In simple language we are here to preserve the best of medieval history. We promote and encourage historical study, and we keep alive the skills, arts, crafts and manners of an age past.

If this sounds interesting to you please read on and feel welcome to come join us and enrich your knowledge of the events and people who helped create the world we live in today.

The Society for Creative Anachronism was founded in May 1966 in Berkeley California and has grown to well over 30,000 memberships worldwide.

The SCA is divided into kingdoms ruled by a King and Queen. Within kingdoms there are Principalities ruled by a Prince and Princess. Within each Kingdom or Principality there are many branches known as Baronies, Shires, Colleges or Cantons.

 Each branch usually holds a monthly meeting where business is discussed and plans are made for events. Often the branches will sponsor events ranging from one day fighting tournaments to overnight camping weekends. At all events those attending must wear medieval clothes or “garb”.
 

Spring is the beginning of tourney and war season. Tournaments and wars are large outdoor events centered around SCA combat with many other activities taking place as well. They are usually weekend events with overnight camping where participants camp in period style tents or “pavilions”. Courts are sometimes held and armored men and women compete to see who is best at chivalry and martial skills or to see who’s army is the most powerful.

Feasts and revels are usually held indoors and may be potluck where we are encouraged to bring dishes as authentic as possible. There is usually dancing, music and medieval games to participate in after the feasting.

Members are encouraged to create a “persona”, a person you would wish to have been had you lived between 600 and 1600. Your persona can be as simple as your SCA name and the time and place you are from.

At events there is usually a table or booth labeled “Gold Key” which loans garb to those who do not yet have their own.

At an event you will see fighters in the middle of a field engaged in combat using various weapons. They are recreating the combat of the Middle-Ages. With the fighters are Marshals. They are there to ensure the safety of both the fighters and spectators. The fighters are highly trained and well practiced in their art. Fighter practices are generally held weekly for the training and instruction of new and experienced fighters. The weapons they use are made of rattan and are designed to simulate the weight and balance of a real weapon.

Other activities in the SCA include:

calligraphy and illumination, medieval games, costuming, leather working, metal working, heraldry, dancing, music, embroidery, archery, cooking, armor making, jewelry, poetry, brewing, weaving, lace-making, rapier fighting, equestrian and much much more.