What is the Society for Creative Anachronish (SCA)?
The SCA is an international, non-profit organization that is dedicated to recreating the European Middle Ages and Renaissance.
What is the Shire of Border Vale Keep?
The SCA is divided into 12 regions called Kingdoms. Each Kingdom is divided into smaller groups called Baronies. Baronies are subdivided into Cantons. Groups such as Shires and Colleges operate within a Kingdom independent of Baronies. The Shire of Border Vale Keep is part of the Kingdom of Atlantia. The Shire is locally run by volunteers in the Augusta, Ga., area.
What is an event?
Events are scheduled gatherings that allow the participants to recreate life in the Middle Ages. Anyone can attend an event in any Kingdom of the SCA. People dress in period clothing, eat authentic foods and dance to music. Many events feature fighting tournaments. For more information on events, including when the next event is scheduled, visit our Events section.
How do I choose an SCA name?
Modern names (known as mundane names) seem out of place at an event. To make the event more realistic, participants use an SCA name. The name must have been in common usage during the Middle Ages. The Shire's Herald can help you select and register a name with the SCA.
What is a "persona"?
Participants in the SCA may create a "persona," a character they would have liked to to have been during a specific time and place during the Middle Ages. Choose your name, clothing and create an entire biography of the person you are pretending to be. You can not have the persona of a real person, living or dead. Remember, your persona may never be royalty. You must earn a rank.
What is a device and how do I design one?
A device is like a family crest. The design must follow basic rules of Heraldry and should be registered with the SCA. The SCA makes sure certain design rules are followed and that no other person in the SCA has an identical device. The device is commonly placed on shields, armor, clothing and tents. Contact the Shire's Herald for more information.
How do I become King or Queen?
The Kingdom of Atlantia holds a Crown Tourney every six months. Men and women fight for the crown in one-on-one combat. To avoid serious injuries, safety procedures and rules of combat must be followed. Contact the Shire's Knight Marshal for more information about combat techniques, weapons and armor.
