. It was an unusually hit and humid day, with overcast most of the time. Following setup
and signups for the Crown Lists there were some challenge matches and then court began shortly after noon. King Terrance welcomed
~ 140 ~
Prince Manfred from An Tir and Prince Martin and Princess Neptha from Caid. A new and beautiful eric was on the field and the herald
announced its makers to be Alfric Favnesbane and Gwendwyn the Silent, to the appreciative cheers of the populace. Master Cadwalladyr
Stone of Stonecroft announced the appointment of a new deputy seneschal, Baroness Matriona du Cameliard. Duke William of Hoghton,
Commander of the Royal Army of the West at the recent Atenveldt War, called forward Sir William the Lucky, the kingdom Banner Bearer,
and presented him with a battle ribbon to place upon the banner commemorating the West’s victory over Atenveldt. (Sir William had not
only born the Western banner, but had also captured the Atenveldt banner.) Duke William also gave a unit citation to the Southern Shores
Shield Wall Corps. Duchess Verena of Laurelin thanked those members who had worked at security at Space Con III and thereby earned
$1,000 for the Land Fund. The Order of Arachne’s Web announced the winner of the Lace Contest at Twelfth Night to be Mistress Louise
of Woodsholme. Wilowen of Stuarts sang a song commemorating the Western Victory over Atenveldt, following which the Atenveldt
Ambassador, Gandharva Gehe Chandra, called for all Atenveldt citizens to meet with him. A number of beautiful scrolls were handed out.
King Terrence then gave Awards of Arms to Daniel Shadygrove, FfellyanDrac the Blind (Harvey the Blind), Gabrielle Cynara d’Angers,
Genevieve de la Mer Bleu, Kate the Curious, Katwen du Griffin, and Ragnar of the Icy Wastes. He then admitted Anna McAyre of Gorabh,
Gwydioan an y’Gorlwyn, Lewis the Landless, Raoul the Urbane, Roger the Goliard, Thelen von Kallenbach, and Yolanda of Thymbra to
the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King Terrence then bestowed the title of Baroness on Mistress Annette of Faire Monte for her many years
as Chancellor of the College of Scribes. Queen Allissandra created the Queen’s Archers, a part of the Queen’s Guard, to consist of the best
archers in the kingdom. Aaron the Grey was made the captain and Kriemhilde of Stonecroft, Llerret de Grenada, Neil Gyrfalcon, Paul of
Normandy, and Rodrigo de Cerdaña were admitted as founding members. Queen Allissandra then admitted Wilowen of Stuarts to the
Queen’s Guard. Francesca the Bemused transferred the office of Royal Chatelaine to Leonessa des Belles Fleures. Court ended and the
fighters gathered to choose matches for the Crown Lists.
There were fifty-four fighters entered in the Crown Lists, and two preliminary rounds were held to bring the number down to thirty-two.
Then single eliminations were run, inter-spaced with some challenges and a melee, until in the semifinals Sir Steven MacEanruig defeated
Duke James Greyhelm and Viscount Gregory of York defeated Sir David Westerville. In the finals Viscount Gregory defeated Sir Steven
two straight to win the Crown Lists. Viscountess Bevin Fraser of Sterling was his lady. The other fighters carried them over to the thrones,
where they were crowned with the laurel and rose wreaths and mantels and invested as Crown Prince and Princess and Prince and Princess
of the Principality of the Mists, until there is a winner of the Principality Coronet Lists. Final Court began.
Sir Maelgwyn de Lyonesse then announced that the August Purgatorio Coronation was being kidnaped to Allyshia, where he
promised the temperature would not exceed 100 degrees. Prince Gregory winced and remarked that his mundane job lies one mile north of
the Mexican border. Then Prince Manfred rose and requested of King Terrence equal rights for An Tir, asking that a kingdom tournament
be held in An Tir. Prince Gregory groaned and King Terrence said he would consider the proposal. King Terrence called forward Allyn
Samildanach and admitted him to the Order of the Leaf of Merit.
King Terrence informed Prince Gregory that he could not now compete in the first Crown Lists of Caid to become the first King of Caid,
and Prince Gregory replied that he was satisfied to be the King who crowned the first King of Caid. Then King Terrence called forward
members of the Order of the Pelican and admitted Alison von Markheim and Matriona du Cameliard to the Order, to the cheers of the
populace. The winner of the Order of the Wooden Spoon competition for puddings was Lady Ellen Cross Quills. The Muckin’ Great Clubbe
was awarded to Morgan ap Rhys. King Terrence gave an Award of Arms to Ursaline de Grennan-Barret. The House of the Anonymous
Bosh, winners of the Cookie Bake-off at Twelfth Night, challenged the rest of the Kingdom of the West to a cookie bakeoff at the April
Coronation, to be judged by the children of the Society and friends. (At which many were heard to remark how they were friends of
children.) Wilhelm von Schlüssel announced the contest to design permanent medallions for the Orders of the Laurel and the Pelican, to
be judged at the June Crown. Court adjourned and the populace gathered up their gear and adjourned to the Campus Christian Center in
San Jose for a revel. Master Hal Ravn showed his slow-motion films of society fighting and the first parts of a film on the Atenveldt war.
There was dancing, singing, general revelry, and a great kilt putting-on display for the entertainment of the Queen and the ladies.
Comments:
A
A
“An interesting thing occurred as the blow that killed Steven in the second fight. I was either marshaling next to Duke William of
Houghton (or holding Gregory's secondary weapon), and when the blow landed and Steven was 'dead', William pirouetted in the
air and landed on his knees with a ground shaking thud, addressing Bevin as 'Your Highness' in deference to the new title her lord
had just won.” – Richard of Havn
1 “I didn't notice, but it's definitely the sort of thing William would have done.” – Steven MacEanruig
“One of the best fights I have witnessed happened that day between Gregory and Andrew of Riga, which Gregory won (about 1/4
finals). One of the hardest fought, clever, and accurate (or lack thereof because defense ruled) fight I can recall.” – Richard of Havn
1 “Should have been good. Gregory and Andrew were both very controlled fighters and fine swordsmen. Neither had any sort
of blow counting problem and both combined fine control with quickness and strength. Andy was always one of my favorite
~ 141 ~
people to fight because he always drew the best out of me. We discussed this a long time back and discovered that we did
that for each other because we both were afraid to not go full out.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“An interesting list. As I think I mentioned before, I'm usually not very focused in Crown Lists. In this one I remained focused until
the finals, mainly because I didn't really want Jim to win and try to sweep the whole Terry thing under the rug. I defeated James in
the semi's and after that I was willing to win but didn't care too much one way or the other. Not caring too much is no way to fight
someone like Gregory who was a first class fighter and who had a lady he very much wanted to put on the throne. Basically he took
me apart quite handily.” – Steven MacEanruig
April 29-30, 1978 AS XII
Beltane Coronation
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. Earl Kevin
Peregrynne and Baroness Matriana du Cameliard were the autocrats. First court
started at 11:30 am, with the herald reading off the many announcements. Then
followed presentations to King Terrence and Queen Allisandra. Duke James
Greyhelm announced a wagering contest to be held that day. Maythen of
Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) told a story of how she had come across a
marvelous sword guarded by a Black Knight (Duke Paul of Bellatrix), a Monk
(Father Ruthven of Rockridge), and a Fair Lady (Duchess Carol of Bellatrix), who
told her that it was time for a knight to win the sword by defeating the Black
Knight in a contest of arms, and defeating the Monk in a contest of wits, and Bevin Fraser of Sterling - Vert, three fraises Or,
Gregory of York - Argent, a falcon striking, wings
heart of the Fair Lady by virtue of his chivalry. Maythen then pierced vert, on a chief Or a rose gules barbed and seeded
displayed proper, on a chief azure three roseswinning
argent, each the
charged
with a rose Or, fimbriated sable, all barbed and seeded proper.
identified Duke Aonghais dubh MacTarbh as the chosen knight. (Duke
Aonghais had commissioned Sean a’Claideamh to make the sword and they thought it would be fun to make him earn it.)
Lady Cliveden d’Chieux brought forth the newest member of the kingdom, her daughter Ealasaid, to be blessed by the King. The
College of St. David gave each of Their Majesties an etched crystal wine goblet. Ealisaid NicChlurain gave a buckle to the King with his
mundane name on it, and a pretty wooden box to the Queen. Llerrett de Granada and Dierdrianna of the Misty Isles gave a photograph of
His Majesty to King Terrence, and a pen made from an arrow to the Queen. Kate the Curious and Lord Robert of the Isles gave a bottle
of wine, followed by Duke James Greyhelm who gave His Majesty a spear head. Duchess Verena of Laurelin gave a rose to Her Majesty
and a strawberry plant to His Majesty, in token of their soon to be status as Countess and Duke. The Shire of Westermark brought forth
a petition for Shire status, which was granted. Master Alewäulfe the Red gave Their M ajesties the napkins embroidered with their arms,
which he had promised at Twelfth Night. Darachshire presented a pair of goblets. Mistress Louise of Woodsholme gave Her Majesty a
pendant. Mistress Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani) gave Her Majesty some garnet buttons. And Baroness Matriana du Cameliard
gave each of Their Majesties a packet of Pop Rocks. Scrolls were then handed out.
King Terrence gave Awards of Arms to Aster of Caer-Myrddin, Caitlin de Wyndmere, Ellen Winterbourne, Lawrence of Warenné, and
Leonna del Belle Fleures. The Order of the Pelican was called forward, and Duke James Greyhelm and Duchess Verena of Laurelin were
admitted. Then the Order of the Laurel was called up and Lady Joan of Crawfordsmuir was admitted. King Terrence then called forward
all belted fighters and knighted Edward of Southhaven. Queen Allissandra admitted Duke James Greyhelm and Karl of Clan Colin to the
Queen’s Order of Grace, and presented her Queen’s Cypher to Lady Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix), Lady Josette du Chanticleer, Lady
Ursaline de Grinan-Barrett, and then to King Terrence, saying “I couldn’t have done it without you!” Queen Allissandra called up the
Queen’s Guard and the Queen’s Archers and thanked them for their service, and released them from their oaths of fealty.
Then there was a break followed by the Grand March announced by Baron John ap Griffin, followed by the coronation of Gregory of
York and Bevin Fraser of Sterling as King and Queen of the West, the first and last Caidans to be so crowned. The various oaths of fealty
were exchanged and King Gregory and Queen Bevin began their first court.
Duke Terrence of Halliday and Countess Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine came forward to be invested with their titles.
Then Queen Bevin reinstated the Queen’s Guard and the Queen’s Archers, admitted Jason Griffith of Shadowhyrst, Lasarian of Twrynyswr,
and Lorenzo di Sant’Angelo as new members to the Guard and Robear du Bois and Sine Singing Hands as new members to the Archers.
Sweyn MacChlurain was made Captain of the Queen’s Guard until the Caid Coronation on June 3, when he and the new members from Caid
would form the Queen’s Guard and Queen’s Archers for Caid. Then King Gregory gave Awards of Arms to Ann Elizabeth of Westmarch,
Herman de Medici, and Tristan de Montespore. He admitted Duke Aonghais dubh MacTarbh and Eowyn Amberdrake to the Order of the
Leaf of Merit. The Order of the Pelican was called up and Duke Henrik of Havn was admitted. Clan Colin was called up and Queen Bevin
paid them the piper’s fee. Duke William of Houghton was called up and presented by his family with a pair of knight’s spurs. Then the
presentations from the populace began.
~ 142 ~
Maythen of Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) brought a gift from the Shire of Seagirt. The Canton of Windy Meads presented Their
Majesties with their arms done in marzipan. Lord Gwydioan am y’Gorlwyn and Lady Anna McAyre of Gorabh brought a bottle of wine and
a bottle of pinch. Llerrett de Grenada and Dierdrianna of the M isty Isles gave a scotch cake to His Majesty and an arrow pen to Her
Majesty. Lorenzo di Sant’Angelo, squire to King Gregory, presented the King with a book on armor, and the Queen with a book on cooking.
Kate the Curious gave Her Majesty a pair of gloves. James the Fisher presented Their Majesties with a freshly caught uncooked four pound
fish. The Barony of Angels presented the traditional gold, frankincense and myrrh. Lyrel-Philippa of Essex gave a loaf of pumpkin bread.
Jared Blaydeaux gave His Majesty an empty platter to be filled that evening with as many crepes as His Majesty could eat. Lady Eyana
bat-David gave His Majesty a chocolate liquor cake with rum icing. House von Regensburg presented some pretty fabric. Jehansuh gave
some jewelry. Giraldus Dragonsclaw presented a bottle of wine to His Majesty and a box to her Majesty. Lady Giesele-Hildegaard of the
Mystic Dragon presented roses to Her Majesty. Other presentations came from Darachshire, Herman de Medici, Griffin Freehold, and
Lasarian of Twrynyswr. A letter from Paul of Hameldone, Western Ambassador to the East was read, wherein he pledged his fealty. Lord
Samuel de Basset sponsored a contest for a poem in honor of Queen Bevin, to be judged by Queen Bevin, with the prize a helm. The Order
of Arachne’s Web gave a silver spider to Deporodh of Rannoch and announced that Mistress Louise of Woodsholme was founding a
branch in Caid. Master Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft announced his resignation in June of the office of Seneschal and designated
Baroness Matriana du Cameliard as his replacement. Then court ended and the Queen’s Favor Lists and the Art’s Championship got
undeway.
Arts contests were held all day Saturday and on Sunday as well. The winners were to be announced at June Crown. The winner of
the Queen’s Favor Lists was Duke Paul of Bellatrix. There was a Wooden Spoon Contest for Onion Anything. King Gregory and Queen
Bevin had a stack of questionnaires on the Principality of the Mists placed at the Lists table, and over a hundred were filled out. A Court
of Chivalry was held after dinner at the Bardic Circle, considering whether one’s activities in one’s mundane life outside the SCA should
effect one’s standing in the SCA. The consensus was that it shouldn’t. Then the bards took over the bardic circle.
The next morning King Gregory and Queen Bevin held morning court. Tristan de Montesporre and Lorriana du Bonne Ventura
presented Their Majesties with wine and two Caid sweatshirts, bearing the arms of Caid. Mistress Rima of Rockridge read a parable, and
Gwendwyn the Silent was invested as Mistress of the Lists. Stephen of the Yews was the winner of the wagering contest. King Gregory
gave Awards of Arms to Æthelred the Jute and Jehansuh. Then he knighted Marshall of Eaglesbane. Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst got
the Tacky Hanky from Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel for the best death that day, and the Old Battered Helm went to Duke James
Greyhelm. Wilowen of Stuarts received the Old Moldy Fossil, a deer’s skull, for the best action after death by a body. Shirin of the Moors
won the Wooden Spoon contest. Alfric Favnesbane was admitted to the Queen’s Guard, and Queen Bevin gave her favor to Duke Paul
of Bellatrix. Lord Rodrigo de Cerdaña announced the winner of his game board contest to be Charles Smokeeater, for his beautiful chess
board set, which Yolanda del Campo de Cerdaña had bought for Rodrigo and then presented to him. Rodrigo presented the second place
entry from Baron Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland to King Gregory as Baron Gerhard’s gift. King Gregory decreed that puns at court were
forbidden and carried a 25¢ fine, to be levied by the Constables. The edict was promptly violated repeatedly. Lady Debreczeni Ilona
announced the beginning of a Principality of the M ists Newsletter. Duke Aonghais dubh MacTarbh announced his upcoming wedding
to Lady Mary Taran of Glastonbury at the Pentacost Feast in Caid.
Then court broke and the archers began to shoot. A melee was held to determine the new Protector of the Royal Wards, and Markus
of Shasta won to become the new Wardlord. Duke Aonghais dubh MacTarbh succeeded in his three tasks and received his new sword.
It began to rain and the tourney closed up early. A revel was held that evening in the home of Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit.
Comments:
A
“Ah yes, Beltane Coronation A.S. XII, when my friend Dave (SCA name forgotten at this point) debuted his standard garb at a
Kingdom event, making folks nervous ...
“You see, Dave is legally blind, and 6'4". His garb in those days was a headsman's outfit, consisting of a gigantic ax (which
he used to check the ground ahead of him), a tunic, and a black hood with no eyeholes. For some silly reason, given this garb and
his size, there was always strange squealing from the ladies in areas where he was walking ...” – Jilara of Carrowlea
B
[The Shire of Westermark brought forth a petition for Shire status, which was granted.] “Wasn't that the San Mateo peninsula? If so,
the shire's collective persona were landsknechts with excessively long, German names and lots of puff and slash costumes. Roger
Bergen and Tom Willey were two of them, but I can't remember the rest.”
[The various oaths of fealty were exchanged and King Gregory and Queen Bevin began their first court.] “From my footage of
that Grand March and coronation, I can tell you that Henrik rode on horseback ("Sugar" who he trained for tilting and tolerating an
armored rider) up to the thrones, dipping his pennoned lance in salute and then marching a second time with the Silver Mullets
(multiple trips through Grand Marches were common enough, depending on how many awards/offices you held or households
~ 143 ~
you were affiliated with). Aside from the usual appearances of the peerage, some of the other notables presenting themselves at
court were the College of Sciences, Arts, the Constables, the Mistress of Games and Jollities (Peggy and her charges), and a horde
of celtic types.
“Absent from the description of court events was the musical composition that was performed for their new majesties. People
that I recognize included (and I'll mix SCA and mundane names here and probably misspell most of them) Karen de Wyvern, Aurelia
de LaLicorne, Shelley Monson, Simon Spaulding (playing the violin), and Michael Siemon (can't do his last name here, but he would
jokingly call himself Michae l Siemon Vinegaroil). I believe it was Michael who wrote the piece and coordinated the music and
singers.” – Brian Dritar an Con
1 “Organized and played-in-the-band, yes. But I'm sure it must have been Simon Spaulding who wrote the piece. (Some years
earlier, I wrote a motet for the 3rd? coronation of Paul of Bellatrix, and a reign or so later a chanson for James & Verena, but
that just about exhausted my melodic creativity. -)) I am astonished that you get my _mundane_ surname right. For SCA
purposes I dis carded the intrusive 'e' that my great^2 Grossvater inserted on immigration (in order to "make" the stupid
Americans pronounce it correctly; misguided man...) That 'e' has caused all sorts of silly problems subsequently (including
the cousins who seem to think that we are French! -)) "Vinegaroil" is a fair enough rendering of the Sachsen-Anhalt town the
family is from (and hence my SCA titulature) von Wernigerode” – Johann Heinrich Michael Simon von Wernigerode
C
[The edict was promptly violated repeatedly.] “This backfired on Gregory big time. Most of us believe that Gregory really thought this
would help curtail the rampant "punnery" with this fine, which was instantly referred to as a PUNishment, and a PUNtax, The effect
of course was quite the opposite. It even moved previous non-offenders to PUNtification. Princess Neptha of Thebes, who had
never oPUNly admitted to being a closet punster, came to the very next court with her roll of quarters and reeled off a speech which
had Gregory groaning in agony. She continued to torment him (and only him) through his reign.” – Martin the Temperate
1 “It also brought on one of the great adventures of Clan Kidney. (Clan Kidney ought to find a place in these pages, anyway -remember how it took the kingdom by storm?)
“Everybody in the clan had an anatomical name -- in keeping with the name of the clan, which Robbie Kinslayer had coined
in a fit of irritation with the Scottishoidness of Clan Colin, one of the notable groupings of the time, on the premise that
"everybody knows the Kidney is above the Colon" -- Sir Loren sur la Roche was Sir Lawrence O'Liver, Lucky and MacEanruig
were the McAdenoids, and so on and on from there. I was one of the sisters O'Hair. Anyway, we -- numbering the better part
of a hundred strong, if memory doesn't exaggerate too much -- assembled a mighty presentation of quarters... quarter coins,
quarter bananas, quarter oranges, you name it... all heaped together on a platter. We processed into court, plopped down the
platter saying we intended to take care of our taxes all at once, and proceeded to have the herald announce us each and all
by clan name, one by one.
“Ah, joy.
“Surely there are more Kidney tales out there. Remember the Right Kidney and the One Who Left?” – Hilary of Serendip
I
“Among the numerous obnoxious features of Clan Kidney was our habit of selecting tartans (different for each sept of the
Clan, of course) which were as garish and obnoxious as possible. (Unlike most of Clan Colin, we were aware that the
assignment of specific patterns to particular clans was an artifact of Victorian weaving companies, rather than something
which had been thought of in period.) Some were truly horrible, and the assembled members of the Clan were a sight
to appall any and all pseudo-Scot.
“The McAdenoids were particularly obnoxious, having not only a hunting McAdenoid pattern (bright orange, black, and
white, which no animal could miss), dress McAdenoid (actually a perfectly nice collection of patterns printed in a
patchwork), but also Royal McAdenioda very staid blue and white pattern – except it came on fake fur! We had caps of
maintenance made of it.” – William the Lucky
a H ow did the McAdenoids and Clan McCreekie (reference: The Goon Show) manage to not meet on th e f i e l d
sometime? Our dress plaid was a checkerboard of various plaids, every other one with a black silhouette of a knight
on horseback -- Conrad once threw us off the field when we tried to enter our banner in a Caidan Order of Precedence
(an act of good taste that brought him a round of applause). Not being fighters, we McCreekies didn't have a hunting
tartan, though we should have used the shocking pink, lime green, turquoise blue and Germana brown mustard
yellow plaid I passed up for the design mentioned above.” – Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani
D
[A Court of Chivalry was held after dinner at the Bardic Circle, considering whether one’s activities in one’s mundane life outside
the SCA should effect one’s standing in the SCA. The consensus was that it shouldn’t.] “That was sort of the last gasp of the whole
Terrance of Halliday thing. As I recall, it was not a Court of Chivalry but an inquiry by the then marshal, William of Hoghton, working
from the directions of the previous king, Paul. Everyone pretty much wanted Terry gone (and he never was in much evidence again).
There wasn't much push, however, for any sort of retroactive action against him.” – Steven MacEanruig
~ 144 ~
The Year Thirteen
June 24-25, 1978 AS XIII
Crown Tourney
Held at Big Trees Camp, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland, California. First court began at 11:00 am in the sunny clear morning. The Grand
March was held, followed by various announcements. The Royal Brownie Maker presented Their Majesties with brownies (Phillip the
Fierce). Maythen of Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) presented the prizes for two of the contests from the Mists’ Warlord Tourney in May -Nicholas Worthington won for Musical Armor (a helm) and April of the Dales won for Athelbrose. The Shastan Mercenaries presented
a “Mary-Go-Round”, consisting of Lady Mary of Uffington holding a parasol and turning around while the other mercenaries went around
in the other direction bobbing like a merry-go-round’s wooden horses. The Barony of the Western Seas sent a contingent who presented
Their Majesties with a scroll. Queen Bevin in turn presented them each with a ribbon of her colors. Mistress Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya
de Foix) presented Their Majesties with an “old map” sent by Master John ap Griffin and Mistress Bjo ap Griffin from their recent travels
to the Western Seas, and putting in Caid’s claim to the islands (Hawaii). Manfred Eiffenblau, Champion of An Tir, then presented Prince
Steingrim’s claim to the islands. (This feud over the possession of the islands was to rage all through the event.) His Majesty took both
petitions for consideration.
Random House presented a silver tray with a box filled with quarters, chocolate chip cookies (in quarters) and quarter sections of fruit.
Yulseth of Darkwood gave His Majesty a Nine Man Morris set consisting of painted miniatures. Earl Kevin Peregrynne presented Their
Majesties with copies of his newly printed Fighter’s Handbook. Lord Brian Dritar an Con presented His Majesty with a medium scale
painted fighter figure of His Majesty. Diana of the Isles presented short bread. Then some scrolls were passed out, to the oohs and ahhs
of the populace. King Gregory gave Awards of Arms to Alan Silverbear, Linda of Collinswood, Simon de Spaldyng, and William of
Welcnmer. Then he admitted Taylor of Lochaber to the Order of the Leaf of Merit and gave Grants of Arms to Lewis the Landless and
Varavara the Fair. Queen Bevin admitted Alison of Hoghton and Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst to the Queen’s Order of Grace. King
Gregory formally recognized the Lists Pages as a group under the College of Heralds. Markus of Shasta was called up and invested as
Protector of the Royal Wards (Wardlord). Then court broke for the various activities of the day.
After a Grand Melee the double elimination Crown Lists were held, with Sir William the Lucky and Duke James Greyhelm reaching the
finals. Duke James was the victor, fighting for his lady, Duchess Verena of Laurelin. During this time, the last of the Arts Championship
contests were taking place and the ladies of the kingdom gathered to vote on the Philanderer of the Year. At afternoon court Duke James
and Duchess Verena were crowned as Crown Prince and Princess of the West and Prince and Princess of the Mists. The winning and losing
fighter poems were read, and Duke William of Hoghton, Earl Marshall, thanked the Caid Marshalls for their assistance, and in particular
Duke Aonghais dubh MacTarbh for acting as chief marshall. Master Douglas Brownbeard, Sir William Gordon of York, and Lord Simon
de Spaldyng sang a song to the three Warlords of the Mists, entitled “We Be Warlords Three”. Queen Bevin announced the Philanderer
of the Year to be Prince James Greyhelm, proclaiming him the best neck-nuzzler in the kingdom. She admitted Radnor of Guildemar to the
Queen’s Guard. Lady Galina de Keri presented the prize for the recent Order of Arachne’s Web lace contest to Deporodh of Rannoch, and
transferred the office of head of the Order to Deporodh, as Galina is moving to the East. Deporodh then produced a scroll signed by the
rest of the members of the Order conferring upon Galina the Silver Spider Award. Meriweather of the Four Winds medieval music trio
presented a piece she had written. The members of the Order of the Laurel were called up and Douglas Brownbeard of Hvitamyrr and Brian
Dritar an Con were admitted. The Warlords of the Mists announced the Crusade to rescue Their Majesties from the evil clutches of Caid
(sic) would take place at the Cambria site. Then court broke for the night. The arts contests resumed and a bardic circle was held.
Morning court began with presentations. Mistress Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix) called up Dukes Andrew of Riga and Henrik
of Havn and presented them with T-shirts bearing the inscription in diffraction grating letters: “DISCO DUKE.” House Footloose presented
Her Majesty with the Order of the Wayward Penguin, for her travels, the symbol being a stuffed penguin doll with a pilgrim’s staff. Manfred
Eiffenblau remembered some more reasons for Prince Steingrim’s claim to Hawaii. Grün der Spitzenklöppler (Juana Isabella de Montoya
de Rodriguez) presented baklava. Jared Blaydeaux presented to Burger King iron-on transfers. The Barony of the Western Seas replied
to An Tir and Caid. The Order of the Wooden Spoon contest for meat pies was won by April of the Dales. Queen Bevin admitted Duke
Henrik of Havn to the Queen’s Order of Grace. The members of the Order of the Pelican were called up and Rodrigo de Cerdaña was
admitted. Then the belted fighters came forward and Seamus Peacemaker was knighted. Court broke for the afternoon.
A King’s Champion Lists was held, along with the last of the Arts contests and an archery contest. Sir William the Lucky won the lists,
fighting as McAdenoid of Clan Kidney, a new clan formed at the tourney. At closing court King Gregory proclaimed him his champion.
Ragnar of the Icy Wastes was awarded the Muckin’ Great Clubbe, which Aarond the Grey had left at home. Dierdrianna of the Misty Isles
and Llerret de Grenada called forth Aarond to retrieve his “son” Kermit the Grey (a green frog doll) whom Dierdrianna had found “naked
and abandoned” at the recent Allyshia event and had clothed in an “Aarond the Grey suit.” Aarond accused her of kidnaping and grabbed
back his son. Mistress Rima of Rockridge sang a song composed on the spot in honor of Sir William the Lucky’s chivalry in dropping his
shield the previous day when Duke James had lost his sword arm, thereby losing the crown when James won. The Royal Archer, Sir Jon
~ 145 ~
Fitz-Rolf, announced the winner of the Bowman’s Class in the Archery Contest to be Earl Kevin Peregrynne, followed by Master Rodrigo
de Cerdaña and Orisin. The winners of the contest at the May coronation were Orisin, Rodrigo, and Kevin. The winers of the Archer’s Class
for this tourney were Christopher of Hoghton followed by Core. Lady Kriemhild of Stonecroft, Mistress of Arts, announced the winners
of the Arts Championship: Music Composition - Merriweather of Four Winds, Poetry - Morrigan Starcloak, Sculpture - Jay Witcher,
Calligraphy - Merewyn de Lyonesse and Jocelyn FitzHugh of Gillyflower, Illumination - Jocelyn FitzHugh of Gillyflower, Costuming - Louise
of Woodsholme, Fine Needlework - Merewyn de Lyonesse, Brewing - Gisele-Hildegaard of the Mystic Dragon and Louise of Woodsholme,
Cooking - Giesele-Hildegaard of the Mystic Dragon, Woodworking - Jay Witcher, Metalworking - Morgana, Dancing - Merewyn de
Lyonesse, Musical Performance - Simon de Spaldyng, Jesting - Giesele-Hildegaard of the Mystic Dragon, Singing - Douglas Brownbeard
of Hvitamyrr and Aarond the Grey, and Dramatic Performance - Victor. The Fine Arts Champion was Deporodh of Rannoch. The Technical
Arts Champion was Giesele-Hildegaard of the Mystic Dragon. The Performing Arts Champion was Renfield Wanderscribe (Edmund Renfield
Wanderscribe). The Grand Arts Champion was Baroness Merewyn de Lyonesse. Their Highnesses, Prince James and Princess Verena,
called up the members of House Lichtern, who had earlier performed a marvelous little play, and called for a Royal Command Performance
a their coronation. Court ended. Challenges ensued, complete with the twin brother of King Gregory, and dancing recommenced. A revel
followed at the home of Shirin of the Moors, in Berkeley.
Comments:
A
[After a Grand Melee the double elimination Crown Lists were held, with Sir William the Lucky and Duke James Greyhelm reaching
the finals.] “Thus (briefly) regaining a tie with Steve for the most times in the finals without actually winning.” – William the Lucky
1 “So how many times was this in the finals without winning? Did you or Steven eventually prevail in this hard fought competition,
and what was the final total? Does this record still stand, or has a younger fighter had the impertinence to break this record?
“ – Robear du Bois
I
“I believe my record still stands. I've been in the finals a total of seven times without winning and once when I won. With
some thought, I think my problem has always been focus.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “After Caid became a Kingdom, Duke Jason set a record which might still stand, coming in second in six consecutive Crown
Tourneys. After the sixth time, I told him, in jest, that he always finished second because he wore black. Bad guys wear black,
and while they always make it to the end of the movie, they always lose in the end. Jason said nothing, but on the day of the
next Crown Tourney, he appeared wearing blue and white, and fighting with a blue and white shield. In the finals he defeated
Sir Guy de Coldrake, who was wearing black and white. I regret that this fine tradition, of the man in black losing in the finals,
has not been carried on in Caid.” – Robear du Bois
I
“And when Jason finally won, it inspired Robear to create a full blown operetta, which should be preserved in at least the
Caiden continuation of the history. I happen to still have a copy.” – Martin the Temperate
II “I thought Jason was going to catch up with me at one time, but he faltered in the home stretch.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
[The Barony of the Western Seas sent a contingent who presented Their Majesties with a scroll. Queen Bevin in turn presented
them each with a ribbon of her colors.] “Serious case of fresh off the back of the pineapple truck in the big city stuff going on here
this weekend. The Hawaiians spent the best part of the event standing in the middle of the intersection wondering what all the
honking was about. Gregory and Bevin were the (and remain in rare company in my mind, certainly) quintessential image of the
power and legitimacy of the Western monarchy. I remember our baron, Sanjuro, gently cajoled us into accompanying him into court
with the loving promise of not beating us silly otherwise (Sanjuro was old school Shoto-kan Karate, a real motivator indeed!) The
ribbon was one of the Sterling Tartan, I believe.”
[(This feud over the possession of the islands was to rage all through the event.) His Majesty took both petitions for
consideration.] “The Barony was founded by a Marine Lawyer who was transferred in the mid 70's from the mid-west (Mid d l e
Kingdom, Lewis the Landless). As far as we were concerned we were Westerners. So was CAID for that matter (There was a
difference? ... we were waayyy out of the loop on kingdom politics). So was An Tir, though in truth, we were sketchy on that one (in
the crown lists, my second round fight was with "Manfred, Champion of An Tir"... I asked a local where An Tir was and how big- to
get some idea of this guy's mojo- and was sufficiently intimidated when the fellow told me it was "Bigger than CAID") Sanjuro's
comment to us was if they wanted it they should come to the barony and fight us for it. Sanjuro was big on approaching a lot of
dilemmas from this angle. We loved the attention.”
[Their Majesties with copies of his newly printed Fighter's Handbook.] “This was promptly purchased for the Barony's
devourment (it had that thing called a "wrap"!?)”
[She admitted Radnor of Guildemar to the Queen’s Guard.] “In a melee between rounds (I don't remember it being the Grand
Melee mentioned) I ended up being the last alive on my side against several (4-5?) on the other. My fear inspired technique of
running backwards faster than my opponents' approach, all the while throwing quick snaps (well, us Hawaiians called them snaps)
to the head and occasionally legging or killing kept me alive two or three times around the field before I was killed. This, and
~ 146 ~
perhaps killing Manfred (who was NOT happy about it, macing me a good one in the face as he finished his teetering death) caught
the eye of the Crown. Before evening court I ran in to Gregory who was washing up behind a pavilion and to my eyes unrecognizable
as the king I had seen earlier. He graciously commented, "You're a pretty good fighter", I responded, "Thanks... do you fight?" to
which he replied "Now and then". It only struck me as I left the encounter who I had been speaking with and was busily telling my
islands comrades of my faux pas when my name was called to come to court (it sounded like my name ... took 'em a couple of years
to get Guildemar right). We were all convinced I had brought shame to our Barony and was about to pay the piper. Sanjuro told me
to get out there right away and not make it worse. Kneeling at Bevins' feet, wondering what the Queens' Guard was, (it didn't
SOUND like a punishment!) my response to the herald's question of acceptance was a bewildered "I Do". Gregory, drolly informed
me, "Lad, you're not marrying her". Knowing Bevin, you can imagine my disappointment.”
[Manfred Eiffenblau remembered some more reasons for Prince Steingrim’s claim to Hawaii.] “He had spent some time living
on the islands. We later made him an honorary Hawaiian and charter member of Clan O'Ahu.”
[Challenges ensued, complete with the twin brother of King Gregory.] “Wow, what a swordsman. If ever there is a pantheon
erected to the finest, Gregory should have a special place ...” – Radnor of Guildemar
C
C
[The Warlords of the Mists announced the Crusade to rescue Their Majesties from the evil clutches of Caid (sic) would take place
at the Cambria site.] “Cambria Junior High, to be specific. War bonds were sold to finance this glorious enterprise, which was to
be known as the Crusade of the Leaf.”
[The winners of the contest at the May coronation were Orisin, Rodrigo, and Kevin.] “I dread the answer, but this wasn't the one
and only infamous Orisin of the Golden Sword? The person who could easily be voted Most Annoying and Hard To Be Rid Of in
the SCA? I remember one time when Duchess Carole, Dierdriana of the Misty Isles, and I *all* swore we had spent all day of the
same tourney trying to shake off his attentions. Either he'd cloned himself, or he simply went from one to the other of us all day long
...” – Jilara of Carrowlea
1 “Yes ... it's the same Orison of the Golden Sword, the fellow who after a few hours of exposure to the SCA at his first event
presumed to tell me that he was going to build a 36" diameter round shield out of 1/4" steel and it would make him
invulnerable, then refused to listen to my explanations as to why his theory had 2(exp)n-1 holes in it starting with inertia and
moving on from there.
“Undoubtedly he was the same person who 'annoyed' you, Carol, Dierdriana, Patrice, Megan, Kriemhild and every other
woman at that (or any other) event who had an IQ above room temperature (read = every woman and most girl children [the
rest were asleep or nursing]) present. I don't believe he was cloned or had learned teleportation, he simply had a personal
annoyance aura that had a minimum coverage of approximately 1 acre. (While females wanted to run off and bathe in Lysol,
males had to fight down the urge to punch his lights out simply to shut him up). Please forgive the sarcasm, but I was his
Baron and had to cope with him nearly daily. All aside, he was a pretty good archer and a damn' fine leather worker, but I think
the Karmic balance never came close to even.
“(To quote Patrice [based on a real event]"when someone knocks on your door, confirms your identity then proceeds to
kick the bloody Hell out of you, you might figure out that you had annoyed someone"). Honest, it was a mundane event, no one
from Golden Rivers had anything to do with it.?” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“I wonder if there's a special place in the SCA for stories like Orisin? People who are just so over-the-top that they have
gone down in legend? It's like how anyone who has ever seen Orisin's Tacky Patchwork Tunic has never forgotten it. (It's
apparently still holding together, too, being made entirely out of indestructible polyester.)
“I think my favorite was at Purgatorio in Eureka. Was it A.S. XV? He frantically came into my camp and everyone else's
asking for a stick or fire poker or something, because he'd dropped his camera down the privy. "It's NOT funny!" he
admonished, as we all were literally rolling around the carpet in laughter. I think it was Kevin who was walking by and
commented "This just goes to show that there really is a god..."
“Maybe folks like Orisin are part of the "unofficial history." – Jilara of Carrowlea
a “I think people like this are part of the "official" SCA story; any group such as Science Fiction fandom, or media fandom,
or the SCA, that tolerates the extra-weird ones, will get them. So they become part of the story. We all knew at least
one of this type, and frankly I found this story you told here far more interesting than run-on discussion of who bashed
whom with what and where. (Nothing personal, guys -- you always knew I felt that way).” – Flavia Beatrice
Carmigniani
“June Crown had an interesting portent for myself. On Sunday morning, I wandered over to see Olaf the Maedi-Ogre (who holds
the position of having been the first person I ever spoke to at an SCA event, and is still a good friend, despite decades of rumors
of his ongoing eminent demise). I talked to some of the Rieslingers I knew, and Gladi di Atori came over and handed me
"constabulary coffee" (coffee with a healthy shot of amaretto). While he had me hooked, he said "Raise your right hand." Okay...
"I hereby swear you in as a deputy constable." Stops, yells over "Hey Olaf, I got you a new deputy!" I believe the recruiting tactics
are similar to those used by the British army, when they give you a mug of ale with a schilling stuck to the bottom of it... Little did
I know that a few years down the road, I'd have the job Olaf had ...” – Jilara of Carrowlea
~ 147 ~
D
[Morning court began with presentations. Mistress Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix) called up Dukes Andrew of Riga and Henrik
of Havn and presented them with T-shirts bearing the inscription in diffraction grating letters "DISCO DUKE."] “As I recall, the "Disco
Duke" business was inspired by the novelty song "Disco Duck" that was all the rage at that time ...” – Brian Dritar an Con
1 “Also due to the fact that they both disco'd at Baroness Mo's wedding in San Diego--in front of probably 50 of their most 'discrete'
friends. One of the wonder bread girls, in particular, liked the nicknames, and for a while, both Henrik and Andrew had to live
through the use of 'Disco Duke'.” – Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst
August 19-20, 1978 AS XIII
Purgatorio Coronation Tournament
Held at the Freshwater Valley Stables, Outside Eureka, California. Baroness
Merewynn de Lyonesse was the autocrat for the first kingdom tournament to be
held in the Barony of Allyshia. Saturday was clear and warm, but a cooling breeze
made for quite comfortable weather. The final court of King Gregory and Queen
Bevin started late in the morning with Their Majesties riding in on horseback.
Various announcements were made, including the availability of rakes and
shovels for “improving” one’s pavilion site. (The site for the tourney was a
pasture where a number of horses had recently done their thing.) Children were
warned away from the electrified fence. Master Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft
transferred the Kingdom Seneschal’s job to Lord Llerret de Grenada. Master Verena of Laurelin - Azure, in canton a crux ansata Or.
spears bendwise
Stone
returned to the College of Heralds to become a Pursuivant at Large in the
sinister argent.
Barony of the Golden Rivers.
Then presentations were called for. Lady Hilary of Serendip presented Their Majesties with a pair of boffer swords, and informed the
populace that she had a large number of boffer weapons to sell. Master Rodrigo de Cerdaña gave Queen Bevin a beautiful handmade
gameboard (for the game of “The Queen’s Guard”). Lord Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst gave Queen Bevin a sandlewood fan and gave
King Gregory a toy sheep (actually a lamb) bidding him to guard it carefully. Lady Dierdrianna of the Misty Isles presented some tasty
amaretto cakes. Boverk & Co. presented Prince Steingrim with various articles that he had left at the last Pennsic War, including his purse,
a sword loop, a favor, a necklace, and last but not least, his white knight’s belt. Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel brought a gift from the
King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom, and a message that the Eastern Ambassador would be late. Lord Jerad Alexander Blaydeaux
presented Their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses James and Verena with small plastic flying crowns from a hamburger outlet (they
had a balloon and a launcher). Tatiana de la Montange presented His Majesty with a gross of sweet cookies on account of his grossly
sweet personality. (She was exempted from the two-bit fine for puns.) Lord Llerret de Granada presented Baron Maelgwyn with a sheep
hand puppet. (Suggestions that it strike up an acquaintance with His Majesty’s new pet were taken under advisement.) As Baron
Maelgwyn walked away, His Majesty’s lamb was seen to wave bye-bye. Sharra ni Perran gave His Majesty a leather covered mapcase and
gave Her Majesty a leather Byzantine chessboard. The Barony of Lion’s Gate called for Earl Kevin Peregrynne, Baron of Golden Rivers,
and presented him with a copy of their newsletter, The North Wind, which chronicled their victory over his barony in the recent armed
confrontation. The cover showed the various members of the Barony and in the dust the warbanner of Golden Rivers. Then Lady Maelen
of Catcott stepped out from the Lion’s Gate party and presented Earl Kevin with a framed photograph of himself as King leaning on the
Great Sword of State and, upon hearing of the plans of Baron Gerhard Kendal of Lion’s Gate and Baron Waldt von Markheim of Dreiburgen
to have a war to divide the unclaimed region in between, stated his famous line, “You boys are gonna get youah party crashed!” The Riding
of Wolfscairn, a new subbranch of the Province of Ceantyre, presented Their Majesties with tea, handwoven belts, and painted eggs with
stands. Master Ruthven of Rockridge and Random House presented Her Majesty with a painting of a scene from one of her Deryni books.
Then it was Their Majesties’ turn.
King Gregory called forth his Champion, Sir William the Lucky, and presented him with a tourney’s supply of his favorite beverage,
apple cider. His Majesty presented the Order of Chivalry with a bottle of Glen Fiddich scotch for them to share, in thanks for their friendship
and support during his reign. King Gregory gave Duke Andrew of Riga a pin with a Star of David in celtic interlace. The members of the
Royal Household were called up by Her Majesty. Queen Bevin gave to Lorenzo di Sant’ Angelo, who is Gregory’s squire, a fighting
surcoat. The surcoat had His Majesty’s badge upon it. Lady Alison of Hoghton, Baroness Merewyn de Lyonesse, and Lady Susanne of
King’s Harbour received two yards of tartan each. Mistress Joan of Crawfordsmuir recieved trim, and Lord Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst
received a small cutout of a shirt, as a promissary for the real thing. Mistress Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix) received a Jaeger minidagger.
Then it was time for awards. Mistress Kriemhilde of Stonecroft, Mistress of Arts, called forth the winners from the recent Arts
Championship and gave them their scrolls of recognition. Queen Bevin thanked her Champion, Duke Paul of Bellatrix, for his service. Queen
Bevin announced the winner of the Queen’s Poetry Contest to be Baron Theodulf of Borogrove, who recieved the prize of a helm. Queen
~ 148 ~
Bevin then admitted Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine, Janeltis Karaine Starfollower, Lorenzo di Sant’ Angelo, Merewyn de
Lyonesse, and Patrice d’Cilla to the Queen’s Order of Grace. Queen Bevin bestowed her Queen’s Cypher upon Andrew of Riga, Fiona
Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix), Joan of Crawfordsmuir, Suzanne Justine of King’s Harbour, Sweyn MacChlurain, and finally upon King
Gregory, for making it possible.
King Gregory gave an Award of Arms to Maythen of Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) and admitted Hallgerd Egilsdottir to the Order of
the Leaf of Merit. Princess Janeltis Karaine Starfollower was called forward and made a Court Baroness. Queen Bevin explained that the
members of the Principality of An Tir had petitioned for her to be named Dowager Princess of An Tir, but that not being possible, the title
of Baroness was chosen instead. Prince Steingrim and the heirs to the coronet of An Tir, Ulfred and Valkyrie Drommefjell, led the cheers
of the An Tir populace present. Then the members of the Order of the Laurel were called forward and Yolanda del Campo de Cerdaña was
admitted to the Order. (The announcement caused her to miss a stitch in her embroidery, one of the skills that caused her to be admitted.)
Then Allyn Samildanach was admitted for his calligraphy, illumination, and metal and leatherworking skills. The members of the Order of
the Pelican were called forward, and April of the Dales, Mistress of the Golden Key, was admitted. Their Majesties thanked the populace
for an enjoyable reign, and announced that they would swear joint fealty to their Western successors and to the throne of Caid. Master
Wilhelm von Schlüssel, Vesper Principal Herald, on behalf of the College of Heralds thanked Their Majesties for an “interesting” reign and
wished them all further happiness and success in further reigns ... in Caid. (“Made it hard on you, didn’t I?” replied the King.) Then the
populace adjourned for lunch break.
After the lunch break the populace was called to form the Grand March, with the musicians playing recorder music during the formation
of the March. Master Däwyd von Markheim, Golden Gate Pursuivant, announced the Grand March. Crown Prince James Greyhelm and
Crown Princess Verena rode up dressed in silk Russian tunics. Duke William of Hoghton, Earl Marshall, announced their intent to succeed
to the thrones, and King Gregory called them to come forward and swear the oath of fealty and protection to the kingdom. Then James and
Verena were crowned King and Queen, and the knights Great Lords of State, Peers of the Realm, Prince Steingrim and Princess Janeltis,
and the Barons and Baronesses present swore fealty. Gregory was invested as Earl Gregory, and Bevin became Countess Bevin Fraser of
Sterling. Queen Verena called forth the members of the Queen’s Guard and the Queen’s Archers, and added Manfred Eifenblau and Ulfred
Drommefjeld to the Queen’s Guard. They all swore to come to her aid, and she, in turn, presented them with proper implements for their
most common task, screwdrivers for assembling the Royal Pavilion. Sweyn MacChlurain, Alfric Favnesbane, and Jason Griffiths of
Shadowhyrst, now citizens of Caid, were made honorary members of the Queen’s Guard (they had previously been members). Allyn
Samildanach was made Captain of the Queen’s Guard. Thus, the membership of the Queen’s Guard was Allyn Samildanach (Captain),
Benjamin Armentrout, Brian Dritar an Con, Karl of Clan Colin, Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst, Ib Harleson, Nicholas Worthington, Alfric
Favnesbane, Radnor of Guildemar, and Sweyn MacChlurain. The membership of the Queen’s Archers was Aarond the Grey (Captain),
Kriemhild of Stonecroft, Neil Gyrfalcon, Paul of Normandy, Rodrigo de Cerdaña, and Llerrett de Granada. Their Majesties called forward
Countess Allissandra Olympia Martiessa de Constantine, Lady Reginleif the Unruly, Lady Dierdrianna of the Misty Isles, Duke Andrew
of Riga, and Mistress Michäela de Neuville, and thanked them for their efforts and assistance in preparation for the coronation. Then it
was time for presentations.
Manfred, Champion of An Tir, called for His Majesty to send armed might to An Tir to combat an “insidious dark blight” that had been
terrorizing An Tir. His Majesty offered two squires. Manfred protested that that was not enough. His Majesty tossed in his dog Con.
Master Cadwalladyr Stone of Stonecroft presented King James with the “Scones of Stone”. King James revoked the ban on puns instituted
by King Gregory, so Stone escaped a fine. Lord Raoul the Urbane and his recorder group presented a musical piece on their recorders and
gave Their Majesties a copy of their music book. Lady Dierdrianna of the Misty Isles gave Their Majesties a gift of trim sent by Master
John and Mistress Bjo of Griffin (Flavia Beatrice Carmigniani). Lady Dierdrianna also presented from herself a set of pretty napkins.
Countess Patrice du Couer Fidel and Earl Kevin Peregrynne presented a message from the Eastern Ambassador. The Canton of Windy
Meads presented their Majesties with representations of their personal arms in marzipan. Lord Jared Alexander Blaydeaux gave h i s M a j e s t y
a silver Mjölnir pendant (Thor’s hammer). Tashi presented a purse of pearls and four rings, booty from past battles. Sharra ni Perran
presented leather napkin rings and a leather chessboard. Lord Ulfhedin hinn Vegfarandi and Lady Reginleif the Unruly presented Their
Majesties with a promissary for lamps for their Great Hall. Lady Deporodh of Rannoch presented Their Majesties with handmade lace collar
and cuff sets (she is the head of Arachne’s Web). Helyne Browneberry and Thomas Buttesthorn presented two ceramic goblets. Baron
Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland gave Their Majesties a handmade game board. The Can Cath of Clan Colin, Baron Sean a’Claidheam,
announced the undying loyalty of Clan Colin to Gregory and Bevin, now that they were off the throne, and pledged the loyalty of the Clan
Colin group in Caid to Their Majesties so long as they remain in the Mists. King James offered to supply them with an Irish Commissary
Sergeant. House Myramovich presented His Majesty with a bottle of Purple Death. Duke Terrence of Halliday presented King James with
a bottle of Black Label scotch. Joseph of Darkwood brought greetings from Atenveldt. Mistress Fiona Gregorovna (Natalya de Foix) and
Lord Jason Griffiths of Shadowhyrst presented Their Majesties with an illuminated letter. The schedule for the day was announced and
court adjourned.
~ 149 ~
During the day the Order of the Wooden Spoon held its beverage contest and there were two fighting competitions, for two and three
man teams, and an archery quest. At evening court it was announced that there were two winners for the beverage contest: Deporodh of
Rannoch won for nonalcholic beverage and Grün der Spitzenklöppler (Juana Isabella de Montoya de Rodriguez) for alcoholic beverage.
Earl Gregory of York and Duke Paul of Bellatrix was the winning two-man team, and the victorious three man team was Sir William the Lucky,
Sir Edward of Southhaven, and William Briardust. The archery quest had been divided into A and B teams, except that the top two B archers
beat out all of the A archers. The overall winner was therefore Master Wilhelm von Schlüssel, who received a pair of wooden plates and
goblets and a bottle of wine, followed by Duchess Patrice d’Cilla, who received a bottle of wine. The winner of the A team was Lord Llerret
de Granada, who received a pair of goblets and a bottle of wine. King James invested Thorgeirr the Thirsty as Seneschal of Nepotism.
That evening there was a bardic revel and general partying on one-half of the field. (The other half of the field had been designated
a quiet zone.) The full moon was so bright that everyone could see to walk about without flashlights. A ninja war was held with no apparent
victor, but they had a lot of fun.
Sunday made up for Saturday, being cool and overcast the whole day. Things got started about 11:00 am with the children’s archery
contest, the Arts and Crafts Faire, a Unicorn Hunt, a Stag Hunt, and Lists for Queen’s Champion. At closing court Sir David Westerville
was proclaimed the Queen’s Champion, having emerged victorious in the final melee. (The melee was held to close the lists quickly, as it
was already after three and people had to leave.) The lists were double elimination, with each fighter having to use a different weapon each
time he fought, until he had used four different weapons. King James presented the Old Battered Helm to Manfred Eiffenblau for his
glorious writhing death after a gut blow. Stephen of Bellatrix won the Children’s Archery contest, with Sean of Shasta taking second place.
The Queen presented them all with goodies. Mistress Annette of Fair Monte transferred the office of Chancellor of the College of Scribes
to Baroness Merewyn of Lyonesse and Mistress Gonwynlynn of Hrassvelg. King James thanked her for her great service over many years.
The winner of the Leatherworking contest was Keridwen (Tangwystyl verch Morgant Glasvryn, formerly Keridwen ferch Morgan Glasfryn,
formerly Keridwen o'er Mynyrdd Gwyrdd), from the Canton of Windy Meads. Queen Verena presented a wreath of rosemary to Sir Edward
of Southhaven for most chivalrous person that weekend, and the wreath for valor went to Harvey the Stag, for his valorous efforts in the
stag hunt. The wreath was accepted by Fellyandrac the Blind on behalf of Harvey (Fellyandrac plays the part of Harvey). Lord Algenon
Hartesmond, Ambassador from the East, having finally arrived, presented their Majesties with a letter of congratulations from their Eastern
Majesties, which also recommended Lord Algenon as their ambassador. King James then admitted Alfric Favnesbane, Gwendwyn the
Silent, Reginleif the Unruly, and Ulfhedinn hinn Vegfarandi to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. Baron Maelgwyn and Baroness Merewyn
de Lyonesse were called forward and thanked for their efforts in running the tournament as tourneymasters. The court and tourney was
closed and everyone began to pack up for the long trip home. The Allyshians, having been good all weekend, then ended the tourney in
proper Allyshian style with dogfights, gorilla fights, and birthday paddlings (it was Baron Maelgwyn’s birthday). A number of others joined
into the Allyshian spirit and entered the melee fun.
Comments:
A
[Lord Jerad Alexander Blaydeaux presented Their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses James and Verena with small plastic
flying crowns from a hamburger outlet.] “If memory serves, this was from the great East Kingdom institution of White Castle
Hamburgers.”
[The members of the Order of the Pelican were called forward, and April of the Dales, Mistress of the Golden Key, was
admitted.] “And well deservedly. I believe that Mistress April must hold the record for longest (unbroken, no less!) term in office of
any person in the SCA. She had Gold Key for 16 years before finally divesting herself of the responsibility, if memory serves. This
woman deserves a Pelican with added oak-leaf clusters! (Hmm, now that's an interesting image.)”
[That evening there was a bardic revel and general partying on one-half of the field. (The other half of the field had been
designated a quiet zone.) The full moon was so bright that everyone could see to walk about without flashlights.] “An interesting
feature of this was that the bardic circle kept going on and on, into the wee small hours of the night. There was still a core of us
sitting around the fire, launching into still more songs (I seem to remember we were in the second round of "Chain Mail Mama")
when someone looked up and said "Uh, guys, it's not moonlight any more..." and we realized that the sun was coming up over the
eastern horizon.”
[... the wreath for valor went to Harvey the Stag, for his valorous efforts in the stag hunt. The wreath was accepted by Fellyandrac
the Blind on behalf of Harvey (Fellyandrac plays the part of Harvey).] “Well-deserved. When cornered by the hunters and hounds,
Harvey the Stag decided turnabout was fair play, and turned and attacked his pursuers, chasing them all the way across the field
and savaging several hounds with his "horns" (boffer daggers).” – Jilara of Carrowlea
B
[Children were warned away from the electrified fence.] “So we spent a large portion of the weekend egging one another on to touch
the damn thing -> some days I think it's amazing any of us survived to adulthood ...” – Eden of Lionsguard
~ 150 ~
C
“The archery quest had been divided into A and B teams, except that the top two B archers beat out all of the A archers. The overall
winner was therefore Master Wilhelm von Schlüssel, who received a pair of wooden plates and goblets and a bottle of wine,
followed by Duchess Patrice d’Cilla, who received a bottle of wine. This archery win was my one and only martial arts victory and
I was rather proud of it.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
Thus Ends the History of the West as Chronicled by Wilhelm von Schlüssel
What Follows are Finer Details of Various Branches of the West
~ 151 ~
The Principality of the Mists
The Principality of the Mists
In the beginning of the Society there was only one kingdom, based in the San
Francisco Bay Area in California. It was referred to alternately as the Kingdom of
the Mists, or the Kingdom of the West. When the Kingdom of the East was
founded in 1968 the use of Mists was dropped and the West Coast was known
as the Kingdom of the West. The San Francisco Bay Area, the capital area and
the place of origin, continued to be referred to as the Mists. This area came to be
the Principality of the Mists, although it was never a working entity, but more like
a name for an area. When Caradoc set up the present tournament system in the
West in 1969 he decreed that the Kingdom Tournaments - the Crown Tourneys
and Coronations - should occur within the Principality of the Mists, which is the
Prince of the Mists - Argent, a crown within a laurel
Princess of the Mists - Argent, a crown within a rose
wreath vert, all within a bordure engrailed azure.
first official use of the title. The Principality of the Mists includes those counties leaf wreath vert, all within a bordure engrailed azure, sem
argent.
of California which border on the San Francisco Bay, namely the Counties of
Sonoma, Marin, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and San Francisco. There was no separate Prince of the Mists. In January
1972 the Board of Directors granted this title to the King. Later it became traditional to confer the title of Prince and Princess of the Mists
upon the Crown Prince and Princess upon the completion of the Crown Lists. From time to time there have been Principality officers
appointed by the Kingdom officers to coordinate matters in the Principality, but never on a consistent basis. Many of the offices were
handled by the chief kingdom officer, who was usually resident in the Mists.
There are four Provinces that make up the Principality of the Mists. They are the Province of the Mists (the counties of Alameda and
Contra Costa), the Province of Southern Shores (Santa Clara County), the Province of St. Andrew’s (the counties of San Mateo and San
Francisco), and the Province of Ceantyre (Marin and Sonoma Counties). The Province of the Mists is the capital province of the Principality
and the Kingdom. Most of the Kingdom and Society officers have resided there and the Society headquarters is located there. The Province
of the Mists is also the birthplace of the Society.
During the early years the principality offices and the provincial offices were handled by the kingdom officer. In 1971 the Provinces
began to organize as independent entities with officers of their own. Samuel de Basset became Seneschal of St. Andrew’s in January, and
in the fall Andrei de Sevastopol became Seneschal of the Province of the Mists and Paul of Bellatrix became Seneschal of the Province of
Southern Shores. Gregory of Drakesland had been Seneschal since May of 1970, but nothing much had happened. Henrik of Havn was
the first Seneschal for Ceantyre, which didn’t really organize until the fall of 1974, although Henrik had been holding his annual island wars
since 1967. In March of 1972 Sir Steven MacEanruig took over as Seneschal for the Province of St. Andrew’s, which then took its name
and became properly organized. The first Principality officer was Caradoc, who was appointed Knight Marshal by Edwin Bersark, then Earl
Marshal, in February, 1970.
On September 24, 1977, AS XII, King Paul decreed that the Principality of the Mists was to include all of Northern California above
Caid, plus Hawaii. Thus the Kingdom was divided into three principalities. King Paul decreed that the Principality of the Mists would
become fully functional, with officers and a Prince and Princess. Maythen of Elfhaven (Maythen Gervaise) was designated Principality
Seneschal. Leon de Asturias, Greencloak Herald, became the Principality Herald. Roderick dubh MacRae became the Principality Master
of Sciences.
~ 152 ~
The Principality of the Mists – The Province of the Mists
The Province of the Mists
(Alameda and Contra Costa Counties)
This is the capital province of the Kingdom of the West and the birthplace of the Society for Creative
Anachronism. The first tournament was held on May 1, 1966 in the backyard of Diana Listmaker in Berkeley,
California. It was not until the Westercon XX Demonstration on July 1, 1967 that an SCA activity was held
outside the province. Activities in the province were handled by the Kingdom officers until 1971, when the
Province acquired its own officers.
The Province of the Mists - Azure, on a fess nebuly
argent a laurel wreath vert.
February 28, 1970 AS IV
First Nottingham Faire
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Berkeley. The SCA put on a demonstration. About this time Edwin Bersark, Earl Marshal, appointed
Caradoc Knight Marshal for the Principality of the Mists.
Anniversary and Wedding Celebration
Held at Camp Padre, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Siegfried Vulgas Incunabulis and Elizabeth Ann were married by Father Ruthven of Rockridge,
using the 1549 prayer book. Sir Robert of Dunharrow and Lady Geraldine of Toad Hall celebrated their first anniversary.
November, 1970 AS V
The College of St. Bridget Founded
At UC Berkeley, and taken under the protection of the Crown. (It later died out and years later was recreated as the College of St. Katherine.)
At this time the Company of Musicians began meeting Monday nights at Willard Junior High School in Berkeley.
November 28-29, 1970 AS V
Christmas Sale
Held at Toad Hall, Oakland.
December 4, 1970 AS V
Curia Regis
King Henrik called the session in Echeverry Hall at UC Berkeley to discuss the duties and responsibilities of officers.
January, 1971 AS V
First Province Officer
Sara von Ander was appointed General Clerk of the Province.
February 13, 1971 AS V
The Second Nottingham Faire
Held at the First Unitarian Church in Berkeley. There was a fighting demonstration and a medieval dance class.
Comments:
A
“My most vivid memory of the Nottingham Fair was Henrik and another fighter (Houri) both landing their aggregate 300 plus pounds
in my lap and destroying one of the church's folding chairs totally. (And if it wasn't me the trauma was vivid enough for several of
us skinny squire-oids to share).” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “The demo was actually on the stage at the church, which was of pretty good size. However, Kevin's recollection of sitting on
a folding chair and having two fully armored (for the time) knights sit on him gives you an idea of how close the quarters were.
“I think this was an event where I received one of the hardest blows I've ever received. Can't remember who administered
it, but I essentially walked into a shield hook so that my helmet (and thank you Jon for making it so tough) connected with the
edge of the incoming shield. Rocked my world completely, let me tell you.” – Stefan de Lorraine
~ 153 ~
A
A
B
“About Nottingham Fair - fully armored for the time did include all 70 odd pounds of Henrik's mail and so on plus I think Houri had
just finished his latigo leather harness. In any case I'm glad the chair broke instead of me (a coin flip considering I was almost as
flimsy).
“I think Stefan is on to something, with the exception of my elbow I've been hurt as often and severely by shields and the general
environment (dirt in the air and underfoot) as by (so-called) weapons..
“Funny thing, I remember The Forces of Chaos being formed, but I remember the Chaos label being attached to Steve and
Luise's lodging and clump of close friends from their apartment called Chaos Court where I first met them shortly after their Twelfth
Night Wedding.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “True, we started the Chaos name with Chaos Court (a townhome, actually), and I started answering the phone "Chaos" at
that point, but that was the name of the house, not the household. It was actually my squire, Warren the Strange, who more
or less coined the name for real when, while we were getting ready for the Westercon at the Francisco Torres, which has
already been discussed, he said that we wanted to do the tournament right so we wouldn't be known as the "Farces of Chaos."
Despite the disaster that befell that plan, which I've already detailed, the name stuck as "Forces" instead. Initial inspiration for
the choice of name was, as you might expect, the books of Michael Moorcock.
“Oh yes, and Chaos Manor got its name because Jon the Lean, who was living with us at the time, said that it was
appropriate because we always did things in a Chaotic Manner.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who got out of the habit of answering
his home phone with "Chaos" when he spent three+ years working (and answering the phone) at Chaosium, Inc. It just got
too confusing ...
“If it was an Andrew from the middle, I expect it was Andrew of Seldom Rest (known as '...of Seldom Right' in his later career to
cogniscenti {I may forgive but I never forget}). However I do remember Richard being gone then coming back and finally getting to
fight him at a Chaos practice before I was knighted, so this may be it.
“A while ago I wrote a lengthy message regarding my' and Andrew of Riga's encounters at the June tourney with Barry of Judah
(sometimes known as Lochinvar of Lutha)? It mostly dealt with Barry's retrograde maneuverability. Actually I got to know him better
later and his people skills were not tall hat bad, but he also was out of touch with the directions that fighting was going which
annoyed fighters of the new evolving aggressive styles.
“Anne of the Golden City was around as I recall, though not in the power structure (which centered around David and Cheryl
White) when Patti and I moved to Golden Rivers. Lydd however, was dead and gone like Atlantis (not my image ... you should have
heard the epic poem recited at the Mythpoeic Society Yule Moot).
“The scuttlebutt was that the combination of the theft of the mail and the rigors of sleeping in the not-designed-for-the-task
Royal Pavilion put both Hagen and Ruth off of the SCA as soon as they could gracefully depart. I wouldn't be surprised if some of
our folk weren't Ruth's cup of tea ... she did after all originate the QOG.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“We had a lot of fun at these fairs. This was the site for a number of 12th nights at that time, and we had a good working relationship
with the church. They usually had a raffle at the event, and you had to present to win - I remember that we had all stuck around and
SCA people kept getting prizes - I think that Ginny still has a fondue pot that she won. At one of these fairs Christina of the Runes
was belly dancing, went into a floor drop, and could not get up - her top had come off. Chris was amply endowed, and the whole
scene was funny, with a large group of SCA women, surrounding her with cloaks, and a lot of disapproving looks from church
women ...” – James Greyhelm
March 13, 1971 AS V
Queen’s Court of Courtesy (Queen’s Tea/“Fat Sunday”)
Queen Ellen invited the ladies to Toad Hall in Berkeley. Armigerous ladies were to bring the “fattest” dessert.
Comments:
A
“While Queen Ellen was presiding over the tea, Toad Hall and Chaos (since house Lorraine has so many armigers, we reorganized
into a Great House called the Forces of Chaos – largely because we called the house Chaos Manor) were having a practice
session nearer to Toad Hall than the usual Dogs Must Be On Leash park. We also had a distinguished guest, and for the life of
me I cannot recall if it was Duke Richard visiting from New Mexico, or Duke Andrew (something or other) from the Middle Kingdom;
maybe it was both. I remember both of them being around at a practice session, but whether it was together or on two separate
occasions I do not recall.
~ 154 ~
“Apparently, Queen Ellen had decided that the ladies of the Kingdom should talk to the gentlemen about counting blows (that
being one of the periods we were having some problems with that). Geraldine had no particular wish to have that conversation,
so she sent someone, can't remember who, to gather up the fighters and bring them over to Toad Hall "to help finish off the
deserts." We did.
“I guess that's a good example of kitchen politics ...” – Stefan de Lorraine
Revel
Held at the home of Sir Jean de la Grand’Anse, in Oakland, following the Crown Tournament. By this time Andrei de Sevastopol was
appointed the first Provincial Seneschal. Vickabeth of House Holland and Annette of Faire Monte were Pursuivants Extraordinary.
(Previously all heralding had been done by the Kingdom Heralds - Clarion, Banner, and Greencloak.)
Comments:
A
“Randall of High Tower was Clarion Herald, Karina of the Far West was Banner Herald, and Boncueur was Greencloak Herald.”
– Wilhelm von Schlüssel
May 20, 1972 AS VII
First Provincial Festival
Held in Meadow Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. King James and Queen Verena attended. Lists were held for the Champion of Arms, who
got to crown his lady Queen of the May. There was also a competition for the Champion of Arts. By this time Tarysa of Rivendell was
Provincial Mistress of Arts, Donna of Rollingwood (Donna of Willowwood) was Chatelaine, and William of Hoghton and Cormac na
Conacht were Deputy Seneschals.
August 12, 1972 AS VII
Second Provincial Festival
Held in the Meadow Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. King Paul and Queen Carol attended. Duke James Greyhelm was the Champion of Arms
and crowned Duchess Verena of Laurelin Queen of Love and Beauty. Dorcas Dorcadas was the Champion of Arts. Master Frederick of
Holland was presented with a blue cloak with appliqued unicorns and embroidered infinity symbols (the elements of his arms) as a going
away present from the ladies of the kingdom, many of whom worked on it. Master Frederick was moving to the Middle Kingdom. Somewhat
later Master Beverly Hodghead was appointed Provincial Master of Sciences.
Comments:
A
“I was sorry to see Flieg go, though we weren't necessarily always on the same side in the various minor political hassles to still
go on in the SCA. I always liked the Tilden Park Meadow because it was easy to get to. You had (and probably still have) to get it
on a first come/first serve basis so someone would usually end up going there at some godawful time in the morning and set up
a pavilion of some sort to reserve it. I don't recall that anyone ever got there before us though at least once we did a deal and traded
the near field for the far one so they could have the baseball backstop there.” – Steven MacEanruig
February 10, 1973 AS VII
Bardic Revel
Held at Almarin in Oakland. This was the first of many bardic revels.
St. Valentine’s Day Revel
Held at the All Soul’s Episcopal Church, Berkeley. The revel was jointly held with the Province of St. Andrew’s. At this time the Province
of the Mists officially acquired its name. There was a court of love, potluck refreshments, and the First Annual Poetry Contest, won by
Karina of the Far West.
Archery Tourney, College of St. Hildegard
Held at Mills College, Oakland. There were archery contests, and a pudding eating contest. Michaëla de Neuville was the autocrat and the
first Seneschal for the new College of St. Hildegard, which had been created at Twelfth Night (January 6, 1973) when King Paul granted
their petition.
~ 155 ~
Comments:
A
“The pudding eating contest was for teams of 2 who were both blindfolded and had to spoon feed each other. Very messy! Richard
of House Havn and I were the winning team. "Slow and easy does it."” – Henrik of Havn
Bardic Revel
Held at Greyhaven, Berkeley.
Comments:
A
“These were fairly popular and quite entertaining. I went once, but the tobacco-laden atmosphere was kind of oppressive,
particularly to my asthmatic lady, and we didn't repeat the experiment. Had a good time, though, and I think the tradition was kept
up a lot longer than a lot of West Kingdom traditions. Some version of it may still be happening, for all I know.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“Bardic revels were always fun. I don't know if the SCA does them much any more, but they were fairly common in the early days.
Basically you sit in a large circle and everyone in the circle recites a poem or song, though poetry was always much more common
than songs. I learned of a lot of fun poetry from them.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “At least down here in Caid, we still hold informal Bardic Circles. There are a couple of Baronies which hold bardic circles every
month. We did for a while in Altavia & will start up again on 11/19/99. I had a lot of fun at the few Bardic Circles I attended at
West Kingdom Tournies.” – Charles of Dublin
International House Revel
Held at International House, Berkeley. James and Verena presided. There was dancing and fighting demonstrations. Sabrina de la Bere was
the autocrat.
Comments:
A
“There were two or three of these International House revels. They were a good time. Luise and Christine danced at one or two,
getting a good response.”
“In the same general time period as the International House revels were the classes by Sensei (fill in the blank here, someone)
who had, among other things taught Toshiro Mifune and attracted the presence of several SCA swordfighters at his classes. He
comes to mind because part of at least one revel at IHouse was a demo by his students, and very entertaining it was. Henrik and
several of his household were students of the sensei, as well as others. Earl of Morris might have been another, I don't know.
“I wasn't, as I didn't have the time and inclination, but many of my friends were, and the "dojo" was an influence on the SCA for
several years, and I imagine various vestiges are still present.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who felt that one medievalism at a time was
enough.
1 “Takahashi Sensei is still active in San Bruno.” – Mary of Tamar
April 21, 1973 AS VII
Bardic Revel
Held at AOA House, Berkeley. Marisela of Muninsgaard was the autocrat.
Beowulf Reading
Held at Rivengard, Berkeley. About this time Squire Dale became a deputy Master of Arts for the province.
May 22-24, 1973 AS VIII
Chabot College Medieval Faire
Held at Chabot College, Hayward. The province participated.
Spring Festival
Held at Chabot College, Hayward. As part of the Medieval Faire the spring festival was held. King Paul and Queen Carol attended. Count
Stefan de Lorraine was the Champion of Arms and crowned Countess Luise of the Phoenix Queen of Love and Beauty. A competition for
Champion of Arts was held.
~ 156 ~
August 11, 1973 AS VIII
Summer Festival
Held in Redwood Bowl, Joaquin Miller Park, Oakland. King Henrik and Queen Seitse attended. A quest was featured. Duke Paul of Bellatrix
was the Champion of Arms. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was proclaimed Queen of Love and Beauty. King Henrik admitted Trude Lacklandia
to the Order of the Leaf of Merit and gave her an Award of Arms. A competition was held for the Champion of Arts.
Comments:
A
“I remember the Redwood Bowl and, I think, this event. I'm not sure if this is the one I remember that at one time had Paul standing
in what seemed like a small sea of poison oak. He didn't come down with it, however, so it's always possible we misidentified it.
Of course it's also possible his armor protected him.
“All my remembrances of quests (except one) are basically bad. They always seemed to amount to endless trudging around
in armor with occasionally fights or silly questions to answer.” – Steven MacEanruig
1 “Eventually, they will reach the one great quest.
“And we can tell them about it in enormous detail.” – Anonymous
a “... it was the only quest I know that didn't revolve around endless trudging or silly questions. Of course the site helped also.
I've always kind of wished I could have gone on it myself, but then being an ogre was an awful lot of fun.” – Steven
MacEanruig
Baggins Birthday Eve Bardic Revel
Held at House Greyhaven, Berkeley.
October 20, 1973 AS VIIII
First Annual Sciences Sandcastle Contest
Held at Alameda Memorial State Beach, Alameda.
October 27, 1973 AS VIII
Queen’s Dessert Potluck
Held at the home of Andrei de Sevastopol, Oakland. All armigers were invited by Queen Seitse to bring desserts to share.
November 3, 1973 AS VIII
All Hallows Eve Revel
Held at the Good Shepherd Parish Hall, Berkeley. Participants came in costume. There were potluck refreshments, apple bobbing, pin-thetail-on-the-orc, and a contest for Harvest or All Hallows poetry.
Duke’s Dinner Page Benefit
Held at the Hillside Club, Berkeley. Adrienne of Toledo, Karina of the Far West, and Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin) put
on a sumptuous feast for the benefit of the Page.
Comments:
A
“I think this was the “Feast of 3 Tastes”. This is where Sir Earl of Morris and his girlfriend (now wife and mother to his three sons)
entertained the diners with an Iaido demonstration, in synchronous form, very beautiful and impressive. His wife’s name is Noriko.”
– Henrik of Havn
1 “I remember the Iaido demonstration my wife and I gave, but it couldn't have been at the event Henrik mentions since we both
were in Japan at the time it took place. We returned from Japan in March of 1974, so it would have to have been sometime after
that; I seem to remember that we gave the iaido demonstration at a 12th Night at Mills. Anyone with a clearer recollection out
there?” – Earl of Morris
I
“Earl, I believe both events (your demo at Dukes Dinner, and the British J.S.at the Cow Palace happened a year late (1975)
...” – Richard of Havn
II “My memory coincides with Henrik's to the extent that Earl and his Lady's Iado demonstration was at the Unitarian Church
and it was at the Feast of Three Tastes. I can't conclusively state that the event on this date was that particular one, we
had a very strong symbiosis with that Church for a number of years around this time and lots of events took place there.
My memory does tell me that it was during or shortly after Andrew's first reign, he spent a good deal of time at the NorthWest corner of the seating where Patrice and I sat (some of it sitting on Patti's lap).
~ 157 ~
“I have a murky feeling that Earl was back for a visit home at this time and had not yet moved back to the US (which
happened after he was married). This may account for the disparity.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “The iaido demonstration could very well have been at the church you mention; I don't remember much about it except
that we did it in a fairly large hall which had a nice medieval feel to it (I guess that's why I thought it was at Mills) and
that people seemed to enjoy it. However, it could not possibly have happened prior to April of 1974. I went to Japan
in July of 1972 and did not return until the end of March in 1974. This was also the 1st time that Noriko had ever come
to the US. Phil is right though; I stayed in the US for only two years from 1974 to 1976, we then returned to Japan (with
two 1 year old twins in tow, the boys are now 24, omigod) and didn't come back to the US permanently until 1985. I
do not remember how active I was in SCA stuff from 1974 through 1976, so unless I get something that jogs my
memory regarding an event that happened during the two years I was back, my mind is a blank for those years (my
mind is usually a blank, so that's not too surprising).” – Earl of Morris
Queen’s Tea
Held at Mill’s College Student Union, Oakland, in honor of Queen Seitse.
December 1, 1973 AS VIII
International House Revel
Held at International House, Berkeley. Sabrina de la Bere was the autocrat. There was dancing, music, bellydancing, a bardic circle, and
a poetry contest in honor of Queen Seitse.
Newcomer’s Ladies’ Tea
Held at the home of Rima of Rockridge, Oakland. Sponsored by the Office of the Golden Key. Alice of Briarbrook was the autocrat.
Grand Council Meeting
Held at the home of Andrei de Sevastopol, Oakland.
Christmas Carol Sing
Rima of Rockridge was the autocrat.
SCA Demonstration
Held at UC Berkeley. Rima of Rockridge and Sir William the Lucky autocratted an SCA demonstration for the Agricultural Women’s Club.
Bardic Revel, College of St. Hildegarde
Held at the Student Union at Mills College, Oakland. Maelen of Kynge’s Lea was the autocrat.
February 3, 1974 AS VIII
“Sunday in the Middle Ages”
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Berkeley. Francesca the Bemused and Adrienne of Toledo organized a special performance of
Christopher Fry’s “The Lady’s Not for Burning”, directed by Michael Kurland, with costumes by Adrienne of Toledo. There was a winetasting with strolling musicians afterwards.
Celebration and Revel
Held at House Greenwalls, Berkeley, as a housewarming for Walter and Elfrida of Greenwalls.
The Feast of Three Tastes
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Berkeley. Adrienne of Toledo was the hostess for this Page benefit, which combined Japanese, Chinese,
and Persian cooking. King Andrew attended. The Page made a profit of $23.59 out of it.
Chaos Tourney
Held at Meadow Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley, as a warmup for the Crown Tourney. Count Stefan de Lorraine and Duke Paul of Bellatrix
were the autocrats. There were lists for the right to crown one’s lady Queen of Love and Beauty.
~ 158 ~
St. Patrick’s Day Revel
Held in the Parish Hall of Good Shepherd Church, Berkeley. Andrei de Sevastopol and Gormflait ni Cuallachta were the autocrats. There
was a court of love and the Second Annual Poetry Contest.
April 13, 1974 AS VIII
First Annual College of Sciences Quest
Held at Redwood Bowl, Joaquin Miller Park, Oakland. Teams of a maiden, an archer, a magician, and an astrologer competed for the prize
of a bottle of wine, a bag of jewels, and a rotating trophy: an oaken helm made by Master Beverly Hodghead. Brian Dritar an Con was the
autocrat.
Comments:
A
“Golden Rivers fielded at least two teams (I was archer for mine). I don't recall either team scoring outstandingly overall, but it was
a symptom of GR poking its nose out into the wider world of Kingdom events.” – Kevin Peregrynne
June 7, 1974 AS IX
Theatre Party
Members of the Province went to see the Royal Shakespeare Company, with Sir Michael Redgrave, perform “The Hollow Crown” at
Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley. Sabrina de la Bere was the autocrat.
June 15, 1974 AS IX
Welcoming Tourney
Held at the Meadow Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Held in honor of King Ashjørn Gustavsson, Duke Cariadoc of the Bow, and Sir Patri
du Chat Gris, who were visiting from the East Kingdom.
Comments:
A
“Their whole visit was interesting. I remember being at a small practice event with them, Paul of Bellatrix, and William the Lucky
and, perhaps, a few others but those are the only ones I knew. They had been traveling cross country, stopping everywhere there
was SCA and they were getting a bit tired of each other’s company, or at least it seemed that way to me. It probably didn't help that
in those days, the West definitely had better fighting and I felt that we pretty well dominated the practice. I've fought Cariadoc since
and he struck me as a fine fighter, but at that time we had trained in a harder school. Of course, in their defense, it's damn hard to
travel long distances in a car and come out of it at your best or even at your average.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“I remember well the visitors from the East (although I had forgotten exactly when, so it was Summer of IX) Geraldine invited them
out to Bufo Halle (in Lafayette) where she (naturally) prepared a fairly impressive feast. Cariadoc established his credentials as
an authentic gourmet & perhaps honorary Californian when he seized the large bowl filled with artichokes and looking at it with great
joy said "Oh, I'll just have these!" (Geri always told people that the 3 A's - artichokes, avocados, & abalone - were all deadly
poisonous to all but native Californians.)
“Except for Cariadoc, I never saw the others again, although I have seen a book on early dances by Sir Patri. In the Summer
of 1979, my son Sterling & I stopped off for 2 nights with Cariadoc in Blacksburg, VA, where he then taught at Va. Tech. At that time
I first met Elizabeth of Dendermonde (whom he subsequently married, having split up with his first wife, Duchess Diana, previously).
Then at Twenty Year, in Texas, Elizabeth played for my English Country Dance classes. (She is a very fine musician.) She was part
of the excellent band playing nightly for dancing at Thirty Year (along with our own Martin Whistler and many others), and she and
Cariadoc did an impressive Middle Eastern Feast there, and she showed me their very authentic period camp.
“For some time now, as many of you may know, they have lived here in the Mists (David/Cariadoc teaches economics at Santa
Clara University, I believe.) A year ago, I saw them both at the annual Crosston Ball (Elizabeth fiddled for the dancing & Cariadoc,
who doesn't dance, told wonderful tales). I was disappointed that they missed the recent Crosston Ball because of a death in the
family, but their 8-year-old daughter was there. I danced several dances with her, she attends the classes regularly and dances
quite well. She had come with her adult brother, Patri (Cariadoc & Diana's son, and indeed named after Sir Patri du Chat Gris).
He also dances well. “Cariadoc is a great source for the history of the eastward spread of the SCA. He was the 1st & 3rd King of
the Midrealm, then twice King of the East, if I remember correctly. He is fascinating to talk to on quite a wide range of subjects and
does about the best job of keeping in period & persona of anyone I've met.” – Robert of Dunharrow
June 16, 1974 AS IX
Queen’s Tea
Held at Greyhaven, Berkeley. Queen Donna invited the ladies to tea.
~ 159 ~
June 23, 1974 AS IX
Curia Regis
King William called the Curia Regis in two parts. The belted fighters were first to discuss fighting conduct, and then the populace were
invited to discuss proposed revisions of the selection of kings. Held in the Kensington Youth Hut.
Comments:
A
“A long discussion coming, eventually, to nothing. I do remember Ton the Traveller from Atenveldt making a strong case for allowing
fighters to enter the lists and champion other people for king or queen.” – Steven MacEanruig
July 13, 1974 AS IX
Tempura Feast Fund Raiser
Held at the home of Geraldine of Toad Hall, Lafayette. This was a fund raising event for the Decennial Celebration committee. Tempura,
rice and tea were served to the guests.
Dinner Party
Held at La Buillabaisse, Alameda. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix and Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit were the autocrats.
Comments:
A
“As I recall the ostensible reason for this party was visitors from Atenvelt including Deaton Claymore and Kare Cherie. The Escargo
and the Coquille St. Jaques were delicious.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “How could you treat those visiting dignitaries so poorly, eating the Escargo and Coquille!! By the way, exactly what do those
titles mean??” – Martin the Temperate
2 “My favorite Deaton story dates from about two years later.
“Quite a number of us were gathered at Duke Siegfried's place on Sacramento Street in Berkeley at a revel in honor of a
bunch of Aten visitors (who also included Ioseph of Locksley). Our daughter Kelly, a typical toddler was busily exploring the
house and Siegfried's furnishings and belongings, requiring frequent admonishments from Patrice to keep her within bounds.
Deaton (who I must point out is very large and strong) literally flinched and cringed every time Patti spoke to our daughter.
Finally, he spoke up "Patrice, please stop that, every time you say 'Kelly' in your MOM voice it hits me in my spinal nerves." We
all had a good laugh and Patti changed tactics.
“Deaton's mundane first name is Kelly and apparently Patti sounded just like his mom to his childhood programming.”
October 26, 1974 AS IX
Fall Festival and Halloween Revel
Held at Mills College, Oakland. Duke Richard of Mont Real was the Champion of Arms, crowning his lady La Rana, Duchess of Mont Real,
Queen of Love and Beauty. Nathan der Sänger and Louise Lhaillet tied for Champion of the Arts. Boncueur announced his resignation
as Society Registrar and turned the office over to Elspeth ni Roibeard O’Byrne (Eilis ni Roibeard O’Boirne). At the revel in the Student
Union the costume contest was won by Suzanne of Ravenhill, as a nonstandard fairy godmother.
November 2-3, 1974 AS IX
First Semester, University of San Leandro
Held at the home of Master of Sciences Sir Jon the Lean (Jon FitzRolf). The University was founded by the College of Sciences to serve
as the teaching branch of the College of Sciences in the Principality of the Mists. Some thirteen courses were taught over the weekend.
Comments:
A
“I was unable to attend this event, but it marked one instance of a definite trend toward SCA 'classroom instruction' . The University
of Ithra (Caid) was contemporary if I remember correctly. In a sense this was another organized effort from (if I may be P.C.) an
outreach angle, to address the acculturation problems that William and others noted earlier. It was more effective when we could
bring folk into the SCA one on one, but that option had been taken from us. On the other hand - many of us learned that we loved
being teachers of our own SCA pet subjects in a lecture hall environment. (All those who agree, raise your right hand).” – Kevin
Peregrynne
~ 160 ~
November 10, 1974 AS IX
Second Annual Duke’s Dinner
Held at the International House, Berkeley. Adrienne of Toledo was the autocrat and chief cook for this benefit for the Page.
December 6, 1974 AS IX
St. Nicholas’ Day Bardic Revel
Held at the Kennsington Youth Hut, Kennsington. The College of Bards was the sponsor. Sir Steven MacEanruig was the autocrat.
St. Hildegarde Bardic Revel
Held at Mills College, Oakland. Michaela de Neuville and Kerrinda of Kymry were the autocrats.
February 15, 1975 AS IX
Held at the Mill’s College Student Union, Oakland. Andrei de Sevastapool and Gormflait ni Cuallachta were the autocrats. The Third Annual
Poetry Contest for poetry in the medieval manner on the subject “To the Beloved” took place.
March 1, 1975 AS IX
The “Kick Off The Season” Tourney
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Andrei de Sevastopool was the autocrat. Johann Heinrich Michael Siemon von
Werneigerode became the new Province Master of Arts.
Greenwalls Housewarming and Bardic Revel
Held at Greenwalls West, Berkeley. Walter and Elfrida of Greenwalls hosted.
Film Night
Held at the Good Shepherd Church, Berkeley. Films of the first years of the SCA were shown. Duke James Greyhelm was the autocrat.
Comments:
A
As I recall, films by Hal Ravn, Jon FitzRolf and Richard of House Havn were among those featured.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“Yeah - and what happened to these films? The ones that Henrik showed at 30 year were not the old fighting films that were shown
here. Maybe they were Master Beverly Hodghead’s?” – James Greyhelm
1 “I wasn't at 30 year's showing, but I believe that either or both Jon the Lean and Hal Ravn's footage were included in the
showing under discussion. I somehow have the impression that Karina of the Far-West may also have contributed too, but
that may be mixed up with her featuring prominently in some of the footage (what a fox, with auburn hair down to her waist and
then some)” – Kevin Peregrynne
April 5, 1975 AS IX
Archery and Games Tourney
Held at Mill’s College. Aurelia de la Licorne, Royal Archer, autocratted. There were contest in archery, javelins, foot races, axe-throwing,
and slings.
April 12, 1975 AS IX
Royal Tourney and International House Revel
Held at Redwood Bowl, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland. Sir Jon Fitz-Rolf was the autocrat. Clan na Con sponsored a picnic and tourney
in honor of Prince Andrew and Princess Patrice. A revel was held at International House, Berkeley. Sabrina de la Bere was the autocrat.
May 31, 1975 AS X
Provincial Festival and Children’s Tourney
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Michaëla de Neuville, Andrei de Sevastopol, and Gormflait ni Cuallachta were the
autocrats. Lists for Champion of Arms were held. There was a Champion of Arts competition. There were contests for children 12 and under:
Boffer lists, a cooking contest, a poetry contest, and a clothing contest. There were dancing lessons. At this time Kerrinda of Kymry was
Seneschal of St. Hildegard, and Sir Steven MacEanruig was Provincial Knight Marshal.
~ 161 ~
June 14, 1975 AS X
Land Fund Feast
Held at the home of Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit, Orinda. Duke Siegfried, Countess Sumer Redmaene, Duke James Greyhelm, Duchess
Verena of Laurelin and Lady Eilis ni Roibeard O’Boirne put on the feast, which made $60.
Comments:
A
“Held, actually, at the home of Siegfried, Ardis, myself, and a random selection of children. This was a fascinating thing to cook -it was a feast for about 75 done on a kitchen range and two barbecue grills. It wasn't exactly period -- the first course soup was a
tomato gazpacho -- but the food was good and there was a lot of it. Friday night was the chopping session from hell -- I particularly
(for some reason) remember Jim wielding a mighty knife on the onions...
“And dessert was crepes cooked to order on the grill, with an accouterments bar including fresh berries.
“All in our backyard -- it was a BIG backyard.” – Eilis O’Boirne
July 19-20, 1975 AS X
Equestrian Arts Tourney
Held at Briones Park, Oakland. Suzanne of Ravenhill, Mistress of Equestrian Arts, and Queen Patrice were the autocrats. There were fighting
lists held, along with equestrian competitions, under a very hot sun. There was a messenger race, tilting at quintains, a rescue race, an
obstacle race, and a general competition in the Equestrian area.
July 26, 1975 AS X
Archery Prize Tourney
Held at Mills College, Oakland. There was a boar hunt, timed and standard target contests. Aurelia de la Licorne was the autocrat.
July 26, 1975 AS X
Arabian Nights Feast
Held at the Commons of the General Theological Seminary in the Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley. Adrienne of Toledo put on this
benefit for the Page.
August 17, 1975 AS X
Crepe Feast
Held at the home of Duke Siegfried von Hoflichskeit, Orinda. This was a benefit for the Land Fund. Duchess Marynel of Darkhaven and
Countess Sumer Redmaene cooked the crepes for the guests. Douglas Brownbeard of Hvitamyrr became the Nebuly Pursuivant at this time.
October 18, 1975 AS X
Boffer-Archery War
Held at Mills College, Oakland. Aurelia de la Licorne was the autocrat.
November 1, 1975 AS X
Provincial Festival and Halloween Revel
Held at Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Sir Steven MacEanruig was the Champion of Arms, crowning his lady Margaret
Threadbare Queen of Love and Beauty. A revel followed at the Mills College Student Union, at which the Champion of Arts was Zrzystof
z Lublina. Gormflait ni Cuallachta was the autocrat. Douglas admitted Francesca the Bemused to the Order of the Leaf of Merit.
Comments:
A
“I'd completely forgotten about this one and still can't remember it much at all. I guess I must have been there. I do remember
Margaret. I met her on the way to the crown that Douglas won when I stopped to help two SCA ladies who had run out of gas. I drove
her back to a gas station while her friend stayed with the car, struck up a conversation with her, fought for her that day, and eventually
dated her for several years. It was several years later that she told me she had her hand in her pocket the whole trip clutching her
knife in case I was some sort of nut.” – Steven MacEanruig
Sunday Potluck Dinner Series Begun
The first of a regular weekly Sunday Dinner potluck series was held at Helmsgaard. Duchess Verena of Laurelin was the organizer. The
locations alternated among various members of the province. Previously, for some years Ruthven of Rockridge and Rima of Rockridge had
hosted a potluck dinner and prayer session each Sunday at their home.
~ 162 ~
Comments:
A
“This began a long-running weekly social occasion in the Province of the Mists, at which much local, kingdom, and SCA-wide
business was discussed. My lady and I were regular hosts. There was an official set of potluck plastic dishes, provided by Mistress
Rima I believe, that were passed on from host to host.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
February 14, 1976 AS X
Held at the Mills College Student Union, Oakland. Gormflait ni Cuallachta was the autocrat. Some fifty members attended, including King
William and Queen Donna. Duchess Sumer Redmaene won the Poetry Contest on the subject “The Beloved”. A bardic revel followed.
Land Fund Theatre Benefit
Held at the First Unitarian Church, Kennsington. Squirrel Hill put on The Lion In Winter. Members attended the show and a wine and bread
tasting to benefit the Land Fund. Duke James Greyhelm, Duchess Verena of Laurelin and Mistress Adrienne of Toledo were the autocrats.
March 13, 1976 AS X
Bashing Party
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Gormflait ni Cuallachta and Micaëla de Neuville were the autocrats. A potluck revel
followed at the home of Francesca the Bemused.
April 18, 1976 AS X
14th Annual Easter Barbeque
Held by Rivengaard at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific, Berkeley.
April 24, 1976 AS X
First College of St. Katherine Revel
Held on the UC Berkeley campus. Countess Patrice d’Cilla and Cristina Giuliana dell ‘Onda autocratted this first event of the new College.
June 5, 1976 AS XI
Spring Tourney
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Sir William Gordon of York was the Champion of Arms and crowned his lady, Micaëla
de Neuville, Queen of Love and Beauty. Mistress Geraldine of Toad Hall was the Champion of Arts. Gormflait nic Cuallachta was the
autocrat. A revel followed.
June 12, 1976 AS XI
First Session, University of Ithra at Mists
Held on the UC Berkeley Campus. Eighty-seven students attended some sixteen courses. A revel followed a symposium in the evening,
at which a Master of Arts degree was awarded.
Comments:
A
“I fought as good a battle to get the University of Ithra in Caid as anyone ever did on the field! Then I had to protect it against being
messed with (long and involved story). First time I'd ever seriously delved into politics (yuck!) and I'd never have done it if the subject
had been less important to me. But this was why I joined the SCA. That and the good company I sometimes found there.” – Flavia
Beatrice Carmegiani
October 30, 1976 AS XI
Fall Festival and Halloween Revel
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Duke James Greyhelm was the Champion of Arms, crowning his lady Duchess Verena
of Laurelin, Queen of Love and Beauty. A Halloween revel was held at the home of Duke William of Hoghton. There was a Costume
Contest, won jointly by Duke James Greyhelm, in a blue bathrobe as Master Edwin Bersark, and Micaëla de Neuville, as an angel. Gormflait
ni Cuallactha, Micaëla de Neuville, and Countess Patrice d’Cilla were the autocrats.
Comments:
A
“If I remember correctly, you were supposed to come as a (different) SCA member - Verena came as me, with a false mustache
and costume, and I wore an old terrycloth bath robe and a sporran, along with fraternal order sword - the usual house wear of
Master Edwin - I walked in, and Andrew of Riga looked at me quizzically, and I rolled my shoulders forward, and hunched over a
~ 163 ~
bit - imitating one of Edwin's mannerisms. He suddenly got it and literally fell to the floor laughing. I think that William of York was
next to Andy as well, and had much the same reaction. Jenet of Two Minds came as Ardis (Sumer Redmane) We all had a great
time.” – James Greyhelm
1 “I think this was the one where William the Lucky and I came as each other. I borrowed his simple green shirt and he borrowed
my simple blue shirt, each with a bit (and only a bit) of trim.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “I came as William the Lucky. I had a golden tan jerkin with a blue embattled shoulder top. I sewed a gold circle on the blue
top and had a fair copy of the armorial jerkin that Lucky was wearing at the time. I covered the outfit with cloak. Lucky asked
me who I was supposed to be. I threw back the cloak and said with a big grin, "You!"” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel
Helmsgaard Informal Tourney
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Some twenty-one members, including eight fighters, showed up. Two parallel lists
were run. In each case Duke James Greyhelm faced Sir Terrence of Halliday in the finals. Duke James won one lists, and Sir Terrence won
the other. In the third and deciding match Sir Terrance won, and crowned his lady, Jennet of Twominds, Queen of Love and Beauty. Sir
Terrence of Halliday was the autocrat.
Queen’s Tea
Held at the home of Queen Patrice, El Cerrito.
May 14, 1977 AS XII
College of St. Hildegard Revel
Held in the Mills College Student Union, Oakland. A “wake” was held for the seneschal, Kerrinda of Kyry, who was graduating from Mills
College. Andrea Clear Mount was her successor as seneschal. She sponsored a contest for the best eulogy in memory of lady Kerrinda.
Kerrinda of Kymry was the autocrat.
June 4, 1977 AS XII
Provincial Festival
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Sir Steven MacEanruig was the Champion of Arms, crowning his lady, Margaret
Threadbare, Queen of Love and Beauty. There was no arts competition. Micaëla de Neuville was the autocrat.
August 20, 1977 AS XII
Summer Festival
Held at the Meadows Playfield, Tilden Park, Berkeley. Micaëla de Neuville was the autocrat. Contests were held for Champions of Arms
and Arts.
October 30, 1977 AS XII
Provincial Archery Tourney and Halloween Revel
Held on Alderwood Field, Mills College, Oakland. The revel followed in the Student Union. There were competitions in archery and for
Champion of Arms and Champion of Arts. Micaëla de Neuville was the autocrat.
November 5, 1977 AS XII
Third Duke’s Dinner
Held at the St. Marks Episcopal Church, Berkeley. Adrienne of Toledo put on this benefit for the Page.
February 11, 1978 AS XII
Valentine’s Day Revel
Held at the Mills College Student Union, Oakland. Micaëla de Neuville was the autocrat. It was a successful evening as some forty members
arrived to share valentine cakes and cookies. Master Hal Ravn showed slow motion films of SCA combat. A swooning contest was held
and won by Mistress Janet Breakstone. There was a poetry contest, in honor of the beloved, won by Mistress Rima of Rockridge. A contest
was held for Prettiest Pomander. Many joined in medieval dancing.
~ 164 ~
The Principality of the Mists – The Province of Ceantyre
The Province of Ceantyre
(The Counties of Marin and Sonoma)
(This is now the Province of Caldarium)
The Province of Caldarium (The
Province of Ceantyre): Or, on a wooden tub,
between two peacock feathers crossed in base proper a laurel wreath
Or.
July 29, 1967 AS II
First Small War
Held on an island in the Nicasio Reservoir, Marin County, California. Sir Henrik of Havn was the autocrat. Several fighters and various
bystanders showed up. After an initial sally at a large rock, it was decided to divide the twenty odd people into teams, and kidnap a
beautiful maiden. The beautiful maiden was Lady Dorothea of Paravel (Dorothea of Caer-Myrddin), and she was kidnaped by Sir Henrik
the Dane (Henrik of Havn) and his men. There were several small battles, culminating in a magnificent stand atop a huge shale rock, where
Dwayanu (Siegfried von Hoflichskeit) and the lady Dorothea made a lover’s pact and Richard the Short (Richard of Mont Real) was foully
cheated of his just deserts.
Comments:
A
“Dwayanu, by the way, is Siegfried von Hoflichskeit attempting another name that would be marginally more pronounceable.
Siegfried was too firmly entrenched, however.
“The final confrontation was rather spectacular, I am told (by Siegfried shortly after the event, as a matter of fact – I didn't go).
He and Dorothea had decided that they were doomed lovers being pursued by the evil Richard. Richard, on the other hand, was
of the opinion he was the valiant rescuer of the fair maiden. The rock had two methods of access. One was a tricky path going up
one sloping side. The other was a series of handholds going up the sheer back of the rock. Siegfried stood at the top of the path,
downing attackers as they tried to assail him single file. Then Dorothea screamed. Richard had climbed up the backside of the
rock. Seeing his doom before him, Siegfried scrambled to interpose himself between Richard and Dorothea, and gently swung
his sword back to touch the fair maiden (thus "killing" Dorothea) while Richard cut him down. I am told that Richard was really upset
that they weren't following his idea of the situation. But then, I'm sure there have been any number of real life similar situations
where the participants had similar two different ideas of what was going on.
“I believe this war included one of the first attempts at combat archery, but am not sure. Perhaps Countess Astrid can enlighten
us, as I recall hearing she did in her father in the first fight at The Rock.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who has many recollections of the
Second War at the Reservoir -- we're getting to that ...
1 “Yes - 14 inch long arrows.” – Henrik of Havn
Henrik’s Representation of “The Rock”
~ 165 ~
2
“First War: Well, now, perhaps I'm confusing two events, because I don't remember there being two, just one. But I do recall
the arrows, which used bows with about a five pound pull. And it was very sunny and hot. I recall Siegfried abducting Dorothea
(or perhaps they were escaping the Evil Richard?). Siegfried's cloak at that time was dark green lined with mustard yellow,
which blended perfectly with the dried grass and scrub oak on the island, so they used that for camouflage at one point. I have
a recollection that Dorothea wrote up a fictionalized version of the events which she may still have in her files.” – Astrid of Hawk
Ridge
October 14, 1967 AS II
First KPFA Renaissance Pleasure Faire, Live Chess Game
Held at the first KPFA Renaissance Pleasure Faire, Marin County, California. Siegfried von Hoflichskeit was the autocrat. A live chess game
was put on to raise money for the Society. Fighters were used in place of pieces on a large outdoor playing board marked on the ground.
A piece captured by defeating the other piece in armed combat. Sometimes a capture did not succeed, making for an interesting game. The
Society made a fair amount of money off it. Sometime afterwards Kerry the Rock became Assistant Editor of T.I. The arms of the Society
were chosen: Or, a laurel wreath proper.
Comments:
A
“Now the Live Chess Game (2 weeks later): I never heard that the SCA was raising money by it. Perhaps the Faire paid us
something to do it, or more likely let us sell memberships & various goods at our booth for free. Anyway, they let us in free, and let
us play, entertaining folks with demos, bridge fights, and the Chess Game. The latter was a competition between the SCA and the
Los Angeles Science Fiction Society. (Actually LASFS plus SCA Marin members, vs SCA East Bay & SF.)” – Robert of Dunharrow
B
“Randall Garrett was the Sherrif of Nottingham (at either Northern Fair #I or #II, I’m not sure which – probably the first #I.” – Henrik
of Havn
1 “No, Randall started being sheriff (which he continued for a couple of years, at the second RenFaire. The sheriff at the first one
was the owner of the City Lights Bookstore in San Francisco. He essentially was bemused at all of these kids in costume who
were chasing other kids in costume in his name. He preferred to spend his duty hours in the beer gardens. This is one of the
reasons Randall replaced him the second year.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who is glad to see some other voices being heard.
I
“I wasn’t at the first northern faire, but I was definitely at the second as one of Randall’s ‘Sheriff’s Men’. We wore black and
our badge was Or, a Boar’s Head Erased (I wondered at the time if Randall had been reading Kipling).
“I recall one episode when I and my cohorts were pursuing Robin Hood (played at least one season by Jon DeCles)
through the crowd at the main stage when I was clothes-lined by an enthusiastic member of the audience who grabbed
my cloak - don’t try this at home kids! The Lord Mayor was played by Scott Beach and when he and Randal got going back
stage the puns got so thick on the ground that the rest of us were grateful to be wearing boots.” – Kevin Peregrynne, who
is gaining confidence in his memory at last
II “In any event the repartee between Scott Beach as Mayor and Randall as Sheriff was great, and added much fun to the
faire.” – James Greyhelm
A
“Jon de Cles was Robin Hood at RenFaires 1-4 (1967-1970). His men (& women) were all SCA. I was one of them at 2nd Faire, then
formed the Queens’s Guard at the 3 rd, again with SCA people, and was its Captain for 12 years, through 1980. Randall was Sheriff
at Faires 2-4, with his people all SCA too. (They wore black, with the boar’s head badge. The Black Panthers had popularized the
derogatory term, Pigs, for police, and Randall couldn’t resist playing on it for the Sheriff’s badge.) We also did Live Chess games
at Faires 1-4 (all those at the old site near San Rafael [Now back meadow at China Camp State Park – Henrik]). I ran the 2 nd one.
I believe Henrik & Siegfried were Sheriff’s men. Rick Schrorrs (sp?) Aka Frederic of the WestTower was Will Scarlett and defeated
Henrik in a combat on a bridge as champions for each side. It was decided by the present Chivalry & King of the West to knight Rick,
and if my memory serves, it was done on the Faire’s stage. (Anyone else recall that?)” – Robert of Dunharrow
1 “That sounds familiar to me too. I have a black satin shirt that pre-dates the Ren Fairs and I recall wearing it then as a Sheriff’s
man.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“We were a foppish group for a bunch of thugs ... my tunic was satin too with a mid-length velveteen cloak.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
“Pavilions: By First No. RenFaire, Henrik had dyed his round pavilion green. It made a great impression on me as I was joining
the SCA and asking everyone a million questions. I believe it was a year and a half later, in March of III, that any other pavilion
showed up. There were 4 or 5 new ones there, because we were getting ready for the first overnight event in May IV, a couple of
months later. It was one thing to sit on a blanket for a few hours, but quite another to spend a whole weekend without shelter. I
believe Marynel made the first Royal Pavilion at that time and her father built the framework for it. All of us who helped pay for the
A
~ 166 ~
material had our arms on the front dags. The pavilion was dyed yellow, but the strips of left over fabric were dyed red and fastened
round the field with little wire pins, and named "Eric" because they were Red! Before that, the rope and garden stakes mentioned
earlier marked the field. (I hauled them around, along with the helms, shields & weapons, from Ren Faire I until Eric was created.
(Eric rolled up small & didn't need a truck, so someone else carried it around. Probably it traveled with the Royal Pavilion.)” – Robert
of Dunharrow
July 21, 1968 AS III
San Francisco Examiner Tourney and Revel
Held at Lake Lagunitas, Marin County, California. The tourney and revel were sponsored by Frank Herbert and the San Francisco Examiner
so they could get pictures. A surprise shower was held for Lady Diana Listmaker, she being with child.
Comments:
A
B
“Fun picnic. My armor padding at the time was an old sleeping bag. I had just taken a left-over chunk of the bag and made a coif
to fit under the army helmet liner and catcher's mask I was wearing on my head. Fortunately, it was only after I had added that to
my armor that someone in a melee clipped me a good one on the back of the neck...
“The photographer from the Examiner had everyone in armor line up in two lines facing each other and take turns hitting each
other. It seemed entirely too fake to all involved, but the man knew his stuff. Taken from the right angle, it made a dynamite lead
picture for the article.
“Also notable, to me at least, as the event where Houri the Savage became my squire.” – Stefan de Lorraine
“I'm glad I read Stephen's response before sending mine
“Hap Butler's medieval name was Simon the Templar, Caradoc's squire was Hubert de Rocoeng (I may not have the surname
spelled right.
“Earl not only faked Siegfried out of his boots he laid him out cold on the turf (this is implicit in but not stated by Stephen's
account Johnny Chambers' cartoon had two more details - the sole-end view of Siegfried's boots toes up under the extended
zweihander (with cartoon 'dizzy-spirals' circling above the not ional position of his head and the Jack Nicholson style maniac grin
visible through the face grille of Earl's helmet.
“Earl by the way currently is president of the North American Kyudo (zen archery Federation I saw him on a Discovery Chanel
special on the martial arts last week.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “The advantage of the zweihander was length and speed, as everyone has said. One reason for the speed was the length ratio
of hilt to blade, which was considerably greater than that of a normal greatsword. Another reason, however, which no one
mentioned, was that it had a mucking great pommel made out of a lead fishing weight. I can't remember the weight of it, but
it was huge and put the center of gravity of the weapon so close to the hands (it may have even been behind the quillons, in
fact) that a tremendous blade speed could be developed just by quickly moving the hands in opposition to each other. You
really didn't have to "swing" it much at all. This was the main reason it was banned it had a fairly light blade, and with that and
the combination of the long hilts and heavy pommel, it was just too fast.
“However, it had the weakness that every pole arm had (for that's what it was, really) close work was impossible, so if the
enemy could get inside and close the distance, the zweihander man was dead meat. If it had stuck around long enough as
a weapon, I'm sure everyone would have figured it out. This is really the only reason that I was able to defeat Siegfried in the
way that I did I knew that if I didn't hit him the 1st shot out of the box as soon as he got in range, I was a goner (this is Duke
Siegfried we're talking about after all). That realization, combined with one of the heaviest adrenaline rushes I have ever
experienced, allowed me to beat him at Baycon. I remember it as though it was yesterday. I staked everything on the first blow,
which came in just over the top of his shield as soon as he got close enough, parallel to the top of the shield from my right to
left; I didn't know if I had gotten him (he just missed getting his shield up in time by about a nanosecond so I thought he had
blocked it) so I levered it back and hit him again, in the chest, I believe. I have to apologize for that 2nd blow; it wasn't necessary,
but I didn't realize it at the time. It was one of the high points of my time in the SCA, needless to say. The other memory I have
of that tourney is that everyone rushed out onto the field and hoisted me onto their shoulders, trampling Duke Siegfried in the
process, as I heard later. Not very polite. In any case, this is one instance where the weapon made the man.
“There were two Little Green Dinosaur cartoons with me, Duke Siegfried and the ZH the one regarding the Bridge fight at
Mills ("Come along dear, we don't want to be here when Uncle Dave wakes up") and the one about Baycon ("Go easy on him,
Dave"). I still have both originals, carefully laminated in plastic.
“Also, I wrote an article about how to use a greatsword for one of the early TIs; unfortunately, I don't have that issue. If
anyone has that issue and could make a copy of the article, I would really appreciate it. I'm curious to hear what I sounded like
30 (!) years ago.” – Earl of Morris
~ 167 ~
B
“Frank Herbert's feast also (I believe) marked the debut of Leanne of Maywood's (infamous gates-of-hell cotehardie. The cotehardie
proper was of heavy 'arrest me red' fabric but instead of wearing an under dress Leanne lined the gates with white open-work lace
that made it obvious that there was nothing but Leanne from the hips up inside of it.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “It wasn’t a gates of hell -- it was a Princess line gown with the front and back panels made of blood red velvet and the side
panels (floor length) and sleeves made of white lace. Her lace bikini underwear was virtually invisible and since the dress was
tailored perfectly to fit her like a second skin, it was an incredible effect – as it was designed to be. I don’t recall if she wore it
first there or at a 12th Night or at her coronation in the fall.” – Henrik of Havn
I
“Boy did that cause a flap. Nothing outward, just a lot of ladies with their backs up. Actually, I think she wore this at the June
tourney just before the feast (though my memory is hazy on the subject, too). I do know that her good friend, La Rana, came
up with a dress in support of the cotehardie that had major decolletage (which La Rana could bring off better than Leanne).
Whenever she started wearing it, Leanne probably wore the dress at the feast. The site had lots of cool shade, but if you
got into the sun you wanted all the breeze you could get.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who remembers when SCA costuming
had a fantasy element ...
2 “That must have been some dress. It was still getting widespread "press" when I joined in AS IX.” – Martin the Temperate
C
“By the by – for motorized vehicle fans – 2 wheeled type – when Richard and Diana (who subbed for Anne of San Anselmo) came
to court they were on motorcycles instead of horses. At Lake Lagunitas – Stefan and I and I think it was Richard also rode to the
event in armor on motorcycles (mine was a Honda 50cc) since Richard and I both lived in Marin County and it was close to get to.”
– Henrik of Havn
1 “Probably one of the most terrifying experiences of my career. It was fortunate that we were close to the site. Luise and I came
over the day before and that's when Richard and Henrik sprang this little brainstorm on me. Richard had a big BMW touring
bike, Henrik had his Honda, and Leanne had a smaller bike which it was to be my privilege to ride. Of course, I hadn't ridden
a bicycle in about eight years and I'd never ridden on a motorcycle, but they put me on Leanne's little riceburner and set me
loose on the back streets of San Anselmo (or somewhere around there) to practice. I rode it long enough to realize that it had
definite eccentricities but if something went wrong I wasn't going to be able to do anything about it and, resigned to my fate,
tootled back to the residence. The next morning, everyone else piled into Richard's van, and the three of us led the way. I
imagine it looked rather dashing, but I was sweating the entire distance.
“Luise and I rode back to Oakland (San Francisco?) with someone else that evening, bringing to a close my motorcycleriding career.” – Stefan de Lorraine, who might have been a lot more interested in the process about ten years later.
Sometimes opportunities don't show up when we can deal with them...
August 3, 1968 AS III
Second Island War
Held on the island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin County, California.
Comments:
A
“My wife (Cynthia FitzColline) and I just drove past the Nicasio Reservoir today, and the tourney site is still visible, but the area looks
pretty desolate today.” – Wilhelm von Schlüssel (who compiled this chronology in the first place by questioning most of these same
old timers)
1 “Second War: The island was a War Site, Wilhelm, never a tourney site, and it was just as desolate then, which was just what
Henrik wanted, I suspect. Basically rock, dirt, trees, & grass, nothing out of period, no human works except the dirt road over
the little causeway that gave foot access. We parked on the highway shoulder, put on our gear and carried our weapons, water
& lunch with us. The whole island was on-limits for the battle. One side (I think) was Dukes Richard, Fulk, & Henrik, with 2 men
each, each holding a different rock or hillock, while the other side was the Celtic "Tuath", led by Sir Jamie, Master Edwin, & Sir
Caradoc, with some half-dozen squires & Nyal with his warpipes. I had a heater strapped on my back and a zweihander (4'of
blade, 2'of hilt, 18" quillons) in both hands, of course. I was on the ducal side at first, but when Sir Jamie got an injured hand
and couldn't fight, he asked that I be permitted to change sides to help even it out better, which was agreed. The most exciting
thing I remember was marching over hill & dale in a line of fighters behind the stirring sound of Njal's bagpipes. That, and the
lack of any 20th C. structure in sight, made it seem thrillingly real.” – Robert of Dunharrow
I
“This was my first experience in SCA combat (as an archer of course, begin as you intend to continue). Henrik had
published the specifications in the fliers for the event - the arrows were unfletched 18" dowels with patio chair leg pads
for points, effective range was not much more than 10 yards, accurate range was less. I already owned a 20 lb bow and
my own saber mask, so I was set as soon as I whipped out a couple of dozen arrows and a 3/4 scale quiver. I fought on
the Celtic side and don't recall the archers being effective against the heavies in the mixed combat scenarios (If there were
~ 168 ~
any..I don't actually remember), only against each other. It was a hot day though and by mid afternoon the heavies had
run through their scenarios so everyone stripped down to light clothing and fencing masks and spent the remainder of
the afternoon playing around with light weapons scenarios in around and upon 'The Rock'. Patti and I spent a lot of time
between scenarios hanging around in the shade with Lady (Mistress?) Geraldine who was also doing archery, which was
the beginning of the relationship that led to our becoming part of the immense household that she and Robert eventually
formed. I seem to recall that Geri set up a fairly large open at the sides sun shade though not a pavilion, perhaps Robert
can confirm.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “I don’t know about patio chair leg pads. [Referring to arrows] Actually they were 24" long green bamboo garden stakes
about the diameter of a pencil and the ones I made had no feathers, and for tips I used cubes of dry kitchen sponge
(about 1 1/8" cubed) pressed over the end and taped over with two strips at right angles of 1" wide adhesive tape
about 5 to 6 inches long with a piece of kite string wound around the shaft keeping the tape tight.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “As usual my memory for details slipped, the shafts were indeed green bamboo garden stakes (dowels were
more expensive and prone to breakage), I made the nocks on mine with a triangular file. My tips were patio chair
caps held on with silicon sealer and black electrician’s tape. Most of us also wrapped a couple of turns of tape
just below the nocks to retard splitting.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“I haven't commented on that war yet, so let me say that the small war on that occasion devolved into what many of us veterans
called the small quibble, as just what the rules of the "Knights vs the Clans" war were found to have a few holes. Fulk and Houri
and I were guarding one hill and suddenly found ourselves being snuck up on from an angle we weren't expecting an attack. The
Clan was supposed to be attacking from one direction, and here they were coming from another. There was much yelling about
whether the attack was legitimate that was resolved by a fight between Fulk and Siegfried (who was being Clannish that war) that
Siegfried won. After that, the war degenerated into a picnic because tempers were getting too intense.” – Stefan de Lorraine
July 26 1969 AS IV
Third Island War
Held on the Island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin County, California. Duke Henrik of Havn was the autocrat.
Comments:
A
“One march through the sun had been sufficient for me. I never went back to the Island.” – Stefan de Lorraine
B
“This was the Dunharrow Eored (6 fighters, plus archers like Geri & Master Lin) versus everybody else (also 6 fighters plus some
archers, led by Duke Henrik). By this time, many fighters had been to the island before & wimped out when faced with the lack of
comforts there. Anyway, we occupied a hilltop and Henrik besieged us from his nearby base. (We had agreed that archers could
not leave their home base while any fighters on their side were alive. So their initial role was only defensive.) Henrik devised a
brilliant pincers strategy to encircle us and attack us from 2 sides at once. The only flaws were timing and the fact that we could
see both groups of them while they could not see each other. So we ran down one side & killed those 2 with no losses to us, then
back up to meet Henrik, with a 2-man advantage for us. Still, by the time we killed all of them, only my son, Rick, was left. He then
attacked the archers at their camp & got shot. Next our archers assaulted their camp, but one of ours (Master Lin) stepped behind
a rock to take a pee and saw their unguarded banner nearby. He ran down, grabbed it, and ran back up our hill with it. (Lin ran for
exercise regularly and no one had a prayer of catching him.) So we had both banners and that was how you were supposed to win
the war, but it was our least warlike member who did it at last.” – Robert of Dunharrow
July 25 (?), 1970 AS V
Fourth Island War
Held on the island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin. Duke Henrik of Havn was the autocrat.
July 24 (?), 1971 AS VI
Fifth Island War
Comments:
A
“A long hot event. I remember being enthusiastic about it though Steve Perrin said to me that he didn't go to island wars anymore.
I should have listened, but my new lady, Suzanne of Ravenhill, was interested in going. Lots of walking around long distances in
full armor. Lots of waiting up on a hillside for something to happen. If I have the date right on this one it may be the one where so
~ 169 ~
little was happening that we put down a shield and played bridge on it while waiting. I do remember some serious blow counting
problems and long conversations about them between people. Basically boring, hot, and slow. I don't remember if there were any
more of these or not, but I wouldn't have gone again anyway.” – Steven MacEanruig
B
“This was the first war where Saunders’ Bludgeon Tipped 28" long wooden arrows were used along with other forms of tip padding
on arrows. I had encountered the Saunders Bludgeon Tips shortly before during one of my trips to Atenveldt where they were using
them a lot in mini-wars and practice events. I remember in one fight at the Island War I was on the opposite side that Steven
MacEanruig was on and I shot at him thru some brush cover and struck him in the left side under his raised shield and he fell over
dead. I thought it great that we finally had an arrow format that would fly like a real arrow and still be safe to use in combat. Little
did I know what effect safety concerns was to take on that issue in later years! I also remember Bellatrix and MacEanruig having
a 1 on 1 archery duel that day and after they fired several arrows at each other, they both shot simultaneously and their two arrows
hit point to point and dropped to the ground midway between them.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “I don’t remember being shot, but it’s certainly possible. Most of my memories of the war are of heat, long walks in the sun in
full armor, and some other unpleasantness about blow counting. I had forgotten about the archery duel, but not that you
mention it, I do remember it. Good for a laugh, which we certainly needed by that time.” – Steven MacEanruig
July 22 (?), 1972 AS VII
Sixth Island War
July 21, 1973 AS VIII
Seventh Island War
July 28, 1974 AS IX
Eighth Island War
Fall, 1974 AS IX
Province Organizes
The province began to formally organize. Duke Henrik of Havn was the Seneschal and Grey Colin of the Axe was the Pursuivant.
February 3, 1975, AS IX
First Monthly Provincial Meeting
Held at the home of Duke Henrik of Havn, San Rafael.
Kite Flying Contest
Held on the island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin. The Provincial College of Sciences sponsored a kite flying contest. Prizes were given for
the highest flight, the longest flight and the heaviest payload.
First Annual Revel
Held at Mill Valley Scout Hall, Mill Valley. The revel was held in honor of the visiting British Jousting Society. King Paul and Queen Carol
attended. The revel followed the kite flying contest. Duke Henrik of Havn was the autocrat.
Comments:
A
“This was just before the week of Jousting shows at the Cow Palace that I referred to a few comments back. We held a revel, hoping
that some of the jousters would come, but they didn’t show up. We did have a live musician attend and perform – Nala of Islay
(Natalie Cox) – I read in one of the local papers a couple of years ago that she was performing in one of the orchestras in either
Oakland or San Francisco on a regular basis, playing classical music.
“I think we had one or two films shown at this revel also – “Ivanhoe” with Robert and Elizabeth Taylor and “Robin Hood” with
Basil Rathbone and Errol Flynn.” – Henrik of Havn
July 27, 1975 AS X
Ninth Island War
Held on the island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin. Duke Henrik of Havn was the autocrat. (At this point the province had switched from the
Province of Marin and Sonomoa to the Province of Daneslaw. The name was put forward by the editor of the Page, and had nothing to
do with the Province.)
~ 170 ~
Second Annual Sciences Quest
Held at the Rock Springs Picnic Area, Mt. Tamalpais Park, Stinson Beach. Brian Dritar an Con, Kingdom Master of Sciences was the
autocrat.
Provincial Name Chosen
The name of Ceantyre was chosen at the Provincial Meeting.
December 1, 1975 AS X
Provincial Arms Chosen
July 24, 1976 AS XI
Tenth Island War
Held on the island in Nicasio Reservoir, Marin. Duke Henrik of Havn was the autocrat. Archery contests were held. By this time the name
of Ceantyre had been adopted by the province.
January, 1977 AS XI
Colin of Duntamknacken (previously Grey Colin of the Axe) was warranted as White Unicorn Pursuivant.
October 22-23, 1977 AS XII
Octocon
Held at the Sheraton Tropicana, Santa Rosa. A recruiting drive was held, with SCA demonstrations. Däwyd von Markheim was the autocrat.
~ 171 ~
The Principality of the Mists – The Province of St. Andrew’s
The Province of St. Andrew’s
(The Counties of San Francisco and San Mateo)
(This group is now known as The Shire of Cloondara)
The Province of St. Andrews: Azure, a saltire
fracted per pale, in chief a laurel wreath Or.
January 1972, AS VI
The Shire of Cloondara - Or, three chevronels braced
vert between two towers issuant from the chevronels and a
wreath gules.
First Formation of Province
Samual de Basset was Seneschal.
March, 1972 AS VI
Re-Creation of Province
Sir Steven MacEanruig was Seneschal.
April, 1972, AS VI
Name Chosen
Gene Sanders was the Master of Arts.
May 1972, AS VII
New Seneschal
Israel Ben-Jacob took over as Seneschal.
Medieval Films and Artwork Night
Held at the Rose and Thistle Inn, San Francisco. The films included “Alexander Nevsky.” Israel Ben-Jacob was the autocrat.
July 15, 1972 AS VII
First Bardic Revel
Held at the Rose and Thistle Inn, San Francisco. Gino di Paloscenico became the Provincial Master of Arts.
December 1, 1972 AS VII
Winter Revel
Held at the California State University Gymnasium, San Francisco. Dondra Brandybuck was the autocrat.
Theatre Party
Several members of the province went to see the American Conservatory Theatre mystery cycle at ACT, San Francisco.
Joint Revel with the Province of the Mists
Held at the All Soul’s Episcopal Church, Berkeley. Sir Steven MacEanruig, Andrei de Sevastopol, and Gormflait ni Cuallachta were the
autocrats. Roderick Dhu Macrae of Kintail became the Provincial Master of Sciences. A court of love was held. There were potluck
refreshments. Karina of the Far West won the first poetry contest.
Potluck Dinner and Provincial Meeting
Held at the home of the new Acting Seneschals, Stephen von Behrend and Debreceni Ilona. Israel Ben-Jacob was also acting Seneschal.
The province reorganized after a twenty one month lapse.
Provincial Meeting and Potluck Dinner
Held at the home of Debreceni Ilona and Stephen von Behrend. This was the start of monthly Council meetings. Monthly costume guild
meetings were begun, to be held on the fourth Saturday of each month.
~ 172 ~
Golden Hind Outing and Carving Board Dinner
The members of the Province visited the Golden Hind replica, then went on to the Carving Board for dinner. Nicole de Havre du Chouettes
was the autocrat.
First Annual Tourney
Held at Junipero Serra Park, San Bruno, California. There was fighting, a dessert contest, dancing, a ladies pillow fighting contest, a cooking
contest, a dying contest won by Mychalene de Topo, a bardic circle, and a kite flying contest, also a gurning contest. Geoffrey of
Northhaven was the Pursuivant. Debreceni Ilona and Stephen von Behrend were the autocrats.
Comments:
A
“I wuz there -- my first event. Brian Dritar an Con won the dying contest, and we musta spent over half an hour wrapping him up in
his prize (a real shroud, made on site of yumpty-zillion yards of strips torn from a swatch of white fabric and linked one to the next
in what was alleged to be the period manner) and carrying him around the field. Not something a newcomer forgets ....
“The event was also notable for putting two people in hospital and one in jail -- a kid who fell off a slide and broke his arm and
a lady who had a strong allergic reaction to a bee sting for the former, and the guy who took the lady to the hospital for the latter he
was driving a used van that had been an ambulance in a former life and still had the siren connected, and he figured that the
medical emergency justified using it. The cops disagreed, saw him to the hospital to unload his passenger, and continued to
headquarters -- or so the story went by the time it got back to the park. I tell the tale as I was told ....
“Me, all I knew was that I'd come home.” – Hilary of Serendip
1 “Thanks for thinking about me - my long term synapses started firing and in recalling the event, I think that Hilary may have two
different events combined together.” – Brian Dritar an Con
I
“Entirely possible, I suppose -- human memory being infinitely flexible. But it's all irrevocably and vividly tied up in my mind
as one amazing day ....
“Of course, it could be either of us conflating events; memory tells me I never saw Brian gallop into an event on a white
horse, and that isn't the sort of thing that ought to have faded out. It's possible that the dying might not have been
necessarily connected to the fighting, there being only five fighters there -- but the scuba incident was before my time,
which casts a shadow on Brian's non-fighting status in October of the year X. The 50% overlap between SCA years and
real years is a true pain -- I had a message all drafted when October 1974 came thru, asking where this event had gone,
then figured out that I was a year out of synch.” – Hilary of Serendip
1 “The tourney at Junipera Serra Park in San Bruno was, in my time, the only one ever held there. It was a very small tourney and
I recall it distinctly. The picnic area was set right on top of a steep hill with a magnificent panorama of the Bay and surrounding
cities. I discretely ducked out of the proceedings and went to our stable which happened to be near by. I rode my horse (Zorro a handsome white fellow) from the trails below up to the tourney site - making rather a dramatic, galloping entrance onto the
list, with cloak flying and brass scales and spear glittering in the sun. I know it was pretty dashing as all the women at the
tourney told me so ... At that point, I was not a fighter and if I participated in a dying contest, it would have not been in a rattan
& armor combat. I vaguely remember the shroud incident (funny what sticks and what doesn't in one's mind) and think it much
more likely that it happened at another tournament - perhaps when artful dying became more in vogue.
“Wendy (Gwendolyn of the Thistle) was there and her recollection matches mine. I recall also that slender Laura with the
Borzoi and Deerhound, Anne Maglinte (nee Meyer), Laurie Fadave, Doug Foreman, Bill Sanders, and my parents were there.
There were not many of us in St. Andrew's in those days. We were formed from a nucleus at San Francisco State and selected
the province name from the San Andreas fault. At one point, we tried to come up with a latin motto that proclaimed "It's not our
fault!" but no one could get a satisfactory translation.” – Brian Dritar an Con
I
“Actually I remember St. Andrews using"Non Est Mea Culpa" as their Latin motto to go with their canting arms of a Cross
of St. Andrew with a jagged crack through the juncture of the crosses arms.
“I'm a bit confused by Brian's assertion that he wasn't a fighter in October AS X. We all recall him coming into the
challenge round in scuba gear at Marsh Crown months or years before, and I can clearly recall marshalling his fights from
time to time throughout this period. Not to mention encountering him in the upcoming June Crown in our chronology, when
he was a well established and respected unbelted fighter.” – Kevin Peregrynne
a “My foggy recollection is Brian rode his horse to an event the last time Henrik was King which makes it the second
half of 1973. My further foggy recollection is that event was the first Ducal Prize tourney. My continuing foggy
recollection is that is the event where Steve Henderson gave knives or bayonets as prizes for the best deaths (which
was the precursor to the Order of the Old Battered Helm).” – Andrew of Riga
~ 173 ~
b
1
2
“My memory is obviously playing me false about not being a fighter in A.S. X, but I'm fairly certain that I did not fight at
that tourney and the shroud business still does not associate itself in my mind with that event. I had my hands full with
the horse, fencing with the St. Andrew's lads, and my birthday cake. I have not thought about tourneys in years and
have no documentation at hand to corroborate. In any case, I would not mind being wrong about the fighting bit.
“This particular discussion strikes a sympathetic note as I am writing a book and and interviewing elderly people
about things that happened sixty or more years ago in connection with the Arab Revolt and other Middle East doings.
Naturally, I've been frustrated when they couldn't remember a detail a I was interested in, or when their memory
disagrees with published facts, or they really didn't care at the time and consequently, took no notice - all of which and
more, I've heard. I'm glad to see that some of this ancient history is being committed to print before we all get to the
state of some of the seniors that I've been working with...” – Brian Dritar an Con
II “I remember that we came up with the name in my apartment. The translation was "Non est culpa nostra". As I recall,
Laurie Fadave came up with it.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Some further revelations on dates under discussion provided by Wendy:
“"Well, he might have been a fighter at the St. Andrews event, but the "Marsh Tourney" referred to happened afterwards 1975 or 1976. The scuba incident took place just after Brian took instructor diving training – I picked him up at the San Jose
airport after returning from San Diego, and we went straight to the tourney at Coyote Creek park. That was why he had his scuba
gear along. Brian and I were married in April '79, but we started going together in May '74. The St. Andrews tourney that WE are
thinking of had to have happened in '73, not '75, because we weren't going together yet." – Brian Dritar an Con
I
“Well! That at least clears up my confusion - AS X started in May 1975, which fits Wendy's chronology below. The Saint
Andrews tourney(s) are terra incognita to me until we returned to the Bay Area at the very end of XIII (April) and began to
attend more local Mistland events. Where and when Brian rode a horse into a tourney I can't help with, but I'm relieved that
I'm not imagining all those memories of his being a fighter by the point the AHP has reached.” – Kevin Peregrynne
“I'm coming in late on this discussion, but I think you have the year of the St. Andrew's tourney in San Bruno wrong. I believe
it was in 1973, and here's why ....
“My distinct memory of that tourney is Brian riding in on his horse, Zorro. It was completely dramatic and romantic. I recall
him fencing, but not fighting. I was there with my friend, slender Laura of the deerhound and borzoi, and my then-boyfriend Neal
Johnson. I was later to realize that THAT was a defining moment in my life, as I fell in love with Brian at that moment. Even
though Neal and I continued our relationship for a few more rocky months, I later realized that our relationship was essentially
over at that moment.
“You don't forget things like that. And Brian and I started dating in May 1974, at MedievalCon. The scuba incident was still
later, when he and I were established and in fact he was on his way home from his diving school (March 1975, I believe) which
was why he had his scuba gear with him.
“If I'm wrong about these dates, then early senility HAS set in......” – Gwendolyn of the Thistle
March, 1976 AS X
Stephen de Behrend and Debreceni Ilona are warranted as Co-Seneschals for the Province of St. Andrew’s.
July 17, 1976 AS XI
Summer Tourney
Held at Frontierland Park, Pacifica. Beagle de la Souris Folle, Debreceni Ilona and Stephen von Behrend were the autocrats. There was a
Crafsman’s Fair to sell items to raise money for the Land Fund. Lists were held. There was a sweet dessert contest. A revel followed at the
home of Barbara FitzHugh de Brandhart.
Third Anniversary Tourney
Held in Stern Grove Park, San Francisco. There were lists, dancing, a bardic circle, and a Lord’s Leching Contest. Debreceni Ilona and
Valency Quicksilver were the autocrats. There was a Round Robin Holmgang, a Long Sword competition, a belly dancing contest, a cooking
contest, a Great Sword competition, a Ladies Leching Contest, and a Lady’s Defensive Armor contest.
October 23-25, 1976 AS XI
Second Session, University of Ithra at Mists
Held at the College of San M ateo, San Mateo. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was in charge. A symposium and potluck revel was held on
Saturday night and another potluck revel was held Sunday night. Some fifty courses were offered to the many students.
~ 174 ~
April 17, 1977 AS XI
Spring Revel
Held at Stern Grove Lodge, San Francisco. Debreceni Ilona and Stephen von Behrend were the autocrats. There were contests in picnic
lunches on a “Virginal Spring” theme, headdresses made of flowers, original spring dances, best original “April Fool” costume, best spring
poem, best group sing, embroidery, woodcarving, leathercraft, longest daisy chain, and courtly leching by both lords and ladies.
June 11, 1977 AS XII
Midsummer Madness
Held at Frontierland Park, Pacifica. This was a celebration of the Seven Deadly Sins. There were booths set up dedicated to the seven sins
and prizes given out to the best sinners in each category. There were contests in Best Poem on a Deadly Sin, Most Seductive Food: a)
seductive eating; b) seductive feeding, and a Punning contest.
September 17, 1977 AS XII
First Westermark Tourney
Held at Coyote Point Park, Knoll’s Picnic Area, San Mateo. Owain Apaceon was the autocrat. There was Lists for the Hero of the
Westermark, a Pillaging the Dead Bodies Contest (for Ladies), Dragon Chasing, a Riddle Contest, Dancing, games and a performance by
the Lichtehren Mummer’s Troupe. There was a revel in the evening.
St. Andrew’s Anniversary Tourney
Held at Sigmund Stern Grove, San Francisco. There was a fencing list, Best Costume of the Day contest, and a cooking contest.
December 17, 1977 AS XII
Yule Revel
Held at Sigmund Stern Grove Park Club House, San Francisco. Stephen von Behrond, Juliana du Corwyn, and Leonessa de Belles Fleures
were the autocrats. The day began at 1:00 pm with an Elf Hunt, the winner being crowned King Yule. His Lady became the Snow Queen.
Everyone brought an ornament for the Christmas Tree, which was later given to a local hospital. Prizes were given out for Best Yule Carols
or Skalds, Best Gingerbread People, and Best Yule Logs. There were also darts, dancing, good food, and hot mulled wine.
~ 175 ~
The Principality of the Mists – The Province of the Southern Shores
The Province of the Southern Shores
(Santa Clara County)
The Province of Southern Shores - Per bend
azure and Or, a seagull rising argent and a laurel wreath vert.
May 1970, AS V
First Seneschal
Gregory of Drakesland.
July 12, 1970 AS V
Fighting Practice
Held at the home of Gregory of the Drakesland, Saratoga.
Provincial Meeting
Held at the home of Gregory of the Drakesland, Saratoga. The topic was “How to Speak Forsoothly.” This was the first of a series of
meetings held every other Thursday.
November 22, 1970 AS V
Dance classes began, taught every Sunday.
January, 1971 AS V
Francis of Valandyrl became the Provincial Master of Arts.
June 19, 1971 AS VI
First Revel
Held at the home of Sir Paul of Bellatrix, San Jose. At this time Sir Paul took over as Provincial Seneschal.
Comments:
A
“Another reason Paul joined Chaos, I think. It was not a coincidence that a lot of Seneschals were members of my household. I
drafted them.” – Stefan de Lorraine
November 1971 AS VI
Boncueur became Pursuivant for the Province.
February, 1972 AS VI
Jay of the Woods took over as Seneschal, as Sir Paul of Bellatrix was now King. Andrew of Riga was Deputy Seneschal.
April, 1972 AS VI
Suzanne of Woodwose Hall Hall became Provincial Mistress of Arts.
~ 176 ~
Comments:
A “Apropos of not very much -- somewhere along in here we should be encountering one of my all-time-favorite second-hand tales....
Somewhere along in here, didn't TRM Paul and Carol attend a feast in An Tir where the menu -- featuring roast suckling pig -- had
been calligraphed by someone with a great deal of enthusiasm and little knowledge of letter-form usage?” – Hilary of Serendip
1 “The feast was in Lions Gate, the scribe was Nikolai Andreiov. We still have a copy of the infamous menu. Master Nikolai is
now a Master of the Laurel. He mistakenly used the long "S" at the beginning of a word, when he should have used the short
"S".” – Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland
First Bardic Revel
Held at Woodwose Hall, Palo Alto. Suzanne of Woodwose Hall autocratted.
Comments:
A
“I don't remember if this was actually the first one, but I recall being there and having a great time. All these people who actually liked
poetry. I haven't seen Suzanne in many years, but I retain fond memories of her. How can you not like someone who tells you that
your renditions of poetry send shivers up and down her spine.” – Steven MacEanruig
July 22, 1972 AS VII
Fighting Demonstration
Held at Stanford University, Stanford.
Revel
Held at the home of Neil of Gyr, Cupertino. Neil of Gyr became the Provincial Falconer.
Provincial Meeting and Revel
Held at the home of Paul the Barbarian, San Jose.
May 19, 1973 AS VIII
First Provincial Tourney
Held at Linda Vista Park, Cupertino. Duke Paul of Bellatrix and Duchess Carol of Bellatrix were autocrats. Neil of Gyr held an archery contest.
There was dancing, and a salad contest. Miranda of Sylvandale gave Tarot readings to benefit the College of Sciences. Revels followed
at the home of Neil of Gyr.
Comments:
A
“I have one small item to add to the first tourney of the Province of Southern Shores of May 19, and that is that I won the list, having
fought for Baroness Sabrina de la Bere. It was the first tourney of any sort that I had won, and I lived in San Jose at the time, so it
was a special moment for me.” – Andrew of Riga
B
“Brings back many memories. I had forgotten about Miranda, though I certainly never forgot about her when she was around. A
talented and lovely lady whom I had a moderate crush on at that time.” – Steven MacEanruig
Prize Tourney
Held at the Junipero Serra Park, San Bruno. Duke Paul of Bellatrix, Sten av Norden, and Geraldine of Toad Hall were the autocrats. There
was “The Duke’s Purse” for general excellence in fighting, “The Philanderer’s Presentation” (a bottle of rare perfume) for the lady most
skilled with boffers, “The Purse of the Baroness of Bufo” ($5) for the fighter most skilled with a variety of weapons, “The Baron’s Bounty”
($5) for the winner among those under sixteen years of age.
Provincial Meeting
Held at the home of Paul the Barbarian, San Jose.
Royal Revel
Held at the home of Elizabeth of Dittany. Sponsored by House Bellatrix in honor of Prince Andrew and Princess Salomé. Miranda of
Sylvandel became the Provincial Seneschal.
~ 177 ~
Revel
Held where? About this time Paul the Barbarian became Silvergull Pursuivant.
Theatre Party
The Province went to see Foothill College’s performance of “A Man for All Seasons”, directed by John Ford. Karyn the Indefinite and
Elspeth O’Boirne autocratted.
Comments:
A
“Okay, this was me before I found out that the Irish and Scots forms of my name were different. But I really don't remember at all
autocratting this -- or seeing the play. I'm confused ...” – Eilis O’Boirne
Spring Prize Tourney and Revel
Held in Sylvandale Picnic Area, Coyote Creek Park, San Jose. There were prize contests in Most Beautiful Kite, Best Flight, Unorthodox
melees, team fighting, and contests with varied weapons. A prize revel followed, with contests such as Musical Beds, Lowest Decollatage,
and Punning. There was also a potluck feast. Duke Paul of Bellatrix was the autocrat for the tourney and Karyn the Indefinite and Elspeth
O’Byrne were the autocrats for the revel.
Comments:
A
“I recall this as an excellent example of just how much fun the Kingdom could have throughout the entire spectrum of SCA activities all at one event.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“As I recall, autocratting the revel meant opening our living room for the party ...” – Eilis O’Boirne
October ?, 1974 AS IX
Archery and Boffer War and Picnic
Held were? Aurelia de la Licorne and Gwendolyn of the Thistle were the autocrats.
Provincial Meeting and Potluck Dinner
Held at the home of Boncueur, Sunnyvale.
March 8, 1975 AS IX
Banquet
Held were? Lady Li Ming-Shuo presented the seven course banquet, sponsored by the province.
May 17-18, 1975 AS X
“King Arthur’s Court”
Held at a San Jose Shopping Center. Members of the Province participated. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was the SCA autocrat.
First Annual Ducal Prize Tourney
Held in Coyote Creek Park, San Jose. This was a Land Fund Benefit. Duke Paul of Bellatrix and Duke James Greyhelm were the autocrats.
The sixteen contests were: Dragon Banners (won by Amanda of Cawdor), Two-handed weapons (Sir William Gordon of York), Poetry
(Megan St. John), Short Sword and Buckler (Duke Paul of Bellatrix), Broadsword and Shield (Sir Iain of Cawdor), Opposite handed lists
(Duke Paul of Bellatrix), Dancing (Celeste), Scroll Design (Sir William Gordon of York), Ribald Song Singing (Geraldine of Toad Hall and
Daniel de Leon tied), Calligraphy (Duchess Sumer Redmaene), Spear and Shield (Duke Paul of Bellatrix), Sonnets (Francesca the Bemused),
Ecclesastical Needlework (Marynel of Darkhaven), Child’s Court Costume (Morrigan Cailte Fitz-Rolf and Clarissa of Red Crab Manor tied),
Embroidery at the Tourney (Amanda of Cawdor), and King Douglas abducted by several ladies and ransomed (against his will -- ransomed
that is) for $10.43 and four grapes. Altogether $365.86 was made for the land fund.
~ 178 ~
Comments:
A
“Clarissa's entry was modeled by Kelly and I recall that Morrigan's entry was worn by her and Jon's first-born Gwyneth.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
Theatre Party
The Province went to see Gilbert and Sullivan’s Iolanthe at the Montgomery Theatre, San Jose. A revel followed at House Bellatrix.
Theatre Party
The Province went to see Gilbert and Sullivan’s Prince Ida at the Montgomery Theatre, San Jose. A revel followed at House Bellatrix.
Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was the autocrat. About this time Paul the Barbarian resigned as Silvergull Pursuivant to move to Madrone.
Feast
Held at the Elizabethan Inn, San Jose. Duchess Carol of Bellatrix was the autocrat.
May 9, 1976 AS XI
Tourney and Festival
Held at the Palm Drive Oval, Stanford University, Stanford. There were challenges, dancing, a maypole, and a tug of war, with mead for the
winners. Lists were held and Benjamin von Ermantrodt and Sir Mark von dem Falkensfenn were jointly accorded victory by the ladies. At
the close of the day, as Benjamin had gone home, Sir Mark crowned Joanna de Paquerette Queen of the May. Duke Henrik of Havn’s team
defeated Duke William of Hoghton’s team in two melees. There was an abduction and a successful rescue. A potluck feast and revel
followed with madrigal singers and dancing. Evadaimos and Knud Kaukinsson were the autocrats.
June 19-20, 1976 AS XI
Equestrian Tourney
Held at Levin Park, Milpitas. There was a trail ride, various competitions, and a procession. There was a competition in Medieval
Horsemanship, tilting at rings and the quintain, an Equestrian Costume competition, and a contest for best Traveler’s Costume. William
of Troy and Kathryn of Tryon autocratted.
November 13, 1976 AS XI
Fall Tourney
Held on the Palm Drive Oval, Stanford University, Stanford. Eudaimon of Alexandros was the autocrat. There was music, dancing, a galliard
race with prizes for singles and couples, speed, and style, a tug-of-war with mead for the victors, and prize lists, with awards for chivalry,
versatility of weapon style, best novice, and overall winner. A revel followed, with potluck feast.
New Year’s Eve Feast
Held in the Covenant Presbyterian Church, Palo Alto. A three course feast was served. The lord and lady of the May were chosen to
preside over the tourney the following day. Eudaimon of Alexandros was the autocrat. There was a competition for original Renaissance
dance choreography.
May 1, 1977 AS XII
May Day Tourney and Tenth Anniversary Celebration
Held at Palm Drive Oval, Stanford University, Stanford. There was a maypole, dancing, games and lists. Eudaimon of Elexandros was the
autocrat.
May 20-21, 1977 AS XII
Renaissance Faire
Held at West Valley College, San Jose. The College contributed $70 to the Land Fund in return for SCA members providing atmosphere.
Giraldus Dragonsclaw was the autocrat.
Potluck Revel, House Mithlond
Held at Me & Ed’s Pizza Parlor, Santa Clara. Gwydion was the autocrat.
~ 179 ~
Fall Tourney
Held at the Palm Drive Oval, Stanford. There was a live checkers game between Master Wilhelm von Schlüssel and Duke Paul of Bellatrix.
Master Wilhelm won. There was a three way tie in the tug-of-war. Lists were held, with Duke Paul of Bellatrix emerging victorious. A revel
and potluck dinner followed. Knud Kaukinene and Eudaimon of Alexandros were the autocrats.
Comments:
A
“The live checkers game was an interesting variant of the live chess game, and this may have been the first (if not only) such
event. Other than a couple of game of Go, this was the only time I ever defeated Duke Paul in anything like a martial event.” –
Wilhelm von Schlüssel
Winter Revel
Held somewhere in Palo Alto.
July AS XIII
Crusade of the Leaf
Okay, here's what I recall of the Crusade of the Leaf for the Rescue of Their Majesties Bevin and Gregory.
The site was what I believe is now known as Coast Middle School, in Cambria (my home town). On arriving there, we found out that
the site would not allow any open flame of any sort. Imagine a forlorn circle of people huddled around a candle-lantern on Friday night,
pretending it was a fire! I was passing around some *very* new mead, only brewed up a month before, and we attempted to form a pseudobardic circle. There was also a VERY obnoxious BRILLIANT sign for the Cambria Pines Lodge, over near the freeway, which lit up the
landscape for blocks around. I think it was Strider who was proposing to put a crossbow bolt into it.
This was one of the very few events I actually fought in, in my days as a female fighter. In this case, I was part of the Southern Shores
Shield Wall. There was a camera crew who was taking footage of the bridge battle and a couple of others, and taking down names of
fighters for later reference, with offers of possible movie work. I believe Bjo investigated them, and they turned out to be porn film
producers! I know that one of them told one of the Southern Shores fighters that he had beautiful eyes, and was rather chummy.
Sometime in the afternoon Saturday, the casualties started happening. James Keisling from Southern Shores was first, with a possible
greenstick fracture. Seems he'd been fighting without a vambrace. About the time that all this started happening, I dropped out of the
fighting to assist, because I had current Red Cross certification and was one of the medics, at this point in time. (We weren't chiurgeons
yet, or even organized. We were just there and filling a need.) It was a warm day, and Olaf went down from heat. He was about 450 lbs
at that point, and we had the dilemma of trying to get his chainmail off, since he was only semi-conscious and not doing well. First, we
turned a hose on him, then tried rolling him gradually, trying to ease up his chain shirt. It wasn't working, as when the chain shifted, so
did Olaf's voluminous mass. We finally ended up taking bolt cutters to it, for which I'm not sure he ever forgave us, though he did
understand. It was the last event he fought in, as his health took a very bad turn shortly
afterward. (Amazingly enough, though reported to be at death's doorstep on several occasions since, he's still with us as of last report.)
The evening's revelries were not hampered by the lack of fires, this time, as a much larger assemblage of candle-lanterns was created
for the Bardic Circle. I believe that the site was supposed to be dry, as well, but you wouldn't have known it by the number of bottles of
potables, all of which we were admonished not to put into the trash, but to take back with us so that no one would know. Sean o'
Claighdean and his wife were celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, and brought an entire case of champaign, which passed around
freely. (I still think of this somewhat surreally, as a few months later, they had split, and a year later, I was going out with him. But they
eventually got back together.) One kid from Tarnmist who was underage (19) apparently found a good party, since he was discovered the
next morning with his head inside the door of the Tarnmist pavilion and his body outside. There was a strange incident of one of the
"filmmakers" kicking Ronald Wilmot (now Duke Sir Ronald Wilmot) in his sleeping bag and cursing at him. A lot of us decided these guys
were bizarre and marginal, at that point.
The next morning, the champagne reincarnated, mixed with orange juice, as mimosa for all. Orange mimosas, the breakfast of fighters
... only in the SCA! Endless toasts to various specific and non-specific ladies went around with the libation. Sunday brought one-on-one
champion combat, and some very impressive fights were fought. Douglas Longshanks split out his pants in the thick of a battle, later that
day, and had them patched with duct tape, as is only appropriate. Does anyone remember how the "rescue" of Their Majesties from Caid
played out, in the end? I'm sure there was some clever resolution, but I don't recall it. In general, everyone retired from the wars tired and
happy.
(We were not invited back to the site, though, because despite our best efforts, someone at the school found two empty Jim Beam
bottles in the trash.) – Jilara of Carrowlea
~ 180 ~
Comments:
A
[Sean o' Claighdean and his wife were celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, and brought an entire case of champaign,
which passed around freely.] “The champaign was brought by their daughter, Shannon (later Countess Shannon-Morgan of
Astophar), and caught them by surprise. A further surprise was her good friend Petey (no SCA name I can recall, lived in So. Cal),
a shocking redhead making a brief (pun intended) appearance in a red satin corset a'la Rocky Horror.”
[Does anyone remember how the "rescue" of Their Majesties from Caid played out, in the end?] “I do recall Gregory ending
one of the battles on his knees and taking out the balance(?) of the other side. Very impressive, especially considering several
of the opponents were equipped with shield-wall sized scuta.”
[In general, everyone retired from the wars tired and happy.] “One exception was a young fighter, Gavin Somebody, who had
said something to Anghois that was taken as an insult. What sticks in my mind is a pick up fight following the comment that quickly
ended with the lad being literally beaten into the ground, being struck multiple times on the way down. As Anghois stood over him
he said, (VERY close to a quote, if not dead on in my memory)"Watch you mouth around your betters, boy!", saluted curtly and strode
away. Anghois promptly received a checkmark in the Very Scary Grasp Of Reality column in my Who's Who of the SCA list.
“Speaking of Anghois, isn't this the war he commanded a unit to charge on the bridge, only to be refused by the unit
commander? As I heard it, Anghois calmly maced the fellow in the faceplate, who looked at a marshall in disbelief and was
informed "Yes, you're dead!" Anghois then asked who was second in command ... I know it sounds like an urban legend but I have
pretty strong memories of it associated with the crusade. Anyone?” – Radnor of Guildemar, who could probably lay his hands on
his War Bond if he dug deep enough ... do you have yours?
B
[Sunday brought one-on-one champion combat, and some very impressive fights were fought.] “Although my fight in the Champion's
List against Duke Paul was "impressive", it did have a comical note I was in new brigantine armor and we were fighting with two
swords. Paul took my legs and as I was knelling, he tried to pick me off at a distance. The tip of his swords were catching the
individual scale and sending them flying. After about the fourth one, a voice called out, "You're supposed to kill him, not skin him."
He did. Kill me that is.” – Fredrick of Woodlyn
C
“This war was known in Caid as the Green Card War, because Gregory and Bevin had been given Green Cards (as resident aliens)
when Caid became a Kingdom. It is, I regret, the first war I missed, so my comments are second hand.” – Robear du Bois
~ 181 ~
The Principality of An Tir
The Principality (Kingdom) of An Tir
The Principality of An Tir now comprises the states of Oregon and Washington
in the U.S., and British Columbia in Canada. An Tir includes the four Baronies of
Lion’s Gate (in Vancouver), Madrone (in Seattle), Three Mountains (in Portland),
and Adiantum (in Eugene).
King of An Tir: Checky Or and argent, a lion rampant tail
forked and nowed sable, crowned gules, grasping in dexter
forepaw a laurel wreath bendwise vert.
Queen of An Tir: Checky Or and argent, a lion rampant,
tail forked and nowed sable, crowned gules, grasping in de
forepaw a wreath of hearts points to center, alternating wit
gules, barbed and seeded proper.
Royal Tourney of Union
Held in Wallingford Playfield, Seattle, WA. Liam of the Barque and Gernot of Gallimaufry autocratted. King Paul presided. At this
tournament the Baronies of Madrone and Three Mountains united to form a principality, the name of which had not yet been chosen. King
Paul, Baron Frederic of the WestTower (Three Mountains) and Baron Raymond the Mild (Madrone) signed a charter of union, in the place
of the formal charter which had yet to be signed by the Board of Directors. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Dierdre Muldomhnaigh,
Geoffrey of Speraunce, Gwili, Liam of the Barque, and Nineva. He admitted David of Bagulay to the Order of the Laurel and made Baron
Raymond the Mild a Master of Arms.
Comments:
A
“I remember going up to Raymond afterwards and congratulating him after telling him that I didn't really believe in Masters of Arms.
Several years later when I became (through no fault of my own) a court baron, Raymond came up to me and congratulated me after
telling me he didn't really believe in court barons.” – Steven MacEanruig
August 25, 1973 AS VIII
First Coronet Tourney
Held in Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theatre, Fallshire, WA. This was held as part of
the Fallshire Renaissance Faire. King Henrik and Queen Seitse presided. The
name of An Tir, gaelic for “The Land”, was chosen. Coronet lists were held and
Baron Sir Frederic of the West Tower emerged victorious. Anne of the Wh i t e
Tower was his lady. King Henrik crowned them the first Prince and Princess of
An Tir, and vows of fealty and protection were exchanged. Gernot of Gallimaufry
became the Principality Seneschal, Sir Jerald of Galloway became Principality
Herald, Margaret of Ashford became Mistress of Arts, and Richard of Ravenwolf
became Master of Sciences. King Henrik gave a Grant of Arms to Gernot of
Gallimaufry and Awards of Arms to Margaret of Ashford, Richard of Ravenwolf,
Frederic of the West Tower - Argent, a tower
sable, on its base a cross patonce voided argent.
and Robert of Winchester.
Anne of the White Tower - Sable, a tower argent.
Comments:
A
“I've always had some problems with this event. The first thing, it was scheduled to be held up in Lions Gate (Vancouver BC). As
this was to be the first Coronet I didn’t feel this was fair to the folks in southern Oregon as they would have one very long drive
coming and going (about 700 miles). I want everyone who could to make this event. At the time there was a West Kingdom law that
stated something to the effect that there need to be X number of unbelts to X number of knights to make the list legal. I don’t
remember the exact numbers, someone else out there may recall this law. As there were only two knights in the kingdom at that
~ 182 ~
time, I decided to boycott the event if it was not moved to a more central location. If I didn't enter the list it could be call null and void
if I pushed it to the Crown.
“That’s how we got the Washington location for the event.” – Jerald of Galloway
B
“I remember there was a lot of discussion on what to call the Principality by the time we got there, with no solution in sight. I
remember standing in the green green green grass at the site as the discussion continued. I said, “Why not call the Principality
by the word common to several of the suggested names, that being ‘Tir’”. They responded with “An Tir.” – Henrik of Havn
1 “I remember this a bit differently than Henrik. The name was decided by 5 of us at the Tourney, myself, Robert of Winchester
and 3 others who's names I don't recall. All heralds of An Tir. I don't remember Henrik being in at this meeting. The 5 of us
talked about the name and came up with An Tir. I had already designed the new Arms for the Principality and that was accepted
at this meeting also. I came in second to Sir Fredrick of the West Tower in the lists. This may be due to old age.” – Jerald of
Galloway
First Principality Twelfth Night Revels
Held at the Meadowdale Community Club, North of Seattle, WA. Edward of Stonehaven and Caitlin na Darac autocratted. Prince Frederick
and Princess Anne presided. The Ordure of Motley performed “The Prince of Twelfth Night.” After a potluck banquet Donn an Branoch
(then Durance the Vile) and Rosalynd became King and Queen of Misrule. Contests were held for plum pudding and spiced wine.
Spring Coronet Tourney
Held in a horse barn outside Vancouver, Oregon. Grance the Golden autocratted.
A storm raged during most of the day. Prince Frederick and Princess Anne held
opening court. Coronet lists were held and won by Richard of Ravenwolf. Lenore
of Lynxhaven was his lady. Prince Frederick, having been delegated the power
by King Andrew, who was ill and could not attend, knighted Richard of
Ravenwolf on the spot. They were then crowned Prince and Princess of An Tir.
Geoffrey of Speraunce was awarded a “small” shilleleagh in commemoration of
his improvement and fierceness on the field. Elrond of Gornoth was awarded the
Purple Turtle for Valour above the call of stupidity (or vice versa). Steingrim
Wulfharreson (Steingrim Stallari) won the jewelry contest. Dierdre Muldomhnaigh
Richard of Ravenwolf - Sable, a wolf’s head erased Or,
armed argent, orbed sable.
won the costume contest. D’Vanya de Tourbillion recieved the first Three
Mountains Arts Award, the Order of the Amber Leaf. The Ordure of Motley
performed and a revel followed.
Lenore of Lynxhaven - Or, a lynx’s head cabossed
sable, orbed Or.
Comments:
A
A
“There was a sizeable contingent of central kingdom road warriors present too despite fuel rationing and the rotten weather crossing the Siskyou pass in my squire, Rand of Dunbar's, old Chevrolet was ghastly even though I am an experienced tire chain
snow driver. The barn did keep some of the wind out and most of the precipitation off our heads (we received every kind known)
but it was frigid (sub freezing) and the privies were still outdoors.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “As I commented in a posting, the stuff we were fighting on wasn't any too nice, either. Sort of an amalgam of ancient wood
chips and horse dung.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Prince Frederick and his Marshal had specifically asked me as Earl Marshal to attend. Ironically, the only fight where I had to
intervene was between Paul of Bellatrix and Edwin Bersark. One of Paul's blows had sprung the side seam of Edwin's helm,
stripping out several rivets - and Edwin tried to continue to fight.” – Kevin Peregrynne
1 “I'm afraid that Kevin is a bit mixed up on this one. I didn't attend the tourney in the barn. The one where I ruined Edwin’s helm
was held in the front hall of a Masonic temple. That was during my first reign, and Edwin was Earl Marshall.
“The 'snap' in those days was more similar to pitching sidearm than it is today. I kept hitting Edwin high on the shield side
of his helm. He insisted that they were skipping off. After the dent was in about two inches (just over his head, but under the
top of the helm), and all of the rivets on that side had separated, he borrowed another helm from Raymond the Mild and
continued. It was unfortunate for Edwin that he continued. Shortly thereafter he hit me behind my left knee when I was about
half-way through throwing a snap. He had already started to block his head, but when myleg collapsed, the blow hit him just
below the ribs on his shield side. Edwin didn't wear any body armor. The resulting crab nebula was about 8" in diameter.
~ 183 ~
A
“During the next fight, Edwin fought Miles of the Shamrock (I always thought of him as sort of Henrik, junior). Miles took
Edwin's leg, and then Edwin blocked about the next 20 attempts to hit him in the side, down into the same leg. Edwin didn't
wear any leg armor, either. By the next day, the crab nebula extended from his knee to his ribs, being about a uniform 8" to 10"
in width for the whole length.” – Paul of Bellatrix
I
“I remember William the Lucky's story about returning with Edwin in the same car more or less screaming if anything
touched his left side. By all accounts it was a notable bruise even among those of us familiar with such things from the
early days.” – Steven MacEanruig
2 “That was a prior event. I remember one of the local marshals telling me about it saying that it was difficult to intervene when
the king and the Society Marshall were fighting.” – Steven MacEanruig
“Gilmaron, my newly appointed Principality Knight Marshal told me the story of the fight between the King and the Earl Marshal as
one of the reasons they wanted me to be present. He didn't feel he could, as a non Chiv/new officer, keep us southern chivalric
rowdies in line.
“And as I copped to - I just absorbed the tale into my own personal internal legend.”
[Shilleleigh for Geoffrey of Speraunce] “I think the official name was the Muckin' Tall Maul ... it was in the shape and nature of
a stunted caber.” – Kevin Peregrynne
B
“I know Kevin was at this event but I thought he was King at this time. Maybe he attended as the Earl Marshal. I came in second to
Richard at this one. Getting to be a habit.” – Jerald of Galloway
C
“Was this the one in Hans Hansens Arena. It certainly sounds like it. If so, I remember that they moved the horses out in the morning
and us in. The ground was interesting, to say the least, and no one particularly wanted to fall down when they were killed in the
fighting. This may be the event where we started the ritual maiming of Steingrim. Every coronet he was ready, he was hot, and he
got injured in the warm-ups. Sometime later Bill and I went to him at a coronet and ritually maimed him with something like a straw
on the elbow. He won that one.
“The weather all through the event involved rain, sleet, hail, and sunshine in about equal measure.” – Steven MacEanruig
D
“As I remember it, this was the tourney where I qualified to fight. My opponent only wore a freon-can helmet and a skimpy rabbit-skin
loincloth. Anyway, when it came time to fight I was told that my sword was too short. I didn’t have any of my own at the time and I
always used Kevin’s old broken castoffs. I ended up fighting with a borrowed sword and even though I won, I had a hard time
because I didn’t know how to fight with something that long. Needless to say this wasn’t the last time my weapons or armor caused
embarrassment for the Earl Marshall. On the mundane side of the story, Kevin, Patti and I stayed with Sir Jerald of Galloway and
my car broke down (alternator) in the rain on the trip back.” – Rand of Dunbar
1 “That sounds like Gilmiron of the Blue Flame. He and his Lady had the same sort of outfits, her's being a bit more than his.”
– Jerald of Galloway
Summer Coronet Tourney
June 15, 1974 AS IX
Held at Reed College, Portland, OR. Gerard of the Roses autocrated. King William
attended. Prince Richard and Princess Lenore presided. Coronet lists were held
and won by Sir Jerald of Galloway, who defeated Audin Ulfsson (Audin the Red).
Sir Jerald’s lady was Barbara of Galloway. They were crowned Prince and
Princess. Edward of Stonehaven and Caitlin na Darac won the wenching race.
Contests were held in brewing, poetry, races, archery, a meat and barley dish, and
games. A revel followed.
Jerald of Galloway - Or, a battle-axe gules, hafted sable,
within a double-tressure sable.
Barbara of Galloway - Per pale Or and gules, a bend
counterchanged.
Comments:
A
“I think this was one of those where a bunch of us drove up Friday night, went to the event, and drove back down Sunday. We did
that a lot going to An Tir around this time. I especially remember the one (and this could be it) where we started off with me thinking
I didn't really want to go but everyone else did so I had to and everyone else in the group thinking that they didn't really want to go
but Steve wanted to so they should. Once we got that cleared up we had a great time.” – Steven MacEanruig
~ 184 ~
September 7-8, 1974 AS IX
Whalemass Coronet Tourney
Held at Snoqualmie Falls Campground, Fall City, WA. Gernot of Gallimaufry was
the autocrat. King Douglas and Queen Lorna attended. Prince Jerald and Princess
Barbara presided. King Douglas decreed that during his reign the Prince of An
Tir would have the right to give Awards of Arms to subjects of An Tir. Prince
Jerald then gave Awards of Arms to Anne of Caerdydd, Duncam of Chisholm,
Gilréann de Regen, Stevana of Hoghton, and Trudana of the Belfry. King Douglas
then decreed that henceforth those who had once been prince or princess of a
principality would have the title of Viscount or Viscountess. Prince Jerald and
Princess Barbara then named Sir Frederic of the West Tower and Anne of the
White Tower Viscount and Viscountess. Coronet lists were held and won by
Frederic of the West Tower - Argent, a tower
Anne of the White Tower - Sable, a tower argent.
sable, on its base a cross patonce voided argent.
Viscount Frederic of the West Tower. Anne of the White Tower was his lady. At
final court Prince Jerald and Princess Barbara named Richard of Ravenwolf and Lenore of Lynxhaven Viscount
and Viscountess. Then Frederick and Anne were crowned as Prince and Princess and in turn named Jerald of Galloway and Barbara of
Galloway Viscount and Viscountess. King Douglas knighted Audin Ulfsson, who took the name of Sir Audun the Red. The Purple Turtle
was given to Elrond of Gornoth, for his actions on the field, and to Duncan of Chisholm, Gwendolyn of Caer Cerddinen, Donn an Bronach
(then Durance the Vile), and Sean Gealt, for their association with the Fallshire Faire. Edward the Indolent recieved the Special Motley
Award of The Purple Privy for past services towards the comfort of all.
Principality Twelfth Night Revels
Held at the Lakeside Refectory at Lakeside School, Seattle, WA. Theodulf of Borogrove and Anne of Caerdydd autocratted. Prince
Frederick and Princess Anne presided. After the feast Prince Frederick held court. He gave Awards of Arms to Gwendolynn of Caer
Cerddinen, Sean Gealt and to Susan the Specific. Revelry followed.
March 8, 1975 AS IX
Held in Millersylvania State Park, Maytown, WA. (Shire of Silver Maggot) Gernot
of Gallimaufry autocrated. The site was a large barn surrounded by cabins.
Following the Grand March the herald, Robert of Winchester, was awarded the
Plastic Turkey for outstanding and creative errors. Viscount Jerald of Galloway
repeated his claim to the shire of Silver Maggot, as he had held the field the
previous year. As none challenged him to dispute his claim he retained the
“honor” of holding Silver Maggot. Coronet Lists were held, Sir Audun the Red
emerging victorious, having defeated Viscount Jerald of Galloway. Gwendolyn
of Caer Cerddinen was Sir Audin’s lady. As she was not present, Margaret of
Ashford stood in her stead as Prince Frederick crowned them Prince and Princess
Audun the Red - Gules, a bear’s head erased argent, armed
Gwendolyn of Caer Cerddinen - Argent, a
and langued Or, orbed sable.
of An Tir. Chancellor Michael the Black, on behalf of the Regents of the rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia) eradicated and fructed prop
University of Madrone, announced the appointments of Fiona di Varanus and a bordure embattled vert.
Dennis an Seodoir as Deans of the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, respectively. Anne of Caerdydd won the leathermaking contest and
Caitlin na Darac won the meat pie competition. Baron Frederic of the West Tower appointed Viscount Jerald of Galloway as Castellan of
Three Mountains.
Comments:
A
“I'm not positive, but my recollection is that the 'Shire of the Silver Maggot' was an Antirean in-joke, a canting nickname for the Shire
of Silvae Magnae ('Great Forest' if my Latin is holding up). Just another item from my trivia trapping so-called mind.” – Kevin
Peregrynne
~ 185 ~
June 28-29, 1975 AS X
Held in a wheat field outside Beaverton, OR. Grane the Golden autocratted. Prince
Audin and Princess Gwendolyn presided. Michael the Black sponsored a hurlbut
contest. There were contests for a meat main dish and for jewelry. Coronet lists
were held and Edward Zifran, Bastard of Gendy won. Fiona di Varanus was his
lady. They were crowned Prince and Princess of An Tir.
Edward Zifran of Gendy - Lozengy sable and ermine,
a baton sinister gules.
Fiona di Varanus - Gules, a pale cotised Or, overall a
komodo dragon embowed in pale vert.
Comments:
A
“True Story...
“Being a brand new knight, and young (weren't we all in those days?), I attended my first event after my knighting, which was
Summer Coronet. Viscount Sir Fredrick of the West Tower, walked up to me. He fondled the Chain (which was a present from My
Knight, Sir Gerald), and tugged on the belt ... He smiled and then said, "You got balls, Edward. You got Balls ..." He then walked
away and the Coronet tourney happened. Well, I won, after two double kills in the Finals, with Elrond ... As some of you may
remember, in those days, you just got the Coronet. No waiting period. So there Fiona and I are, sitting as P&P, after I have promised
there would be no Pogroms (much to the delight of King Andrew), taking Fealty, holding court and what not. Court is over and Sir
Fredrick, comes up and kneels, and says "MY Prince, I must apologize". I was taken aback and asked why. He said that he wished
to say he was sorry for his chiding me earlier in the day. You see, no one had told him that I was knighted a week earlier. And he
figured if anyone had the balls to masquerade as a Knight, it would be me ... Boy, I hope my reputation has gotten better in the last
20+ years...-)
“Another true story, which involves the campfire that evening and the Prince of An Tir, rescuing a young lady from a drunken
churl, ... Oh, well, maybe we shouldn't print that here ... Andrew can tell you ...” – Edward Zifran of Gendy
October 18-19, 1975 AS X
Fall Coronet Tourney
Held at Snoqualmie River Campground, Fall City, WA. Prince Edward and Princess Fiona held court. Prince Edward gave Awards of Arms
to Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland, Judith bat Avraham of York, Maria Mindalova, Michael of Dragonswood, Rebekah of the Sable Court,
Susan the Opaque, and Ulfhedinn hinn Vegfarandi. King Douglas and Queen Lorna attended. King Douglas made Gerhard Kendal of
Westmoreland a Court Baron. Prince Edward made Viscount Jerald of Galloway Master Trainer of An Tir and gave him a medallion. Princess
Fiona held a leg contest for men, with ladies judging. Duncan of Chishold was the winner. Coronet lists were held. Sir Elrond Blacksabre
(formerly Elrond of Gornoth) won. Gilréan of Regen was his lady.
An Tir Twelfth Night Coronation and Revels
Held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Seattle, WA. Caitlin na Darac and Edward
of Stonehaven were the autocrats. Abra the Trader, the new M aster of Arts,
designed the coronation ceremony. Prince Edward and Princess Fiona held court.
King William attended. Edward of Stonehaven announced that he had again won
the wine contest, and then turned over the job of Master of Sciences to
Ulfheddin hinn Vegfarandi. Then Elrond Blacksabre and Gilréan of Regen were
crowned Prince and Princess, and exchanged vows of fealty and protection with
King William. Duke Paul of Bellatrix read the new Charter of the University of
Ithra (formerly of Madrone). Chancellor Michael the Black announced the
appointments of Duchess Carol of Bellatrix and Baroness Amanda Kendal of
Elrond Blacksabre - Sable, four patriarchial crosses in
Gilraén of Regen - Vert, a candle and candlestick flamant
cross argent, a chief ermine.
Westmoreland as Regents of the University. Maelyn of Kynge’s Lea turned over Or.
the office of Principality Seneschal to Viscount Edward Zifran, Bastard of Gendy.
Robert of Winchester had previously resigned as Black Lion Herald and the new Black Lion Herald was Wilhelm von Messer. Princess
Gilréan presented the Golem Award for Gallantry to Gerard of the Roses and Sean Gealt. She named William von de Huge, William of
~ 186 ~
Portsmouth, Donn an Bronach, and Michael of Dragonswood to be the Princess’ Escort. Prince Elrond gave an Award of Arms to Edward
of Stockwood. Edward the Indolent, alias “Corwen of Strathclyde”, was publicly excoriated for his treasonous composition “Edward, That
Bastard”, circulated at Samhein, and was stripped of the office of acting M arshal and banished from the court of Prince Elrond. A banquet
and revelry followed.
March 27, 1976 AS X
Held at the Mount Hood Stables, Portland, OR. Abra the Trader autocrated. Prince Elrond and Princess Gilréan presided. King William
attended. After a short morning court Coronet Lists were held. Steingrim Wulfharesson (Steingrim Stallari) defeated Eric Blackhand in the
finals. Hrefna Aebsynth Neilsdatter was his lady. The sweetmeats contest was won by Gilmirron of the Blue Flame. At final court King
William knighted Steingrim, who took the name of Sir Steingrim Stallari. Baron Michael of Dragonswood swore fealty to King William and
received in return a Baron’s circlet. King William gave Grants of Arms to Baron Michael and to Baroness Alyanora of Vinca. King William
admitted Sholom ben Avram of York to the Order of the Leaf of Merit and gave Awards of Arms to Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland, Bjorn
of Havok, Bolverk of Momchilovich, Michel le Voyageur, and Reginleif the Unruly. King William then admitted Gilmirron of the Blue Flame
to the Order of the Laurel. Michael of Dragonswood gave Bjorn of Havok the Mucking Tall Maul for “improvement in fighting and/or
disregard of bodily harm.” Prince Elrond and Princess Gilréan invited the populace to their wedding on April 24. King William made Amanda
Kendal of Westmoreland a Court Baroness.
May 1, 1976 AS XI
St. Edwin’s Day Coronetting Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park, Seattle, WA. Prince Elrond and Princess Gilréan held
court. Sir Steingrim Stallari and Hrefna Aebsynth Neilsdattar came forward
and were crowned Prince and Princess of An Tir. Prince Steingrim named
Elrond Blacksabre and Gilréan of Regin Viscount and Viscountess.
Challenges and a list were fought. Baron Liam of the Barque held a Baronial
Court, at which he announced that the Order of the Red Branch was
presenting the Green Leaf Award to Roger the Galiard, Hal of Gloucester,
Linda of London, Genevra de Estolat, Elspeth Schnee-Flame, Fritha of Caer
Bannot, Trixie LaTush, Eugen von Ostmarch, and Serena. The Baron Liam
admitted into the Order of the Red Branch Sean Gealt, Caitlin na Darach,
Steingrim Stallari - Paly of six Or and sable, a fess
counterchanged.
Shalom ben Avram of York, Donn an Bronach, and Serena. At final court it Hrefna Aebsynth Neilsdattar
was announced that Serena had won the pottery contest and that Sigurd
von der Nordenkraase had won the rabbit-joke contest.Sean Gealt was awarded the Incomparably Nefarious Award of the Plastic Turkey
for wearing his pith helmet at the tourney.
May 15, 1976 AS XI
An Tir NonCoronet
Held in Duval, WA. Notice having not made it in the Page the event was declared unofficial and therefore not a Coronet Tourney. The day
was hot and fair. Many went and lent color to the Duval Bicentennial Parade. A group of Monboggians attacked the parade but were beaten
off. Then everyone returned to the UnTourney site. Edward Zifran won the lists, naming his lady Almatea Queen of Love and Beauty, and
Sweetheart of Duval. The Mucking Great Maul was awarded to one Zeke. All retired to an unravel at Wakefield Castle.
July 10, 1976 AS XI
An Tir Surprise Coronet Tourney
Held in Duval, WA. Genevra of Estolat was designated Mistress of the Lists for a day, after Duncan of Chisholm finally showed up with
waivers. The procession to Prince Steingrim and Princess Hrefna started at 1:30pm. Master Theodulf of Borogrove, who was the herald
on duty, was threatened into incredible accuracy by a sledge-hammer wielding member of Viscount Elrond’s household, Peitrov the Russ
(a close cousin of Viscount Elrond). The Coronet Lists were held, with Theodulf of Borogrove defeating Nhille von Hakenkreuz. Anne of
Caerdydd was his lady. During the lists Sir Elrond Blacksabre was called away to fireman’s duty for awhile, which caused havok in the lists
s cheduling. The breaks thus caused were filled by an oriental sword technique demonstration by Gilvaethe, dancing, bellydnacing, and
twilsey whopping. At final court, Nhille von Hakenkreuz was presented with the Order of the Silver Rose, for coming in second, and was
also given the Mucking Tall Maul. Prince Steingrim called a Privy Council meeting that evening. An unravel was held at Wakefield Castle.
~ 187 ~
September 11, 1976 AS XI
Madrone Harvest Faire and An Tir Coronation
Held in Ravenna Park, Seattle, WA. Prince Steingrim held court. As Princess
Hrefna was ill Viscountess Fiona di Varanus sat in her place. Theodulf of
Borogrove and Anne of Caerdydd were crowned Prince and Princess of An Tir.
They named Steingrim and Hrefna Viscount and Viscountess. Princess Anne
decreed that henceforth all Viscountesses would be known as Ladies of Valorous
Estate. Prince Theodulf presented the Honor of the Belated Rose to Edward of
Stonehaven and gave Awards of Arms to Bombor of Bombardia, Diana av Fjell
Tusenfryden, Eric Blackhand, Dietrich von Kriegsheldenburg, Fritha of Caer
Bannog, Genevra of Estolat, Gerek the Far-Seeing, Harolde of Gloster, Koressa of
Highwood Keep, Linda of London, Morgan of Aberystwyth, and then rewarded Anne of Caerdydd - Or, a fess sable, overall a butterfly
Theodulf of Borogrove - Argent, an amphysian
cockatrice gules within a bordure nebuly sable.
the autocrats, Edward of Stonehaven, Caitlin na Darach, Katharine of Northhall, ermine.
and Duncan of Chisholm. Baroness Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland and her
son Andre Lessard were proclaimed the Most Courteous Lady and Gentleman, respectively. An unravel ensued at Wakefield Castle and
revelry commenced.
October 2-3, 1976 AS XI
Aurora Coronet Tourney
Held at Warner Lost Park, Burnaby, British Columbia, CAN. The autocrats were Gerek the Far-Seeing, Duncan Bog Cameron, and Bombor
of Bombardia. Once again it was raining hard. Coronet lists were held, in which Viscount Edward Zifran of Gendy emerged victorious.
Almatea (Alma Tea av de Telemark) was his lady. The populace then adjourned to the home of Domric the Sober for court. King Kevin and
Queen Patrice attended. King Kevin knighted Theodulf of Borogrove. Prince Theodulf gave Awards of Arms to Asvald Evaldsen
Styraeman of Lolland, Elspeth Schnee-Flame, Janeltis Karaine Stargazer, O’Guin Silverwolf, and Yolanda of Thymbra. Sir Elrond Blacksabre
won the insult contest and there was a tie in the hand-kissing contest, between Baron Gerhard Kendal for best lead-up, and Viscount
Steingrim for best follow-through. King Kevin gave Grants of Arms to Baron Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland and Baroness Amanda
Kendal of Westmoreland and admitted Maelyn of Kynge’s Lea to the Order of the Laurel. The second day was moved, as Warner Loat park
was flooded. There were challenges, contests, and fighting instruction by the King.
January 22, 1977 AS XI
An Tir Twelfth Night Revels and Coronation
Held in the Pioneer Building, Lan County Fairgrounds, Eugene, OR. Úlfhédinn inn
Vegfarandi was the autocrat. The evening started with two hours of socializing,
and when events commenced a rather talented mime mocked the heralds by
announcing into a dead microphone. Food was then paraded forth, including a
kosher Boar’s Head (sculpted and presented by Gwendolyn Caer Cerddinen), and
a quantity of crottled greeps were presented to the head table. Then David of
Bagulay rendered a version of “Edward, the Bloody Bastard.” At final court
Prince Theodulf named Morgan of Aberystwyth to be the new Black Lion Herald,
replacing Wilhelm von Messer, who had been transferred away by the U.S. Navy.
Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland was appointed Principality Games Master.
(Alma Tea av de Telemark) - Lozengy sable and
D uncan of Chisholm was awarded a token for his patience, forbearance, and Almatea
ermine, a Gendy flower gules.
work. Numerous scrolls were handed out. Dierdre Muldomhnaigh recieved an
appropriate INAPT pinned to her cleavage. Prince Thodulf gave Awards of Arms to Carline of Waldsdorf, Gilvaethe, Micheil MacGhillie
Brath, and Valkyrie. King Andrew gave an Award of Arms to Janet of Arden and admitted her to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. King
Andrew then admitted Maria Mindalova and Serena Cleindori of Bagulay to the Order of the Laurel, and Caitlin na Darach to the Order of
the Pelican. Then Edward and Almatea were crowned Prince and Princess. They were given personal coronets by Ed Bromley and his lady.
Theodulf of Borogrove and Anne of Caerdydd were named Viscount and Viscountess. Interspaced among gluttony, reveling, and flirtation
were a Walking Talking Zifran Doll who staggered from the hall, flailing away; Friar William spoke of the manifest destiny for An Tir, while
mentioning poison oak; Duke William of Hoghton was Foolishly anklebitten; and a papier-maché lion, bearing an uncanny resemblance
to Prince Edward, was brought forth, cookie-filled and attired in green sneakers. Donn an Bronach won the photography contest,
Gangenrath Woodwender and Alice won the costume contest, and Allysen of Dunrobin won the banner contest.
~ 188 ~
Held in the Conelly Centre, Seattle University, Seattle, WA. Baron Liam of the Barque was the autocrat. Prince Edward and Princess Almatea
held court after the Grand March. Prince Edward gave Awards of Arms to Seamus MacChluraid of Glenerochaidh and Sigelgaita the
Silvertongued. Donn an Bronach presented the Monboggian Horde with a war banner: Argent, semé of vegies proper . Bolverk of
M omchilovich gave Nhille von Haukenkrantz a ring, symbol of the Order of the Silver Rose, for having placed second in the last Coronet
Lists. Coronet Lists were held, with Sir Steingrim Stallari defeating Sir Elrond Blacksabre. Lady Fiona di Varanus was Steingrim’s lady.
Morgan of Aberystwyth won the Dying contest, Alyson Verena of Or won the quiche contest, and David of Bagulay won the Bardic
contest. The Barques flying coconut pull-toy was abducted by a group from Lion’s Gate. Crier staffers were presented with CRIER Staph
Staves (Butterfly nets on poles). A box lunch auction for the Crier was held, with Genevra of Estolat’s going highest.
Spring Investiture
Held at the Tacoma Community College in Building 15, Tacoma, WA. The House
of the Black Rose autocratted the event. Prince Edward and Princess Almatea
held their final court. Prince Edward gave Awards of Arms to Athelas of the Knife
and Benedicite Draconia Traepishka. The Law of An Tir was read. Baron Gerhard
Kendal of Westmoreland and André Lesard presented their Hignesses with
boffers and boffer-helms. After the Grand March Viscount Steingrim Stallari and
Viscountess Fiona di Varanus came forward to be crowned Prince and Princess
of An Tir. Oaths of fealty were exchanged, and Almatea was made a Viscountess
and Lady of Valorous Estate. Princess Fiona named Manfred der Blutfalfe, Domric
the Sober, Ludwig von Lemminghaus, and Morgan of Aberystwyth to be her
Steingrim Stallari - Paly of six Or and sable, a fess
Fiona di Varanus - Gules, a pale cotised Or, overall a
counterchanged.
Princess’ Guard. Alisoun Varena was made First Mistress of the Pied Piper’s komodo dragon embowed in pale vert.
Place, a cooperative child-care corner at tourneys. Viscountess Anne of
Caerdydd presented Their Highnesses with a pair of pillows, with their arms. Manfred der Blutfalfe presented the Great War Sword of State
to Prince Steingrim, which was white, with a red tip, and bore a strong resemblance to a blind man’s cane. There followed after the
presentations a live chess game, which white won. A revel was held at Canterbury Inn in Seattle.
Held in a private park near Forest Grove, OR. After the Grand March Prince Steingrim and Princess Fiona held court. King Terrence and
Queen Jennet attended. The Barons and Baronesses were called forward to swear fealty to the King. Guillaume de Vinvert was named Senior
Deputy Marshall for the Principality. Michael the Black and Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland ranted at length concerning the war between
Lion’s Gate and Madrone. Dennis an Seodoir was named envoy to Lion’s Gate and Duncan Bog Cameron was named envoy to Madrone.
Coronet Lists were held, with Viscount Edward Zifran, Bastard of Gendy defeating Viscount Theodulf of Borogrove in the finals.
Viscountess Almatea was Edward’s lady. A number of contests were held. Jewelry was won by Michael of Dragonswood and Steingrim
Stallari; Weapons by James of Northkeep; Armour, by Blackhand; Pavilion, Blackhand and Ludwig von Lemminghaus; Footwear,
Blackhand; Best Decorated Object, Edwin of Svart Elder. The winners for Best Pages and Ladies-in-Waiting were Kiega of Valfriborg,
Melissa Kendal of Westmoreland and Andre Lessard. At final court Edward Zifran was proclaimed the winner, and Amanda Kendal of
Westmoreland accepted for the absent, plague-ridden Almatea. Viscount Theodulf of Borogrove and Viscountess Anne of Caerdydd were
admitted to the Order of the Silver Rose. Manfred der Blutfalfe won the Shattered Shield for best dying. Presentations were made to the
new Baron and Baroness of Three Mountains, Dietrich and Amelia von Kriegsheldenburg, by members of the Barony. Ludwig von
Lemminghuas was awarded the Mucking Tall Maul. The Three Mountains newsletter, The Bend Sinister, ceased publication. A feast was
then held, followed by general revelry. In the morning there was a live chess game between King Terrence and Prince Steingrim, which His
Majesty won. Then there was fighting and recorder music until the end.
~ 189 ~
Summer Coronation Tourney
Held at a site near Maple Falls, past Bellingham, WA. Maelen of Kynge’s Lea,
Edward Zifran and Almatea were the autocrats. The day began and remained hot,
with flights of bees, wasps, and mosquitos. The final court of Prince Steingrim
and Princess Fiona was held in a relatively shady spot. Prince Steingrim gave an
Award of Arms to ?. Then Viscount Edward Zifran, Bastard of Gendy and
Viscountess Almatea av den Telemarken were crowned Prince and Princess. After
many presentations and announcements their Highnesses dismissed their
grateful subjects to go find some more shade. Alisoun Varena and Genevra of
Estolat tied in the sweet dish contest, and Seamus Peacemaker won the Men’s
Costume Under $10 contest. Theodulf of Borogrove won the next day’s fighting
Almatea (Alma Tea av de Telemark) - Lozengy sable and
and Phillippe pres de ’Eau won the archery competition. Alisoun Varena became ermine, a Gendy flower gules.
first Principality Mistress of the Pied Piper’s Place, in charge of supervising
young children at events. At his last court Prince Steingrim gave Awards of Arms to Alison Varena, Almatea av den Telemarken, Catherine
of Häga, Glanwyn tí Mellionen, James the Nameless, John of the Angular Dove, Ludwig von Lemminghaus, Reynaud of Burgundy, Sonya
of Samarovsk, Susan of Kathculneen, and Yulseth of Darkwood. Allysen of Dunrobin became Acting Mistress of Equestrian Arts.
September 3-5, 1977 AS XII
Fall Coronet Tourney
Held in Warner Lost Park, Vancouver, British Columbia. Morgan of Aberystwyth was the autocrat. Prince Edward and Princess Almatea
held court. Then the Coronet Lists were held. Manfred Eifenblau (Manfred Kriegstreiber) emerged victorious. Koressa (Koressa
Thokubjalla) was his Lady. There was an archery competition, a knife-throwing contest, and a boffer chess game.
January 14, 1978 AS XII
Held at the University Unitarian Church, Seattle, WA. Baron Theodulf of
Borograve and the Culinary Guild of Madrone were the autocrats. Opening court
began only five minutes late, to the consternation of those who had run on
Society time. Owing to the growing spirit of rebellion against the central kingdom
many people had come from all over An Tir to watch the fireworks. Viscount
Elrond Blacksabre read a Declaration of Independence. Bishop William made an
impassioned plea that Prince Edward declare himself King of An Tir, which Prince
Edward declined to do. Prince Edward was made Steward of An Tir, and entrusted
with the crowns for the King and Queen of An Tir, for the time when they would
be needed. The crowd was divided between rebels, who wore grey armbands, and
Manfred Eifenblau (Manfred
Koressa Thokubjalla - Argent, upon a pall endorsed
Kriegstreiber) - Per saltire sable and argent,loyalists.
a falcon
After various presentations, Manfred and Koressa were crowned Prince azure a sewing needle palewise, point to base, argent.
displayed counterchanged, in chief a ducal coronet argent, all within a
and Princess of An Tir, and there followed a rather politically sensitive and
bordure gules, charged in chief with a rose argent.
complex fealty ceremony. In a lighter vein, Frederic of the West Tower petitioned Princess Koressa to be made
Official Fondler. The request was taken under advisement, and court adjourned for the dinner break.
At the banquet, guests were entertained by Serena, David of Bagulay, Baron Theodulf, Catherine Winifred of Tor Bitterroot, Rosemary
of the Eastern Wood, Glanwyn de Speraunce, Genevra de Estolat, Yulseth, Susan of Kothculneen, Donn an Branoch, and Roger the Goliard,
who variously sang, played recorders, or danced. After the tables were cleared a sublety was brought forth, and Aislin and Andy Shepherd
were chosen King and Queen of Misrule. Their court included Thorgeir Eikinskaldi as Fool of Fools, Koressa as Keeper of the Royal
Chamber Pot, Bolverk as the Veritable Vanishing Virgin, Randell Raye as King’s Mistress, and Gerhard Kendal as Serf for a Night. Baron
Frederic of the West Tower was Cosmic Karmic Confessor, James the Vintner was the Naively Naughty Knave, and Daniel Shadygrove
was Court Herald. Spectators made a concerted effort to steal the dignitaries’ badges of office and Gerhard was subjected to much fondling.
Other sights of the evening included a child advertising “Rats on a Stick”, the heralds portraying the Plantagenet lions, Amorette the
K nowing and her troupe performed Irish dances and many joined in general dancing as well. Before the coronation of Manfred, Prince
Edward gave an Award of Arms to the University of Ithra. Numerous contests were held. Alysen of Dunrobin and Dierdre Muldomhnaigh
won the hairdressing contest - ladies division, and Seamus Peacemaker won the men’s division. Maria Mindalova was victorious in the
weaving contest, Catherine of Häga had the best Crier Alphabet, Gerhard Kendal had the best fighter’s needlepoint, and Donn an Bronach
had the best embroidery. Janet of Arden won the girdle contest. Finally the hour grew late and all departed into the night. Allysen of
Dunrobin resigned as Mistress of Equestrian Arts.
~ 190 ~
March Coronet Tourney
Held at Bellfountain Park, Benton, OR. Ludwig von Lemminghaus was the autocrat. (Who won?)
May 13, 1978 AS XIII
Coronation
Held at the First Congregational Church, Portland, OR. A Curia Regis was held. King Gregory and Queen Bevin attended.
Comments:
A
“I believe this is the event that I attended alone, Gregory being otherwise committed. I'd been given authority to create Laurels and
Pelicans at the recommendation of the Laurels and Pelicans of An Tir (which I did, at least one of each) and to knight any fighter
strongly recommended by the chivalry of An Tir (which they didn't, at that time). It was a fine event!” – Bevin Fraser or Sterling
(This ends the History of the Principality of An Tir as Chronicled by Master Wilhelm)
~ 191 ~
The Principality of An Tir – The Barony of Madrone
The Barony of Madrone
(Seattle, WA)
The founding Baron was Raymond the Mild, who was also the first seneschal. The founding Baroness was
Sheen of Ire.
The Barony of Madrone - Sable, on a pile argent a
modrone tree paroper, in base a laurel wreath Or.
Sewing Fest and Practice Session, Barony of Madrone
Held at the home of Maid Laurellan of Evergreen, Mercer Island, Washington. This was the first event of the new barony. Raymond the
Mild and Sheen of Ire were the founding Baron and Baroness. Baron Raymond the Mild was also the first Seneschal.
February, 1970 AS IV
Edwin Bersark, Earl Marshall, appointed Sir Frederic of the West Tower to be Knight Marshal for Madrone and Three Mountains.
May 3, 1970 AS V
First Tournament
Held on the ranch belonging to the father of Baron Raymond the Mild, in Olympia, WA. There was fighting and revelry.
June 20, 1970 AS V
Combined Tourney, Madrone and Three Mountains
Held on Clyde Schumann’s Ranch (Baron Raymond’s father), Olympia, WA.
August 2, 1970 AS V
Summer Tourney and Revel
Held at Clyde Schumann’s Ranch, Olympia, WA. There were competitions in javelin, hammer throw, sling, weaving demonstrations,
dancing, fighting, and a cooking contest.
September 13, 1970 AS V
Autumn Tourney
Held at Clyde Schumann’s Ranch, Olympia, WA. There were various competitions, including lists for the Champion of the Barony. Feasting
followed. (Did it happen this day, or did rain postpone it a week?)
Harvest Revels
Held at the home of Baron Raymond the Mild, Olympia, WA. A Harvest King was made of cornstalks and a scavenger hunt was held.
April 17, 1971 AS V
Spring Tourney
Held on Foster Island, in the Arboretum, Seattle, WA. Gwynned of Ogg and Crispus Alexander replaced Barony Raymond as autocrats.
150 people attended, including a dozen fighters. After the tourney a revel was held at the home of Baron Raymond the Mild.
May 22, 1971 AS VI
Mayfest Revel
Held at Clyde Schumann’s Ranch, Olympia, WA. There was feasting and competitions in slings and hammer-throw. Colleen of Gallimaufry
was chosen as May Queen. All of the ladies had each put a flower into a suspended golden egg. The first lady to rend the egg asunder
with a blow from a broad sword (while blindfolded) in a certain period of time was the winner. Colleen hit it first. Gilmirron of the Blue Flame
and his lady performed an except from “The Taming of the Shrew.”
~ 192 ~
May 29, 1972 AS VI
Tourney
Held on Foster Island, in the Arboretum, Seattle, WA. When it began to rain the tourney was moved to House Gallimaufry, where it became
a revel.
June ?, 1971 AS VI
Revel
Held at Edeaed the Curious’ home, Seattle, WA.
July 31, 1971 AS VI
Midsummer Tourney
Held on Foster Island, in the Arboretum, Seattle, WA. Roger the Goliard sponsored a Game Tent. About this time Crispus Alexander took
over as Seneschal.
August 28, 1971 AS VI
Masque Revel
Held at House Gallimaufry, Seattle, WA. There was a potluck feast, a puppet show by Lady Glynys of Arran, singing, dancing, and belly
dancing by Theodora.
September 18, 1971 AS VI
Frodo’s Birthday
Held at the Lang Estage, Bellvue, WA. Lady Pat was the autocrat. About ninety people attended, but only a few fighters. There was a
mushroom pushing contest (nose only) won by Crispus Alexander, a stilt race, won by Richard the Chicken-Hearted, and some fighting.
Harvest Revel
Held in Seattle, WA. The autocrats were Ladies Jaicinth and Pat. At this potluck revel the Fool had a terrible time getting anyone to cast
the straw man into the flames, thereby achieving fertility for a year. Therefore the Fool reversed the prognosis and declared it would grant
sterility for a year, whereupon she was swamped by eager prospective strawman-casters. There was belly-dancing by Theodora and Glynys
of Arran followed by “The Tempt ation of St. Anthony” by Dierdre Muldomhnaigh and Liam of the Barque. Inspired by two different styles
of belly dancing, the revelers took to the streets with the musicians and danced around a blue and white fire chariot with a red lamp on top
and a dubious-looking gentleman inside.
January 8, 1972 AS VI
First Twelfth Night Revels
Where?
February 19, 1972 AS VI
Valentine’s Day Revel
Held at the Newman Center, Seattle, WA. Jaicinth of the Lion’s Gate was autocrat. Gerard and Marie of Wedgewood were the King and
Queen of Hearts. The Singing Turtle, composed of Roger the Goliard, David of Bagulay, and Maleen of Gamliel, made its debut and sang.
In contrast the Ordure of Motley, formed by Jaicinth of Lion’s Gate (known as Sparrowhawk), Liam of the Barque, and Dierdre
Muldomhnaigh previously, made its debut, to the groans of the populace, by performing skits. There was belly dancing by Theodora,
Salome, and Glynys of Arran.
Comments:
A
[The Singing Turtle] "Voice of the Turtle" – Edward Zifran of Gendy
April 29, 1972 AS VI
Spring Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park, Seattle, WA. Edward the Curious and Duncan of Chisholm were the autocrats.
~ 193 ~
May 21, 1972 AS VII
Viking Festival
Held in Poulsbo, WA. Roger the Goliard and Gernot of Gallimaufry and Glynys of Arran were the autocrats. There was a Viking raid staged
and SCA demonstrations put on.
May 27, 1972 AS VII
Mayfest
Held in the Lang Estate Park, Bellvue, WA. There was dancing, a Maypole, pillow fighting, cooking contest, a May Queen, a wenching
race, and lawn bowling. Gernot of Gallimaufry and Glynys of Arran were the autocrats. There was also a stilts race, and the cooking contest
was for meat pies. The May Queen was chosen by having blindfolded ladies swing a sword at a bull suspended from a tree.
Revels
Where? Sometime this summer Baron Raymond the Mild moved to the Mists and appointed Liam of the Barque to be his Castellan until
he returned.
August 5, 1972 AS VII
Lammastide Tourney
Held on Mercer Island, Seattle, WA. Catherine the Fortunate was the autocrat. There was a bread baking contest. In July Jaicynth of the
Lion’s Gate replaced Glynys of Arran as Mistress of the Arts.
August 19-20, 1972 AS VII
Renaissance Faire
A tourney was held at the faire at Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theatre and Family Park, King County, WA.
September 24,1972 AS VII
Autumnal Equinoctial Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park, Seattle, WA. Liam of the Barque was the autocrat. There was a cooking contest for a dish containing mushrooms.
On September 1, Jay of the Woods was appointed Procurator for the Registry in the Baronies of Madrone and Three Mountains.
October Fete
Held in Bothell, WA. There was a demonstration of equestrian skills. The Lord Protector of the Barony was invested. Castellan Liam of
the Barque created the Order of the Red Branch and admitted Nyneve as the founding member. Sir Frederic of the West Tower, under the
authority delegated to him by the King, knighted Jerald of Galloway.
Midwinter Tourney
Held in the Astrogyme, Seattle University, Seattle, WA. Liam of the Barque and Dierdre Muldomhnaigh were the autocrats. There was a
cooking contest of yuletide fruid cakes, and a contest of legerdemain. Gwili was admitted to the Order of the Reach Branch.
St. George’s Day Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park Picnic Area, Seattle, WA. Ediard of Stonehaven and Katherine of Northhall were the autocrats. Castellan Liam of the
Barque held opening court. Geoffrey of Speraunce was admitted to the Order of the Red Branch. There followed combat, wench racing,
twilsey-whopping, dancing, mumming, music, and a quiche-baking contest, won by Margaret of Ashford.
Revels
Held at Wakefield Castle, home of Reb Sholumn ben Avram and Judith, Seattle, WA. There was music, dancing and drama.
Midelsumer Fest
Held at the Marymoor Park on Bellevue-Redmond Rd., east of Seattle, WA. Michael the Black and Robert of Winchester autocrated. There
was a grand march, a baronial court, music, belly-dancing, cookery, a Queen of Love and Beauty, and the Ordure of Motley performed.
September 1-3, 1973 AS VIII
Rennaissance Faire
Held at the Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theatre, King County, WA. The barony put on a demonstration.
Wedding Revel
Following the marriage of Caitlin na Darac and Edward of Stonehaven there was a revel at Keegsgaard, Edmunds, WA.
~ 194 ~
First Samhain Revel
Held at the Meadowdale Community Club, North of Seattle, WA. People came in masque and costume. Liam of the Barque autocratted.
The guests brought candles to light the hall. At the baronial court Amy of the Barque received her Queen’s Order of Grace pendant, which
had been brought up from the south. There were prizes for storytelling and costumes. A potluck feast followed court.
St. Bunstable’s Day Revel
Held in Lechbury Abbey, home of Friar William and Geoffrey of Speraunce.
Bardic Revel, Canton of Entice
Held in Eimonds, WA. Lady Allison autocratted.
Seattle Art Museum Christmas Party
Margaret of Ashford autocratted an SCA demonstration at the Museum.
Twelfth Night Revel
Held at the Meadowdale Community Club, North of Seattle, WA. Edward of Stonehaven and Caitlin na Darac were the autocrats. There
were contests for plum pudding and spiced wine.
Midwinter Tourney and Revel, Canton of Xerophil
Held in Cheney, WA, at Gendy Castle, home of Edward Zifran of Gendy. This was the first event for the Canton of Xerophil (which means
Loving Drayness). Prince Frederick presided. Guillaume de Vinvert won the fighting prize.
Valentine’s Day Revel, Shire of Silver Magnae
Held in the Villa Capri Apartments, Olympia, WA. Francesca and Osmundia were the autocrats. First event for the Shire of Silvae Magnae.
Allyson of Dunrobin and Michael the Black were admitted to the Order of the Red Branch. The hall was candle-lit. There was potluck
feasting and revelry. Edward of Stonehaven won the Love-Poetry contest.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Held in Seattle, WA. Some 27 Madronites marched in the city’s parade as “5000 Years of Irish History”.
Medieval Night
Held in the Britannia Club, Seattle, WA. Forty Madronites attended and entertained in costume. A battle was held, with Sir Kevin
Peregrynne surviving.
Comments:
A
“Having committed to doing the entertainment, the Madronans realized that they hadn't ever done anything of the sort before and
desperately needed someone to coach their fighters on indoor demonstration fighting, provide fighting at a more than unbelted level
and show/train them in medieval dancing for demonstrations. How desperate? They flew me up two days before the show for total
immersion rehearsals and training. The difficult part about surviving the battle wasn't the other fighters it was avoiding tangling your
weapons in the cloth bunting looping down from the ceiling that was a permanent part of the club's decor. The day after the show,
I gave a workshop for the fighters at a local park, then flew home to Sacramento.” – Kevin Peregrynne
St. Leo’s Day Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park Picnic Area, Seattle, WA. Sean Gealt was the autocrat. There were contests in brewing and confectionery.
~ 195 ~
April 20-21, 1974 AS VIII
Centralia College Faire
Held at Centralia College, Seattle, WA. Robert of Winchester autocratted an SCA demonstration.
April 20-21, 1974 AS VIII
Green Shadows Tourney, Canton of Silver Magnae
Held on a former cow pasture outside Olympia, WA. This was the first overnight tourney in the Barony. Rain and wind prevailed. On the
second day lists were held, won by Steingrim Wulfharreson.
May 11-12, 1974 AS IX
“A County Fair in a City Park” and Madrone Anniversary Revel
Held in Seattle, WA. The fair was sponsored by the Junior League of Seattle. Duncan of Chisholm autocratted an SCA demonstration. On
Saturday a Maypole was erected (which the wind later blew down). Sunday was Mother’s Day. Sean Gealt, carrying a Ravenwolf battle-axe,
found himself being used to threaten recalcitrant children by the local mothers. On Saturday evening Katrina Pietrova and Gwendolyn of
Caer Cerddinen held a Madrone Anniversary Revel at Lechbury Abbey. Festivities featured the poisoning of Durance the Vile, his Motleysponsored wake (complete with keening and a parady of “Finnegan’s Wake”), and his resurrection as a new persona, Donn an Bronach,
who would hopefully find greater favor with the College of Heralds. The reading of the “Chronicles of Madrone” (mythic variety) and
“Bunstable, Martyr, Patron of Madrone” preceded a storytelling contest, won by David of Bagulay for his version of the History of the
Barony.
May 18, 1974 AS IX
Third Anniversary Tourney
Held in Volunteer Park, Seattle, WA. Theodulf of Borogrove and Anne of Caerdydd were the autocrats. Castellan Liam of the Barque held
baronial court. Edward of Southhaven, Gernot of Gallimaufry, Margaret of Ashford, and Robert of Winchester were admitted to the Order
of the Red Branch. The Green Leaf Award for service was given to Anne of Caerdydd, Fiona di Varnaus, Susan the Ambiguous, Theodulf
of Borogrove, and Truedanna of the Belfry. Steingrim Wulfharreson (Steingrim Stallari) won the lists, and he and his lady Elayne were
crowned King and Queen of the May. Motley erected a Maypole.
June 1, 1974 AS IX
Pioneer Square Fire Festival
An SCA demonstration was put on at the festival in Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA.
July 19-20, 1974 AS IX
Lake Fair, Shire of Silver Magnae
Held at the State Capitol Building, Olympia, WA. There was a tourney held both days. Sir Jerald of Galloway held the field the first day.
Edward Zifran of Gendy held it the second day. There was a revel on Saturday at the local Shakey’s Pizza Parlor.
July 28, 1974 AS IX
Revel With Fighting
Held at Lakeside School, Seattle, WA. Michael the Black and Stevanna of Hoghton were the autocrats. There was a costume contest.
Edward of Stonehaven and Caitlin na Darac won the wenching race. There was a costume contest. In the lists Elrond Blacksabre defeated
William of Portsmouth. Castellan Liam of the Barque held baronial court and admitted Anne of Caerdydd and Theodulf of Borogrove to
the Order of the Red Branch and gave the Green Leaf Award to Catherine Winifred of Tor Bitterroot, Donn an Bronach, Gwendolyn of Caer
Cerddinen, Sean Gealt, Sigurd von der Nordenkrasse, and Stevanna of Hoghton. Castellan Liam and his lady Dierdre Muldumhnaigh, were
handed paper sacks and told to pass out what was inside to the people whose names appeared on the back of the items. The items turned
out to be secretly made Red Branch medallions with their own names on them, made by the rest of the Order, and so they were admitted
to the Order of the Red Branch. Michael the Black gave out scrolls of appreciation for their dancing, food, or costumes to Anne of
Caerdydd, Caitlin na Darac, Beverly, Consuelo, John of the Angular Dove, Jane Grey, Margaret of Ashford, Tajara, Duncan of Chisholm,
Robert of Winchester, and Fiona di Varanus.
Renaissance Faire
Held at the Children’s Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center. The Barony put on an SCA demonstration.
Samhain Revel
Held at the Meadowdale Community Club, North of Seattle, WA. There was a prize for best costume (everyone was supposed to come in
a costume), and contests for storytelling, Athol Brose, and poetry on the spot.
~ 196 ~
Held at Lechbury Abbey, Seattle, WA.
Comments:
A
“Bunstable's were always fun. William the Lucky and I made several of them around this time or a little earlier. Granted most people
don't drive from the SF Bay area to Seattle for a party, but hey, we were young. There were a few interesting times, including the
dreadful houseboat trip from which we were rescued by lady Fiona and later helped to inadvertently found the Order of the Belated
Rose in An Tir, but that's another story.” – Steven MacEanruig
December 24, 1974 AS IX
Baronial Dance Troupe Demonstration
Amynta the Innocent and Amorette the Knowing led the Baronial Dance Troupe to a demonstration at the Northgate Mall, Seattle, WA.
SCA Demonstration
The Barony demonstrated fighting and dancing at the University of Washington campus for the Medieval Association of the Pacific.
Elrond of Gornoth coordinated the fighters and Amorette the Knowing and Amynta the Innocent led the dancers.
Opening Night of “The Four Musketeers”
Held at the United Artsts 150 Theatre, Seattle, WA. Elrond of Gornoth and Guillaume de Vinvert staged a live-steel fighting demonstration
complete with blood. The crowd loved it (Guillaume’s wound was similar to that suffered by D’Artagnan in the film). A troupe of dancers
also performed for the crowds, led by Amynta and Amorette.
Baron’s Dinner
Held at the Medieval Inn, Seattle, WA. Forty Madronites gathered for a medieval banquet of enormous proportions. After the well-served
banquet, the guests showed proper gratitude to the wenches and knaves. Music and Motely followed.
July 4-6, 1975 AS X
First Session, University of Madrone
Held at Lakeside School, Seattle, WA. Some fifty students attended. On Saturday night a symposium of some twenty people gathered to
share knowledge and present papers on various aspects of medieval culture; they dined on Kentucky Fried Chicken, the day being hot
and the participants busy at non-culinary tasks. Sunday night the first session was closed with a banquet for which Shalom ben Avram
of York and the other members of the Sable Court cooked and served medieval-style food to some 45 guests; the assemblage also quenched
its thirst with wine., Edward of Southhaven’s Stout, and port. Prince Edward gave Awards of Arms to Catherine Winifred of Tor-Bitterrot,
James the Dancer, Strybjørn Hrolfsson, Thorgeirr Eikinskjaldi and Alyanora of Vinca.
Prince’s Feast
A feast was held (where?) in honor of Prince Edward. Edward of Stonehaven was the autocrat.
August 30-31, 1975 AS X
100 Years War Memorial Tourney
Held at Matthews Beach, Seattle, WA. Sir Elrond Blacksabre and Sean Gealt autocratted. A war was fought between two sides with dead
fighters being resurrected at the count of five.
Samhain Revel
Held at House Barque, Seattle, WA. Liam of the Barque was the autocrat. There were contests in storytelling, cookery (a horsemeat dish),
mulled wine, and costumes: come as your persona’s ancestor or as an ancient god. Some 275 folk attended, from all parts of An Tir. In
addition to celebrating Samhain, the Barque was also celebrating the wedding that morning of Susan the Specific and Edward of Stockwood.
Susan and Edward were required to leap over a broom and toast each other in mead from an ancient Irish method. Susan had a cake broken
over her head and was presented with a Kinsale cape, a traditional Irish wedding present, which is expected to last the bride the rest of her
lifetime. Hild Kettlesbane astonished the happy couple with a unique subtlety representing a Neolithic passage-grave filled with skeletons
in various compromising positions. Such was the lineup at the table that the horsemeat was devoured before the judges could get to it.
Sean Gealt studied the pseudo entrails of a pseudo rabbit to predict the events of the coming year in true Motley fasion. Abra the Trader
~ 197 ~
was named Pursuivant Extraordinary in Three Mountains and Michael of Dragonswood was named Pursuivant in Adiantum. Duncan of
Chisholm was challenged to a leg contest by Elrond Blacksabre. Duncan still holds the title.
Was it held?
January 2-4, 1976 AS X
Second Session, University of Madrone
Held at Lakeside School, Seattle, WA. Over 100 students attended. Friday Night, January 2, was crowned by a potluck dinner and
symposium in the Refectory, at which Michael the Black recounted some fascinating lore about the medieval fair at Champagne, Edward
of Stonehaven presented a paper on brewing, and Duke Paul of Bellatrix discussed the duties of nobility. Saturday the instructors and
students returned to their classes and that evening everyone adjourned to the Twelfth Night Coronation and Revel. Sunday morning they
again returned for more classes.
Tournament of Games, Canton of En Tice
Held at the Vista Trailer Park Cabana, outside Lynnwood, WA. There were competitions in Nine Man Merles, King of Sweden,
Backgammon, and chess. Prizes were given to the winners of each of these, and to the overall winner. A potluck dinner and revel followed.
The autocrats were Viscount Edward Zifran of Gendy and Trixie LaTush. There was also a Dungeons and Dragons game. Viscount Edward
Zifran won the Nine Man Merles game, the King of Sweden was a draw, and the Bad Guys won the D&D game.
March 13, 1976 AS X
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Sean Gealt led a party of Madronites in Seattle’s annual parade. The party included Geoffrey de Speraunce, Genevra de Estolat, Swanhild,
Glanwym ty Merllionen, David of Bagulay, Serena, Trudy the Trollop, Sonja of Samarousk, and The MacGillivray.
March 20, 1976 AS X
University of Ithra Dance Workshop
Held at the Lakeside School Refectory, Seattle, WA. Fiona di Varanus was the instructor. David of Bagulay led the musicians.
April 24, 1976 AS X
Royal Wedding
Held at the Blessed Sacrament Church, Seattle, WA. Prince Elrond Blacksabre, and Princess Gilraén of Regen were married. A reception
was held at the Parish Hall, followed by an after-reception at Wakefield Castle.
June 19, 1976 AS XI
Second Annual Bergen am Bier Bread Riot and Prize Tourney
Held at Illahoe State Park, Bremerton, WA. Only three fighters showed up, and late at that. The champion twilsey-whopper was one David;
Grand Loser was Catherine. The Bread Riot was won by Catherine, of the incipient Shire of Golden Blossoms, which was putting on the
event. She demonstrated her mastery of furtive thievery and sharp business practices by stealing the most loaves of bread from her
unsuspecting co-attendees. The Ladies Test of Grace (tying on a pair of shoes gracefully and modestly) was won by Genevre of Estolat.
There were no entries in the sweetbreads or metal crafts contest, but the Song Parody Contest was won by Aduel and Sheah, with “Orgy
Girl”.
June 26, 1976 AS XI
LaTush Informal Tourney, Canton of En Tice
Held at the Cascade Vista Mobile Home Park, outside Lynnwood, WA. Trixie LaTush was the autocrat. There was no court and only one
fighter brought his gear. It turned into a farewell party for Trixie, who was soon to leave the canton. Practices were held in archery and
dancing. Towards the end of the tourney several awards were presented. One went to Duncan of Chisholm and Gilvaethe, who arrived at
the informal tourney site on time and spent two hours waiting for anyone else to show up.
July 3-5, 1976 AS XI
Third Session, University of Ithra at Madrone
Held at the home of Chancellor Michael the Black and his lady, Stevanna of Hoghton, near Lake Cassidy, WA. Some fifty persons attended
to take or give classes. Rain descended the first day but cleared up for the second and third days. Saturday evening a symposium was held,
along with a potluck banquet. King Paul and Queen Carol attended. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Dennis an Seodoir and Seaghdha
of Green Mountain and admitted Dennis an Seodoir to the Order of the Leaf of Merit. A Regents Meeting followed, at which Chancellor
Michael the Black stunned everyone by announcing his retirement. The second day began with more classes. In the evening a sumptuous
~ 198 ~
banquet was held. King Paul admitted Allysen of Dunrobin to the Order of the Pelican. Bachelors and Masters Degrees were handed out
to many students and instructors. The following day saw the completion of classes under a sweltering sun. Caitlin na Darag was awarded
the first Ithra Doctorate of Philosphy in Culinary Arts (her thesis had been the banquet the night before). Chancellor Michael the Black
temporarily rescinded his resignation on the condition that local support for the University increase. All of the work had been born by
himself and the members of his household, and few Madronites had come to the session.
July 17, 1976 AS XI
Annexation of the Shire of Faire Haven
On this date the Baron of Lion’s Gate, Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland, annexed the Shire of Faire Haven to the Barony of Lion’s Gate.
Baron Gerhard quieted the fears of the citizens of Bellingham, WA by a proclamation which limited his action to the Knowne World. He
named Maelen of Kynge’s Lea to be his Castellan. Madrone was busy preparing for the Shasta campaign.
July 18, 1976 AS XI
Informal Gathering, Shire of the Golden Blossoms
Held in the yard of Laird of the MacGillivrays, Tacoma, WA. Seven members showed up to a repast of that Italian dish, spaghetti.
July 31, 1976 AS XI
Crier Benefit Tourney
Held in Ravenna Park Picnic Area, Seattle, WA. Sean Gealt and Gwili were the autocrats. Baroness Dierdre presided over a baronial court.
A rummage sale was held. Serena did a provocative belly dance and was showered with coins. Lists were held. Duncan of Chisholm
provided Athole Brose in return for contributions. The rummage sale went on apace, and the populace was encouraged to Give Until It
Hurts by a specially hideous pipe-band-by-committee (everyone played different parts of the instrument, at length), Motley skits (the
populace was encouraged to give to make them stop; money flowed), and a song based on the song “That Old Time Religion”, sung by
Motley. The winner of the Lists was Eugen von Ostmark, who chose Fritha of Cair Bannog to be his Queen of Love and Beauty. At final
court it was announced that the Crier had cleared $88. An unravel followed at Wakefield Castle.
August 14, 1976 AS XI
Second Annual Medieval Spaghetti Feed, Canton of Golden Blossoms
Held at the MacGillivray’s Castle, Tacoma, WA.
August 21-22, 1976 AS XI
Wedding and First Annual Burgundy Prize Tourney
Held at Snoqualmie River Campground, Seattle, WA. In a Norse ceremony Gilmirron of the Blue Flame and a justice of the peace married
Reynaud of Burgundy to his lady Allysen. Shalom ben-Avram of York and his lady Judith bat-Avram of York acted as “seconds”. Then
the tourney commenced. Viscount Edward Zifran won the lists. Genevra of Estolat won the poetry contest; Pippin was judged the cook
of the best Turkey (aka Glanwyn ty Meillionen); and a potluck feast was held, which was enormous owing to the five turkeys that were
entered in the turkey contest. Revelry and a rowdy and bawdy shivaree for the newly weds followed that evening. The next morning Baron
Liam held a morning court and all departed.
Samhain Revel
Held at the Meadowdale Country Club, Edmonds, WA. People came dressed as their ancestors, figures from mythology, or private jokes.
Festivities opened with a processional to Cernunnos and his lady. The processional followed no order, as there is no rank after the grave.
Revellers were welcomed to the celebration of the Celtic New Year, when the dead walk, fairy mounds are opened, and the Lady gives
custody of the year to the Horned God. Sumptuous potluck feasting followed, in a hall lit soley by candle and fire light. Julian of the Purple
Mist won the wine contest; Daniel of Shadygrove won the Storytelling contest; Alysson won the meatpie contest; and a costume judging
was held. The decisions were: Best Male Costume - Chronos; Best Female - the Hag (Maire ni Monivea); Most Celtic Male - Bran the
Blessed (Julian of the Purple Mist); Most Celtic Female - a water kelpie (Gwendolyn Caer Cerddinen); M ost Outrageous - Sister
Appassionata (Serena); Special Award: Celtic Border Figures (Edward of Stonehaven and Caitlin na Darac); Best Group - King Arthur and
horse, Monty Python style - (Edward Zifran of Gendy and Alysson); and Most Archaic - The Egyptian Goddess of Life (Fiona di Varanus).
(Typesetter’s note: The rest of the History of Madrone is handwritten - there may easily be errors ...)
~ 199 ~
February 12, 1977 AS XI
Lupercalia Festival
Held Where? Sir Edward Zifran of Gendy was the autocrat. Prizes for contests: Most Beautifully Illuminated Valentine, Most Lecherous
Gentleman, Best Despcription of a Tassie Massie, Aphrodesiac Recipe, Story of the Most Difficult Conquest of Your Heart’s Desire, Most
Beautiful Poetry in Representation of Valentine’s Day, Best Skit pertaining to Lupercalia, Most Ornately Pleasing Welsh Spoon. Children’s
contests: Best Valentine Poem, Best Costume Design by a child, Most unusual beastie, and tale thereof, Best Illuminated Valentine. Potluck
Feast, Music, Storytelling.
February 19-20, 1977 AS XI
Crier Benefit Feast
Held at the Hall of Häga, Seattle, WA. 12 persons sat to dinnner at $10/person. The right to be Lord and Lady for the feast was sold.
Katherine of Northhall and Catherine of Häga were the autocrats. Serena Cleindori of Bagulay sculpted a subtlety.
Informal St. Patrick’s Day Observance
(See P. 13 May 77 Crier)
April 2 & 3, 1977 XI
Abu Asan Memorial Day Tourney
Where?
Bridal Shower for Viscountess Alma Tea
Alisoun Vozens hosted it. The ladies sipped tea, and opened gifts, munched on cakes & flummery, and viewed three educational films
dealing with certain viking practices.
Apr 30-May 1, 1977 AS XII
Wedding Tourney and New Year Celebration
Held one mile outside of M aple Falls, WA. Saturday was the wedding of Viscount Sir Edward Zifran of Gendy and Viscountess Alma Tea
av Den Telemarken. Saturday night was the New Year’s Eve party. Sunday was May Day Celebration. Contests in Archery, Athelbrose,
Saturday had a Prize Tourney and Potluck Dinner. Sunday had a war melee. Edward was the autocrat. (See P. 15, June ‘77 Crier)
May 14, 1977 XII
Viking Ship Launching
(See P. 14, July Crier)
May 21, 1977 AS XII
St. Edwin’s Day Tourney
Held at Ravenna Park, Seattle, WA. Sean Gealt was the autocrat. Contests for best rabbit dish, best rabbit joke, a death throes contest, and
best quiche. (See P. 14 July Crier)
June 4, 1977 AS XII
Second Annual Memorial Floating War Tourney
Matthews Beach Park, Seattle, WA.
July 9-10, 1977 AS XII
First Annual Highland Celtic Games and Foligue, Blatha an Oir
Snoqualmie River Campground, Fall City, WA. Duncan Chisholm was the autocrat. Prize tourney Saturday followed by a Celtic Melee (the
Celts against the world). Caber and Stone tossing, piping, foot races, tug of war, battled ore and shuttlecock, darts, nine-man morris.
Contest for best Broonies, wine. Best Children’s drawings of “Nessie”, Best period Ballad. Best Ghoulie tale, best decorated sporran.
Roasted lamb and athelbrose potluck (something obscured by three-ring hole in page).
July 16, 1977 AS XII
Sergeant of Arms Tourney
Held at Black Fens, WA. Baron Theodulf and Baroness Anne selected the first Seargeants of Arms of Madrone. There was a grand melee
between the applicants and the belted fighters. There was dancing, arts contests, and a potluck diner.
July 31, 1977 AS XII
People in the Parks Faire
Held in Everett, WA.
~ 200 ~
Michael’s Feast Unravel
Held in Lake Forest and Park, Seattle, WA. Michael Tryggvason was the autocrat. (Chonicle P. 16, September Crier)
Wedding and Nuptial Tourney
Held at Marymoor Park, Seattle, WA. Morimoto Koryu and Glanwyn Tí Meillionen were wed. (See P. 12, July Crier)
Minstrel’s Faire
House Mandgragora sponsored the Faire, held at Discovery Park, Seattle, WA. (See Page 11, August Crier) Sigelgaita the Silver-tongued
of Starhaven became first Baronial Mistress of the Pied Pipers Place. (See p. 10 Sept. Crier)
September 17, 1977, AS XII
Bunen Medieval Feste and Faire
(See P. 10 November Crier)
Sept 24-25, 1977 AS XII
Second Annual Burgundy Prize Tourney
Held at Snoqualmie River Campground, Fall City, WA. (See P 5, October Crier)
Samhein
Held in the Meadowdale Community Centre, Seattle, WA. Liam and Diredre were autocrats. (See P. 6, October Crier, p. 7; November Crier;
p. 13, January 78 Crier)
Eastside Benefit Medieval Faire
Bunstable’s
Shadygrove House Cooling Party
Founding Feast, East Farthing
Pullman, WA.
February 1978 AS XII
Lupercalia Revel
(See Page 15, April Crier)
St. Padraig’s Day Parade
Seattle, WA. Baronial members marched in the City’s annual parade. (Page 13, May Crier)
April 1, 1978 AS XII
All Fool’s Tourney and Revel
(See Page 10, April Crier; Chronicle P. 15, July Crier)
Banquet and Games Tournament
(See Page 7, May Crier; Chronicle P. 14, June Crier)
Dragon Quest to Raise Monies
Lady’s Day and May Eve Revel
(Chronicle P. 15, July Crier) Held at Gas Works Park, Seattle. Sponsored by House Ampersand ‘Or. (Page 13, April Crier, centerfold May
Crier)
~ 201 ~
May 6, 1978 AS XIII
Renaissance Faire
Held at Shoreline Community College, Seattle, WA.
June 10-11, 1978 AS XIII
St. Bunstable’s Prize Tourney
Held at Snoqualmie River Campground, Fall City, WA. (See P. 8, July Crier)
~ 202 ~
The Principality of An Tir – The Barony of Three Mountains
The Barony of Three Mountains
(Portland, OR)
The Barony of Three Mountains was formed in late 1969 in Portland, Oregon. The founding baron is Baron
Frederic of the West Tower, who was also the first seneschal. There was no founding baroness.
The Barony of Three Mountains - Argent, a
laurel wreath vert and a chief dancetty of three azure.
December 31, 1969 AS IV
New Years Eve Revel
Held in Baron Frederick’s home in Portland, OR. The first event of the Barony.
February, 1970 AS IV
Edwin Bersark, Earl Marshall, appointed Sir Frederic of the West Tower Knight Marshall for Madrone and Three Mountains.
May 29, 1970 AS V
Norwestercon Tourney
Held in the Portland Heathman Hotel, Portland, OR. The Barony sponsored an unofficial demonstration tourney at the con. About this time
Nicorlynn of Caer Wydder became seneschal. This was the first tourney for the Barony.
June 20, 1970 AS V
Combined Tourney, Madrone and Three Mountains
Held at Clyde Schumann’s Ranch, Olympia, WA.
July 18, 1970 AS V
Summer Tourney and Revel
Held off Pleasant Valley Road, Kinton, OR. Sir Frederick was the autocrat.
August 15-16, 1970 AS V
First Overnight Tourney
Held off Johnson Road, near Cornelius Pass, OR. Edwin Bersark was victorious in the Saturday lists and was master of the revels at the
evening revel. Lady Nicorlynn of Caer Wydder resigned as seneschal to go south to the Mists with her lord, Frederick of Holland. Grane
the Golden (Anthony Ward) succeeded her.
Comments:
A
“Other than that, there was also the fact that on Saturday we were picketed by a bunch of "overall-clad radical feminists". The
Portlan d underground newspaper of the time had advertised the event for us and had promised that there would be "fighting,
dancing and wenching". Naturally the "feminists" were upset by the latter word and came out to protest such sexist activity. They
demanded of a large group of men who came to respond to the commotion at the gate, "Who's in charge here?" The answer "She's
in her pavilion, lying down. Can we help you?" They argued for a bit until we told them that they had to get dressed in appropriate
garb in order to come in. One of them challenged to strip down to nothing, as it would be period garb. We said "OK". They didn't,
but went back to Portland to write a nasty letter to the editor. We went back to reveling.” – Frederick of Holland
B
“I already covered some of this event. One other thing that happened that weekend was a lesson on how not to make a weapon.
I had made a two-handed axe that I wanted to use in the lists against Edwin. First things first, we'll test it. OK, no problem. Edwin
set his helm on the ground and let me take an over hand swing at it. This produced a dent in Edwin’s helm that any body shop
~ 203 ~
would have loved. That was the end of the two handed axe. It worked out as I used that for slow work (one handed) against a pell
for a number of years. Never did need to replace it.” – Jerald of Galloway
A
“Jerald was there, I was there, Edwin was there.
“But it wasn't Edwin's helmet. It was mine. I still have it. In addition to putting a dent in 1/8" thick metal (honest!) the blow broke
loose several of the bars in the face grill so that they had to be re-brazed. It wasn't even that hard a shot.
“ I seem to remember that you made the blade out of plywood, is my memory correct Jerald?” – Frederick of Holland
January, 1971
Sir Frederick appointed Jerald of Galloway temporary Acting Knight Marshall.
April 18, 1971 AS V
Spring Tourney
Held in Washington Park, Portland, OR. Grane the Golden was the autocrat. The winner of the lists received a sword from the Hippogriff
Armories.
May 2, 1971 AS VI
May Tourney and Revel
Held where? There was a maypole and dancing, a poetry contest, pillow fighting, feasting and a revel in the evening.
June 5, 1971 AS VI
Anniversary Tourney
Held at the Hoyt Arboretum, Washington Park, Portland, OR. Baron Frederic of the West Tower was the autocrat. The fighting
championship was won by Erol of Lithostone.
June 26, 1971 AS VI
Demonstration Tourney
Held at Pleasure Faire, Oregon City, OR.
August 14-15, 1971 AS VI
Overnight Tourney
Where?
December 19, 1971 AS VI
Winter Solstice Revel
Held at Rose Castle, Portland, OR. Gerard of the Roses was autocrat. The revel featured the wedding of Gilmirron of the Blue Flame to
Sumingo of the House of New Midgard.
April 8, 1972 AS VI
Royal Tourney
Held in East Delta Park Archery Area, Portland, OR. Grane the Golden was the autocrat. The tourney was held in honor of King Paul and
Queen Carol. King Paul gave Awards of Arms to Jeanne of Portland, Jerald of Galloway and Roi de Cascades. Miles of the Shamrock won
the fighting lists.
May 13, 1972 AS VII
May Tourney, Canton of the Flaming Hall
Held on the Oregon City High School Practice Field, Oregon City, OR. Roi de Cascades was the autocrat. The first event of the canton saw
the members put out a fire at the school, from whence came the name of the canton.
June 22-23, 1972 AS VII
Birthday Tourney
The tourney was rained out and a consolation revel was held at the House of the Dragon Masters.
July 22-23, 1972 AS VII
Birthday and Midsummer Tourney
Held at Melver State Park, Clackamas County, OR.
September 16, 1972 AS VII
War Games Tourney
Held in the Washington Park Archery Range, Clackamas County, OR.
~ 204 ~
September, 1972 AS VII
Richard of Ravenwolf was appointed Master of Sciences.
Consolation Crown Tourney Revel
Where? About this time Jerald of Galloway became Mountain Pursuivant.
January 12, 1973 AS VII
Twelfth Night Yule Feast
Held at the Beaver Building, Portland, OR. Sumingo of Aramanth was the autocrat. Erliss of Greylizard and Lorisse of Eaglesloffte were wed.
All Fool’s Day Revels
Held in the Beaver Building, Portland, OR. John of Ravenwolf was autocrat.
Clan Gathering
Held at the Washington Park Archery Range, Portland, OR. Baron Frederic of the WestTower was the autocrat. There were games, arts,
combat, craftsmen and their wares, a bardic circle, a bard contest, a bread baking contest, and a contest held among Armsen for the title
of Warrior. A fighter obtained the title of Armsman by being qualified and showing up with their own helm, shield (painted with their
device), and at least one tourney weapon approved by the marshall.
Anniversary Tourney
Held in Washington Park Archery Range, Beaverton, OR. Gerard of the Roses was the autocrat. Revels followed at Beaver Hall. There were
challenges, melees, arts competitions, a meat pie contest, a costume contest, and a jeweler’s contest.
High Summer Tourney
Held at the Washington Park Archery Range, Beaverton, OR. Grane the Golden and Karl Silverhorn were the autocrats. There was a meat
stew contest, combat, games, and a bardic circle.
Revel
Where? Grane the Golden and Baron Frederic of the WestTower autocratted. Held in celebration of the betrothal of Natasha of the Flame
to Grane the Golden.
May 4, 1974 AS IX
Demonstration
Held at the Gatlan Gables Scholl, Portland, OR. Baron Frederic of the WestTower, Prince Richard of Ravenwolf, Odin Olson, and Edward
Zifran participated.
May 4-5, 1974 AS IX
Renaissance Faire
Held at Reed College, Portland, OR. Roy de Cascades and a group from the Canton of Flaming Hall put on demonstrations.
July 26-27, 1974 AS IX
Robin Hood Days
Held in Sherwood, OR. Edward Zifran of Gendy autocratted an SCA demonstration.
August 10-11, 1974 AS IX
Sun Tourney
Held at Washington Park Archery Range, Portland, OR. Edward Zifran autocratted.
Fall Tourney
Held at the University of Portland Campus, Portland, OR. The unravel was held at the home of Edward Zifran of Gendy.
~ 205 ~
Pete de Mars
Held in the Commons, Reed College, Portland, OR. Aerlyss Grelizard and Alcazia Nadira autocratted. There were magicians, a potluck feast,
musicians, mimes, mummers, dancers, and contest in dinner bread, jewelry, and for the Head of the Culinary Guild, a complete medieval main
dish platter.
December 7, 1975 AS X
Midwinter Revel
Held in the Portland Art Museum, Portland, OR. Numerous crafts were on display. There were fighting demonstrations and dancing.
Normand of Araby was given a silver Chalice by the House of Deitrich (Seneschal of Three Mountains) for Best Man’s Costume and Serena
was given a brooch. The third award was Scatterbrain, that infamous blade created by Jamie Oakenshield, foisted by Valkyrie on some
unsuspecting and here-in unnamed stalwart.
Comments:
A
“Scatterbrain was three pieces of rattan, attached side by side, to form a very formidable greatsword. I fought Jarl Sir Ulfred
Dromfelt last year or the year before, and the sword he was using was made out of piece of Scatterbrain.” – James Greyhelm
1 “I had forgotten Scatterbrain, but James brings it (her?) back clearly to mind. It brings to mind a pair of areas that we have
touched upon - weapon names and the difficulty of detecting impacts experienced by certain fighters and/or from certain
weapons. Scatterbrain, Red Ruin, Feather, Swansdown have all appeared so far. My original ratttan-edged axe was named
Smartax because of a comment that Harold the Grim made when he was the first hit with it (something like "Ouch that
smarts!"). Among other weapons specifically designed to "Get their attention" were Henrik's broadsword, with half sections
of bamboo laminated to the edges for striking surfaces, my plywood short falchion for combat when both I and my opponent
were on our knees, and the full size laminated rattan falchion that Aonghais commissioned for use "When those Caidans get
uppity." I guess most of us have our own "Old Betsy" weapon stories ... I just thought I'd bring it up.” – Kevin Peregrynne
I
“No, I never made a broadsword with bamboo glued to the edges. I did make a single edged curved (katana like) hand
and a half of split and planed strips of bamboo taped together with 2" wide adhesive cloth tape. No glue was used so that
the strips would slide against each other when the blade flexed. It was an experiment which broke over a shield rim about
12" back from the point. It had a leather shinai tsuba for a cross guard and was about 46" ling overall. The blade was about
1" wide and about 1 1/4" inch from back to edge with a gentle taper to a 9/16" wide rounded cutting edge.” – Henrik of Havn
II “Vis-a-vis famous swords, Martin had one called Tree that he broke over my head one Brotherhood Melee Tourney which
sore disappointed him. Since I'm commenting, here are several more bits of trivia-it's Kerissa of Silverwolf. Maihie
McFergie won the 1st Brotherhood Melee Tourney.” – Charles of Dublin
2 “I was squire to Sir Jamie Oakenshield back in the day, and Scatterbrain (the name, at least) brings back memories. It's always
nice to remember the old days. I know that the Zweihander, another one of Sir Jamie Oakenshield's brainstorms, was not
known as an impact weapon, but I don't remember anyone having trouble counting blows from it.” – Earl of Morris
House Oakenshield Alliance Feast
Held at the Student Union Building, Reed College, Portland, OR. Nearly 100 persons attended. The food was served buffet-style after the
households had been instructed. Entertainment was provided by Raymond the Muskrat, a piper, Michael, a juggler and fool, the Madrigal
Singers, and Erin, a bellydancer. The poetry and song contest on the subject of House Oakenshield and allies was won by Janet of Arden.
The Most Courtly Gentleman was deemed to be Baron Michael of Dragonswood. Briere of the Deep Woods won the pastry competition
with her Conventry Cakes. There was Nordic wrestling, dancing, singing, and other revelry.
July 24-25, 1976 AS XI
Sherwood Forest Days
Held in Sherwood, OR. This is an international event, with the towns of Sherwood and Nottingham, England, competing simultaneously
in an archery competition. The final scores at Sherwood are sent to Nottingham and vice versa, and the town with the highest scores is
judged the winner. So far, in several years of competition, the town of Sherwood has consistently won over the town of Nottingham. The
members of the Barony attend and put on demonstrations to add to the color and pomp. This year a prize tourney was held at the site,
presided over by Prince Steingrim and Princess Hrefna. Sir Jerald of Galloway was the autocrat. An 8/4 blow competition was held, with
each fighter getting only eight blows, and with the Princess having the option to award an extra four blows to fighters who pleased her.
Prince Steingrim was the winner. The second event was two-man teams, won by Prince Steingrim and Manfred der Blutfalfe. The final
contest was one-on-one fighting, won by Eric Blackhand. Gairlock of Stormbringer was the Mistress of the Lists. Prince Steingrim abducted
Maid Marian. A champion (Blackhand) was appointed to rescue her. Prince Steingrim appoint ed Sir Frederic of the WestTower as his
~ 206 ~
champion, but Blackhand won, thus freeing Maid M arian. Not to be outdone the ladies abducted the Sheriff and his men and locked them
up in their jail, releasing them at the price of buying each of the ladies an Orange Crush.
August 14, 1976 AS XI
Three Mountains Tourney and Oakenshield Pig Roast
Where?
(From here on, the History of Three Mountains is hand-written - so mistakes are quite possible)
December 18, 1976 AS XI
Yule Feast
Held at Colombia Park Field House, Portland, OR. (See p. 12 June Crier)
Reception for Janeltis Karaine, Stargazer
Held at the home of Sir Jamie of the Oakenshield and his lady Teamne, in honor of Mistress Janeltis, newly admitted to the Order of the
Laurel by Prince Edward with the permission of King Andrew.
Apr 30-May 1, 1977 AS XII
Reed College Renaissance Fair
(See p. 16 Sept. Crier)
July 2-5 1977 AS XII
Baron Sir Frederick Memorial Tourney & Adiantum Reclamation Project
Held at Mile McIver State Park, OR. Baron Frederick took a one year leave o

Annotated History of the West - The History of the Kingdom of The

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