The History of Rising Waters

(The abbreviated version)

Who would have thought that a Science Fiction magazine would lead to the founding of an entire Barony?    

Tired of just reading and dreaming about such exciting things, Bob LePine (now known as Master Aaron of the Black Mountain in the SCA) wrote to a California-based role-playing group. They sent him literature, which included a copy of “The Pale” which informed him of an event soon to be held in Toronto. So he convinced some friends from his Dungeons & Dragons group as well as the local St. John Ambulance Brigade to fashion what they considered “medieval garb” and head off to the University of Toronto. To this day those role-playing buddies swear that it was the spectacular sights and sounds that greeted them in Toronto that colourful afternoon that had them hooked.

The actual event Aaron and his merry band attended was the Coronation of Hugo and Caitlin, 23rd King and Queen of the Midrealm, held on May 2, 1981 in the Canton of Eoforwic in the Barony of Septentria. Soon thereafter, the Canton of Rising Waters was formed with Aaron as its founding Seneschal. The other original members were: Anthorea Black (Dale Wright), Rowena of Bristol (Lynda Stricker), Peregryne (Stephen Stricker), Carl, and Valentina Althea (Judith Strader). Their enthusiasm was so great, as the story goes, that these five gentles strode into Hugo and Caitlin’s court in Starleaf Gate one winter’s day in 1982 and demanded that their group be made full status. Whether they stormed the court, or politely asked for the Crown’s approval we may never know for sure, but the Canton of Rising Waters was indeed granted full status.

From there, the Canton quickly began to grow and thrive, adding to its numbers such gentles as Eriu, (known then as Cassandra), Mary Campbell (Mary Ivey), Fiona Averylle (Avril Brass), and her daughters, Dagian Alexandria Ivez de Minstead (Dawn Ralph) and Theophania (Gayle Brass), Byron Mikhail Woodroffe (Brian Woodrow), Wulfric of Daneland (Rick Pain), Brenna of Stavenger (Helen Pain) and Meyer Wulfram (Terry Burnett).  The first event held in Rising Waters was Septentria’s Baronial 12^th Night which begat the Feast of Bacchus later that year. Rising Waters was considered unusual because it began as an Arts and Sciences oriented group with one and only one fighter for its first years. That August, Aaron and Eriu attended their first Pennsic, Pennsic 11 and continued traveling to far distant lands when they departed the War.

1983 The Canton had another insurgence of new members and growth when Alyssa Blundell (Lisa Boyd), Genevieve Chastellain (Jennifer Thompson), and Francis (Chris Peskett), joined the SCA. Lady Valentina was the Seneschal and our numbers grew to around 15. With Francis (Varus) and Genevieve attending Brock University that year, the Canton became involved with the university, providing us with free meeting and practice rooms. This was also the first year we participated in the Niagara Grape & Wine Parade in St. Catharines. The Feast of Bacchus II, autocratted by Lady Valentina, was held at the Armouries on Napier Street in St. Catharines on November 5th and was quite the success.

          Dagian (now Amyfelyse) became the first Chronicler. She published the First Edition on September 25, 1983 (A.S. XVIII). The cost was 75 cents per issue. But it was yet to be named. Several names for the newsletter were bandied around such as “The Tinkling Brook”, “The Vinery”, “The R.W. News”, “Rising Tide(s)”, “Rising Tidings”, and “The Cataract”. When Genevieve submitted cover artwork for the next issue’s cover, she had drawn a waterfall being purified by a unicorn and just for layout’s sake, in a very beginner’s calligraphy hand, the title “The Cataract”. Dagian liked it so much, she decided then and there that the name of the newsletter would be “The Cataract”.

          The first warranted Pursuivant was none other than Fiona Averylle. Lord Byron Woodroffe was the first Minister of Sciences. The Minister of Arts was Lord Wulfric of Daneland. Genevieve was the first Dance Mistress of the Canton, and Francis (now known as Varus) quickly became a fighter and the Minister of the Lists. From there he became the Canton’s Marshal. Plans are made for the first inter-kingdom event between the Cantons of Rising Waters and Beau Fleuve in the Rhydderich Hael. By the end of the year there were 28 active members of the Canton. This is about the time when word gets around that the Baronies of Septentria and Skraeling Althing are looking into becoming a Principality and so the members of Rising Waters start talking about working towards becoming a Barony. (So, the seeds were sown quite early in our history!)
           

1984 In January the Canton receives notice from the Dragon Herald that its name and device were accepted, as well as Fiona’s name and device! Lord Myr Wulfram takes over as Seneschal. The new Lt. Archer is Thomas Arbalister (Chris Hanlon). Alyssa is voted in as the new Exchequer. Lord Byron institutes the new position of Charges d’Affaires. There are about 40 active members now in the Canton. New members include Nikolas Blackmoor (Niko), Miriel LaJueler (Yvonne Plantinga), and Isabella St. Kevern (Virginia Crook). In April at an event in Eoforwic, Fiona received her Award of Arms! In May, the Cataract changes format from 8 ½ by 11 page to a folded booklet. Also the first Canton Picnic takes place on May 19^th at Thomas’ parents’ farm on Erion Road. (This will be the precursor to the Day in May event.) On May 27^th the Canton helped out Ben Dunfirth at their demo in the Royal Connaught Hotel where a copy of the Magna Carta was being put on display.  There was yet another change of officers as Amyfelyse took over as Seneschal from Meyer in July. At the Feast of Bacchus III in November, Genevieve received her AoA from HRM Queen Fern, for her service as Canton Dance Mistress.

1985  Fiona’s basement where everyone tended to congregate was affectionately known as “The Elecave”. The Canton got involved in CCA Community Club Awards – collecting cash register receipts to earn money.

         

          In April at the A&S Fair, Fiona accepted the office of Trillium Herald for Ealdormere. From Her Majesty Fern’s hand, Fiona and Meyer each also received the Order of the Purple Fret.  Other awards presented that day included Awards of Arms to Thomas, Nikolas, Theophania, Tostig and Isabella. Lord Nikolas also went before the Crown to present a gift of 60 AoA scrolls from the Canton. Francis (Varus) placed First in the Pottery Competition. Fiona was also awarded with the Cauldron of Ceridwyn from the Baron and Baroness of Septentria.

         

          The Niagara College demo event, Day in May, was to take place on May 4^th. Then disaster struck - two days before the event, the College decided to cancel the hall booking! The Autocrats, Alyssa and Genevieve had less than 48 hours to scramble together a new site for their very first event. As the fortunes would have it, Genevieve’s cousin who was a minister at Welland Avenue United Church, allowed the Canton to use their church hall. It was a stunning wood-trimmed room with a surrounding balcony, which overlooked the main hall. The event was a success and everyone had a great time. One of the highlights (or should we say heart attacks) of the day was when the resonant tones of “Sweet Georgia Brown” could be heard throughout the hall as Lord Byron played on the church pipe organ! He didn’t realize the outside speakers were turned on and apologized to the autocrats, but not for playing the Toccotta in D minor or House of the Rising Sun. To this day, Byron has not heard the end of it!

          The Canton’s numbers were again increased by such gentles as Katrina, Galiena Michelina, Ariadne, Reynard, Frewen and Tostig. Genevieve started the Chalice Calligraphers Guild. In November Lord Thomas resigns as Seneschal and Lady Theophania picks up the reigns. Genevieve takes over as Chronicler. Lady Alyssa says farewell to  the Canton in December to move to Eoforwic.

1986           The Canton hosts Septentrian Baronial Twelfth Night with Fiona and Byron as autocrats. The feast tokens were ceramic chess pieces that were hand made by Fiona and others in the Elecave. In court, Francis (Varus), Tostig and Alyssa receive their Awards of Arms from the Crown Prince Palymar and Lord Byron receives a most deserved Purple Fret. William Angus MacKenzie, the resident and self-proclaimed Canton Fool, forms the “Giggling Toad’s School of Idiots”. Lord Byron takes over as Exchequer.

          That February, Lady Mary becomes very ill. The Second Day in May on the Third is held to celebrate the Canton’s 5^th anniversary. A forge and anvil are purchased for the Canton with donations from the members. In May at the Society’s Twentieth Year Celebration, Fiona is initiated as protégé to Master Charles Stewart O’Connor, who was Dragon Herald at the time. At Melee in the Meadow, TRM Palymar and Katherine award lady Fiona the Dragon’s Heart, and Dathi receives his Award of Arms.

          At Simple Day in the Country in Indianapolis, Lady Fiona takes on the office of Dragon Herald for the Middle Kingdom. In order for her to be able to accommodate all the Dragon files, her basement, the Elicave, had to be made watertight. What ensued was a Herculean task: On the outside of the walls of Hunter’s Moon Hall (Fiona’s house) a trench had to be dug, roughly six feet deep and thirty feet long. The whole of the exposed wall had to be scrubbed clean, tarred and plasticized before the trench was refilled. Inside the house a similar expanse had to be cleared of paneling, fiberglass insulation, detritus and several partitions has to be removed, replaced, extended and rebuilt. This monstrosity of a job was lovingly undertaken by Lord Byron, Hroderic, Antony and Archibald.

September again heralded the Grape & Wine Parade and we came in 2^nd Place in Miscellaneous Unit category partly due to the 7 lovely horses plus carriage we rented from the Rose City Riding Club. At Bacchus V on November 1^st, many of our members received their Award of Arms: Ariadne, Reynard, Anselm, Katsu, Otaka, Moria, Tarl, and Antonius. Lord Francis changed his name to Lucius Aurellius Varus, and he and Cailin (Tzitzakion) were married. (Not that changing his name was integral to his wedding!)

          By the end of the year there are approximately 50 active members in the Canton with the addition of such new faces as Miranda Skilton, Andrea Schutz (Leokadia), the Publicovers - Eric (Ealdred), Linda, Michelle & Alan (Orin), Kevin Hall (Kenelm) and Carl Wellenreiter.

                            

1987 On April 1st, Genevieve takes over as Seneschal as Theophania leaves for Vest Yorvik to pursue her studies. At the Day in May event, the Canton held its first unofficial fencing tourney in which Lord Madog won, with Lord Niko and Thorgrim Ulfson tieing for second place. In the rattan tourney, Lord Bear the Wallsbane came in first, with Lord Belgar in 2^nd place, and Lord Varus in third.  In June, Cailin Bawn Ceara volunteers to take the office of Chronicler. Heraldic news:  Varus’, Genevieve’s and the Canton’s names and devices are all passed at Laurel. Her Ladyship Fiona receives a Grant of Arms from Talymar and Eislinn. Lady Ariadne and Lady Isabella entered the Arts & Science Tourney & Display in Eoforwic in June and both placed first in needlework and glasswork, respectively. New members include Tinne (Peter McQuinn), Eleyna (Lidia Tremblay) and Ermengarde (Heather Stading) Melee brings more excitement as Genevieve authorizes as a fighter - the first lady fighter for the Canton. In September an impromptu mini event is thrown together in four days when the Canton gets word that the King, His Majesty Talymar will be visiting. The potluck revel is a success! Katrina receives an Award of Arms, and Genevieve receives the Order of the Purple Fret. We win “Best Walking Unit” in the Grape & Wine Parade.

          Unfortunately, that Fall, a cloud of grief overshadows the our happy land as the Canton mourns the loss of one of our oldest and dearest members, Lady Mary Campbell of Inverary who passes away on October 24^th after a brief illness. This Lady of quiet dignity and regal bearing treated all, be they King or peasant with a kindness, generosity and warmth that will continue to be an inspiration to those who remember her.

                            

1988  With her second child on the way, Cailin (Laura) had to resign as Chronicler. Tinne picks up the torch in March and brings a certain special flair to the newsletter. It is decided that the Canton will definitely apply for Baronial Status. Preparations are begun and all the information required is collated by the Seneschal, Genevieve to be ready in time for the Curia Regis meeting in October. The merry month of June brings the First Lady Mary Memorial Tournament held at St. John’s Anglican Church in Thorold. The Autocrats were Varus and Genevieve, Yasinaga (Etienne) was the Feastocrat. The event was a roaring success that paved the way and initiated the traditions for future tourneys for years to come. During the Baronial Court of Aiden and Kaffa, Rising Waters was presented with the Award of the Bear’s Heart - the first time that it was ever presented to a group.

          On November 26, 1988 the Canton’s hard work paid off and our dreams were realized! At the Christmas Event in Afon Araf during Kingdom Court of Their Majesties Reynard & Brynhildr, Rising Waters was granted Baronial status and Byron & Fiona were invested as Founding Baron and Baroness. The commissioned coronets were going to be ready in time, so Byron spent the night before the event, knocking out makeshift coronets out of brass kick plates and fishing lures! The original boundaries of the Barony consisted of the mundane territorial boundaries known as the Regional Municipalities of Niagara, Hamilton-Wentworth, Haldimand-Norfolk and parts of Halton and Brant Counties. Bounded by the Niagara River on the East, Lake Erie to the South, and Highway #24 in part on the West, the Barony reached as far North as its neighbours in der Welfengau, Trinovantia Nova and Bryniau Tywynogg.

1989                                                                                        The first Rising Waters Baronial Twelfth Night is hosted by the Canton of Ben Dunfirth in the Dundas Town Hall. The Autocrat is Lady Tabitha and the Troll is Lord Logan of Silver Seas. During their  court, the Baron and Baroness are presented with their first regalia, red velvet and white satin cloaks. These were made and presented on behalf of all the populace by Lady Eleyna and Lady Tegerian. In a Regency Court, Eleyna, Cailin, Childeric, Aurora and Baldric amongst others received their Awards of Arms. Lord Reynard received a Purple Fret, Lady Isabella given the Order of the Silver Oak and Lord Tynne was give the Order of the Willow. All Canton Officers are now elevated to Baronial Officers. Lord Tarl is selected as the new Baronial Marshal and Their Excellencies Rising Waters chose a Warlord, Duke Sir Hasdrubal. New members to the Barony include Tina Black and Wayne Schaeffer.. The Kingdom makes a request of the Barony to undertake a major project of producing ceremonial capes for the Crown of the Middle. Baroness Fiona spearheaded this endeavour with the assistance of Ariadne, Gwendolynne, Eleyna, Moria, Cailin, Lauren and others. The target date for presentation was set for the following Pennsic for presentation to Katharine and Palymar. At this time the Baronial Awards Committee was formed to create a set of awards for the Baron and Baroness to bestow upon the populace. A unique demo is held on June 2^nd at St. George’s Church in St. Catharines where a selection of medieval brass rubbing plates were on display. The Barony provided everything to create a period atmosphere for the church members to enjoy a feast as well as the brass rubbings. In July Lord Tynne leaves the Barony to join the Military and passes the Cataract over to Lord Yasinaga for a short time then onto Lady Eleyna, then finally settling with Lady Ariadne. The second annual Lady Mary Tourney is held on June 3 and autocratted by Baron Byron and Baroness Fiona. The rattan tourney is won by Lord Michel d’Arques and the Most Chivalrous Fighter was Lord Tristam of Gallidor.

          July 14-16 marks the first Baronial Border War with the Rhydderich Hael. The main idea for the event was to settle a long-standing dispute between the Rhydderich Hael and Rising Waters over Navy Island and the fishing rights in the Niagara River. Rising Waters proves victorious this first year, so the Hael received the Island and the fishing rights. (What?) The catch here (pardon the pun) was that the loser got the rights because who in their right mind would want to eat the fish out the Niagara River?!

1990  Their Excellencies Byron and Fiona institute Baronial Taxes, to be set upon the populace at every 12^th Night. The first taxes the Baron and Baroness set upon their citizens were for every gentle to learn how to sign their name in calligraphy and set it upon one scroll. Genevieve headed up this project, and most of the members signed the scrolls. Unfortunately, however, she became ill just before it was finished, and it remains unfinished to this day. September 22 – The Barony hosts Ealdormere’s 2^nd Coronet Tourney.

1991  Baron Byron & Baroness Fiona set Baronial Taxes at 12^th Night to be a persona history from every person. Lady Moria takes on the office of Seneschal. Drachenfaust hosted Baronial Birthday Bash on November 23 but it was almost a feast less event! All the food for the feast was put into Lord Gratien’s van to be transported to the site. However, the night before the event, his van was stolen, feast and all! Due to some quick thinking on the Feastocrat’s part, and the generosity of others, the feast was replaced at the last minute and no one was the wiser. Apparently the Police found the van a week later, abandoned in a ditch. And yes, still full of the food for the feast. Hopefully those police officers were entitled to harzard pay, or is that “hazardous goods” pay! Yuck!

1992  At 12^th Night, Their Excellencies proclaim that taxes are to be the  submission of Name & Device from everyone. Etienne (Yasinaga) is Seneschal. Catriona is Chronicler. The Barony has approximately 200 members.  The new Baronial Champion/Warlord is determined on April 25 to be Lord Wolfgang.  Some of the members living in St. Catharines felt they needed to have a name, to give them an identity now that Rising Waters was a Barony. Plans got underway for a new canton to be formed using existing members, and possible names were  suggested including Hunter’s Moon and Hedgehog Hollow. That July, Lady Moria takes over as Baronial Seneschal. At Pennsic during Midrealm Court, the royal cloaks were presented unto the Crown and are accepted with many tears of joy. The Barony wins “Best Marching Unit” in the Grape & Wine Parade that September. The office of Chronicler changes hands again in October to Brianne (Briend). The Baronial Champion/Warlord position is passed from Wolfgang to Lord Gratien. By November, a set of Baronial Awards had been decided upon and sent to the College of Heralds for approval.

1993 - The Barony’s numbers reached 264 members with 116 of those being paid members. Baronial meetings were held quarterly on a rotating basis throughout the various cantons: Ben Dunfirth, Drachenfaust, Pont Y Saeth, Dinas Gardd and Wasserstrasse. At 12^th Night, Their Excellencies set the year’s taxes to be personal heraldic banners to decorate the halls. On April 24^th of that year, Ariadne and Reynard were made Court Barons at the Investiture of Kildare and Lella as 7^th Prince and Princess of Ealdormere. The Lady Mary Tourney was held on May 22 at St. John’s Anglican Church in Thorold and was Autocratted by Lord Etienne de Beauvais.  His Grace, Duke Sir Eliahu, won both the tourney and the Most Chivalrous Fighter prize.

1994  Baronial Twelfth Night was autocratted and feastocratted by Lady Aibhilin and Lady Rosalind. Their Excellencies set the Baronial Taxes to be a War Banner for the Barony. Ben Dunfirth starts long range plans for their application for Baronial Status. Dinas Gardd and Ben Dunfirth discuss plans for a joint event the next spring for Lady Mary Tourney and possibly Principality Investiture. Lord Randwulf donated a canvas parachute to be made into a pavilion for the Barony. The Baronial War Banner, made by the citizens of Ben Dunfirth, was given to Their Excellencies in the Rising Waters camp on the Thursday evening of Pennsic War. Bacchus was held on September 24^th in conjunction with the Grape and Wine Parade. Malik was able to borrow a transport truck and trailer so we had a float for the first time for the Parade, upon which a throne for Her Highness, Joleicia, Princess of Ealdormere, was placed. The autocrats of the event were Lady Briend and Lady Genevieve.  In October, at the Investiture of David and Elina, Lady Moria was made a Court Baroness, and Baroness Fiona was given an Augmentation of Arms, which created the first quartered device ever in the Society.

1995  Twelfth Night - Their Excellencies Byron & Fiona announce their intent to step down as Baron and Baroness and set their taxes to be the search for a new Baron and Baroness. On April 29 the Lady Mary Tourney/Investiture X3 was held - Her Majesty Queen Rebekah was in attendance as it was the Investiture of Roak & Tarkwyn, Prince and Princess of Ealdormere. Their Excellencies Byron & Fiona relinquished their coronets and Malik & Genevieve were invested as new Baron and Baroness in a ceremony full of pomp, grandeur and a plethora of regalia. The Canton of Ben Dunfirth was granted Baronial status and Tarkatai and Thyrra were invested as the Founding Baron and Baroness. In a flash of inspiration, the new Baron and Baroness of Rising Waters presented the new Baron and Baroness of Ben Dunfirth with a rare and valuable piece of Rising Waters history - the Baronial Bird in the Gilded Cage - affectionately known as “The Duck”. This artifact became the focal point of much shtick between the two Baronies.

         

          In July, the Barony took part once again in the Friendship Festival in Fort Erie. Here is an account of the highlight of that event by one of the Barony’s closest neighbours, Lady Biotta of Otterskeep from the Rhydderich Hael:

          “My fondest memory of Rising Waters occurred during the Friendship Festival in 1995 when Rising Waters and the Rhydderich Hael put together a medieval encampment demo for the weekend tourists.

          Genevieve & Malik were Baron and Baroness at the time and Baroness Fiona Averylle was in attendance with her wonderful motorized cart covered with her device.  Well it so happens that on the last morning of the event, which was a Sunday, this group of able but slightly tired SCAdian folk from both Baronies were having a bit of breakfast and conversation around the fire when someone mentioned that “wouldn’t it be great if we could possibly arrange to do an event involving Fort Erie” which we were camped down the road from.  When another person jokingly blurts out “yeah, let’s just storm the fort this morning and see what happens” as Baroness Fiona was making her way towards us in her cart.  In hearing this statement she replied “that sounds like a lovely idea” and that we should muster up a proper contingent and process to the fort and lay siege.  So we figured “why not” and got as many of our people together that could leave the open camp as possible.

          “Now picture this if you will if you will; about thirty garbed SCAdians, banners waving, piper piping, drummers drumming marching towards the front gates of Fort Erie with Fiona leading the way in her cart.  What a wonderful sight!  As it happened, there was a crowd of tourists including OPP officers waiting outside the fort for it was just before opening time when we decided to do this.  Well, all the onlookers including the OPP thought our procession was part of the festival activities and just watched on.

          When we reached the gates we loudly cried out “Open the Gates!”  When our cries went unheeded, two brave SCAdians dressed in traditional highland kilts actually climbed over the walls on either side of the front gates and waved a banner from each Barony from the top of the wall proclaiming the fort had been seized to the delight and applause of the crowd, that had gotten even larger then when we first started.

          When the soldiers inside heard the noise they opened the gates and we pelted them with grapes from two small wooden catapults we had brought just to make it official.  They were not amused, but we had a great time doing it and no one got into trouble.  In fact, a festival committee representative suggested we do it the following year as part of the actual festival, but the fort would not hear of it. To this day, the Barony of Rising Waters and the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael have a treaty stating joint ownership of the fort.”

1996  Twelfth Night - Taxes are set by Their Excellencies Malik and Genevieve as encampment wall sections from each canton. Jun 1 – Lucius Aurellius Varus wins the Lady Mary Tournament.

         

1997  Twelfth Night - Their Excellencies proclaim that taxes are as letters of recommendation to the Crown for deserving gentles worthy of recognition.

1998 At Twelfth Night, Their Excellencies set the Baronial Taxes to be submissions to the Cataract. April 4^th - First Crown Tourney of Ealdormere. Baron Malik makes it to the finals but is honourably and chivalrously bested by Sir David who wins the first crown of Ealdormere for Elina. At the Lady Mary Tourney - Malik and Genevieve  announce they are expecting their first baby to the joyous applause of the crowd. That November, their daughter, Jessica is born, just one of the Twelve born in Ealdormere in 1998!

1999  At 12^th Night, Baronial Taxes were announced that each member must produce a decorative banner. BMARC was founded at Brock U.

2000 Lord Randwulf is Seneschal. There are about 120 active gentles in the Barony. At Baronial 12^th Night, Lord Tancred asked for Lady Rosalinda’s hand in marriage! Baronial Taxes are for each gentle to write a letter of recommendation.  Lady Mary Tourney is held on May 27^th at St. John’s Anglican Church in Thorold, autocratted by Lady Catriona.  - Malik & Genevieve announce that after five years of leading the Barony it is their intention to step down as Baron and Baroness. They set new taxes upon the populace to search for a new Baron and Baroness.          

          That winter the Barony orders a 15x21' rectangular pavilion which is delivered at Pennsic. Ealdormere’s Crown Tourney is hosted by the Barony on October 14^th autocratted by Lord Randwulf and Baroness Genevieve. October 28^th - Desiree & Jarvin’s Wedding - the Barony caters the feast.

          On November 11 at Baronial Birthday Bash, after a long court of awards, thank yous and good byes, Baron Malik & Baroness Genevieve step down and Tancred & Rosalinda are invested as new Baron and Baroness of Rising Waters. Their Majesties Berus and Marion preside over the ceremony as the Barony applauds and showers them with gifts. The event is a joyous one, charged with high emotions and poignant moments.

          A mere week later, on Saturday November 18, the Barony is struck with grief by the news that Baroness Fiona Averylle O’Connor of Maidenhead had passed away at 8:00 that morning. As per her request, a Memorial Wake was held for her on November 26^th at the Queen Elizabeth Community Centre where several hundred people came to celebrate the amazing adventure that was Fiona’s life.

It seemed to many of us that the end of Fiona’s life marked the end of an Era. Having been a part of Rising Waters almost since its inception in 1981, it was hard to imagine a Rising Waters without her. Like the Lady herself, it was a time of classical ideals, high hopes, hard work  and golden dreams. Perhaps though, it was fitting that she would leave us at that point, almost like setting the Barony free to be lead by the new blood into the next millennium.

Herein ends this accounting of the history of the Barony of Rising Waters thus far.....

Watch for forthcoming installments as the Barony enters the next Millennium.

         

           

Credits

Many thanks to those who helped with this endeavour by contributing facts, stories or anecdotes:

Master Aaron of the Black Mountain

Baron Byron Mikhail Woodruffe

Baron Malik abd al-Rahman

Lady Briend de Shanacashel            

Mistress Aibhilin fra Skye

Lady Ruadh of the Enchanted Forest

Lady Biotta of Otterskeep

and all the back  issues of The Cataract.

Composed and compiled by Maitresse Baronne Genevieve Chastellain d’Anjou  (aka Jennifer Johnson) for the Barony of Rising Waters, March 1, 2003, A.S. XXXVII.

                                      

The Challenge of Colyne Stewart: AS 48

In the name of Ealdormere and of the blessed queen Adrielle, Saint Finnvarr and Saint Gillian, I Colyne Stewart, to exalt my name and honour my fortieth year upon this earth, knowing full well the renown of the prowess of the Ealdormerean fighting force, have, from the date of this present letter, taken a piece of a greave to bear upon my leg until I be delivered from it by an Ealdormerean performing a deed of arms as follows:

First, to enter the lists on foot, each armed as seems best to them, having their dagger and sword upon their body as they wish, and having a pollaxe as well. And this shall be the number of blows for all the different weapons and arms: ten strokes with the pollaxe, without intermission (sans reprendre); and when these ten strokes shall have been performed, and the judge shall say, 'Ho!' we will give ten strokes with the sword without intermission, or parting from each other, or changing our harness. When the judge shall say, 'Ho!' we will take to our daggers in hand, and give ten strokes with them. Should either one lose or drop his weapon, the other will be able to do as he pleases with the one he holds until the judge shall say, 'Ho!'

So shall I meet each fighter who would don harness and meet with me in glorious combat.

And there will be in attendance a gallery, and this gallery will consist of citizens of upstanding moral value. I shall, after consultation with these witnesses, surrender my greave to the fighter deemed most noble and virtuous and preaux.

This deed will occur in the Canton of Ardchreag on the 14th day of April of this year.

To add greater faith and security to this letter, I Colyne Stewart have sealed it with the seal of my arms, written and dated from Colynesburg, Thursday the 30th day of January in the year 48."

Based on “The Challenge of Michel d'Oris: 1400”, Enguerrand de Monstrelet, Chroniques, Book I, chapter ii as translated by Will McLean, 2001.

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To mark the occasion of his 40^th birthday, on April 14^th, in the Canton of Ardchreag, THL Colyne Stewart held a deed of arms. This deed drew a crowd of 58 people, with 24 of them participating directly in the deed.

The king-of-arms was HRM Nigel II, knight of the Society; the herald was Magistra Nicolaa de Braction, member of the Orders of the Laurel and the Pelican; the scribe who recorded the names of those crossing blades in the book of the deed was THL Jocelyn Cranewell, White Scarf; and Lord Anton Rongefer acted as Colyne’s man-at-arms.

The book of the deed had been commissioned by his lady, THL Þorfinna gráfeldr, and bound by THL Tarian verch Gadarn. The book was bound in red leather, with Colyne’s original motto, vulpes cum lupo stat, written on the edge of the pages in ink. Inside was printed the original proclamation of the deed, as well as Colyne’s other mottos: colorful and preaux, and verba volent, scripta manent.

Colyne’s heraldry was on display in cloth, drape and flag, and the finial on top of his banner pole was in the shape of a fox (the charge from his Arms). The venerable Couter of Chivalry was also present, on display by His Majesty’s seat. Though no one in attendance at the deed knew it, there was another venerable artifact present that night. One of the long swords Colyne used once belonged to Baron Torbin of Amberhall, and had been given into the keeping of Þorfinna and himself by his daughter, Eanor of Amberhall. Colyne wielded it in the Baron's memory.

Thos not participating in the challenge of arms, who had come to witness the noble deeds to be done that night, did so in garb to dignify the event. Magistra Nicolaa wore her heraldic tabard, and carried a white baton as would have been customary in period.

Though upon a time holding a tournament to mark a significant birthday had once been somewhat common in Ealdormere, the practice had not been conducted for quite some time, and many remarked how glad they were to see a deed of arms held in the north.

Honour flowed like water. Just, stout blows were given and received, as were tokens. Indeed, Colyne had cast pewter coins based on a mold made by Þorfinna, for all in attendance. Likewise, Their Majesties Ealdormere gave each combatant a royal coin.

And these were the combatants:

• HE Berend van der Eych, Master of the Laurel, squire- and sword-brother to Colyne
• HE Richard Larmer, Baron of Rising Waters, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer
• Lord Fulk Beauxarmes, sword-brother to Colyne
• THL Hans Thorvaldsson
• Lady Neala
• Lord Thorulfr inn smithr
• THL Gann, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer
• Lady Ailis of House Marchmount, Bard to Nigel II and Adrielle II
• Artyom
• HE Grom meinfretr, Baron of Septentria
• Lady Alienor la fileuse
• Lord Mattius
• Lord Pelayo of Marchmount
• THL Þorfinna gráfeldr, wife to Colyne
• Sir AElyth Grey, knight of the Society
• THL Bjarn Aaronson, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer
• Wulfgar
• Count Kildaire Silverwolf, former King of the Kingdom of Ealdormere, former Prince of the Principality of Ealdormere, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer
• THL Brendan Hunterson, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer
• Lord Alexander the Blue
• Lord Hugh the Rose
• HE Tiberius of Warwickshire, member of the Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer, fian-brother to Colyne
• Jack the Pirate
• Lord Tristram Ovinra I Groffa

 Though originally Colyne was going to try and do ten passes with each person in poleaxe AND sword AND dagger (as was done in the period deed he was emulating), he quickly learned a lesson in the knightly virtue of humility, and with the blessing of the king-of-arms, they changed the format to five counted blows with either poleaxe, sword (single, long, or great) or dagger. This change was wrought after he fought to ten blows with polearm against both Master Berend and Baron Larmer.

Colyne was surprised by gifts including a dice cup, a set of goblets, and a full set of clothes. He was also given a token by HE Grom, and by Her Majesty.

Though all who took part fought well and good, only one could be awarded the prize--a greave made by Colyne’s own hand. The judges (Their Majesties Ealdormere and Nicolaa) declared that the one fighter who had shone brightest with chivalry, courtesy and prowess had been THL Hans Thorvaldsson. Hans was awarded Colyne’s greave, and tasked with doing with it what he willed. Wear it, pass it on, the choice was now his.

Missive from an Apprentice and Squire to his Laurel and Knight, regarding the Kingdom Arts and Sciences Faire, AS 48 (Nov 16, 2013)

By THLaird Colyne Stewart

To the most eminent and excellent, and to be named with the highest veneration Nigel and Adrielle, august king and queen, with all exertions and every affection of faithful service, I wish perennial prosperity and blessedness in Lady Ealdormere of the Secret Heart.

As while attending a re-enactment of the courts of the northmen I did sign and endorse a contract with her most gracious majesty, so did I wish to honour this commitment as her apprentice. To such an end I resolved to take par in the Queen’s Prize Tourney, the first of its kind in our Kingdom of Ealdormere.

As your most serene selves are aware, each entrant in the tourney was to be sponsored by either a member of the Order of the Crucible or the Order of the Laurel. As I had decided to enter texts I had devised for charters and patents that were handed out by yourselves to your most worthy subjects, I asked Her Excellency Mahault of Swynford, Baroness of Havencroft and Patroness of the Scriptorium where I ply my quill to be my sponsor. To this she readily agreed.

To this end I wrote a paper detailing how I researched the persona of award recipients, and found period sources that matched said personas, and then crafted a unique text wording for them based on those sources. I included many examples of the award texts I had written up to that point in time.

When the day came THL Þorfinna gráfeldr and I set out for the northern reaches of Arden, in the Canton of Ardchreag. In this land named after one of the canton’s founders, artisans from across the kingdom were to come and show their work. And come they did! One-hundred and eighty-two people attended the faire that day. As for the Queen’s Prize Tourney, fifty-eight people entered, including four children. There were twenty-four sponsors (with each able to sponsor up to five entrants) and sixty judges. The hall near over flowed.

Before the Tourney opened, Your Majesties held a court where you honoured several worthies with your favour. This included my poor self, upon whom you bestowed an Award of the Orion for the writing of award scroll texts. Likewise, Orlaith inghen Cinada meic Briain was given an Orion, while Zoe of House Marchmount was given an Award of the Wolf’s Cub.

The Order of the Laurel was then called, and a boon was begged for Jhone of Woodcote, who was then placed on Vigil. As Jhone was escorted out of court by the order and her ecstatic husband Wilfrid of Sweflingham, Your Majesty did call back one of said Laurels, being namely Mistress Ælwynn, your champion. Your Majesty demanded of her if she did not have a duty in court, which she sheepishly said she did. All attending thought you meant her duty holding your sword, but nay, her duty was to call another boon, this time for Wilfrid himself. And so both husband and wife had their own boon called, and both were placed on vigil for the Order of the Laurel.

With the conclusion of court, the Queen’s Prize Tourney began. I was one of the first to be judged, and I found Baron Brand, Magistra Nicolaa and Lord Evan Quicktongue awaiting me. We talked long and enthusiastically about my entry and they concurred that my work was not that of a beginner, but was of at least intermediate skill (if not higher). They encouraged me to expand my paper and submit it to the Society’s journal “The Complete Anachronist”. I am most pleased to report that I have now done so, and it has been accepted by the journal and is currently being reviewed for publication.

I then rushed outside where I was to be the marshal-in-charge for a spear tourney to honour His Majesty, who was victorious in His crown tournament wielding such a weapon. As the focus of the day was on the gentle arts, only four hardy individuals donned harness for the tourney. These were: Sir Steinnr, THL Gann, Lord Rurik and Jack the Pirate. Before the tourney could begin, both Rurik and Jack had to authorize in the great weapons form, at which they were successful.

Before His Majesty, I told the noble combatants that I had set the time limit of an hour for the tournament, on the assumption there would be more taking part, and if they wished we could shorten it to half an hour. However, I asked them if they wanted to prove their mettle to his Majesty and place themselves upon the anvil of virtue and still fight for the full hour. To this they did agree.

There then began the tourney. They fought in what is known in common tongue as a bear-pit, where the winner of a bout faces the next fighter in line. Each bout was fought over a barrier and was to three counted blows, with blows to the lower body not allowed.

Each of the four fought well and hard and showed each other much honour and courtesy. At the end of the hour, Gann, Rurik and Jack found themselves in a tie, each with seven victories. Consulting with Sir Steinnr, I declared that a final winner would be decided by fighting a round robin, where each fighter would face the other two. If any one of them won both their bouts, they would win the tournament. These bouts were also fought at the barrier, but were fought using standard Society fighting conventions. (Though shots to the lower body were still disallowed.)

Jack the Pirate first fought Gann, and emerged triumphant. I then sent in Rurik and both Sir Steinnr and I were quick to point out to Jack that if he were to defeat Rurik, he would carry the day. Jack faced this extra pressure with aplomb and indeed did proceed to defeat Rurik, winning the tourney. As a prize, he was awarded an arming bench crafted by Þorfinna, which he was pleased to find fit inside the steamer trunk he used to carry his army.

Other fighters then came on the field and began fighting pick-ups, while I retired to other duties. Or so I thought. I was to sit at the gate with Einar Inn Austrifera Josepson, but he waved me off and told me to enjoy the event. And so I was able to peruse some of the other Queen’s Prize entries, talk with good friends, and meet a traveling bardic Laurel from Æthelmearc.

Many meetings were held that day, but happily I can say I was not required to attend a one of them. After the meetings were concluded, you, good king, held a class on spear use on the field.

Before feast, another court was held. And this was the way of it:

Each entrant in the Queen’s Prize Tourney was given a prize by one of the sponsors (though not their own). I received a jar of candied almonds from Her Excellency Lucia. Lady Marguerite was then declared the Judges’ Choice winner of the Tourney for her pigments while Bethan MacFinnon won the Queen’s Choice for his 15^th century stool. The baronies then presented prizes, each barony awarding a prize for a specific category of the arts and sciences. And herein I must cry pardon and fall on my knees in shame, for I did not record those winners and cannot grant them the word-fame they deserve.

And now I write of you, gracious queen. When you spoke to those assembled and thanked them for participating in this new idea, you were loudly lauded by all. Indeed, all those so assembled rose to their feet, and the applause was uproarious. Never have I seen such an accolade given. Most beauteous queen, you are a treasure of the north, and your people love you well.

The Royal Herbalist Guild then presented their taxes, before your majesties honoured more of your worth subjects with the following awards.

Liam of House Marchmount was given an Award of the Wolf’s Cub.
Leisle Woolmonger was given an Award of Arms.
Rhiannon of Eoforwic was given an Award of the Maiden’s Heart
Kaisa of Petrea Thule was given an Award of Arms
Einar Inn Austrifera Josepson was given an Award of Arms.
Aurik Burnsson was given an Award of the Orion.

Orla O’Shannahan was given an Award of the Orion.
Lyda Langrackrsdottir was inducted into the Order of the Crucible.

Court was concluded by calling Ailis de la Marche out of the kitchen where she had been working, to act as Royal Bard. When her song was done, your majesties surprised her by giving her an Award of the Orion.

The hall was then set up for feast, and I retired to the front hall to meet with other good gentles who had agreed to act as servers.

THL Hans Thorvaldson then presented a feast of five removes, each one representing a barony, and each one accompanied by a poem read by Lord Pelayo. This was greeted with great enthusiasm by the one-hundred people who dined upon it. During feast you honoured the event steward, Eeva the Restless, with an Award of the Maiden’s Heart.

I hope this record of the day does please your majesties. Truly Lady Ealdormere alone knows with what purity of mind and from how much devotion of heart I shall have been and am faithful to you and desire always to be. 

Based on a letter from an anonymous nobleman to Ermengard of Tours, 840-842 CE.

A Longship for Burning

In Memory of Malcolm Ernest Harris

By THL Asa Gormsdottir (mka Eve Harris)

For about a decade a Canadian named Wulfric has handcrafted and delivered a miniature Viking longship to Pennsic, the two-week SCA event held each August in Cooper’s Lake, Pennsylvania.

About 6’ long, the beautifully built ship with linen sail and rigging is armed with painted wooden shields and tokens of lost loved ones and brought to the shores of Cooper’s Lake at sunset, where it is dedicated and set adrift to burn in a Viking funeral.

This open-but-private event is well known but somehow secret. I had known about it for years but of course had never gone to the lake on that night. Death chooses its attendees.

Last year at Pennsic I decided to go.

One of the Pennsic merchants, a woodworker from Canada, makes and sells plain wooden bosse shields for the ship. They are about 2.5” across. He also sells little paint sets to decorate them. Sometimes if the person is poor he gives them a kit for free. I bought a shield and gave him extra.

During a lull the next day I went to our tent, pulled out my illumination box and painted the shield. A black emphatic M in Lindisfarne script with knotwork terminals. The center wooden bosse painted with a small red-black-and-white chequey design (in imitation of millefiori glass studs found in important Anglo-Saxon and Celtic pieces, such as the Ardagh Chalice and the Lismore Crozier). The ground in white. The rim of the shield in red.

The paint dried quickly in the hot weather and I slipped the little shield into a scrounged ziplock bag in my purse.

Later that day I was on Runestone Hill and a party of three marched up the hill with the wooden ship on their shoulders. I asked them if they were accepting the shields now. The leader nodded, and told his crew, “Present Deck!” They turned and presented the deck of the ship to me and I hurriedly scrabbled the shield out of my purse and placed it on the deck, where some others were already waiting. Before the ceremony all the shields would be carefully nailed along the topmost strake on both sides (the area now known as the gunwales).

After finishing my shift at the Pennsic Independent that afternoon I went back to the tent and changed out of my fine blue Gothic dress, made from the silk Holly bought me in Afghanistan. Instead I put on a green linen tunic, a herringbone apron dress and pewter tortoise brooches, braided my hair and put on desert boots. David changed into Norman wool.

Thus plainly arrayed as a Norsewoman, Asa Gormsdottir, I went down to the water’s edge in the steadily failing light, to stand with my friends of this night. They flowed in, quiet, discreet ripples, so imperceptibly filling the small clearing below the watchtower trees. Other than a short greeting, no one really spoke with one another.

Unnr Hringsdottir, another Canadian (it’s amazing how we create and infiltrate) led the ceremony with her plump and healthy babe in arms. She was in childbed in Toronto when her father died in Ottawa and could not go to his funeral.

Unnr has studied the Norse language and sagas at length, aided by the surviving Icelandic tongue, and can speak like a proper skald.

She spoke for a few minutes in Norse. I do not know what she said but it seemed to be a solemn invocation. I remember the fireflies were coming out. One hovered above her head for a few moments, slowly sparking, and I thought it was a blessing. I imagined they were the souls of the dead come to be honoured.

Then she led us in the words of the Viking funeral, made famous by the movie, The 13^th Warrior.

Lo there do I see my father

Lo there do I see my mother and my sisters and my brothers

Lo there do I see the line of my people

Back to the beginning

Lo, they do call to me

They bid me take my place among them

In the Halls of Valhalla

Where the brave may live

Forever

Each person called out clearly the full name of the one they mourned. It was now quite dark.

A sudden stir as the men brought up the boat. I snaked my way through with my flash-and-smash camera to the port side where there weren’t as many people. The brave little shields were nailed fast to the sides of the ship. I found Daddy’s shield and took pictures. One shield bore the Eye of Horus; another, the symbol for infinity. People came up and laid personal tokens and little boxes of ashes onboard. I saw the linen sail, painted with a SCAdian device. I didn’t know whose heraldry it was. There were about a dozen candles. I secured a place as a candle bearer.

Some frigging and fooling around getting the ship ready.

At last the ship was brought down the bank. We lit our candles with splinters and stuck them in the special wells on the ship. Then the ship was placed onto the water as the candles flickered and wax hissed and spat on the deck. There wasn’t much wind and it was hard to get the ship off the beach. The builder included a hidden motor to help but it was fouled by weeds almost instantly.

The ship wasn’t moving; in fact, the waves were bringing it back in to shore, so I got into the lake with another guy and we walked the boat deeper into the water. A third man stripped off and swam the boat deep into the center of the lake, out of the lea of the hill.

Finally, gloriously the longship caught fire. The proud flames rose fiercely into the night, consuming the boat and its burden of painted prayers.

The torches from nearby camps softly answered, winking in the dark.

I was hauled back up the bank by the arms of weeping women I didn’t know. We huddled together, anonymous and free to cry without shame.

The boat’s champion stayed in the water. By tradition any pieces left floating would later be collected and burned at the campsite known as Enchanted Ground, where the modern world may not enter in word or deed.

As the ship burned lower, the group began to break up. My shoes were filled with water and rather than loudly squelch my way back to camp I took them off and walked barefoot down the stony hill to the path. Later I would find dried sand caked into the hems of my clothes, holy sand I was curiously reluctant to wash away.

Eve Harris

Recitation Of the History Of the Axe Of Heroes

by Master Hector of the Black Height

Lord Rannulf Smith of West Yorvik, Ealdormere forged the axe. Also he was a noted bastard-swordsman in his day.

Baron Corwyn Galbraith of Ealdormere, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Current Baron of Septentria in Ealdormere, married to Domhnail (#17) crafted the axe haft in his workshop. He also first used the axe, to split wood for a carved spoon.

Lord Grimwulf the Hairy of Ealdormere, was the third owner of the axe. He is the second-finest field commander Septentria has ever produced (the finest is Baron Aeden o Kincora, who taught Grimwulf).

Fourth to own the axe was Duke Barak Hasdrubal the Carthaginian, Knight of Ealdormere. A Duke of the Eastrealm, one of the finest battle commanders ever at the Pennsic Wars, particularly in the woods.

Viscount Mordain Blackcloak, Knight of Ealdormere, the fifth to carry the axe. Warlord of Ealdormere’s forces at Pennsic XIII and at Pennsic XXXIII. Was squired to Sir Finnvarr (#71).

Thegn Cynred Broccan of Ealdormere, sixth owner of the axe. Former Baron of Septentria, he sat the Ursine thrones beside Bushra’s sister Gaerwen. Squired to Sir David (#24).

The seventh owner, Sir Evander McLachlan of Ealdormere, was a brilliant swordsman and joyous soul, he crusaded in the Middle East two years ago.

Viscount Menken Brechen, Knight, Master of the Pelican, Baron of Ealdormere, and Current Baron of Skraeling Althing in Ealdormere, the eighth owner, sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

The axe then passed to its ninth holder, Lord Streonwald Wulfesbana of Ealdormere, Squired to Sir Berus (#65). Also a fine smith, he provided a sharpening steel for the axe.

Lord Etien au Neval, of Ealdormere tenth holder of the axe of heroes, Step-brother to Viscountess Bushra, and King’s Champion of Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Sir Berus (#65) and Master Worgen (#14). Last Bard to the Courts of the Principality of Ealdormere, he does a frighteningly accurate imitation of a large ape.

Count Sarnac Bahadur, Knight of Ealdormere, and eleventh holder of the axe of heroes, Was squired to Sir Roak (#12), an inspiring and passionate commander.

The twelveth holder of the axe was Duke Roak of Ealdormere, Knight of Ealdormere. A Rozakii (see #91), famed for his prowess with mace and greatsword. Also a highly capable operational commander.

Master Trumbrand the Wanderer, Master of Arms in Ealdormere, was the thirteenth holder of the axe. A Rozakii (see #91), second MSCA ever elevated in Ealdormere, also a fine armourer. Married to Kayla (#22)

Master Worgen MacGreggor, Master of Arms in Ealdormere, the fourteenth holder of the axe, and Step-brother to Viscountess Bushra, was the First MSCA ever elevated in Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Sir Berus (#65) and Etien (#10). Universally beloved for his sweet nature, he also fights an amazing mace.

Duke Edouard Beausoleil, Knight of Ealdormere, and the fifteenth to hold the axe of heroes; was squired to Sir Finnvarr (#71). In his first mass battle at Pennsic he saved Kaellyn (#50) from serious injury or death, when her chinstrap failed and her helmet went flying, by throwing himself between her and an advancing army.

Lord Wulfgang Donnerfaust of Ealdormere, the sixteenth person to carry the axe, First squire to Sir Sarnac (#10), he has the makings.

The seventeenth holder of the axe of heroes was Baroness Domhnail Galbraith of Ealdormere, Aunt to Viscountess Bushra, and Current Baroness of Septentria in Ealdormere, married to Corwin (#2). Squired to Master Worgen (#14).

Lord Graeme de Liste of Ealdormere, was the eighteenth holder of the axe. He is married to Viscountess Bushra's niece Aurelia (who made Bushra's Coptic fillet). A fine teacher of new fighters.

Lord Ralf of Oaklawn the nineteenth and oldest person to carry the axe of Heros, from Outlands, and brother to Viscountess Bushra, He holds a valid heavy fighter authorization card at age 81.

Viscount Edward Zifram of Gendy, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican East, 45th Knight ever elevated in the Society, autocrat of Pennsic XXXIII, was the twentieth person to carry the axe.

Twenty-first holder of the axe was, his Royal Highness Sir Rurik, Crown Prince of Aethelmearc. A valiant warrior and most gracious Prince.

The Twenty-second was Lady Kayla the Cheerful of Ealdormere. Former King’s Champion of Ealdormere, a joyous fighter and generous soul. A Rozakii, married to Master Trumbrand (#13).

Taog of Concusare, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Warlord of Concusare, a non-SCA group of pre-600 AD Iberian Celts was the twenty third holder of the axe. He understands deeply things Celtic.

Earl David Martin Failsworth, Knight, and Duke of Ealdormere. First prince of the Principality of Ealdormere; also first King of the Kingdom of Ealdormere. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. He was the twenty fourth to hold the axe.

The twenty fifth holder of the axe was Sir Gregory of Loch Swan, Master of the Pelican in Lochac. A faithful Pennsic participant who flies up from Australia every summer.

Duchess Elina of Beckenham, Mistress of the Laurel and the Pelican, Lady of the Rose of the Middle Kingdom was the twenty-sixth to hold the axe. She is author of the “Iron Rose” essays and book, a singularly graceful lady. I believe she is married to Duke Steven (#106)

Twenty-seventh was Lord Axayacatl the Tlacuilo of Ealdormere. Distinguished bard to the Baron of Septentria (#2), formerly known as Gunnar Truthsinger, he has embraced his Mexica (“Aztec”) persona despite objections from Eurocentric SCAdians.

The axe then went to it's twenty eighth owner, Lady Seonid nic Thomas of Ealdormere, Baronial Champion of Septentria. Married to Streonwald (#9).

Lady Isotta Gianfigliazzi of Ealdormere, the twenty ninth holder, is a fine spear-fighter with a charming singing voice.

The thirtith holder of the axe was Lord Evan Quicktongue of Ealdormere Squired to Sir Katsu Okaiwa, he is known for a quick wit and generous nature.

Her Royal Majesty Marion II, Lady of the Rose, Queen of Ealdormere, was the thirty first to hold the axe of heros. Married to Sir Berus (#65), she is a noted combat archer.

It's Thirty-second holder was Master Brusten de Bearsul, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of Middle Kingdom. A former Knight of the Middle Kingdom, he threw the first blow at the first demo in what became Ealdormere. Also a former War Chirurgeon at Pennsic.

Sir Ustad Hassan the Dredd of the Middle kindgom, and thiry-third to hold the axe, was the first Islamic persona to perform the Pennsic pilgrimage, the Penjj, he was squired to Sir Lothar (#47). He is an inspiring fighter to watch and a soul of vast generosity and kindness.

Lord Drust mhic Arleth of the Middle Kingdom, the thirty fourth person to hold the axe is first squire to Sir Ustad (#32). He has the makings.

35 Baron Tancred of Tanglewood of Ealdormere. Foremer Baron of Rising Waters in Ealdormere and a noted craftsman, he is a wise fighter who fights single combat only, heeding his body’s limitations.

36 Baron Andrixos Seljukroctonis, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel, Huskarl Calontir. A noted Byzantine warrior, he teaches Latin to the army of Calontir on the field (example: “Ave, marinus”, “Hello, sailor”).

37 His Royal Highness Brannos, Knight and Master of the Pelican, Crown Prince of the Middle Kingdom. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World, considered the finest swordsman on the east side of the continent, he is the finest coach of fighting in the Society. Married to Mistress Rebekka (#108).

38 Master Feral von Halstern, Master of Arms in Eastrealm. A senior commander within the Great Northern Army of the Eastrealm, one of the finest field commanders at the Pennsic Wars.

39 Viscount Haakon Oaktall, Knight, Master of the Pelican in Aethelmearc Uncle to Viscountess Bushra, Warlord of Clan Yama Kaminari, he walks the talk and carves legends with his spear. See #85.

40 Lord Ardal of Antioch in Aethelmearc, Cousin to Viscountess Bushra, Squire to Sir Haakon (#39), a convivial companion.

41 Sir Trelogin Tavistock, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel of the Middle Kingdom. A truly joyous man, he begged the boon for Viscountess Bushra’s Laurel when he was placed on vigil for the Pelican. Interestingly, his first of three Peerages was his Pelican.

42 Sir Osric Eisenwulf of the Middle Kingdom. Head of a famous Midrealm fighting house, House Ironwolf, his generosity is well-known.

43 Baron Dur al-Jabal ak Mufti of Aethelmearc. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Father and guiding light of the Society’s Mozarab renaissance, he named Bushra al-Jazeeri bint al-Nahr.

44 Badger of Anglesey; Another non-SCA Celt and fine warrior, he casts bronze.

45 Countess Elina de Braose, Lady of the Rose, First Queen of Ealdormere, she led her army on the field, sword in hand.

46 Sir Aengus MacBain of Aethelmearc, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Knighted at Pennsic XXXIII – he held the axe before he knew he was to be knighted -- he was squired to Sir Haakon (#38). Married to Mistress Yvianne (#47). A truly generous, joyous man.

47 Maitresse Yvianne de Castel d’Avignon, Mistress of the Laurel of Aethelmearc. Married to her uncle Sir Aengus (#46) Scutifer to her husband, the previous summer she was injured on the field protecting him. After surgery she returned to the field to fight beside him.

48 Baron Lothar von Drachenstein, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of the Middle Kingdom. Noted Knight and artisan. His “Drachenstein Treasures” is one of the leading SCA jewellers of the Known World.

49 Master Efenwealt Wystle, Master of the Laurel in Atlantia. Once killed the King of Ealdormere at Gulf Wars with his spear and wrote a song about it. He is mad, utterly mad.

50 Viscountess Kaellyn MacDermott, Mistress of the Pelican in Ealdormere. Second Princess of Ealdormere, War Chirurgeon, Pennsic XXV. Also a faithful friend and advisor to Bushra during her reign. She cannot stop working and serving.

51 Count Ruslan Novgorodcev, Master of Arms, Master of the Pelican of the East. Warlord of the East at Pennsic XXXIII. A fine field commander, his quick thinking saved Pennsic War XXIII from crisis and collapse on the field.

52 Baron Malachi von Uri, Knight of Calontir. In service to Queen Sile II (#101).

53 Viscount Bear the Wallsbane, Knight of Aethelmearc. Famed Aethelmearc warrior known for tenacity on the field.

54 Lord Justinian Clarus of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Past Bard to the Court of Ealdormere, as a shieldman in the line he has used his voice to command whole armies when the generals were silent.

55 Count Valharic Caligula Aurelius, Knight of the Middle. King of the Middle at Pennsic XXXI, he learned much during his reign.

56 Lord Fian mhic Kennedy of House Darkyard of the Middle. Man-at-arms to Sir Valharic (#55). He has the makings.

57 The High Lord Barak Petreus Marinus Comitatus of Ealdormere. Squire to Barak Sir Hasdrubal (#4), a distinguished small-unit tactician and tenacious patriot.

58 The High Lord Richard Larmer of Ealdormere. Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), a distinguished participant in and organizer of high medieval tournament companies.

59 Duke Alaric von Drachenklaue, Knight of Caid. A gracious Peer and noted film student, and therein lies a tale.

60 Ritter Brion Landgraff von Bellatrix, Knight of the West Kingdom. Viscount and Knight. A Bellatrix of the blood, son of Duke Paul Bellatrix.

61 Viscount Atai Yoshina, Knight of Aethelmearc. A wandering Knight due to his previous employment in the service of his demanding uncle Samuel, the Society at large is his home.

62 Lord Dietrich von Berne of the East. Proprietor of “Dark Victory Armoury” maker of black plastic harness. He has put 1,000 fighters on the field.

63 Master Wulfgar o’the Wood, Master of Arms in the East. Noble head of a glorious house; the squire reflects the Master and the Master is most impressive indeed. He understands kin, profoundly.

64 Lord Eric Polynares East Squire to Master Wulfgar (#62), a noble and generous heart. His Master held the axe on his behalf.

65 His Royal Majesty Berus II, Knight, King of Ealdormere. Squire-brother to Master Worgen (#14) and Etien (#10), married to Marion (# 31), he made Bushra’s gold Viscounty coronet.

66 Sir Hrymgnar Aeulfsson of the East. Long-time merchant at Pennsic, his goods are reliable and priced fairly.

67 Count Aaron Preslee Worgensson, Knight of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Was squired to Master Worgen (#13). Also known as “Iron Aaron of the Thousand Battles”, he fought 1,000 bouts at Pennsic XXXII. His kindness, patience and common sense all are treasures.

68 Sir Ivar the Black Knight of An Tir, who fought for Ealdormere at Pennsic XXXIII at the Princess of Avacal’s request.

69 Baron Ephraim ben Shlomo, Knight of the Middle. Baron of the Cleftlands, one of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. Perhaps the single most humble and gracious Knight in the Society.

70 Lord Hamish Gunn of Ealdormere. Grand-nephew to Viscountess Bushra. A member of House Galbraith, calls Bushra’s Laurel “Grandpa” through her brother Master Garraed Galbraith.

71 Duke Finnvarr de Taahe, Knight, Master of the Pelican and the Laurel in Ealdormere. Only fighter to have fought in every war-point battle in every Pennsic War. One of the Nine Worthies of the Known World. Sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

72 The High Lord Hereward Feorbend of Ealdormere, Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), beloved of the Kingdom of Calontir.

73 Lord Travis Greywolf of Ealdormere. Squire to Sir Finnvarr (#71), he enjoys fighting with short pole weapons.

74 Lord Wat of Sarum in Ealdormere. A steady fighter and gentle man with a wicked sense of humour.

75 Sir Nigel Macfarlane of Ealdormere. Very effective Ealdormere field commander, Pennsic XXXIII. The axe rested on the Runestone immediately before Sir Nigel’s wife, Baroness Adrielle Kerrec OP OL (herself a fine warrior), sat vigil for the Laurel at Pennsic XXXIII.

76 Lord Angus Albhanni of Ealdormere. Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. Captain of the Black Tower and Head of the Eoforwic City Guard, he served as group marshal of a group without a permanent fight practice site for a decade, which is an act of vast dedication in the face of insurmountable frustration.

77 Master John the Pell, Master of Arms of the East. One of the legendary large-force commanders of the Pennsic War.

78 Duke Siegfried von Halstern, Knight of the East. Founder of the renowned Eastern Haus von Halstern.

79 Countess Kenna Harve, Mistress of the Pelican, Lady of the Rose of the Middle. Ruled the Middle alone after the death of her consort, Prince Jafar. She authorized as a heavy fighter after his death so the Crown could be on the field with her troops.

80 Lord Chengir abu Bene Said of Aethelmearc. The greatest Mozarab storyteller in the Known World.

81 Viscount Gunther von Wieselburg, Knight of Trimaris, Uncle to Viscountess Bushra. The finest War Prince Ealdormere ever had lead it into the field.

82 Duke Dagan du Darregonne, Knight, Master of the Pelican in the Middle Kingdom. A distinguished Master of the Pelican, he has a strong conscience and great sense of personal honour.

83 Lord Simon Ivanovich Tzarakov of Aethelmearc. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Squired to Sir Haakon (#39), a dedicated servant.

84 Lord Damian Haakonsson of Aethelmearc. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Squired to Sir Haakon (#39). He has the makings.

85 Sir Dirk MacMartin, Huskarl Calontir. Cousin to Viscountess Bushra. Was squired to Sir Haakon (#39), a generous and joyous warrior.

86 Sir Ogami Akira of Aethelmearc. Head of Clan Yama Kaminari (“Clan Mountain Lightning)”, he does very detailed samurai. Also head of Security, Pennsic XXXIII.

87 Sir Magarichi no Kordono of Aethelmearc. Was squired to Sir Ogami (#85), he does his knight honour.

88 Lord Kataura Hachirou of Aethelmearc. Squired to Sir Ogami (#85), a very proficient senior squire to a very demanding knight.

89 Duke Ronald Wilmot, Knight of the East. Took a tragic relic, a helmet half-made for the late Sir Thorbjorn Osis, and turned it into a joyous gift for Sir Aaron Preslee’s knighting.

90 His Grace Tribune Darius Aurelius Serpentius, Knight of the East. While King of the East at Pennsic XXXI was voted the title “Imperator” by his army on the field. Fought 1,000 bouts at Pennsic (circa Pennsic XXIX). Married to Roxane (#90).

91 Her Grace Roxane Arabi Shahzadch, Mistress of the Laurel, Lady of the Rose in the East. While Queen at Pennsic XXXI was awarded the East’s Blue Tiger (martial award) for her abilities as a field commander. Married to Darius (#89).

92 Baron Thorgrim of the Rozakii of Aethelmearc. Khagan (head) of the Rozakii, a famed Khazari fighting house that has produced many great warriors.

93 Lord Garth Halfdan of the Marines of An Tir. In service to Duke Sir Hasdrubal (#4) he travels from An Tir every summer to fight alongside his kin; he calls himself “the Westernmost Ealdormerian”.

94 His Royal Majesty Siridean, Knight, King of Calontir. A most gracious and patient Knight.

95 Duke Talymar gan y Llewyn, Knight, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Famed as “Hammer of the Tiger”, the Middle’s greatest field general ever. Also a fine friend to Ealdormere in its darkest hours.

96 Baron Brand Thorwaldsson, Master of the Pelican of Ealdormere. One of the best heralds in the Known World, a well-feared greatswordsman and, in his spare time, both patron saint of armourers and mailmakers and father of his Barony.

97 His Royal Highness Malik, Knight, Crown Prince of Ealdormere. He held the axe while doing his Penjj as part of his vigil, prior to being knighted at Pennsic XXXIII.

98 Duke Eliahu ben Itzhak, Knight, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. A firm friend of the Northlands.

99 Baron Thomas Damian Blackmoor of Aethelmearc. He once fought in an AIDS benefit tourney at Pennsic while recovering from heat exhaustion because the tourney was under-subscribed.

100 Serjeant the Lady Sigrid de Mere of the Middle. Squire to Sir Eliahu (#97).

101 Lord Kasimir of Staargard of Ealdormere. Second squire to Sir Sarnac (#10). His Knight held the axe on his behalf.

102 Her Royal Majesty Sile II, Mistress of the Laurel, Lady of the Rose, Queen of Calontir. Queen of Calontir at Pennsic XX. An old and dear friend of the Northlands.

103 Duke Christofer Kensor, Knight, Master of the Pelican of Calontir. A Knight of colourful origins who has learned much and become a stalwart of his Kingdom.

104 Duke Palymar of the Two Baronies, Knight, Master of the Pelican in the Middle. A firm friend of the Northlands, he both delivered the Midrealm proscription of the word “Ealdormere” and presided over Ealdormere’s first Crown Tournament.

105 Sir Jehane de la Batarde of the East. Former head of Security, circa Pennsic XXVII.

106 Lord Agnar the Goth of Ealdormere. Faithful Northman, fought in every Pennsic, starting about Pennsic XVI.

107 Duke Stephen of Beckenham, Knight, Master of the Laurel and the Pelican of the Middle. I believe he is married to Duchess Elina (#26). Reputed one of the finest swords of the Society.

108 Morgana of Concusare. Lady of Bushra's uncle Taog (#22). A deadly spear-woman amidst a clan of gallant and passionate warriors.

109 Her Royal Highness Rebekka, Mistress of the Laurel and the Pelican, Lady of the Rose, Crown Princess of the Middle. Married to Sir Brannos (#37), she is the only non-fighter within this roll. She went to Pennsic XXXIII while completing a course of chemotherapy. Of all this roll of heroes, she shines most brightly.

110 Sir Alan Culross, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Former Earl Marshal of the Middle. Once spent fifteen hours in his car driving to a Coronation site, driving to the outgoing Crown’s home to recover a forgotten piece of regalia and returned to the event site (across the US/Canada border). A very patient man.

111 Lord Ulvar van der Nederlander of Ealdormere. One of the finest scouts in the woods battle, Pennsic XXXIII.

112 Lord Lucius Aurelius Varus of the East. A former Rozakii moved afar, renowned for his swordsmanship.

113 The High Lord Tynne Duair ap Beul of Ealdormere. A Rozakii, apprenticed in illumination to Princess Genevieve of Ealdormere.

114 Tigearn Corrig Mhor of Ealdormere. A deadly spear fighter with a decidedly early Irish bent.

115 Lord Rhodri ap Ieuan ap Hywel, Fyrdman Calontir. A Calontiri who lived in Ealdormere for a year, he both learned and taught much.

116 Lord Thorolfr inn Smithr of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard, well-reputed amongst the Calontiri.

117 Lord Pelayo of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

118 Lady Sara of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

119 Bjarn Styrmirsson of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

120 His Worship the Lord Hans Thorwaldsson of Ealdormere. Lord Mayor of the Royal City of Eoforwic and a member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

121 Lady Bridget of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

122 James MacDonald of Eoforwic of Ealdormere. A member of the Eoforwic City Guard.

123 The High Lord Dafydd ap Sion of Ealdormere. Archery Champion to Their Majesties Ealdormere and a faithful friend to those in grief and need.

124 Lord Augustine Ely of Ealdormere. A new fighter with eyesight challenges, he fought fearlessly in the woods while holding a great and pure faith in those around him.

125 Baron Colin James MacLachlan, Knight, Master of the Pelican, Huskarl Calontir. He held the axe while sitting vigil on his elevation to the Chivalry at Pennsic XXXIII, at the Runestone. Sat on the Board of Directors of the Society.

126 Master Charles Oakley, Master of the Pelican of the Middle. Current Seneschal of the Middle Kingdom.

127 Baron Konrad Matthais Jaeger, Master of the Pelican of Ealdormere. Commanded troops brilliantly on the Pennsic XXXIII bridges.

128 Lord Eoin o Berne of Ealdormere. Married to her sister Zahra Man-at-arms to Sir Malik (#96), former Baronial Champion of the Barony of Rising Waters in Ealdormere.

129 Viscount Kitakaze Tatsu Raito, Knight of the Middle. Viscount of Northshield, he is cutting the jewels for that land’s first Crowns.

130 Beothuk of the Beothuk of An Tir. Faithful friend to Viscountess Bushra. Last of the roll of heroes and by no means least.

The Axe of heroes was held by:
Four sitting Kings and Queens
Four Crown Princes and Princesses
Seventeen Dukes and Duchesses
Six Counts and Countesses
Seven Ladies of the Rose
Ten Viscounts and Viscountesses
Fifty Knights
Six Masters of Arms
Twenty-nine Peers of one or both of the Peaceful Orders
Fourteen Barons and Baronesses
Eighteen direct relations to Viscountess Bushra

The axe rested on the Pennsic Runestone