Where Am I?

The Barony of Stonemarche is the local chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). Stonemarche encompasses the entire state of New Hampshire, and is part of the Kingdom of the East, which includes a large portion of New England up into Canada.

Where can I learn more?

There are currently 20 kingdoms around the globe, which comprise the known world of the SCA, with participation of people from infancy to old age. It is never too early, or too late, to start.

I feel a bit lost…is there someone who can help?

Of course! While most people who have been here a while would be happy to at least give you directions, or make suggestions of activities you may enjoy, we do have someone who is a designated as a liaison to help newcomers find their niche. Ask at the gate (where you paid your site fee) about where to find the Chatelaine; they will be delighted to meet you!

The Chatelaine is responsible for guiding and encouraging newcomers to the Society. Between events, you can reach the Chatelaine by email at:

Chatelaine@stonemarche.eastkingdom.org

How should I dress?

For most events in the SCA, we ask that everyone make an attempt at wearing pre-sixteenth century clothing. You will likely see a range of clothing from simple tunics over jeans to dresses you would picture in a museum.

Don’t have anything suitable? That’s ok, we can probably help. We usually have garb (the term for what we wear at events) in a variety of sizes and styles that we will loan you for the duration of the event. If you decide to continue, then we can help you make your own, or direct you to places to buy something that suits your taste and your budget.

How do I address people?

First and foremost, with respect.

“Milord” or “Milady” are suitable forms of address for people of any rank, along with “Good Gentle” (for a gender-free option)

What can I do?

Most events have a variety of activities available at any given time.

Possibilities could include:

Archery, Brewing, Calligraphy, Classes, Cooking, Dancing, Fighting, Fencing, Games, Sewing, Shopping, Singing, Storytelling, and more!

Do I need to be a member to participate?

No! A paid membership is not required for most activities. There is often a small surcharge added to event fees if you are not a paid member, which covers insurance and administrative fees, but that’s all.

After you have explored a few events, you can decide whether a paid membership is right for you.

I see people wearing crowns.�Does that mean they’re important?

Yes, and no. Coronets and Crowns are generally worn by people who have achieved, or been granted, a higher rank of some kind. Whether it is the current or former Sovereign, their consort, or a lower ranked member of the nobility, remember that under the fancy headgear they are still a person.

It is polite to bow, curtsey, or at least nod your head in acknowledgement of a person’s likely rank. If all those around you are holding position in a bow or curtsey, you won’t go wrong by following suit, and you can always ask “Why?” after the person has passed.

The Sovereign or Consort is addressed as “Your Majesty”; a Prince, Princess is addressed as “Your Highness”. However, if you don’t know their rank, “Milord”, “Milady”, or “Good Gentle” are still appropriate.

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The site booklet for most events shows the planned activities, but there are often unofficial activities around as well.