Creative Anachronism may be for you

Julie Druker | Aug 12, 2015

History buffs wanting to experience what living in pre-17th century Europe was like may be interested to know that there exists an international society with branches right here here in Canada that allows its members to do just that. The Society of Creative Anachronism is an international organization with over 30,000 members who research and recreate the arts and skills of those days long gone by. Consisting of over 20 kingdoms, members organize events and dress in period clothing and attend various events throughout the year.

As part of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library's series of live monthly speakers, Jon McLean, a member of the society, spoke at the Sydenham library branch on August about the organization and some of its practices. Society members can engage in many of the activities that were popular during those times, including armored combat, rapier combat (also known as fencing), various types of crafting, equestrian activities, archery and other thrown weaponry, heraldry and other forms or writing, performing arts, games, meal and beverage preparation and more.

McLean has a interest in making mead, an alcoholic beverage popular at that time and said that was what initially attracted him to the group. The first step for those interested is to locate the Kingdom closest to you by accessing the organization's website and looking at a list of their events that can be attended, or alternately by getting in touch with a member to find out more. McLean spoke of some of the events that he has attended, which have included special feast days when summer and winter Kings and Queens are chosen by the group; special combat days that are held in a drill hall located at CFB Kingston; large re-enactments of battles that have taken place, as well as other celebrations where members recreate period meals and activities in an effort to emulate life as it was back then. Members create their own authentic dress, and accessories and McLean stressed that it is up to members to go as in depth into the authenticity of their roles and gear as they like. McLean showed slides of members of his group at a special Trebuchet Day where they test fired a catapult they had built, and other slides showed members participating in a re-enactment of a Trillium War.

Those interested can visit the website at www.sca.org to find out more information and how to get involved.