What is the SCA?
The SCA is an international organization dedicated to researching and re-creating the arts and skills found in the past (pre-1600). Our “Known World” consists of 20 kingdoms, with over 30,000 members residing in countries around the world.
Participants, dressed in clothing of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, attend events which may feature tournaments, arts exhibits, classes, workshops, dancing, feasts, and more. Our “royalty” hold courts at which they recognize and honor members for their contributions to the group.
How did it all get started?
The SCA started in 1966. Some friends who were history enthusiasts and science fiction/fantasy fans hosted a outdoor party in Berkeley, California. The invitation declared a Tournament, to be held on the first of May, summoned “all knights to defend in single combat the title of ‘fairest’ for their ladies.” Everyone enjoyed the first tournament so much that they planned a another. Here we are today!
About Ealdormere
The Kingdom of Ealdormere is the first purely Canadian SCA Kingdom. The Kingdom of Ealdormere encompasses almost all of Ontario. Ealdormere is a rugged, northern land, known for its fury on the battlefield, the skill of its artisans and the hospitality of its halls.
Across the open forests, the Wolves of Ealdormere run free, their deeds immortalized in song and story by the bards and skalds of the north. Resplendent in white and red, Ealdormereans are fierce, proud, hospitable and generous people who always enjoy welcoming travelers and newcomers alike. Welcome to the Northlands!
Interested in our history? Visit the History of Ealdormere blog.
How to get Involved
Local Group
Most areas have a group you can participate in. Cantons (single group), Baronies (larger groups and collections of groups) and Shires (groups outside Baronies) abound. Visit our Groups Page to find out more about the groups closest to you!
Meetings
Depending on the number of members and activity levels, meetings can happen as often as once per week as infrequently as every few months. Contact your Local Seneschal (Group president) for information regarding meetings.
Events
SCA events are where most of our activities take place. Mostly they happen on Saturdays, but with the camping season it is not unusual for a 2-3 day weekend, or a week long event! Visit the Kingdom Calendar to see more information about events in Ealdormere.
Going to your first event
Events are where most things happen and are the best ways to meet people and do things! If you are looking to attend an event and have questions, contact the Event Steward or the Kingdom Chatelaine (They help new people get started!).
Event Fees & Non-Member fee
Most events have a cost to attend, and members get a discounted rate. The SCA charges a surcharge to attend an event to help cover our considerable event liability insurance. There are often lunches and feasts at events, which normally are an additional cost.
If you plan on holding any office in a group you MUST be a member. Membership quickly pays for itself after a few events, so it is recommend as the savings are considerable! Visit the SCA Member webpage for more information of becoming a member!
Attending with Children
SCA events are open to people of all ages, however if you are bringing a child for whom you are not the parent/legal guardian you will need to bring three items.
- A complete signed minor waiver or signed blue card
- A complete signed minor medical waiver (2 copies)
Due to the robust nature of some of our martial activities, we need you to know there is a (very) small risk of getting hurt as an event attendee.
Parents of children will need to sign a waiver at event gates for their children. If you are unsure of what you will need to have, please contact your local group Seneschal for more information prior to the event.
Funny Names
It is recommended not to pick a SCA name too soon. Go with your first name and use your local group as a surname to start with. Take your time finding the period name that suits you best and that you will like for years to come! Nothing says you can’t change it later, but be prepared to be called by your old name for a while!
Rank
We have Kings and Queens and Dukes, Barons and Honorable Lords, and many more titles. Until you are familiar with all the ins and outs of Ranks, we suggest you simply say “m’lord’ or “m’lady’ and you will do fine.
What Happens At Events?
| Armoured Combat A big part of what we do is Armoured Combat. We fight with rattan weapons, wear armour and have tournaments and mass battles. Our King and Queen are decided through a contest of arms at Crown Tournament twice a year (Spring and Fall). The victor and their consort become the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Ealdormere until they ascend the thrones at Coronation (Spring and Fall). |
Arts and Sciences
Ealdormere has a thriving community of artisans, with many varied fields and skills. If it was done, we can do it, or at least have fun trying! Metalworking, Illumination, Stained Glass, Bookbinding, Pottery and Bardic Arts are just a few categories.
Fencing Combat
Fencing (also called rapier) is another martial art practiced in Ealdormere.
Period Games
A popular activity in Ealdormere is playing period card, board and dice games. Most games are spontaneous and take place when and where time and space permits!
Court, Ceremonies and Awards
Many (but not all) events have a Court when Royalty such as the King and Queen or local Baron or Baroness are present.
There are so, so many things that we do as a Kingdom. These photos are but a taste!