Customary

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Shire of Hartwood Customary

ARTICLE 1 -- SCOPE

ARTICLE 2 -- DEFINITIONS

ARTICLE 3 -- CITIZENSHIP

ARTICLE 4 -- OFFICES OF THE SHIRE

ARTICLE 5 -- DEFENDERS

ARTICLE 6 -- OPERATING GUIDELINES

ARTICLE 7 -- EVENT STEWARD AND EVENTS

ARTICLE 8 -- AWARDS, ORDERS AND RECOGNITIONS

ARTICLE 1 -- SCOPE

This is the Hartwood Customary, as permitted by Corpora, which is intended to aid in the smooth operation of the Shire of Hartwood (Shire), a branch of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc (SCA). It is not a corporate publication of the SCA, and does not delineate SCA policies.
This Customary is superseded by Federal, Provincial and local Laws and Ordinances, the Governing Documents of the SCA, the Laws of the Kingdom of An Tir, and the Laws of the Principality of Tir Righ.
This Customary may be amended by Council, in consultation with the Seneschal due to conflicts within 1.2.
This Customary is not to be construed as law of any nature, but a document of customs, local policy, and implementation procedures for the Shire's operation.
This Customary will be reviewed annually.
This Customary and its contents will remain in force and can be modified with the following procedures providing the changes do not conflict with section 1.2.
1. Proposed changes must be submitted in writing one week prior to a council meeting.
2. Any amendment must be publicized to members in all of the official Shire publications.
3. Notice on the amendment must be published at least 21 days in advance of any vote.
4. At the next Annual General Meeting the vote on the amendment will be held.
5. The amendment will require a three-quarters majority of paid Hartwood members, who are present, to pass.

ARTICLE 2 -- DEFINITIONS

Ambassador: An Ambassador is a Citizen upon who is bestowed the honor of representing an Embassy of the Baronial Coronet and the Shire to a distant branch, such as when the citizen moves or travels to a distant land.
Event Steward: An Event Steward is a person to whom the Council has given responsibility for the management of an event.
Shire: The Shire is the Shire of Hartwood unless otherwise specified and defined in the Kingdom of An Tir records.
Defender: A Defender is a person who has been victorious in a tournament to select a Defender.
Charter of Citizenship: A writ given to a non-resident of the Shire to denote formal recognition of citizenship.
Citizen: A Citizen is a person who either lives within the boundaries designated by the SCA or has been granted a Charter of Citizenship by the Shire.
Consulting Event Steward: A Consulting Event Steward (Mentor) is an experienced Event Steward guiding a less experienced or new Event Steward in running an event.
Consensus: Consensus is the agreement of Citizens at a Council.
Council, The: a business meeting, or the body of Citizens in attendance at a business meeting of the Shire.
Deputy: A Deputy is a person chosen by an Official to assist in the performance of the Official’s duties, and who may or may not be in training to succeed the Official.
Deputy, Contingency: A Contingency Deputy is a person approved by Council who is capable of performing the duties of an Office when the Officer is unable to function. By Kingdom Law, all Contingency Deputies MUST be paid members and meet all requirements of an Officer in An Tir.
Financial Committee: A meeting of the Seneschal, Exchequer, and Officers as defined in the Financial Policy.
Governing Documents: Governing Documents are the Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, and Corpora of the SCA, and the Governing and Policy Decisions of its Board as found in its Organizational Handbook.
Kingdom: The Kingdom is the Kingdom of An Tir, unless otherwise specified.
Liaison: A Liaison is a person who reports between the Shire and other entities of the SCA. (e.g., Branch Liaison, Royal Liaison)
Member: A Member is a paid member of the SCA as defined in Governing Documents.
Office, Required: Required Offices are those required for a branch of the SCA to be a Shire, as listed in Governing Documents and/or Kingdom Law.
Officer, Acting: An Acting Officer is a person approved by Council who is acting instead of an Officer and has the same rights and responsibilities. Any Officer not yet warranted is considered an Acting Officer.
Officer, Greater: A Great Officer holds an Office defined as such in Governing Documents, Kingdom Law and/or by an action of the Council.
Greater Officers are: Seneschal, Exchequer, Chatelaine/Castellan, Minister of Stables, Arts & Sciences, Herald, Chronicler, Web Minister, TUTR Minister, and Scribe.
Officer, Lesser: A Lesser Officer is any Officer of the Shire that is a Deputy of a Great Officer, makes independent decisions, and usually has a Kingdom/Principality Superior.
Lesser Officers are: Chamberlain, Minister of Blades, Minister of Archery, Minister of Thrown Weapons, Family Activities Minister, and Youth Armoured Combat.
Official: An Official is a person acting in an official capacity for the Shire (e.g. Officer, Successor, Event Steward).
Publications: Official publications include:
1. the newsletter: The Hartbeat
2. website: hartwood.tirrigh.org
3. Facebook page: SCA - Shire of Hartwood (Official)
Quorum: 50% of current Officers must be present at the meeting, that must include the Seneschal and the Exchequer or their deputy.
SCA: The SCA is the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc.

ARTICLE 3 -- CITIZENSHIP

3.1 Rights of Citizens include:
1. Applying to become, or being recommended to become, an Official, as appropriate to Office, so long as the Citizen lives within Shire lands or holds a Charter of Citizenship.
2. Participating in decisions of the Council.
3. Participating in polling according to SCA Law.
4. Displaying the Shire Badge.
3.2 SUGGESTED responsibility guidelines for all Citizens include:
1. Being a paid member of The Society.
2. Actively participating in Shire affairs.
3. Attending Council.
4. Volunteering service-time at events.
5. Keeping up to date with Shire activities and current events.
6. Recommending deserving persons for awards and recognitions, as appropriate.
7. Behaving in a courteous and chivalric manner toward others.
3.3 Any individual may petition (not necessarily in a period style) the Council for a Charter of Citizenship. Petitions by individuals who reside outside Shire Territory will be reviewed based on visible and sufficient participation to be identified as being affiliated with the Shire. A person submitting a petition, or who holds a Charter of Citizenship, may withdraw petition and/or Citizenship with written notice to the Seneschal. Such individuals may reapply.
1. Note : Notices of possible changes to Citizenship status will be posted in official Shire publications for two months, prior to approval by Council.

ARTICLE 4 -- OFFICES OF THE SHIRE

Note A: No one is permitted to be Contingency Deputy to a position they cannot hold (e.g., the Seneschal cannot be Contingency Deputy to the Exchequer). If an Office is open, the responsibilities of the office fall to the overseeing Officer, or to the Seneschal if no overseeing Officer exists.

Note B: Not all Offices are filled at all times. Some are open or dormant until an interested party comes along (i.e., Offices can be open, not be filled, and still be considered Offices). Except those offices that are mandatory as per Kingdom Law.

4.1 General Duties for all Offices include, where applicable, but are not limited to:
1. Being a paid member of the SCA and providing proof of same to the Seneschal.
2. Contacting the Office's Kingdom and/or Principality superior as soon as possible after assuming an office.
3. Training successors and deputies.
4. If one's Office is a Greater Office, ensuring that a trained Contingency Deputy exists for the Office who is a member of the SCA and who is acceptable to, and approved by, the Council
5. Acting as a general representative regarding local resources, instructors, and suppliers for matters relating to their Office.
6. Functioning as an unofficial representative of activity within the Shire.
7. Maintaining an inventory of the Office, including regalia and reference materials, to be reported as the Chamberlain specifies, and in any case, not less than once a year.
  1. Ensuring that Shire property is passed to the new Official or returned to the Chamberlain at the close of the Official’s tenure.
  2. Ensuring that an accurate inventory of Shire Property is provided to the Chamberlain whenever possession of property changes.
8. Working with Event Stewards to ensure that the duties of the Office, relating to an event, are fulfilled.
9. Training, encouraging, and guiding others in volunteering for activities and Offices within the Shire.
10. Bringing to Council such paperwork as is necessary for the general function of the Office.
11. Ensuring that accurate and complete contact information is provided to the Web Minister for inclusion on the website.
12. Informing the Chronicler of pertinent information, in writing, regarding activities.
13. Greater Officers are responsible for reporting and administering the duties for their Lesser Officers/Deputies should the office be vacant or a report not submitted.
14. Reporting Requirements and Guidelines:
  1. Reports are to include the location of practices and events.
  2. Reports are to include numbers of attendees and participants.
  3. Provide reports to the Seneschal, and Chronicler (subject to the Seneschal’s deadline).
  4. Reports are required monthly before the Council meeting, submitted one week beforehand.
  5. Reports are required to be sent quarterly to the Principality superior (unless vacant, then sent to Kingdom superior). These are due no later than the 10th of April, July, October, and January.
  6. Lesser Officers/Deputies report to their Greater Officers, Principality superior (or Kingdom).
    1. A Greater Officer is required to report on behalf of any vacant Lesser Officer/Deputy.
15. Attending Council on a regular basis.
16. Ensure all Contingency Deputies are warranted.
17. Must have access to a reliable internet, regularly access the official Shire email, and have a permanent phone number. All Officers are expected to respond to communications in a timely manner.
18. If an Officer misses three consecutive monthly reports, OR two consecutive quarterly reports, OR three consecutive monthly meetings, will result in their office being under review and with the potential of the Official being asked to step down.
4.2 An Officer's term of office shall be two years except for Event Stewards and other short-term capacity Officials whose terms shall end upon completion of their duties. Greater Officers shall declare (at Council) a period of open applications 3 months before the ending of the term, to allow for training time. Lesser Officers shall declare (at Council) a period of open applications 1 month before the ending of the term. An Officer may apply for a maximum of 1 one-year extension at the discretion of the Shire Council.
1. Requests for applications for replacement of Officers will be posted on official publications.
2. Applications in the form of an SCA resume with relevant modern skills, shall be in writing to the Officer, and the Seneschal.
3. Officers determined to be deficient in the performance of duties shall be subject to sanctions by the Council, (e.g., warnings, suspension, and/or the Kingdom/ Principality superior shall be requested to remove the Official from the position).
4.3 The Seneschal is the administrative head and legal representative of the Shire. As such, the Seneschal is responsible for the smooth functioning and continued communication between the Officials of the Shire. Duties and Responsibilities of the Seneschal include:
1. Performing the Office of Seneschal in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Acting as moderator of the Council, and if unable to attend, ensuring that the Seneschals deputy is present to act as moderator.
3. Ensuring that Council meetings are conducted in accordance with the Customary.
4. Coordinating the amendment of this Customary as necessary with the consent of Council.
5. Referring proposals to committees as appropriate.
6. Sitting as a member of the Financial Committee.
7. Reviewing the bank statements monthly.
8. Ensuring that the financial documents are audited at least annually.
9. Attempting retrieval of Shire property when said property is not returned to the custody of the appropriate Officer.
10. Overseeing Lesser Officers and/or Deputies. They include:
  1. Family Activities Minister.
  2. Event Stewards from acceptance of event bids until the final paperwork is completed.
  3. Social Media Officer.
11. Ensuring that a list of lost and found items from events is maintained and provided to the Chronicler for publication as appropriate, and that lost and found is retained and stored, as approved by Council, for a period of at least a year and a day. After such time, items shall be considered forfeited to the Shire and may be sold off as a fund-raising measure.
4.4 The Herald is the voice of the Crown and Coronet. Duties and Responsibilities of the Herald include:
1. Performing the office in accordance with the requirements from the Black Lion Principal Herald’s office and/or the Silver Yale Herald.
2. Ensuring that the Shire has the services of a court herald, a field herald, and a book herald as needed.
3. Encouraging and assisting Citizens who wish to submit names or armory. This includes attempting to ensure that correct design, grammar, and/or construction is used, and providing the necessary paperwork for submitting names and armory to Principality (Silver Sparks).
4. Other duties as appropriate to the office and as required by Their Majesties, Their Highnesses, and Their representatives.
4.5 The Chancellor of the Exchequer is the Treasurer of the Shire. Duties and responsibilities of the Exchequer include:
1. Performing the Office of the Exchequer in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Providing a summary report of the Shire finances to Council, including a copy of the bank statements, at each meeting.
3. Ensuring that there are written financial procedures for the Shire, that they meet the approval of Superior(s) and Council, and that they are followed.
4. Lead the Financial Committee.
5. Providing reasonable access to financial records, as requested in writing, to the Seneschal.
6. Acknowledging donations to the Shire as appropriate.
7. Collecting and handling properly, all event monies and receipts either personally or through a designated representative.
8. Preparing an annual budget of non-event expenses for submission to, and approval by, Council.
9. Overseeing Lesser Officers and/or Deputies, which include:
  1. (i) The Chamberlain, who is responsible for maintaining an up-to-date inventory of the Shire's physical assets and regalia: their value, condition, maker, instructions for maintenance, any insurance required, and any other pertinent information.
    
    Duties and Responsibilities of the Chamberlain include:
    1. Ensuring that the Shire’s property is properly stored and cared for.
    2. Ensuring that the inventory of the Shire’s property is available, upon written request, to the populace of the Shire so as to encourage its use.
    3. Ensuring that property of value is appropriately marked as the Property of Hartwood.
    4. Keeping up-to-date records of the locations of Shire property, including items in storage, items stored with officers, and items currently checked out.
    5. Reporting to the Council and the Exchequer items that need to be replaced or repaired, and arranging for the replacement or repair of such items in consultation with the Council.
    6. Working with Event Stewards to facilitate checking out and checking in equipment needed for events.
    7. Loaning of Hartwood property, for non-SCA activities, is at the discretion of Hartwood Council.
    8. Loaning of Hartwood property, for other branches' SCA activities, is at the discretion of Hartwood Council.
4.6 The Minister of Arts and Sciences (A&S) is responsible for fostering the practice of period arts and sciences within the Shire. Duties and responsibilities of the Minister of A&S include:
1. Performing the office of the Minister of A&S in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Ensuring that an A&S meeting is scheduled and open to Citizens.
3. Assisting those with questions in the arts and sciences in finding the information or resources needed, if possible.
4. Recommending to the Seneschal(e) those whose skills and/or work in service to the arts and sciences show them to be worthy of Shire recognition or awards.
5. Encouraging arts and sciences competitions within the Shire.
6. Working with and fostering communications with any arts- and/or sciences-related groups and guilds as applicable.
7. Maintaining a list of resource people and their skills.
8. Overseeing Lesser Officers and/or Deputies, which may include:
9. (i) The Dance Minister, who is responsible for the instruction and promotion of Period and SCA-compatible dancing.
10. (ii) The Bardic Minister, who is responsible for the instruction and promotion of Period and SCA-compatible bardic endeavours.
4.7 The Master of Stables is responsible for the conduct of SCA-legal combat within the Shire. Duties and Responsibilities of the Marshall include:
1. Performing the Office of the Marshal in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Ensuring that regular fight practices are held.
3. Ensuring that a warranted Marshal is present at all Shire martial activities.
4. Ensuring that participants in martial activities within the Shire meet the requirements concerning equipment, training, and waivers.
5. Overseeing Lesser Officers and/or deputies, which include:
  1. (i) The Rapier Marshal, who has similar duties and responsibilities with respect to Rapier Combat.
  2. (ii) The Shire Archer, who has similar duties and responsibilities with respect to Archery.
  3. (iii) The Thrown Weapons Marshal, who has similar duties and responsibilities with respect to Thrown Weapons.
  4. (iv) The Minister of the Lists, who is responsible for ensuring that the Shire's tournament lists are conducted smoothly.
    
    Duties and Responsibilities of the Minister of Lists include:
    1. Performing duties in accordance with directions from Kingdom, and/or Principality superior(s).
    2. Ensuring that no one fights in a Shire tournament who does not meet the eligibility requirements as specified by the SCA, the Kingdom, the Principality, the Shire and/or the Event Steward.
    3. Working with other Officials of the field to promote a safe, well organized tournament.
  5. (v) The Youth Combat Warden, who has similar duties and responsibilities with respect to youth combat.
4.8 The Chronicler is responsible for the timely editing, publication, and distribution of Shire publications. Duties and Responsibilities of the Chronicler include:
1. Performing the Office of the Chronicler in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Keeping accurate minutes of all Council meetings.
3. Arranging court recordings for all Shire events.
4. Assisting Officials of the Shire to produce attractive printed matter in an economical and timely manner if reasonable, as requested.
5. Ensuring that the Customary is put into a publishable form and distributed to no less than the Web Minister for publication on the Shire website.
6. Ensuring the quarterly publication of The Hartbeat, Hartwood's official Newsletter (required).
7. Overseeing the publication of The Pulse, a "what's happening" in Hartwood (unofficial/optional).
4.9 The Web Minister is responsible for maintaining and updating the Shire website and Social Media accounts. Duties of the Web Minister include:
1. Performing the Office of Web Minister in accordance with directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Assisting Event Stewards in producing suitable event web pages
3. Placing official electronic event copy on the Shire website
4. Ensuring that the Customary is published on the Shire website.
4.10 The Chatelaine is responsible for ensuring that information and assistance are available for newcomers to the Shire. Duties and Responsibilities of the Chatelaine include:
1. Performing the office of the Chatelaine as required by directions from Kingdom and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Ensuring that an up-to-date pamphlet and/or business cards, welcoming newcomers to the Shire, are provided at Shire activities, demonstrations, and as requested.
3. Referring persons requesting information to Officials or persons who will assist them in areas of interest.
4. Ensuring that a Newcomer’s meeting is scheduled and open to those interested.
5. Maintaining and disseminating information that presents a well-rounded view of the SCA.
6. Overseeing Lesser Officers and/or deputies, which include:
  1. The Gold Key Officer , who is responsible for maintaining and making available the Shire's supply of loaner/rental clothing, as requested.
  2. The Demo Coordinator, who is in charge of coordinating SCA demonstrations for the Shire.
4.11 The Scribe is responsible for scribal activities within the Shire. Duties and Responsibilities of the Shire Scribe include:
1. Performing the duties of the Office in accordance with the directions of Kingdom, and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Working with Officials to ensure that ceremonial documents are produced to meet the needs of the Shire.
  1. The only documents required of this office are the official Shire documents.
3. Working with the Shire Herald to ensure the accuracy and maintenance of the Order of Precedence and associated scribal records.
4. Encouraging Shire scribal activities.
4.12 The TUTR Minister is responsible for TUTR activity within the Shire, under the direction of The University of Tir Righ. Duties and Responsibilities of the TUTR Minister include:
1. Performing the duties of the Office in accordance with the directions of Kingdom, and/or Principality superior(s).
2. Working with Officials to ensure that TUTR documents are produced and reported as needed for TUTR.
3. Encouraging and overseeing educational activities both formal and informal.

ARTICLE 5 -- DEFENDERS

Note A: The Shire Defenders include: Armoured; Archery; Bardic; Craftsman; Researcher/Scholar; Rapier; Thrown Weapons.

Note B: All Defenders have equal standing.

Defenders must hold a valid SCA membership for the duration of their term.
Defenders hold the rights and responsibilities of Citizens as noted in their ceremonial documents of recognition, for so long as they remain Defender.
Defenders have the right to wear regalia appropriate to their station.
The general tenure of a Defender is approximately one year.
1. The tenure begins when the Defender is recognized during a Shire audience of the Defenders Tournament in which there was victory, and it ends during a Shire audience of the following Defenders Tournament before a successor is recognized. General tenure guidelines may be modified if circumstances dictate.
Further rights of Defenders include:
1. Sitting at the Shire High Table. (This does not apply if superseding Royalty is present and therefore controls the table. e.g. King and Queen or Prince and Princess)
2. Advising the Shire in matters of peace and war
Further responsibilities of Defenders include:
1. Swear an oath of Service to the Shire.
2. Attending Shire events whenever possible during their tenure as Defender.
3. Defending the Shire against all challengers.
4. Attending, and coordinating, the tournament to choose a successor.
5. If unable to attend, suggest a replacement acceptable to the Council to run the tournament.
Defenders must relinquish the Defendership if unable to fulfill the duties of the office; in this case, a substitute may be assigned by the Seneschal to fulfill the duties needed for the next Defendership.

ARTICLE 6 -- OPERATING GUIDELINES

6.1 The Council meeting shall be scheduled once per month as published in the Shire publications. At this time, meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month via Zoom.
6.2 Decisions are made by a consensus of the Council. If consensus is not achieved the Council will work towards a 75% agreement by a polling.
1. The Seneschal shall have the right to exercise veto of any consensus decision of Council should it be in violation of modern, SCA, Kingdom, or Principality laws.
2. During a Council meeting, if the moderator determines that the situation warrants, proceedings may be interrupted for an off-the-record discussion which shall not be recorded other than as a note in the minutes of the subject discussed and that it took place.
6.3 Minutes shall be kept of Council meetings and accepted into the record at the next Council after any necessary corrections.
1. Minutes shall include, as applicable: date, time, and place of meeting; who is moderating; list of attendees signing in; acknowledgement of acceptance of the previous minutes and any corrections; financial report; reports of Officials; reports of committees; event reports; summaries of discussions of old and new business; records of the appointment of committees and the names of their members; record of adjournment and the time. All written reports received will be attached as part of the minutes.
2. Following a meeting, the Officials will review the minutes in OneNote within one week; once amendments are made, minutes are considered approved and posted in official publications no later than one week prior to the next council meeting.
6.4 The Exchequer shall have up-to-date financial records available at the beginning of the Council meeting.
6.5 Emergency matters (that need to be dealt within 72 hours) may be dealt with by the Seneschal and/or Deputy Seneschal to be ratified at the next regular or specially convened council meeting.
6.6 Emergency Council meetings are to be held only in situations where decisions must be made prior to the next regularly scheduled Council meeting.
1. A quorum of Officers must be in attendance
2. Minutes of any Emergency Council meeting must be taken and kept with the Council meeting minutes.
3. An Emergency Council meeting can take place in person or through an e-conference meeting.
4. Any actions taken must be discussed at the next scheduled Council meeting.
5. A telephone poll shall not be considered to be a meeting of the Emergency Council.
6.7 The Financial Committee shall meet every year.
6.8 Items not covered by this document may be handled through Council by motion and vote.

ARTICLE 7 -- EVENT STEWARDS AND EVENTS

7.1 For the Shire to sponsor an event, a written proposal must be submitted to, and approved by the financial committee and then the Council. The proposal must include:
- nature of event,
- date, time, place,
- general budget,
- names of proposed Event Steward, Contingency Deputy,
- any Consulting Event Steward, and
- full and complete contact information for all.
- Seneschal, and Exchequer are precluded from applying for the positions of Event Steward for Shire Events due to inherent duties already assumed for any Event.
- Event Steward and Contingency Deputy shall not be from the same house.
- Event Stewards shall have a Contingency Deputy who shall be kept fully informed of the details of the event. Event Stewards may appoint additional deputies as needed for the running of an event.
- If a person approved as an Event Steward has insufficient experience in running events or is new to the area, a Consulting Event Steward may be required by the Council. Note: The Council has the right to require an Event Steward to have a Consulting Event Steward for an event. The Council may not require an Event Steward to use a specific Consulting Event Steward, but it may require the Event Steward to choose a different Consulting Event Steward more acceptable to the Council.
7.2 Event Stewards or their Contingency Deputy are required to attend the Council meetings, as applicable, prior to the event for which the Event Steward has responsibility. Brief reports shall be presented monthly from the time of acceptance of the proposal until event closure.
- Event Stewards are to work with Shire Officials to ensure that event-related duties are fulfilled.
- As applicable, Officials who have duties at upcoming events are required to attend the last two Council meetings prior to that event. If the Official cannot attend, an informed deputy may be delegated to attend the meetings instead.
- Event Stewards are to ensure that any event-related needs are fulfilled, including:
  1. (i) Maintaining a paid membership until the event is officially closed and the final paperwork submitted.
  2. (ii) Creating copy for publication which includes directions and all pertinent contact information for the Event Steward and any other necessary assistants, so that anyone is able to contact the event staff should they have special needs or questions.
  3. (iii) Having the Seneschal or Chatelaine approve all marketing publications related to the event prior to dissemination.
  4. (iv) Getting event copy to Principality Calendar, and appropriate publications after it has been approved by the Seneschal. Event copy must be submitted to the Web Minister for publication.
  5. (v) Posting any necessary signs for visual assistance to the site.
  6. (vi) Ensuring gate staff have sufficient numbers of the appropriate waivers and sign-in sheets.
  7. (vii) Officials and Event Stewards shall give a closing report on an event at the Council meeting immediately following the event, barring circumstances beyond their control. If this Council meeting is the week after the event, the Event Steward may, instead, first file a preliminary report at the Council meeting immediately following the event, provide the monies and a draft financial report to the Exchequer, submit sign-in sheets and waivers to the Seneschal, and then present the closing report at the next Council meeting.
7.3 An event will not be considered closed until:
- Gate sheets and waivers are submitted to the Seneschal or Exchequer.
- A financial report has been submitted to the Exchequer (within 14 days).
- All Shire equipment (regardless of where it is stored) has been returned to the satisfaction of the Chamberlain and the Seneschal. Return items clean, dry, and in a timely fashion. Report any damage or loss.
7.4 Alcohol
- As per SCA laws, Alcohol cannot be purchased by a branch, with the exception for use during cooking. This includes for the use at a bar, tavern, or as a prize, etc.
- Alcohol cannot be given as a prize.

ARTICLE 8 -- TOKENS, ORDERS, AND RECOGNITIONS

8.1 The Tokens, Orders, and Recognitions of the Shire
1. Stag Tag
  
  Combat Arts: Armoured, Rapier, Cut & Thrust, Combat Archery, Combat Thrown Weapons, Jousting
  
  Recognition of an individual who, while residing in Hartwood, has fought in the Combat Arts with their own kit under Hartwood’s banner. This specifically means one who has participated in a group war event, or fought while Defender of Hartwood. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned.
2. Golden Fawn
  
  Recognition of a youth (12 years old to 16) who, while residing in Hartwood, has fought in the Combat Arts with their own kit under Hartwood’s banner. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned.
3. Silver Fawn
  
  Recognition of a youth (11 years old and younger) who, while residing in Hartwood, has fought in the Combat Arts with their own kit under Hartwood's banner. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather is earned.
4. Raven Tag
  
  Target and Equestrian Arts: Target Archery, Thrown Weapons, Equestrian
  
  Recognition of an individual who, while residing in Hartwood, has competed in the Target or Equestrian arts with their own kit under Hartwood's banner. This specifically means one who has participated in a group war event, or competed while Defender of Hartwood. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned.
5. Golden Crow Tag
  
  Recognition of a youth (12 years old to 16) who, while residing in Hartwood, has competed in the Target or Equestrian Arts with their own kit under Hartwood's banner. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned.
6. Silver Blackbird Tag
  
  Recognition of a youth (11 years old and younger) who, while residing in Hartwood, has competed in the Target or Equestrian Arts with their own kit under Hartwood's banner. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather is earned.
7. Swan Tag
  
  Recognition of a person's active participation in Arts & Sciences such as, but not limited to: competitions, demos, teaching, largesse. This token requires the populace to take note of their fellows’ achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
8. Golden Cygnet
  
  Recognition of a youth (12 years old to 16) in active participation in Arts & Sciences such as, but not limited to: competitions, demos, teaching, largesse. This token requires the populace to take note of their fellows' achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
9. Silver Cygnet
  
  Recognition of a youth (11 years old and younger) in active participation in Arts & Sciences such as, but not limited to: competitions, demos, teaching, largesse. This token requires the populace to take note of their fellows' achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
10. Sable Hound
  
  Recognition of excellence in service by an individual to the Shire of Hartwood. This token requires a written recommendation to the Seneschal.
11. Golden Kit
  
  Recognition of excellence in service by a youth (12 years old to 16) to the Shire of Hartwood. This token requires a written recommendation to the Seneschal.
12. Silver Kit
  
  Recognition of excellence in service by a youth (11 years old and younger) to the Shire of Hartwood. This token requires a written recommendation to the Seneschal.
13. The Lure
  
  Recognition of excellence in demos, assisting newcomers, inspiring activity and presenting our society in the best possible light. This token requires a written recommendation to the Seneschal.
14. Stag's Heart of Hartwood
  
  Recognition of a person who has continuously provided direct service to Hartwood for a minimum of 10 years. This is at the Seneschal’s discretion, and is not intended to be awarded annually.
15. Stag's Mark
  
  Recognition of a person living outside the Shire who has been of great benefit to Hartwood. This token requires a written recommendation to the Seneschal.
16. Honorary Citizen of Hartwood
  
  Recognition of a person living outside the Shire who has continuously provided direct service to Hartwood for a minimum of 10 years. Given at the discretion of the Seneschal in consultation with Shire Council.
8.2 Traditionally, the Seneschal consults with the members of the Polling Orders, as appropriate, prior to inducting any person into that Shire Order. The Polling Order of the Shire is:
1. Exemplar
  
  Embodying the spirit and virtues that our Society holds dear: courtesy, honour, kindness, and generosity. An honour held for one year only, it is then passed from the existing Exemplar onto the next.
8.3 Presentation of Tokens, Recognitions, or induction into Orders shall be reported as soon as possible after the presentation by the Branch Herald to the Dexter Gauntlet.

-- END --

History of document: Built on the first by Aline de Seez, John Macandrew, Elphin o Flaithbheartaigh, and Halima al-Rakkasa in 2020. This version 2023-01-01 by Elphin o Flaithbheartaigh, Halima al-Rakkasa, Letitia Cecily Talbott. Approved on March 22, 2023, by Tir Righ Seneschal Kheron Azov.

Financial Policy

This downloadable PDF is a printable version of below.

Shire of Hartwood Financial Policy

I. Introduction

The following Shire of Hartwood Financial Policy serves as an addendum and is subject to the requirements set forth by the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. (SCA) Financial Policy, SCA Corpora and By-Laws, the Kingdom of An Tir (Kingdom) Financial Policy, the Laws of the Kingdom of An Tir, the Principality of Tir Righ (Principality) Financial Policy, and the Laws of the Principality of Tir Righ.

II. Financial Policy

A. The Hartwood Financial Policy shall be published, in its entirety, on official Hartwood media both print and internet media).

B. The Hartwood Financial Policy shall be reviewed by the Financial Committee at least on an annual basis. All changes must be brought forward to the Hartwood Council to be discussed and ratified.

C. This FP is subject to approval by the Tir Righ Exchequer.

III. Financial Committee

The Financial Committee is responsible for the financial health of the Shire; therefore, all members of the Financial Committee are informed on the Financial Policies of Society, Kingdom and Principality, as well as Society governing documents and Kingdom and Principality Laws.

A. The Financial Committee shall consist of at least three (to a maximum of five) SCA members: Seneschal, Exchequer, and one other agreeable to Council.

When an Officer steps down from their office, their term on the Financial Committee ends as well.

B. A Financial Committee meeting is called and chaired by the Exchequer.

Meetings are to be held, at minimum, one to four weeks before an Annual General Council Meeting; if there are time conflicts, all may agree to move the date. Meetings may be in person, via e-conferencing, or a combination thereof.
Decisions are made by consensus (unanimous agreement). If consensus cannot be achieved, the matter may be tabled to a later date, or all may agree on a majority vote.
Minutes of Financial Committee meetings shall be recorded and published through official Hartwood media.

C. The Financial Committee will approve in advance annual and event budgets, which will be ratified by the Council at the next Council meeting. Items brought up at regular monthly Council meetings may be voted on by members at the Council meeting with the approval of the Financial Committee.

D. The Financial Committee must approve expenditures exceeding the budget.

An event steward or officer may spend up to 10% over their approved budget, or up to $100, whichever is less, without authorization of the Financial Committee.

E. In an emergency, disbursements can be authorized by the Financial Committee through electronic means. An emergency is defined as a financial decision that cannot wait until the next scheduled monthly meeting. These emergency disbursements will be recorded in the minutes by the Financial Committee at the next Financial Committee meeting.

IV. Banking

The policy set forth in SCA, Kingdom, and Principality Financial Policies shall be accepted as standard policy in regards to bank accounts.

A. Signatories on all bank accounts must be in accordance with SCA, Kingdom, and Principality Financial Policies. Signatories must not be related nor co-habiting.

B. Signatories on all accounts will include:

Exchequer,
Seneschal,
Principality Exchequer,
And the Canadian Banking Society Representative,
with the option to add one person in each of the greater Shire population areas.

C. All signatories will ensure membership information is updated as needed, and that required copies of proof of SCA membership and government issued photo identification are in the Exchequer's records.

V. Financial Records

A. Financial Records shall be maintained by the Exchequer and the Shire according to Corpora, Society, Kingdom and Principality Financial Policies.

VI. Reporting and Disclosure

The Shire follows the reporting requirements of the Principality Financial Policy.
The Exchequer must reconcile the bank statement monthly, and provide to the Seneschal for review and signature acknowledging same. The signed and reconciled bank statement should be stored with the Shire's financial records.
Financial statements (consisting of the Comparative Balance Statement and the Income Statement) must be made available to the membership at least annually, via official Hartwood media.

VII. Asset Management

All branch assets must be recorded. The inventory system should list the location and description of all non-cash assets regardless of type. Items may be grouped together (e.g. 10 baldrics) where reasonable. Where possible a photo inventory should also be kept to supplement the written descriptions.
Assets will be inventoried annually, after the Champions event.

VIII. Budget

A. The Financial Committee shall be responsible for preparation of the draft of the Shire budget.

All Shire Officers will submit their budget requests prior to the December meeting of the Financial Committee.
1. If not submitted, the Financial Committee will rely on historical information.
All Event Stewards of scheduled events will submit their event proposals/budgets prior to the December meeting of the Financial Committee.
1. If not submitted, the Financial Committee will use forecasted budget numbers based on historical data; the Event Stewards will confirm a minimum of 6 months before the event.

B. The budget shall be ratified at the January Council Meeting of the budget year.

C. The final budget shall be published in the official Shire media.

IX. Expense Authorization

A. The Financial Committee must approve all shire expenditures before they are incurred by pre-approved budget or a written request for funds.

B. The Financial Committee must approve unbudgeted expenditures before they are incurred. Expenditures without approval may not be reimbursed.

C. Fully documented receipts must be provided to support all expenditures. Statutory declarations may be accepted where there are no receipts.

D. The Exchequer is only obligated to reimburse receipts presented within 90 days of the expenditure.

E. Any expenditures over $500 require two quotes.

X. Controlling Cash

All disbursements will be made by signed cheques or traceable money orders. Disbursements in advance of a purchase must be documented beforehand and will be treated as receivable items until they are reconciled by presentation of receipts and/or cash totaling the amount of the advance. Reconciliation of advances must occur within 30 days of the disbursement.

XI. Controlling Funds Received

Funds received include, but are not limited to: event income of all types, donations, and money from sale of goods purchased with group funds.

A. Deposit of Funds

1. Funds totaling more than $500 must be deposited into the Shire account within 5 business days from the close of the event. No exceptions.

2. Funds totaling less than $500 must be deposited into the Shire account no later than 14 business days after receipt. No exceptions.

3. Undeposited income of any type is not to be used for refunds, reimbursements, or expenses.

4. Only paid SCA members may handle SCA funds. Minors may not serve as Head Gatekeeper/Reservationist/etc. for an event. Minors may assist at the gate collecting funds, making change, etc., under the oversight of an individual permitted by the SCA’s Corporate Policies to serve as an officer, who will be ultimately responsible for the accounting of the funds passing through the gate. At least one paid adult member of the SCA must be present and in charge anywhere SCA money is collected.

B. Forms of funds accepted

Preferred form of payment is cash or personal cheque.
SCA branches are not to accept the personal credit card of an individual or business under any circumstances.
Interac/eTransfers are not allowed, according to all SCA Financial Policies.

XII. Event Financial Procedures

A. All Event Stewards must submit an Event Proposal (form available online and from the Exchequer) to the Financial Committee detailing estimated income and expenditures. If approved, the Proposal is released to the Council for ratification.

Event Proposals

1. Advances shall be less than the expected income.

2. Each event shall be treated as a separate entity for accounting purposes.

3. Advances shall be the responsibility of the Event Steward, who will sign for money received.

4. The requirement for an event to yield a profit may be waived at the discretion of the Financial Committee.

5. Event admission charges will be presented to the Financial Committee for approval.

6. Event proposals must include a refund deadline for all pre-paid fees.

B. During an event, all income is the responsibility of the Event Steward.

All monies shall be locked in a box in possession of the Event Steward, Seneschal, Exchequer, or their designates.
As monies accumulate at Gate, they shall be removed to a secure place leaving the original float. Drops are sealed into an envelope with the relevant gate sheets, witnessed by another paid SCA member and the envelope initialed by both.

C. The Event Steward, with the assistance of the Shire Exchequer, shall complete within two weeks an Event Financial Report to be submitted to the Financial Committee and the Council.

D. Event refunds will be assessed on an individual basis by the Event Steward and the Financial Committee. Refunds will only be given for exigent circumstances.

E. Complementary Passes are as per Principality Law.

F. Refund Policy Regarding Event Cancellation

Refunds may be given when an attendee has overpaid their event registration fee, when an event is canceled, when a class at an event is canceled, or when a refund request for a pre-event payment is made prior to the deadline
Refunds to attendees will be made by shire cheque.
Requests for refund of a pre-event payment, e.g., feast ticket or TUTR classes, must be made by the published deadline. The request must include a valid postal mailing address.
If an event is canceled, all pre-event payments will be reimbursed.
An overpayment of an event registration fee, at the event gate, cannot be reimbursed from the gate cash box.

XIII. Prohibited Activities

A. Raffles and Online Auctions are prohibited.

B. Fireworks

The purchase, ownership, or sale of fireworks is prohibited.
The purchase of professional fireworks services is permitted, with approval of the Board of Directors. Board approval is obtained through the Kingdom Seneschal and Kingdom Exchequer who will contact their society superiors for instructions.
Branches wishing to purchase professional fireworks services must provide details of same to the Principality Seneschal and Principality Exchequer for their review and forwarding to their Kingdom superiors.

Ratified on: Jan 5, 2023

Shire of Hartwood Financial Policy - 2023

Council Minutes

Current -- 2022

January Council and AGM

2021

2020

January AGM Agenda and Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)
April Council
November Council

2019

January AGM
January Financial Committee Meeting (Pending)
February Council
March Council
April Council Agenda | Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)
June Council Agenda | Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)
July Council Agenda | Minutes and Officer Reports (Approval Pending)
August Council Agenda and Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)
September Council Minutes and Reports (Approval Pending)
October Council Agenda | Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)
November Council Agenda | Officer Reports | Minutes (Approval Pending)

Archives

Shire Forms and Applications

Here is a collection of useful forms and links for the general running of the shire – Event Bids, cheque requests, and officer applications.

Officer Application: taking the mystery out of just what information council would like to see in an application, this quick form covers all the essentials.
Change of Officer Form: this form goes through many hands – from outgoing officer, to new officer, to council, to the Seneschal, to Principality and Kingdom.
Financial Officer Warrent: And if you're the Exchequer, you get TWO forms!
Extension of Warrent: a standard term is 2 years, but it is allowable to extend as many as 3. Use this form to do so.
Token Recommendation: do you know someone who deserves recognition for their work and accomplishments? Perhaps you'd like to recommend them for a Shire Token. A full description of the tokens we offer can be found below in the heraldry section.
Cheque Request: Used anytime one asks for funds or re-imbursement.

Event Forms

Event Proposal: Hartwood In-Person Events; Hartwood Online Events; Principality Event Bid; Kingdom Event Bid
Event Registration with Calendar: Date Reservation Form/Event Information Form (DRF/EIF): The Seneschal must fill out part A, the Steward part B.; Kingdom Calendar FAQ; In-Person Event Request Form: The Seneschal must fill this out.; Online Event Request Form: The Host can fill this out.; Crier Event Copy: This should be filled out by the event Steward once the EIF has been recieved by Kingdom.; Request Facebook Event: Email the Webminister with details.
Waivers & Gate Files: Bullying & Harrassment Poster: Must be displayed at all events.; Standard Gate Sheet; Adult Waiver, Roster; Minor Medical Waiver: Must be filled by parents in advance of event.; Minor Consent to Particpate; Minor Consent to Participate in Combat; Equestrian Waiver
Other Documents: Cheque Request: Used anytime one asks for funds or re-imbursement.; Marshal In Charge information for Event Stewards
Reporting: Event Financial Report; NMR Submission; Waiver Submission; Marshal In Charge Report; Incident Report

Local Branch Links

Hartwood is one of several branches within greater regional areas. Below you will find links to our neighbors and regional districts.

Kingdom of An Tir: includes Oregon, Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, British Columbia, the Yukon, and the Northwest territories.
Principality of Tir Righ: includes most of the province of British Columbia and Bellingham, WA.
Barony of Seagirt: Centred in Victoria, Seagirt is our closest neighbour and governs the land from Duncan south. Together with Hartwood and False Isle, we are collectively referred to as 'Insula Magna'. You will often find Seagirtians and Hartwood events, and vice versa. Their spring-time Daffodil event draws gentles from all over the Principality, and they are the biennial host of Sealion War.
Shire of Fjordland: One of the newest branches in Tir Righ, Fjordland is located on the Sunshine Coast reaching from Port Mellon to Earl's Cove. They host Tides Turning and Fjordland Rising which have quickly gained reputations for being wonderful ways to spend a weekend.
Barony of Lions Gate: This Barony sits across the water, covering Metro Vancouver / Lower Mainland and Sea-to-Sky areas. The largest branch in Tir Righ, they host hundreds at their annual Tournament of Armies. They are the biennial host for Sealion War, and host impressive banquets.
Shire of Lionsdale: Located in the Fraser Valley, Lionsdale is most famous for the unmissable Odin's Playground; a highland-games type event, but norse themed.

These are just a few of the branches located nearby; for a full listing of the branches of Tir Righ, head over to the Principality of Tir Righ's page.

Introduction to Competitions in the SCA

Written by Mistress Cecille de Beumund

(Cunegonda asked Mistress Cecille to write a little on this topic for our Activities page; it became a longer article of worth, so it resides here in it's fullness. This is why you might recognize the first paragraph.)

Competitions come in a wide variety of formats. They range all the way from fun and silly to serious, from most popular to most historically accurate, and from complete novice to very experienced. While there is not necessarily something for everyone in each competition, there is always another competition coming along that will meet your needs and tickle your fancy.

To best match up your expectation with the competition, do two things: a) read the competition copy carefully and, b) speak with the organiser. Find out if you need documentation: spoken (oral), written, how many copies? What time do you need to be ready and how long does the competition last? If your entry needs support stuff (table, electrical outlet, etc.) make arrangements for that now.

What is documentation? It's answering the 5 Ws: Who, What, When, Where, Why + How. Apply these questions to your project, the people who would have made or used it, and also to yourself. How did your creat this and why did you make the choices you did? How is what you did similar or different to the item and what people did 'back then'? Add a museum photo or copy of a painting showing the item and that's it, you're done!

Getting all of this on 1 page, 2 pages if you're going for a Championship, or extra enthusiastic, would be excellent documentation for a Shire-level branch like Hartwood. Remember, not all competitions will require this amount, so check with your competition organiser!

So why participate in competitions? You meet some really cool people. You have a good time challenging yourself with the interesting ways that the fighters, archers, and rapier folks have put their field or shoots together. You can see, hear, and even participate in some amazing crafts, cooking, and bardic from our artisans. Plus, it's fun. You could compete for bragging rights, for a prize, to demonstrate a new skill you've learned, as part of a Principality or Kingdom or even SCA-wide Guild challenge.

Or you could compete for the honour of being one of Hartwood's (#) Champions and represent the branch for a year. (Add rights and responsibilities).

In the end, there's a competition for everyone. From the person in their first month in the SCA to our Peers. From someone who wants something silly to do for their Saturday evening to someone who wants to work hard for months to achieve a long-held dream. From the folks who think documentation is scary and only want to talk about their projects to those who have no problems whipping out an essay. Hartwood has people who can answer questions and mentor you if you need it, or leave you be and watch you bloom. Come, compete!

Garb Links

This is a living document; if you find a new link (or find one of these is dead), please contact the Webminister to have it added (or removed).

We hope that the following links will provide useful information on garb.

Basics & Accessories

Cynthia Virtue: The go-to site for a wide range of topics, including hats, accessories, fabric choices, basic garb and a tunic worksheet.
Stephan's Florilegium: A massive collection of articles on every possible topic.
Barony of Politarchopolis: Has articles covering what to, and what -not- to, wear; many links.
Citadel of the Southern Pass: An article on what we consider an 'attempt at pre-17th C. Clothing', and how to scrounge from your own closet.
Rosalie's Medieval Woman: A terrific resource on the components of garb making; eyelets, sewing techniques, period dye colours, embellishments, etc.
Sidney Eileen: Hand-sewing tutorial.
Reconstructing History: This is a commercial site that sells patterns, including for larger sizes.
Kostym: A broad collection of patterns and information for various eras and cultures. Most of it is in Czech.
Manesse Codex Women's Dresses: PDF by Lady Amie Sparrow on making simple clothing.
The Glove Website: The history, patterns, and technique behind making gloves.
Skjoldehamn Hood: A useful and easy to sew accessory.
The Dreamstress: Making medieaval cloth buttons.
Katafalk: 14th and 16th C. German accessories and clothing, including frilled veils, hoods, st Birgitta's cap, and her rendition of the Lengberg brasserie.

Early Period/Viking Era

Viking Answer Lady: An extensive collection of research and articles on all things Norse.
Midgard: While this is a LARP site, they have patterns for a good set of early european garb.
Hurstwic: Norse/Anglo-saxon articles and patterns.
Shelagh: More Norse/Anglo-Saxon clothing, including an excellent Thorsberg trouser pattern.

High-to-Late Middle Ages

Dame Helen: 14th Century clothing resources, including Cotehardies and Houpelandes and an excellent basic suit.
La Cote Simple: 14th and 15th Century clothing articles and tutorials, including marshal garments.

Renaissance, Elizabethan and Landsknecht, Oh My!

Briana's Clothing Page: Italian Renaissance articles.
Farthingale Calculator and other tips: Plug in the numbers, and it will tell you how wide your hoop circumference should be, and how they should be spaced apart. Works in inches.
Farthingales Corset Making Supplies: A commercial site with a wealth of tips & tricks articles for free.
The German Renaissance of Genoveva: 16th C. German patterns and instructions.
Elizabethan Costume Page: Extensive information on Elizabethan era clothing, from introductory topics through pattern drafting.
An Elizabethan Shirt: A PDF download of Grace Gamble's instruction booklet.
Landsknecht garb overview and links; a guide by Tempus.

Non-European

Miriam's Middle Eastern Reasearch Blog: A site dedicated to the Islamic Middle East, including Ottoman, Persian, Coptic, Mamluk, and Al-Andalus.
Saionji's Garden: Information and patterns on period-appropriate Japanese garb.

Helpful Links

Below are some helpful links for those interested in combat. The forms can all be found on the Kingdom Website. The most commonly used forms for all disciplines are:

Martials are our safety officers, and are required to have any marshal activities in the branch. If you wish to help our sports grow, then you will require both a 4-Year Authorization and a marshal promotion form to be filled out by a Senior Martial, regardless of discipline. You can check your combat authorizations and marshal status on the online database.

Archery, Thrown Weapons, and Siege

All Target Archers and Throwers should have a copy of, and review, the Book of Target. This is our rules and guidelines. Likewise, all Combat Archers, Throwers, and Siege Crew should have a copy of, and review, the An Tir Book of Combat.

We participate in an internationtional competition called 'Royal Rounds', in which all participants engage in a defined challenge and record our scores. The Scores Site can help you track your progress.

Target Archers and Throwers do not require 4-Year Authorizations to participate. Combat Archers, Combat Throwers, and Siege Crew do require a 4-Year Authorization.

Heavy Armoured, Rapier, and Cut & Thrust

All Heavily Armoured combatants should have a copy of, and review, the An Tir Book of Combat (ABC's), all Rapier combatants the An Tir Book of Rapier Combat, and all Cut and Thrust combatants the An Tir Book of Cut and Thrust Combat. These are our rules and guidelines. Those who intent to participate in inter-Kingdom war scenarios should review the An Tir Army Handbook as well.

Rapier and Cut and Thrust use metal swords; to ensure the safety of all participants, An Tir has a list of approved manufacturers that can be found in the Book of Approved Blades.

All combatants will have to be authorized by a marshal before being permitted to compete in tourney or participate in war at an event. This is to ensure you understand the rules and are properly able to gauge blows. For this, you require a 4-year Authorization.

Youth

An Tir Book of Youth Armoured Combat
2-Year Authorization for Youth Armoured Combat
Youth Combat Waiver
The Book of Youth Rapier has been approved and is awaiting signatures. As soon as it is released, the Webteam will update this list.

While our Target sports seamlessly integrate youth participation above a minimum age, contact sports require more consideration. An Tir supports youth Armoured Combat, and soon youth Rapier. To participate, both parent and child should read and understand the relevant books of Youth Combat, and fill out a waiver.

Like adult combat, all youth combatants will have to be authorized by a marshal before being permitted to compete at an event. This is to ensure you understand the rules and are properly able to gauge blows. For this, you require a 2-year Authorization.

A gentle reminder, all youth participants must be accompanied by a responsible adult during marshal activities.

Armouring Advice for the Newcomer

Many people get into the SCA and make a persona based on certain period of time or a certain style of clothing and then decide they want to get into the combat arts. Suddenly they realize their persona wouldn’t fight in that style. What do I do now? Don’t worry about it if this happens. One is not necessarily linked to the other.

However, if you decide you want to make a persona based on a fighting style and period of history, great. Do some research for what was going on in your time period. Talk to fighters who fight your style, eg if you want to do a late 1500s rapier fighter, talk to the rapier fighters in the shire. They will be able to tell you a little about what masters were teaching during that time and what styles were popular (both fighting styles and clothing/armour).

Do I have to go out and spend a thousand dollars to get all the armour and weapons I need to fight? Most of the time the shires have what is called iron key, which is loaner gear. This is a great way to start out fighting and finding out what style you want to do without shelling out a bunch of money right up front.

So I have decided I want to fight. Now do I have to spend a small fortune to have my own gear? You can but it is not necessary. Most of the experienced fighters can help you put together functional armour for a lower cost. For example, the heavy armour does not need to be made out of the shiny stainless steel. Many people fight in armour made out of plastic pickle barrel and cover it up with a nice tunic. Used gear can be bought at a reduced cost to get you started and unless it is coloured up with specific heraldry, no one will know but you.

- Dieterich von Kleinberg

Going to Medieval Feast or Revel

by HL Meredith of the White Cliffs

The difference between the two is not all that great. A 'Revel' is not so formal, more often pot-luck or bring your own meals, likely to be set in an Inn, Tavern, or Picnic type of location. The event copy will give you the details.

A feast is a more formal occasion, including a meal of at least three food courses. With entertainment in between (to let the food settle a bit!) Courts are a often a feature at feasts; the event copy will tell you if the Monarch is going to be in attendance. Frequently, there is dancing (don't worry: beginners are welcome) and many people bring game boards. If you are a performer (acting, singing or instrumental), your performance would greatly enhance the feast.

Sometimes we do Feasts or Revels as a Potluck. A potluck, and what type of dish you should bring, will have been stipulated in the Event copy. Bring a dish to feed about 8-10 people a small serving. Try to make something that COULD have been served in Period even if it is not a period recipe. Have the recipe posted near the dish as people who have allergies appreciate this, as do persons enjoying the dish who would like the recipe.

Children are welcome at feasts. Parents are asked to be sure to bring things to entertain them. (I would rather have a kid playing with modern toys than being miserable as they are forced to 'sit still' or participate in something they have no interest in.) Pricing for Children's seats depends on how large the hall is. IF there are only 30 seats and the event's break-even cash point depends on selling them all, seats are same price for all ages. IF, as is the more usual situation, there is lots of room, Children are usually much cheaper - and very often simpler fare is prepared for them, too. Babes in arms are, of course, free, though you have to be prepared to pass them around for admiration from all! The event copy will give you details on prices.

To prepare to attend a Feast, you will need:

Eating equipment - Within this group we all have and bring our own - that way it fits our persona (and the people putting on the feast don't have an overwhelming amount of things they need to bring)
A plate, a bowl, a drinking vessel - Many wooden ones are easily found. Be sure the paint or varnish is food safe. Metal dishes look lovely - again, do be sure they are of a food safe material. Metal drinking vessels can be hot to the lips, and also may make a wine 'taste'.
Eating Utensils - In period, you would have had a belt knife and perhaps a spoon. In practice, most of us have knives, forks and spoons; we do try to find utensils that are not glaringly modern.
A napkin, a Tablecloth, Napkins for your fingers, a Tablecloth to dress up your 'place'.
Candles and Candle holders - to light your dinner and help set the stage for your persona. (Editor's Note; many halls no longer permit open flame. Check with the Event Steward beforehand, or opt for a flickering LED candle.)
Drinks - The event copy will tell you if you can bring alcohol to the feast ; if it is a dry site, please respect this. Places like the Boy Scouts Sites have NO alcohol tolerance. One can always bring a (carefully disguised) bottle of pop, thermos of coffee or similar beverage, should one wish to. The feast will often have a beverage served with it.
A basket to carry all this, and a (carefully tucked away) plastic bag to take home dirty dishes. - There are often dish washing areas at a feast but I find it's easier to take them home than risk getting dishwater on my garb.
Your Garb (clothing) - If you only have one set, then it will do!! But it's fun to read the copy and see if this is a Courtly feast or a Peasant feast or any other theme that might have been dreamed up and dress accordingly.
Attitude - the RIGHT attitude !! Be willing to leave discussions of movies, computers and other mundanities at home. Here we are setting a stage to re-enact our persona's life, times and attitudes.

Potluck Hints and Tips

These are some ideas to make potlucks more interesting, and perhaps more fun. (Many thanks to Paulus of the Heather, Crickstow-on-Sea, for inspiration.)

Hints and Tips

To participate in the feast you must bring a potluck dish. Every person in your party (excepting very young ones) must bring a dish large enough to serve 8-10 people, and a card listing all the ingredients must accompany it. (For instance, an adult with two teenagers bringing buns and butter will have, in total two to three dozen buns and a pound of butter; the buns will be in a large bowl or basket, and the butter set out on a small plate or bowl.)

Charts are often used to guide feasters. As an example, if your ordinary/modern last name begins with... then bring...

A-E: Salad
F-J: Side dish (vegetables/grains)
K-R: Main dish
S-Z: Dessert

If no guideline is given, bring your favourite medieval dish (suggestions and recipe links below).

If you live more than a half-hour drive from the event, consider dishes best served at room temperature, that are not troubled by the travel; bread and cheese fits that category.

Then there is the question: "How much should I spend?" Paulus of the Heather answers this way:

"This can be a ticklish question. Is it fair that someone brings a beef roast and someone else brings a loaf of bread when both people fill their plates from the same table? Instead of comparing the items on the table, a contributor to a potluck has to take a look at their own finances and ask the question, "What would I pay for a ticket to a feast for myself (and my family)?" and budget for their contribution with that amount in mind. Therefore a couple who would normally spend $30 for feast tickets should consider that spending $10 to $20 on a potluck contribution is still a significant savings.

Get medieval: Generosity is a chivalric virtue!"

Protocol

If you are new to SCA potlucks, or are looking for an update, this may be useful to you.

Regarding your contribution:

Medieval recipes or medieval-type food is preferred, if only for the ambiance. Alcohol is not considered a potluck dish.
Label all dishes with ingredients (some people being allergic to the durndest things), and with your name (so people can ask you for the recipe).
Each person attending the potluck should bring enough to feed 8-10 people. The one-dish-per-person does not apply to young children.
Prepare the dish for small servings. For instance, slice the ham before putting it on the buffet; slice the cheese; cut the pie. A 10-serving dish should, if possible, be divided to serve 20 or more, so that everyone has an opportunity to taste it.
Bring the serving dishes and utensils. Again, try to aim for medieval ambiance with serving dishes and platters of wood, pottery, or wicker. A trivet will protect the table from hot dishes. Put your name on the utensils so that they go home with you. Caveat: In the interests of food safety, crockpots are allowable; mask with a teatowel draped over the bulk of it.

Regarding your presence:

Bring something to drink, as beverages may not be supplied, or not be to taste. Event copy will announce whether beverages are provided. Do have at least water nearby, for when you hear "Please charge your glasses"; you are expected to stand for the toasts that follow.
Bring your feast gear. There may only be tables and chairs, so your tablecloth may be handy.
There may be an announcement that parents with young children present, and those with limited physical ability, approach the buffet to serve themselves first. Please do so. Parents should bring their children's dishes and dish out their portions; parents with more children than hands will readily find assistance.
Take small portions of those dishes that interest you. Look behind you to see how many people have yet to be served, and adjust your portion size so that all may have a similar portion size. You will likely have a chance for seconds. And maybe thirds.
Help clean afterwards. Some people carry a plastic bag in their feast kit to drop the dirty dishes into, for washing at home. If you prefer to wash-up at the site, scrape off your dishes into the provided garbage container, and wait for the announcement of the kitchen sinks' availability, or a wash-station; do -not- use the bathroom sinks, as the plugging of drains is an ugly hazard.

Non-cooking ideas

If you shop for your potluck contribution, here are some suggestions to help simplify your choices.

Bread:: round loaves (and buns); whole wheat, rye, seed, currant; flatbread (pita, chapatis) is also appropriate. (If your pocketbook will allow, also bring the butter or cheese.)
Cheese, sliced:: (there are others, but these definitely were known in medieval times): yoghurt cheese, farmers' cheese, Brie, Caciocavallo, Cantal, Fontina, Dournay, Gruyere, Livarot, Munster, Neufchatel, Pecorina Romano.
Fruit:: apples (small pinkish, yellow or green), pears, apricots, bilberries (blueberries substitute well), grapes (seedless are easier to deal with); dried fruit is also appropriate (apricots, dates, figs).
Pickles:: olives, mushrooms, eggs, marinated vegetables.
Chicken, hot roasted (deli!) and cut for serving:: with Cinnamon sauce, or Ginger-Mustard sauce.
Ham, cold sliced:: with Galyntyne sauce, or Honey Wine Mustard sauce. (for meat or fowl.)
Roast pork, sliced:: with Yellow pepper sauce, or Cinnamon sauce.
Roast beef, sliced:: with Garlic-Pepper sauce, or Ginger sauce.
Sausage, sliced (deli):: gypsy salami, genoa salami, pastrami, etc.

Also consider greens and herbs in salads, with olive oil and vinegar dressing.

Medieval Recipes

These links to medieval recipes barely touch the surface of the recipes available. Not all recipes are complicated, so explore the possibilities fully; many recipes call for less than 6 ingredients!

Roasted carrots: chopped, dressed with olive oil, spread on a cookie sheet and baked.
Carrot salad: shredded and dressed with oil, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
Savoury rice: cooked with caraway seeds and bay leaf; color with saffron.
Bashed 'neeps: rutabagas boiled, mashed with milk, salt, sugar, and nutmeg.
Onion soup: onions gently fried olive oil until well-carmelized, covered with vegetable stock and simmered; thicken with breadcrumbs or not.
Beef roast: dry rub the roast with pepper, cumin, and salt, and let sit a couple of hours in fridge; roast (see any basic cookbook) in a medium-low oven until medium-done; cool and then refrigerate; slice thinly before serving.
Cumin chicken: brown chicken; simmer in a sauce of beer, bread, cumin, salt and pepper.

Camp Food

Suggestions for Camp Food

Being Ideas for the Newcomer to SCA Eventing, the Neophyte Camper, and Those Needing Inspiration; Food for Either Day-Trip Or Weekend

by Halima al-Rakkasa, minimalist

Store cool-ish and dry		Cooler; no other prep	Cooler; must heat
No other prep	Must heat
dinner rolls uncut bread loaves bread sticks flat bread crackers almonds, other nuts dried fruit (dates, figs, apricots, raisins) protein bars dry cereal peanut butter butter fatyr Cheese rolls cereal bars such as Nutrigrain tortilla chips (w salsa or in stews) pretzels (the big soft ones are period)	instant soup hot chocolate coffee/tea Oxo cubes canned soup canned stew instant oatmeal instant couscous (starch for stews) chapatis can be made with flour, water, a little oil and salt, on a hot, dry cast iron frying pan	cheese; harder is better if a cooler is an issue; gouda, parmesan, brie fresh fruit (grapes, apples) fresh veg (carrot, turnip, radishes) yoghurt (for oatmeal) pickles(cucumbers, onions, eggs, olives) cold couscous or rice salad pepperoni or other preserved meat (kielbasa, salami, Landjaeger, smokies) hummous or lentil dip hard-boiled eggs Lorenz pies Pies of Paris beef jerky (can be added to broth or?) prebaked veg or meat pies baked or fried chicken marinated ham strips sausage rolls	home-prep'd stew/soup partially-prep'd stew or soup chop and fry an onion in a little olive oil before adding the stew or soup, and be the envy of the camp pre-cooked rice and/or beans as a base

Freeze pre-cooked stew/soup to help keep other food cold; it will thaw eventually.

Open cooler only as needed, to keep it cold. Consider a separate cooler for beer and similar bevers.

Consider having snacks available for "company": baked goods, easily prepped fresh fruits and veg, tea, hot chocolate, whatever your friends like.

Even if drinking water is supplied, chill some bottled water, or barely freeze a few bottles, to help the cooler ice last longer and give you cool water as needed. Go easy on the soda pop (diuretic) and the fruit juice (insect attractant); if you use fruit juice, pack the concentrate and a container for the diluted juice.

I have done day-trips with nothing but cheese, buns, pepperoni and pickles; for a full day or more, add some real food, either hot or cold, and some nibbles such as nuts and fruit. Couscous salads are now readily available in delis, as well as other interesting foods. Do remember that chicken must be either hot or cold, and must spend very little time in between.

Use alcohol wipes in the travel packs. Take Vitamin B1 to help drive away insects, and use DEET.

My thanks to HL Doirean Dechti for re-posting this information gathered from several people over several years. I hope this compilation will become more convenient over the coming tourney seasons!

Feast Gear

First Time Feast Gear

Yes, medievally, cutlery and tableware was used; fingers may have come into play, but the manuals of the time are quite specific about which fingers were used for what purposes (and I will not attempt to summarize such compexities). And since we neither waste food, nor wish to sully beautiful garments that we (and perhaps you) have spent hours creating, we like our "feastgear".

We encourage the medieval look, but that can come later...

beverage container (heavy glass goblet will hold hot or cold liquids, as will pottery; metal does not work well with hot; wood may warp with heat)
bowl (relatively open; most servings will be small and quickly consumed; a salad bowl generally works; a peasant, one-dish meal might require a soup-bowl, but seconds [and thirds] are generally allowed)
spoon (round or teardrop shape looks right, but whatever works)
knife (steak knife works, especially as it can stab food that needs it... instead of a fork)
napkin
something to carry it all

Optional feast gear

plate (a bowl will handle everything, but sometimes a plate is nicer)
fork (if you must, or your persona would use one)
tablecloth, extra napkins
candle in enclosed glass container
salt or other seasoning in small bowl/box
additional bowls and cutlery may be useful (bowls will hold any kind of food, and also beverages, and ort)

Recipe Links

This is a living document; if you find a new link (or find one of these is dead), please contact the Webminister to have it added (or removed).

We hope that the following links will provide useful information on period food and cooking.

Websites & Collections

Gode Cookery: The go-to site for period culinary inspiration.
Stephan's Florilegium: A massive collection of articles on every possible topic.
Hildegarde's Kitchen: With information on Potluck recpies, and some feast menus.
Medieval York: Eulalia Hath a Blogge: Contains more potluck suggestions, information on period beverages, and information on period spices amongst other things.
Dame Helen: Contains advice on how to cook a feast, even more potluck suggestions, and an article on 14th C. Northern European food.
The Aethelmearc Gazette: An article on Landsknecht cooking.
Lady Aibell ingen Dairmata: A wealth of links and information on food.
Pass the Garum: A selection of Roman recipes.
Euriol's Culinary Journey: All kinds of redacted recipes, broken down by region, category and time period.
Medieval Cookery: More redacted recipes, including a listing of easy to cook ones.

Books

The Book of Cooking in Maghreb and Andalus in the era of Almohads: A PDF download of a 13th century Andalusian cookbook, author unknown.
The Forme of Cury: a 14th C. English cookbook.
Le Viandier de Taillevent: a 14th/15th C. French-language cookbook.
Harleian MS 279: redactions of a 15th C. English cookbook.
Liber de Coquina: a 14th C. French and Italian cookbook.
Apicius: an ongoing translation of a 1st C. Roman text.
Coquinaria: hosts two dutch cookbooks; Wel ende edelike spijse (15th C) and The convolute Gent KANTL 15 (16th C).
How to Milk and Almond, Stuff and Egg, and Armour a Turnip: A thousand years of recipes by David Friedman and Elizabeth Cook. This is a PDF download of the full book.
Cariadoc's Miscellany: An online version of Cariadoc's book; the recipe's chapter is extensive.

Videos

Medieval Gastronomy: German Landsknecht Camp Food

Hartwood's Heraldry

The Shire of Hartwood has the following device and badge registered with the College of Heralds:

Hartwood Arms

Vert, on a roundel argent within a laurel wreath Or a hart's head erased sable

Representing Hartwood, the device is displayed by the Seneschal and worn by the Herald when speaking in the voice of the Shire.

Populace Badge

A chevron embattled couped per chevron argent and vert

A badge that indicates someone, or something, belongs to the Shire of Hartwood. Any member of the populace may display the badge.

Hartwood's motto is 'One Hartbeat!'; you will often hear this shouted as a response to 'For Hartwood!'.

For a listing of the devices registered to our members, browse the An Tir Roll of Arms. Likewise, you can browse what awards our populace have recieved on the An Tir Order of Precedence.

If you would like to develop your own personal heraldry, contact our Herald to get started. The PDF forms for submission are: name, device, and badge.

Shire Tokens

The Shire of Hartwood likes to show it's gratitude towards members who are especially skilled or generous with their time and efforts. While we may not provide awards (as a Barony can), we may offer small tokens of appreciation. Here is a description of what some members have recieved:

Exemplar: Embodying the spirit and virtues our Society holds dear; courtesy, honour, kindness and generosity. An Honour held for one year only, it is then passed from the existing Exemplar onto the next.
Stag Tag: Combat Arts: Armoured, Rapier, Cut & Thrust, Combat Archery, Combat Thrown Weapons, Jousting; Recognition of an individual who, while residing in Hartwood, has fought in the Combat Arts with their own kit under Hartwood’s banner. This specifically means one who has particpated in a group war event, or fought as Champion of Hartwood. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned. The most common event it's earned at is Sealion War.
Raven Tag: Target/Equestrian Arts: Target Archery, Thrown Weapons, Equestrian; Recognition of an individual who, while residing in Hartwood, has competed in the Target/Equestrian arts with their own kit under Hartwood’s banner. This specifically means one who has particpated in a group war event, or competed as Champion of Hartwood. This token is not one that requires recommendation, but rather it is earned. The most common event it's earned at is Sealion War.
Swan Tag: Recognition of a person's active participation in Arts & Sciences such as, but not limited to: competitions, demos, teaching, largesse. This token requires the populace - anyone - to take note of their fellow's achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
Sable Hound: Recognition of excellence in service by an individual to the Shire of Hartwood. This token requires the populace - anyone - to take note of their fellow's achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
The Lure: Recognition of excellence in demos, assisting newcomers, inspiring activity and presenting our society in the best possible light. This token requires the populace - anyone - to take note of their fellow's achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.
Argent Hound/Stag's Mark: Recognition of a person living outside the shire who has been of great benefit to Hartwood. This token requires the populace - anyone - to take note of their fellow's achievements and write a recommendation to the Seneschal.

For a listing of all recipients, please see Hartwood's An Tir Culture Wiki entry.

To make a recommendation (something all gentles are encouraged to do), please fill out this short form.

Etiquette and Protocol

The “How to” by HL Doireann Dechti

This is not a comprehensive lesson, but is meant to help you feel more comfortable in the presence of those we often refer to as Pointy Hats or Hats. These would be the people whose status in the SCA allows them to wear crowns or coronets, and include Barons and Baronesses, Viscounts and Vicountesses, Princes and Princesses, and Kings and Queens. Coronets and crowns usually have points of some type, so are easy to recognize.

THE REVERANCE

The reverance is a bow or curtsy, and can be made as simple as you like. If you like, you can ask someone who has been in the SCA for a while to show you a way to make a reverance. You would make a reverance under the following circumstances:

Someone with a crown or coronet is walking past or entering court.
You are walking past someone with a crown or coronet.
You are approaching someone with a crown or coronet.
You are walking past the thrones or baronial seats, even if they are empty.
You have been called up to court (we will get into details about entering court a little later).

DID THEY JUST CALL MY NAME?! EEP!!

If you have been called up to court, don’t panic! Everyone has a first time, and if you watch, everyone does it differently. It is a good habit to get into approaching court the proper way. I cringe when I see someone who has been in the SCA for a while approach without the reverance. There is usually an aisle of sorts in front of the dignitaries holding court, with the audience sitting or standing along either side. If you are called up to the court, follow these simple steps, and don’t worry at all if you don’t get it perfect – few people do.

Approach the center of the aisle.
At the center, or about 10 – 15 feet before the dignitaries, make a reverance.
Continue on to Their Highnesses, Their Majesties, or Their Excellencies, depending who’s holding court, stop in front of the kneeling cushion and reverance them a second time.

This next section looks like a lot of things to remember, but it covers three different scenarios, so it isn’t as bad as it first appears!

If your presence in court is pre-planned by you because you need to make an announcement, there is no need to kneel. You will ask the dignitaries for permission to address the court, then step to the side and address the populace. Don’t turn your back on your dignitaries!
If you have been called up because you have won a competition, you will reverance the dignitaries, then face the person who called you up, usually the person running the competition. If they are calling up more than one person at a time, they may ask you to stand to the side for a moment.
If this is a surprise to you, after you have reveranced in front of the cushion, you will kneel on it. If you are physically unable to kneel or to get back up again, you can quietly mention this to the dignitaries; they will understand and let you know that it’s alright for you to stand.
At this point (if this is a surprise to you), the dignitaries might take your hands, and you will kneel (or stand if you must) quietly while a scroll is being read out, or someone is otherwise speaking about why you are there.
Once the scroll has been read, and/or you have been given your award or prize, you will stand (if kneeling), and reverance before you begin to leave the court.
Take your first few steps backwards, so that you are facing the dignitaries until you are out of kicking range (remember what we said earlier about turning your back on the dignitaries?), then turn and begin to leave.
You will reverance one last time, about 10 – 15 feet away from the dignitaries. Some people do their final reverance at the end of the aisle. Then you will return to your seat.

To simplify, both coming and going, your points of reverance are the center of the aisle, and in front of the kneeling cushion.

FORMS OF ADDRESS

Forms of address, regarding dignitaries:

Baron and Baroness: Their/Your Excellencies, His/Her Excellency
Tanist and ban-Banist (about to become Prince and Princess of a Principality): Their/Your Excellencies, His/Her Excellency
Prince and Princess: Their/Your Highnesses, His/Her Highness
Viscount and Viscountess (have been a prince and princess): Their/Your Excellencies, His/Her Excellency
Royal Prince and Princess (about to become King and Queen): Their/Your Highnesses or Their/Your Royal Highnesses
Count and Countess (have been King and Queen once): Their/Your Excellencies, Her/His Excellency
Duke and Duchess (have been King and Queen more than once): Your/His/Her Grace
King and Queen: Their/Your Majesty, His/Her Majesty

Some people, dignitaries and otherwise, prefer to be called by a title appropriate to the language of their culture. Alternate titles for such a purpose can be found at heraldry.sca.org/heraldry/titles.html

I hope this has helped. If you have any questions, please ask. There are many people here quite able to help as well.

Doireann Dechti

The 10 Precepts of the SCA

Courtesy and Etiquette In the Current Middle Ages

Mistress Diana Listmaker, 1972

from “The Known World Handbook; Courtesy and Etiquette In the Current Middle Ages” by Mistress Diana Listmaker, and used by gracious permission. The entire Known World Handbook is copyright by The Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. and is available from SCA Marketplace, P.O. Box 360789, Milpitas, California 95036-0789.

Treat your inferiors in rank, knowledge, or experience in the Society as if they were your equals; treat your equals as if they were superiors; treat officers as representatives of the King; and treat the King and Queen with reverence due your sovereigns.
Use medieval forms of address.
Be faithful to your lord and your word.
Gentlemen, honor all ladies.
Ladies, remain worthy of all honor.
Touch no man’s goods unasked; give and receive with grace.
Be gentle to the stranger.
Raise your sword, but not your voice.
Let the slain man tell if he be slain.
Reverance the King and Queen.

Period Manuscript Links

Developing Your Historical Eye:

https://medievalyork.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/historicaleyeclasshandout.pdf: a PDF download.

Collections:

Specific Manuscripts:

Gouache Colours for Painting Charters

By Halima al-Rakkasa

Ideally, before you begin to paint either scroll or charter, you’ll have a good idea of the gouache colors that are needed to create the desirable medieval effect. With that in mind, I have here compiled a number of collections of color-names to help you find suitable colors. (I am grateful to all those who have shared the information!) At the bottom is my own gouache palette.

Dame Tamlyn has this list of pigments in the Lindisfarne Gospel (8th century):

orange-red (minium, red lead)
blue (indigo/woad)
dk green (vergaut?)
blue/green
green (verdigris)
carbon black
red ochre
madder lake
cochineal
yellow ochre

Evidently, in later period, we can add:

ultramarine (lapis lazuli)
vermillion (12th c)
azurite (12th c)

The Summits have a list of colors for painting charters, thanks to Mistress Alainne:

black – lamp/carbon black for blending; ivory black for lining
red – vermillion or madder red
yellow – yellow ochre, brilliant yellow, golden yellow
green – sap green or windsor (not emerald; more verdigris or malachite
blue – azure, ultramarine, woad
white – zinc white for blending; permanent white or titanium white is more permanent (use for whitework)
brown – red ochre, raw umber, burnt sienna

Mistress Tegan of Conwy suggests there are differences in cultural preference

English – alizarin for red, ultramarine blue
French – flame red or cadium red (Winsor and Newton), cobalt blue

The Domesday Boke Materials list (for An Tir’s 40th Year) gave these as period colors:

cadmium yellow pale
cadmium red pale (substitute for red lead), grenadine (substitute for vermilion), venetian red, red ochre
ultramarine, indigo
sap green
oxide of chromium, naples yellow, yellow ochre, raw sienna, gold ochre
burnt sienna, burnt umber, raw umber
ivory black, lamp black
gold (imitation), silver (imitation) – there is an article forthcoming on this

And these are the heraldic colors to add:

cadmium yellow pale
cobalt blue
mistletoe green

My palette is selected from Winsor and Newton, so color-names may not be found in other brands:

yellow – cadmium yellow pale, yellow ochre
blue – cobalt blue, ultramarine
green – mistletoe green
red – grenadine (vermilion)
brown – burnt sienna, raw umber
black – ivory black
white – zinc white (mixing highlights), permanent white (for whiteline)
other colors arise from mixing the above!

Do be careful in choosing your brand of gouache. Look for light-fastness and opaque. I prefer Winsor and Newton Designer Gouache, but Daler-Rowney and Holbein also have good products. Avoid watercolors unless they are permanent, light-fast and opaque, with labels stating the degree (rating) of each.

Have fun!

Calligraphy: Choosing Your Hand

Every Kingdom has it's own scribal handbook; some include advice on hands, and even examples. An Tir's can be found online, and includes examples of Pseudo Arabic, Greek, and Cyrillic hands as well as the Elder and Younger Futhark. The Outlands' has an interesting chart on what pens work with which inks on page 39. The Midrealm's is excellent, and contains this guide on page 5, followed by examples of the alphabets:

CHOOSING AN EXEMPLAR

Options listed by Period and Geographical Area

ALL OF CHRISTIAN NORTH WESTERN AND NORTH CENTRAL EUROPE

600-10th c.: Artificial Uncial. When used, capitals are either large versions of the same or Roman Square Capitals.
600-9th c.: Roman Half Uncial. Capitals are either large versions of the same, Roman Square Capitals or Pre-Caroline Versals.
11th c. onward: Gothic Versals are often used as capitals and especially Display Initials and other Decorated Initials.
11th-13th c.: Early Gothic with Roman Square Capitals within the text, and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters.
13th c. onward: Gothic Littera Bastarda and Bastarda Capitals within the text and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters. Alternatively, formal works would often use Gothic Textura Quadrata, with Gothic Versals for text capitals and all large decorated letters.

BRITAIN & IRELAND

7th-9th c: Britain and Ireland: Insular Minuscule or Insular Majuscule with Insular Versals.
10th c. onward: Ireland: Insular scripts survive in modified forms through the SCA period, but take progressively more angular characteristics from the 10th c. onward.
10th-12th c.: Britain: Carolingian Minuscule with Roman Half Uncial or Roman Square Capitals.
11th-13th c.: Early Gothic with Roman Square Capitals within the text, and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters.
Late 12th-mid 14th c.: English Gothic Book Hand Minuscules with English Gothic Book Hand Capitals within the text and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters.
13th c. onward: English style Gothic Littera Bastarda and Bastarda Capitals within the text and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters. Alternatively, formal works would often use Gothic Textura Quadrata, with Gothic Versals for text capitals and all large decorated letters.

FRANCE AND NORTHWEST EUROPE

10th-12th c.: Carolingian Minuscule with Roman Half Uncial or Roman Square Capitals.
11th-13th c.: Early Gothic with English style Gothic Book Hand Capitals or Roman Square Capitals within the text, and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters.
13th c. onward: Regular Gothic Littera Bastarda and Bastarda Capitals within the text andGothic Versals for all large decorated letters. Alternatively, formal works would often use Gothic Textura Quadrata and Gothic Versals for text capitals and all large decorated letters.

GERMANY AND NORTH CENTRAL EUROPE

10th-12th c.: Carolingian Minuscule with Roman Half Uncial or Roman Square Capital.
Late 12th-mid 14th c.: German Gothic Book Hand Minuscules with German Gothic Book Hand Capitals within the text and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters.
13th c. onward: Regular Gothic Littera Bastarda and Bastarda Capitals within the text, and Gothic Versals for all large decorated letters. Alternatively, formal works would often use Gothic Textura Quadrata with Gothic Versals for text capitals and all large decorated letters.

ITALY

11th-14th c.: Italian book hands are similar to the northern continental European styles.
15th-16th c.: Italian Humanist Minuscules, with Humanist Capitals used in text and for large decorated letters.

SCANDINAVIA AND NORTH ISLANDS

Before Christianization around the 10th c., there was little writing on the page in Scandinavia, so missionaries and travellers would use whatever script they brought withthem to the north. Contact with Britain and Ireland meant that the Scandinavians whosettled there would use what scripts existed there already.

Your best bet for “Viking age” scripts would be to follow Anglo-Saxon and German styles. Insular Minuscule, Artificial Uncial, Roman Half Uncial, and Early Gothic are allgood candidates. Runes were not usually used on scrolls or manuscripts. The Eth andThorn letters are used.

From the Gothic age onward, follow Northern European standards. A 14th c. Icelandic Book Hand sample is given for comparison.

SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

600-12th c.: Visigothic Minuscule with Pre-Caroline Versals. (Arabic was used by the Islamic population of the Iberian peninsula until the expulsion in the late 15th c.)

EASTERN EUROPE

Eastern Europe of the Byzantine Empire used forms of Greek, and in Russia, Greek evolved throughout the Middle Ages into Cyrillic alphabets. The Hebrew alphabet was used in every European nation by the Jewish community with illumination which matched contemporary tastes.

Material and Tool Resource Links

With an eye to period materials and period-result materials

About pens: http://besottedblog.com/hand-letteringmodern-calligraphy-tips-nibs
About Cleaning Pens: https://calligraphypen.wordpress.com/2009/01/14/care-and-feeding-of-the-calligraphy-dip-pen/; http://besottedblog.com/hand-letteringmodern-calligraphy-tips-nibs
About Inks: No iron oak gall ink! (too corrosive).; Approved inks: Calli jet black India, Rotring opaque black, Higgins Eternal, black Sumi stick ink (artists' grade), Sumi professional grade ink (liquid); For line work and detailing: Pigma Micron, Zig Millenium
About Paper/etc.: http://scribes.antir.sca.org/Scribes/PaperSPECS.pdf; Domesday Book: archival-quality Arches 90 pound hot press watercolour paper
About Paint/Gouache: http://www.winsornewton.com/assets/Leaflets/win_10724_dg_a4_pdf_english.pdf
Sealing Wax: http://lacywest.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=57_124&products_id=2018

Library

Shire Documents

CONTENTS

ARTICLE 1 -- SCOPE

ARTICLE 2 -- DEFINITIONS

ARTICLE 3 -- CITIZENSHIP

ARTICLE 4 -- OFFICES OF THE SHIRE

ARTICLE 5 -- DEFENDERS

ARTICLE 6 -- OPERATING GUIDELINES

ARTICLE 7 -- EVENT STEWARDS AND EVENTS

ARTICLE 8 -- TOKENS, ORDERS, AND RECOGNITIONS

Shire of Hartwood Financial Policy

Event Forms

Arts, Sciences & Bardic

Written by Mistress Cecille de Beumund

Basics & Accessories

Early Period/Viking Era

High-to-Late Middle Ages

Renaissance, Elizabethan and Landsknecht, Oh My!

Non-European

Combat

Food & Feasting

Hints and Tips

Protocol

Non-cooking ideas

Medieval Recipes

Suggestions for Camp Food

Being Ideas for the Newcomer to SCA Eventing, the Neophyte Camper, and Those Needing Inspiration; Food for Either Day-Trip Or Weekend

First Time Feast Gear

Optional feast gear

Websites & Collections

Books

Videos

Heraldry & Ettiquette

Hartwood Arms

Populace Badge

The “How to” by HL Doireann Dechti

Courtesy and Etiquette In the Current Middle Ages

Mistress Diana Listmaker, 1972

Scribal

Developing Your Historical Eye:

Collections:

Specific Manuscripts:

By Halima al-Rakkasa

CHOOSING AN EXEMPLAR

ALL OF CHRISTIAN NORTH WESTERN AND NORTH CENTRAL EUROPE

BRITAIN & IRELAND

FRANCE AND NORTHWEST EUROPE

GERMANY AND NORTH CENTRAL EUROPE

ITALY

SCANDINAVIA AND NORTH ISLANDS

SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

EASTERN EUROPE