Welcome Newcomers!
Whether you are completely new to the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) or an experienced medievalist relocating to Davidson, Guilford, Randolph, Rockingham, or Stokes counties, welcome! We encourage anyone with a passion for living history, historic arts, research, or martial pursuits to explore everything our canton has to offer.
Recreating the history, arts, and martial traditions of the Middle Ages in Central North Carolina
What is the SCA?
The Society for Creative Anachronism is an international living history organization dedicated to researching and recreating pre-17th-century European culture and skills. Unlike historical reenactments that focus on specific battles or narrow time periods, SCA members select their own areas of study and recreation—ranging from medieval clothing, illumination, brewing, and cooking to heavy armored combat, archery, and rapier fencing.
Arts & Sciences Nights
Dedicated to exploring, researching, and practicing historic crafts and pre-17th-century technologies, our A&S nights cover everything from fiber arts, illumination, and calligraphy to brewing, cooking, and garb-making.
Monthly Populace Gatherings
Our core community meetings where local citizens, members, and officers gather to discuss upcoming events, review canton business, and enjoy each other’s company in a social atmosphere.
Fighter Practices
Local training sessions dedicated to martial excellence, covering heavy armored combat, youth combat, rapier fencing, and cut-and-thrust in a safe, structured environment for both veterans and beginners.
Ready to Attend Your First Event?
One of the most common questions we get is, “What do I wear?”
Whether you are preparing for your first event or learning about the customs of the Known World, these portals and guides will help you get started.
The good news is that you don’t need any medieval clothing to get started! Most of our regular weekly and monthly gatherings—including Arts & Sciences nights, business meetings, and fighter practices—do not require medieval clothing (garb). Just come as you are in comfortable modern clothes.
When the time comes to attend an official weekend event or tournament, our local Chatelaine is happy to help you borrow simple “loaner garb” from our community closet (often called the Gold Key). We are also glad to help with carpools, answer your questions, or simply meet you at the gate so you see a familiar face.
Reach out to introduce yourself and plan your first visit—we can’t wait to meet you!
Newcomer Resources & Guides
Portals & Official Contacts
- SCA Newcomer Portal — The central guide to getting started in the Society.
- Kingdom of Atlantia Newcomer Page — Regional resources, contacts, and news for Atlantia.
- Society Chatelaine — Office of the Society Chatelaine.
- Atlantian Chatelaine — Kingdom Chatelaine directory and regional assistance.
Practical Guides for Your First Event
- Preparing for an Event — What to bring, what to wear, and what to expect.
- Getting Garbed — Basic period clothing options and gold key loaner garb.
- Courtesy & Etiquette in the Modern Middle Ages — Forms of address and medieval customs.
- A Field Spotter’s Guide to Rank & Regalia — How to identify coronets, belts, chains, and heraldic honors.
Welcome to the Modern Middle Ages
Watch a brief introduction to the living history, chivalry, and camaraderie of the Society for Creative Anachronism.