What is the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA)?
We are a worldwide non-profit history group focused on the study and recreation of life (primarily in Europe) prior to the 17th century. Our group is often compared to live action roleplay (LARP) or Renaissance Fairs, however the SCA is neither. Our focus is historical instead of fantastical, and participation instead of a showcase of entertainment.
Members of the SCA participate on a variety of activities including combat, calligraphy, blacksmithing, dancing, sewing, cooking, and more- if there’s something that that interests you in the modern world, someone in the SCA is doing the historical equivalent!
Our members take on a persona; a “character” we each create and live as when attending events. Personas can be as simple and complex as a person desires. Some only take a name, place, and time period, while others build elaborate backstories.
How is the SCA structured?
The SCA is split into various levels of groups that become progressively more specific to a certain area. The SCA generally refers to the entire worldwide group; within that we are split into kingdoms. At the current time, there are 20 kingdoms that exist around the globe. Kingdoms vary in size from a single state to several countries. Mag Mor exists within the kingdom of Calontir, which covers most of Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and a tiny portion of Arkansas.
Within kingdoms are local groups including baronies, cantons, and shires. These groups are usually specific to a metropolitan or geographic area. Group classification is determined amount of paying members, with baronies being the largest. Mag Mor is a barony that claims the Lincoln, NE metropolitan area, and extends far enough to include to Grand Island, Kearney, and Hastings in our lands. Our closest neighbor is the Barony of Lonely Tower in Omaha, NE.
Part of the SCA is also the immersion. Our kingdoms have kings and queens; baronies have barons and baronesses. Unless otherwise specified, all members of the SCA are considered minor nobility. Members are also recognized for their work in the arts, sciences, combat, and service to the group by receiving awards.
Understanding the social hierarchy takes time to learn and we don’t expect newcomers to have it memorized. All we ask is for courtesy and politeness!
What do I have to do to participate/become a member?
(And what does it cost?)
Contact our Chatelaine! The Chatelaine is the officer responsible for helping and guiding new members. To learn more about Mag Mor, upcoming events, & to have questions answered, email the Chatelaine at chatelaine@magmor.calontir.org or submit a newcomer’s contact request.
In Mag Mor, consider attending one of our weekly meetings (more information can be found on our Calendar). Our weekly meetings are free to attend, and we will not be dressed up in costume (“garb”). They’re a great time to meet our members and ask questions. If you have interests in combat, archery, or music, we have free practices nights during the week. More information about those can also be found in our Calendar.
Mag Mor hosts several “baronial revels” throughout the year, which are single-day events that include a potluck, a small A&S competition, court held by our Baron and Baroness, and other activities. These are also free to attend but require garb.
Lastly, we occasionally host kingdom level events- events attended by people throughout our kingdom of Calontir. Some events are held for a purpose (to determine or crown our next king and queen, competitions in arts and sciences). Kingdom level events do have a registration fee and garb is required to attend.
Participation in the SCA is flexible- you’re allowed to participate as little or as much as you’re willing and able to. Some attend an event once a year, some attend as many events as they can! We are a very self-driven hobby.
Garb/costumes can be the biggest challenge for newcomers. All we as is an attempt at pre-16th century garb, which we interpret fairly loosely. We have a collection of garb available for loan called Gold Key. Contact the Chatelaine or the Gold Key officer for more information.
You are considered a member of the SCA if you participate in any degree, however the SCA does offer a paid membership. Paid membership is not required to participate. Being a paid member will give you a discount on events with a registration fee.