Clyde's Travels - Gulf Wars XXXIV

King's Arrow Ranch
Lumberton, MS
14-22 MARCH 2026

A sun sets on the Gleann Abhann highway.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 1

In the pre-dawn darkness did the Good Earl and I, Eoin, Warden of the Northern Plateau and squire of his house, set forth on an adventure to the lands of Gleann Abhann to attend the Gulf Wars camp held there annually by the Kingdoms of Ansteorra, Trimaris, Meridies and the land holder, Gleann Abhann in order to settle debts, renew friendships and rekindle rivalries. 

Our travel was peaceable until we noted that one of our mares was showing signs of illness. Soon thereafter, the animal went completely lame leaving us in a bad way on the southern reaches of the Barony of Iron Mountain. To our good fortune, we were able to get our wagon to a nearby stable, just off the highway and after some haggling the Good Earl found us a replacement animal locally from a farmer willing to loan us the beast.  In short order, we had the new draft hitched up and were back on the highway to the camp, leaving the ill horse behind in the care of the stable in hopes that it can be healed. 

Several hours had passed and we found the road we normally take was obstructed due to some unknown cause so we detoured to an unfamiliar route that pushed us even later into the evening, arriving at site just before the registrar scribes closed for the day. 

Our day, routinely for this event, would have had us onsite in around 8 to 9 hours from Easaraigh to the war camp. The obstacles presented to us today made the journey almost 16 hours. We both, are tired. 

Still with our camp to be established we headed to our designated spot to find a crowd had gathered. A call went out to the camp and many came to lend aid and help us. The Good Earl was moved to emotion at the sight of so many smiling faces who came in a time of need. In no time at all our tent was raised and trailer was unloaded. We are so grateful. 

The wealth of friendship is the most valuable thing in the world. 

Thus ends our day. As I listen to the Good Earl fast to sleep in his cot, my heart is full in the knowledge that tomorrow a new day dawns. We are in camp. We have been welcomed with arms wide open. And will now rest better, for the help of others.

A wealth of friendship greeted us.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 2

Not to bore you with the details, we worked today.

There was a lot to do to make up for the lost time yesterday. But, with help from Lord Sindri we were able to get the booth open for business late in the afternoon and had brisk sales for several hours. 

I made us a meal of chicken stew of supper. It was good and filling. 

An added bonus of our first 'after hours social' behind the tent rewarded our day. Time spent in these quiet moments sharing stories and ideas behind the tent by lantern light is the best part of the day.

Open for business.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 3

I spent today working the booth with the Good Earl. Our first full day of sales, there was still a lot of things to be done to get things in order to make the operation efficient. 

Business was brisk most of the day. This was good. Took the both of us at times to keep things moving along. 

I didn’t get much sleep last night due to a dazzling display of lightning that accompanied a storm that came through early in the morning. Luckily it was not very impactful to the working of the Gulf Wars camp. 

The following weather was much cooler. It was in the 40’s when we got up this morning. I was going to go to opening ceremony this morning but did not once I saw that we had mixed precipitation. Yes, we had rain and ice coming down after and 80 degree day yesterday. 

Just as well with the volume of customers that came through the booth once we opened.

There was a cold wind all day and once the sun went down a hard cold set in the night air. 

I delivered 2 shields this evening. With the Good Earl, I went to Southern Consortium camp to deliver a shield to Duke Timothy (pictured) that my wife Ellen had painted. He was ecstatic. This was a prize he earned through winning the Armatura Tournament at MGT 2025. Our second stop was at the GTG camp to deliver a war kite shield there. 

The walk was good and warmed us up as the cold settled in for the evening. We kept running into Earl Robert as we made our way through camp. Once at the Green Dragon and again as we entered GTG. Jovial banter was exchanged at each encounter. This ended when we stopped at the privy near 5 points and Earl Robert came out of a porta john and nearly bowled into me and accused us of stalking him. We all laughed. 

We made our was back to our refuge behind the tent. Tonight’s visitor was an associate seeking wisdom from the Good Earl. The discussion ran late into the evening. Knowledge shared. Wisdom was imparted. Another great end to a good day.

Duke Timothy and his prize shield.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 4

I worked in the shop today making adjustments and make sure the stock was where it could be found and sorted according. 

One of the cool aspects of working in a merchant booth is all the interesting people we meet and all of the stories I get to hear. I really like this aspect of it. It’s a good time with a lot of laughter throughout the day. But, as I said before, it is the quiet times before open and after the close that I really find the most enjoyment in. 

The slow start to the day in camp allows me to ease into the day and take my time getting going. The end of the day here ends in an impromptu social behind the tent and you don’t always know who is going to show up. It’s a very pleasant experience to be part of. These times in camp allow me to recharge from the mundane. 

Another cold and clear night here. Supposed to start warming up over the next few days. That will be a welcomed by all.

Duke Kurn and Earl Benen escort Duchess Maisie at the start of her elevation ceremony

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 5

Hump day!  Today started early. The Good Earl went with me to deliver Allessandra Sartor’s A&S entry to the main hall for today’s competition. Her entry represented the Kingdom well and received good scores in the judging. 

After dropping off the A&S entry, we went by the Goode Bakery and got fresh baked goods for breakfast. That place always smells great. We sat and talked in camp for a bit then headed to the field.

The Good Earl took part in the ceremony for Duchess Maisie’s elevation to Chivalry. There were many friends there for the elevation. We socialized some the bore witness to the elevation. 

Afterward, back to the shop and opened for business. Good traffic in the shop over the day. During dinner break, we ate a meal brought to us by Master Thorkel. It was generous and very good. 

We reopened for midnight madness. Duchess Rebecca joined us and off we went. It was a fairly typical example of the affair. Many happy people, crowded tent and product going home with new owners. 

I’m tired now. Goodnight everyone.

The Good Earl, Duchess Rebecca and I at the start of Midnight Madness.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 6

I started my day with a trek over to the ravine, where a pre-battle court was held by Their Majesties. There, I saw Martin get inducted into the Legion of the Bear and I passed to him the bronze Madach bear claw that Sir Hrothgar passed to me when I was inducted. The passing of legacy regalia is a tradition of the order. It is a tie that binds us. I also witnessed the new members of the Order of the Sable Sword added to their rolls. 

The midday hours were spent in the booth selling wares. It was a slow, lazy day. Friends came by occasionally to visit, but it was mostly quiet. 

This evening I attended Their Excellencies Glaedenfeld in my capacity as a Baronial Champion for evening court. Many gentles received recognition including a ‘drive by’ elevation of Eric Martel into the Order of the Laurel. 

Our day closed with a salad for dinner from the local canteen and socialising behind the tent. Got to meet some new gentles attending their Gulf Wars and listened to deep discussions on chivalric virtues. 

Good night, friends.

Martin and I after the ravine court.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 7

The last full day of the war. Started off with coffee and relaxing behind the tent. The Good Earl and I sharing the morning sun and conversation. 

Started doing some preliminary packing of non-essential items in preparation of load out tomorrow. If I have used it yet, I won’t need it. Dirty laundry in one tote. Anything else that wasn’t worn in another. 

Shoes. If anything I’ve learned about these long SCA events is that shoes are important. And not just the cool period kind. You need some good modern kind too. The modern foot, in most cases, isn’t built for the medieval shoe that has zero support. Good socks are also important. Change them a lot. I brought both period and modern shoes. By the end of the event, my period shoes are back in a box. My feet have had enough and need the comfort of a modern insole and materials. Mileage may vary, but for me the cool period shoe is for short trips only. 

Pretty good amount of activity in the booth today. Most of the GW inventory has been sold. Means less to pack up and that we’ve had a successful endeavor. 

Warmed up a lot today. Heat became an issue for the fighting and non-fighting activities today. Hydration is your friend. Do it. Do it often. 

We’ll start packing tomorrow in earnest. Will be a busy day. 

Get some rest. Good night all.

My view from behind the thrones at Meridian court.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 8

Bonus edition. 

So, due to having to wait for a programmer of transmissions to bless the rebuilt transmission that is now installed in the Good Earls steed, we are still onsite at KAR for the night. 

Sequestered in the big tent, the trailer is loaded. We’ll load the tent in the morning and head back to Bessemer to a hotel with hopes of retrieving the repaired vehicle on Monday. 

I’ve not been here this late on the load out day before. It is interesting to note that it is not a complete ghost town, but it is mostly vacant. 

The good people of Crawhere invited us to their camp for a ‘potluck’ meal of weaponized hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches. Food and conversation were excellent of equal parts. We were thankful for the invite. 

The camp is quiet and dark now. Tonight we rest and will wake tomorrow and head north for a good meal and shower and a soft bed.

Merchants row at close.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 9

Bonus edition! Continued...

Beetles attack!! Last night we attracted the attention of all the beetles in our area with the light of our torches. With many of our neighbor campers gone from site, our light proved to be a beacon call to the determined creatures. As we sat listening to Dungeon Crawler Carl, more and more of the beetles appeared. Inside the tent then dove at the light and buzzed against the canvas. Outside the tent we could hear them diving on the canvas trying to get in. It sounded like a hail storm at one point. I even tried to entice them out the door with a hand held light. No matter how much Pied Piping and Snow White persuading I applied with my light, they kept coming. The only solution was to go dark. And that is what we did. To our relief, that worked. The swarm calmed and peace was restored. 

We had our breakfast meal in the KAR canteen. Coffee and danish. Took a last look at the main hall and bid farewell. 

We packed up the last of our camp and hit the road to our lodging in McCalla for the evening. Publix deli for dinner, a shower and Dune movies on the TV. 

Hope to be home sometime tomorrow.

The main hall at KAR.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 10

Bonus edition! Continued...

Today we waited for the quest giver to reward us the phat transmission loot we know they have. But, we were disappointed. He reminded us that we need to lean into our patience virtue and wait until tomorrow morning. 

So, here we are …

Again. 

While we wait, here are a couple of thoughts I put down today for sharing. 

My time in the military taught me many things. Many were consciously instructed with defined goals. Some, were the effect of various causes. Of those subliminal lessons, the ability to accept and embrace circumstance outside of my control are one of the lessons that continues to bear fruit. I don’t relish chaos. No. But, when presented a situation or event that is anomalous I have the ability accept it and make the best of the situation. It’s an ability that many people lack and I seem to have in spades. Adaptability would be what some call it. I think it’s just living in the moment and applying what control I can on what comes next. If I stress about the situation, it is after the fact in an episodic rehashing of events in my head. A personal AAR if you will. This happens less and less these days. I just catalogue an unforeseen happenstance as a minor side quest in the current adventure and move onward, one foot in front of another. 

Customer service is a skill that few master. Many fail completely. One of the many rules of the art involves making commitments that you can keep. Work in absolutes. Not possibility. When someone depends on you to provide the thing you are selling you have to be sure about your ability to deliver. When you fail, you impact your client. Do this enough times and you no longer have a client. You may even face some punitive response from the disappointed client. In the end, it does not matter how good you are at the thing you do if you alienate your clientele with vague promises and failed delivery. Oh, and never, never open end something where a definitive is required. That just makes folks mad.

Safe journey all.

Cat prints in concrete outside the repair shop.

Gulf Wars XXXIV Day 11

Bonus edition! Finally heading home!

Today, we made it home. 

In a tale as old as time, two intrepid adventurers endured a series of trials. Their temper put to the test time and time again, with only their wits to guide them. They overcame the obstacles laid before them. Over and over again, their determination was tried. Eventually, in the battle of wills they saw the opposition falter. Success was achieved. The journey home the reward. 

With the voice of Carl and Donut resonating in their ears, they did make their way north. Back upon the northern plateau of Meridies, they returned. 

Peace be the journey. The journey home even more so.

2 weary adventurers.

Clyde's Travels - Winter Market

White County Fairgrounds
Sparta, TN
Hosted by the Barony of Glaedenfeld
December 12, 2025

Captain Ignatius and I marching into court at Winter Market 2025.

At the onset of the winter months here in the lands of Cumbria, Mistress Ellen and I along with Her Ladyship Cassandra and Lady Alessandra made our way to the regional event known as Winter Market. The event, hosted by the nearby Barony of Glaedenfeld, is becoming a tradition for the Yule season in our region. It is a place to see many of the best merchants, the work of our kingdom’s artisans, participate in martial activities and share in seasonal camaraderie.  The event was hosted at a nearby guildhall just to our south within the Shire of Easaraigh’s borders.

I arrived separately from the rest of my party and assisted with some of the preparations for the day, preferring to stay engaged and provide what support I can while I am idle. As the lunch hour approached, I entered a tournament to determine the Baronial Champion for the Barony of Glaedenfeld. The rest of my party arrived a short time after me, participating in classes and A&S activities as well as perusing the merchants’ offerings. I also had some mundane family members arrive to share in part of the day, doing some shopping and seeing the sites. It was a full day with much activity for all of us.

The armored tournament had a decent showing of 9 participants. We fought a double elimination best 2 out of 3 style engagement. For my part, I found myself in the defeated bracket shortly after the start but made my way to the final bout. In the final, I faced Sir John Mailer. A good friend and worthy competitor. John and I exchanged to passes with a victory for us each. In the final, I overwhelmed John and landed a telling blow to win the tournament. Before this, I have only won one tournament in my long fighting career. The first was a new fighter tournament at Tavern Brawl II. That would have been in the early 90’s. The Winter Market tournament counts as my second time winning an armored combat tournament. Winning the competition also granted me the honor of representing the Barony of Glaedenfeld as their champion. The position comes with a cool cloak that I am allowed to add my heraldry to as a historical marker of my time in the position, representing the barony. All in all, a very cool first-time accomplishment that I shall enjoy and revel in for the coming year until the next Winter Market when a new tournament will be held to decide the next champion.

I am not ambitious in my fighting. I don’t seek winning anything. My main focus has always been to have fun fighting. I approached the Winter Market tournament with this mindset. As the tournament played out, I did my share of goofing off or was distracted by side conversations, etc. I started out having to fight my squire brother, Ronan. That was probably my hardest fight just due to the fact that we know each other so well. I came out on top, just barely, after a few double kills. I think it was the round after that I got legged and hurt my knee. I yelled. My opponent gasped. The marshal stared. The fight continued. I soldiered on. Lost a fight. Won a couple more. In the end, I found myself fighting with John, someone who I have come to appreciate and enjoy crossing swords with. Always good for a laugh, I knew a final with John would be fun. This is the second time I have met John in a final. The last time had us both laughing hard by the end. This time wasn’t much different. I had John at a disadvantage. He broke his shield earlier and was borrowing a different type of shield from another fighter, Martin I believe. John declined my offer to meet him on fairer terms with buckler and sword which would have put us both on more equal footing I thought. Fun was had. John’s fast strikes vs my thuggish close fighting. I didn’t realize I won the match until someone said it. Living in the moment is like that, I guess. The one thing I have learned always remembered from the first time I won a tournament. I have never been so sore afterward as I have been when I put in a good effort. This day was like that.

I spent the afternoon hanging out with family in attendance with us. Showing them around and doing some light shopping. I made a quick tour of some of the A&S. But judging was going on at this point, so I kinda stayed out of the way. Family left early in the afternoon so I hung out with the Good Earl for a bit and helped with some throne wrangling prior to court.

My wife, Ellen, took on her first protege, Lady Alessandra Sartor. A protege is a student or mentee to a member of the Order of the Pelican. A person to be guided in the ways of service on the path to becoming a Pelican someday.

I also spent some time with Their Excellencies Glaedenfeld to learn what duties were expected as Their Champion. Mostly an honorary position it does carry with it some cool regalia, a cloak, and the honor of standing as retinue for them when able. The cloak is an heirloom item that bears the heraldry of all previous bearers.I will serve as Champion for 1 year. At the end of that year a new tournament will be held to decide a new champion.

At court, I was called up along with Captain Ignatius to assume the mantle and take our places with them as their Armored and Rapier Champions. Court was a long one with a ton of business. While I find standing retinue in court to be a mostly easy task, I confess that I was very tired as it ended. I was witness to many award presentations and a few writs for peerages.  I also was able film the elevations of Evangeline and Catherine to Pelican from my vantage point.

It was a good day for me and many others. I look forward to my new responsibility as Their Excellencies Champion and the new adventures that the year ahead will bring.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - Castle Wars 2025 - Viking Raids: The Battle of Two Baronies

Bert Adams Scout Camp
Covington, GA
Hosted by the Barony of South Downs
November 13-16, 2025

Night sky at Castle Wars

Greetings travellers,

This years Castle Wars was different and the same for me.

I camped out of my truck. I've done that before. It’s OK, except for I also setup a field side shade. Not an issue, but tear down and transport back to my truck is a task that takes time and it’s a good trek from the field to where I had my ‘truck camp’ setup. But, it worked out OK with an application of patience on my part though I did miss court because of it.

 

Truck camping extravagance.

I went down on Friday and came back on Sunday. The trip there and back was typical. There were some slow downs both ways but that’s expected these days.

 

On Friday, I setup my field side shade and such followed by setup of my ‘camp’. I took to a walkabout afterward. A bit aimless, I wander through a few camps before settling for a bit with friends from Glaedenfeld for an offered meal. Good food with friends is good. I wandered a bit more afterward and visited a few other camps before going to watch the tournament that evening and spending some time chatting with friends until I ran out of gas and called it a night.

 

I managed to contribute some retinue time to TRMs on Friday and Saturday as ‘Throne Wrangler’ and general ‘do stuff needs doing’ helper. It wasn’t much but made me feel good about getting to contribute a little bit. I’ve always enjoyed helping keep the ‘big show’ going and have missed not being able to do as much the past few reigns.

 

This Castle Wars, I chose to use polearm and spear only in the armored combat engagements. Didn’t even bring a shield. Was reminded by a few people during the event that I’m known as a ‘shield guy’. Well, not this day at least. It’s been several years since I made a full day of no shield play. It was a bit of a mixed bag. Had to try and figure out where to be and what to do at times. I had some assumptions in my head about how the role works, but not a lot of practical time with it. I had some good moments where I figured things out and found a sweet spot in the game. There were also some bad moments where I felt totally useless and debated my choices. But, I was in kit on a beautiful day and playing like a kid with my friends. Good times.

Here is a note on ‘hero’ moments on the field that I feel is worth sharing. Most of us who have been participating in armored combat melee have taken the plunge into an opposing force’s line and flailed for all we are worth trying to do as much chaos as we can and hopefully take out some of ‘the other guys’ team. It’s an adrenaline rush and almost always sacrificial. That flood of hormones can be a problem when we don’t realize that there are half a dozen people surrounding you and swinging sticks at you while you are dancing up a storm and swinging yourself. Here is my point. There is no way to get out of that without someone making contact on you. It’s right up there with ‘there is no light to the jimmy’ in my book. It’s on you, hero, to recognize that there was a lot of contact in your headlong charge, deliberate or incidental, that could have resulted in a well calibrated blow and say ‘Good!’. I don’t care which thing you accept as a good blow. All, 1, 5 hits… it doesn’t matter. You must recognize and accept that the ‘odds are not in your favor’ that you would survive a headlong rush into a crowd, get surrounded by said crowd, get wailed on by said crowd, and you can come out of that unscathed. The failure of accepting your fate with an uncompromising foe usually results in an escalation of force in said pummeling. That effect increases the risk of injury to someone and decreases enjoyment for those involved. We are out here practicing a level of skillfully applied aggression and trying our best to not hurt each other in the act. In short, this type of stuff makes a person look thick and probably falls under rule #1 generally. So, have your hero moment, just don’t come out of it with pie on your face afterward.

 

This was my first event post writ. Had a few sidebar conversations with folks about it. Many congratulations where given. But, it was still just a normal day at the event all in all. No special attention. No people hunting me on the field (that I know of). No groveling or spontaneous retinue following me around. It was just me flying solo at an event.

 

There was a Legio Ursi meeting after fighting. It was probably my last meeting as a voting member. Chivalry are not usually allowed to vote and only provide counsel in the meetings. I don’t feel I really got a good handle on the Order and how it works in my short time as a member. It’s a very fluid thing with many differing personalities and concepts about what it is to be a Bear of the Legion. Now I get to observe the Order as an emeritus attendee going forward.

 

After I tore down my field side gear and hauled back to camp, I cleaned up a bit and then went out to see what I could get in to. To that end, I ran into Sir Iazzie and Sir Haukr. We chatted a little bit. Iazzie mentioned that the feast was short staffed. So, I offered to help. No muss. No fuss. I ended up devoting the rest of my evening to the serving and cleanup of feast. Several others also joined in. One person was at his first event. Several others were old professionals in the game. It was simple but tasking work that was hard on my feet. But, I was reminded of an adage this week that was obviously tempering my comportment – ‘share the suck’. Lol. It’s a military mindset that says make the best of whatever is in front of you. I guess I do that sometimes. Things sometimes just need doing. It doesn’t matter who. It just matters that things get done. So, I put on a smile and helped. Might as well enjoy it. In the process, I think I lightened the burden carried by others. If we can only do one thing in this hobby that is worthwhile, sharing the load is one of the immeasurable things we should all agree is worth doing.

 

 

It was a good event. I didn’t do all the things, but I did get to fight some and help others some. That’s a good combination of stuff, for me at least.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'

Warden of the Northern Plateau

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Shire of Easaraigh

Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - The Unexpected Writ, Part Deux

Yesterday, I was, once again, left dumbfounded. Surprise, shock, and the full gambit of emotions were unleashed upon me. Words fail. I am still trying to rectify what was done.

One year ago today, I was inducted into the Order of the Pelican. I had thought that today, on my anniversary, I would be writing about that elevation and its effect on my hobby life. But instead of a decertation of then vs now and my SCA as a Pelican, my 'now' has been altered further.

Yesterday, I attended Fall Crown List here in Meridies. It was nearby. I was able to spend the day watching the tournament and hanging out with my friends. Ellen and I were both able to attend. At court that evening, I was looking forward to several of our newer people getting their first or second awards. So, I sat to the side with Ellen. I had my video camera running to record court to capture the moment for them. Ellen was taking pictures. As the Khan and Khatun of our Kingdom progressed into court, I noted an anomaly.

My knight, Earl Benen MacTire, was carrying the sword of state into court and took residence behind the thrones. This was strange to me on the subconscious, but not registered until later after events transpired. It is the first time, that I can recall, that I saw him act in the retainers role. But, as I said, I registered it, but I did not really give it much thought.

Court progressed much as I had expected. Shire members got the expected awards. Ellen was caught off guard when she was called up and inducted into the Company of Meridian Scribes. Then, my name was called.

My first thought was that it was for some recognition of service to the crown. A formal thank you, if you will. But then things took a turn when His Majesty asked the Good Earl to the fore. From that point, I have little recognition of what happened next. But I heard the word 'CHIVALRY' spoken.

Tears welled in my eyes. I looked at the ground to regain my composure. I think I nodded consent to His Majesty as he asked me a question. The people were cheering and clapping as I was helped to stand. And there they all were…

The Order of Chivalry. Faces of peers that I have known for many years, some for my entire SCA life. People I respect. People I trust. Knights all. And now, they have asked me to be one of them.

I was asked to join the Order of Chivalry.

I first picked up a rattan stick in 1987. Lord Padraig Brun and others helped teach me how to fight in SCA Armored Combat. I was glad that he was at the event to witness the announcement. Later, I met the man who would be my first knight, Hadi al Hadad. He taught me much. I would go on to see him achieve knighthood and win a crown list on the same day. We shared many adventures before his passing in 2015. That year, I met the man who would pick me up and help me find the squire's path again, Earl Benen MacTire. In 2017, I joined his house. He is my friend and peer in equal parts. On the 8th day of November 2025, he brought me to the next part of our journey with the Orders request for me to join them. My quest to knighthood, some 38 years in the making, is almost achieved.

There are many, many strong emotions tied to this accomplishment. Not to diminish my acceptance to the Order of the Pelican, which was a very, very proud moment in itself, this writ for Chivalry has a depth of attachment for me like no other to date. This is the thing I sought to achieve. This is the thing that I felt I failed on for Count Hadi and his passing caused me to rededicate myself to. This is the thing that Earl Benen and I worked on together. The thing that he helped accomplish. This goal, with the unrivaled support by my wife, Ellen, is now true. This honor, with the help of so many people in addition to those named, is what I have worked for.

So if you congratulated me yesterday, or today or do so tomorrow and I responded with a quiet nod and 'Thank You', know that I just don't have the words to voice much more than that without shedding a tear of joy and just breaking down into an emotional mess.

Thank you, everyone, for helping me get here. More to come. 

Thank you.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'

Warden of the Northern Plateau

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Shire of Easaraigh

Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - Silver Hammer 50

 

Silver Hammer 50th
Big Ridge State Park
Maynardsville, TN
25 October 2025

The tournament field with view of the autumn sky.

On a cool autumn morning, Sindri Brynjarsson and I left our warm Cumbrian hearths and headed East into the mountain valleys surrounding the Barony of Thor's Mountain for Silver Hammer 50. The passage was uneventful and thankfully there was no fog to impede our way.

Over the years, I have been to many Silver Hammer events. It was one of the first events I recall ever attending. It is one of the oldest annual events in the Kingdom. Locally known to many as 'Shiver Hammer' as the higher elevation and fall season often means that it will be very cool at the site. And this year, did start out as a cold morning but warmed up nicely as the day progressed.

I opted out of combat again this weekend. Doing my best to be a good patient and adhere to my doctor's recommendations to 'take it easy', I brought no kit. My particular problem has been a hand issue with my right hand. It's been a hassle and I miss not fighting. The liberating activity is a stress reliever for me. I look forward to getting back into it soon.

Sindri was able to join the fray though. Also in attendance were some of our other newer fighters from our area, Aznor and Valka. I envied the fun they were having to some extent. It was a good list. Duke Ailgheanan mac Sithigh won the armored tournament and bade Valka to carry the Silver Hammer heirloom in his stead to ensure it gets returned next year. Here is a video of the final fight between Duke Ailgheanan and Sir Gaeus. 

This year, in addition to being the 50th anniversary of the event, was also host to an investiture. In baronial terms, this is when the sitting Barons step down and their duly elected replacements take their place. In the attached video, I captured both courts, the traditional procession before the tournament, and the early parts of the tournament.

I spent my day doing several things. I performed some service as entourage for HRM Chinua as well as setup and tear down of the fixtures of state (thrones, shade, etc). I was able to spend some time with my old friend Fionn Ó Cinnéide of Dun na nGall. Shortly after I found the SCA, I introduced it to Fionn. It was good to see him again. Late in the afternoon, I visited with Masters Jean-Azriel du Corbier and Ysabel de Saincte Croix to discuss rapier weapons and the authorization process. These few things along with side discussions with several different people made for me having a fullfilled day.

Older and more respectable version of Fionn and I.

Silver Hammer is one of my favorites. And I will look forward to many more chances to visit with the Thor's Mountaineers.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - Bacon Bash XI: The Bacon Games, Chewy vs. Crispy

Bacon Bash XI: The Bacon Games, Chewy vs. Crispy
Montgomery Bell State Park
Burns, TN
18 October 2025

Sindri and Martin de Bernay doing pickups.

On the middle of the month of October, A.S. LX, I travelled to an event, hosted by the Shire of Crimson River, in the western borderlands of the Barony of Glaedenfeld. Sindri Brynjarsson accompanied by on the journey. The event, called ‘Bacon Bash XI: The Bacon Games, Chewy vs. Crispy, is an annual staple gathering well attended and a good regional gathering of the northern region of Meridies.

 

I did not bring any harness or kit to the event. Trying to heal up some aches and strains that professional guidance directed me to ‘lay off’ for a bit to try to allow recovery. Instead, I opted to do other things. I went to the event without a plan and just looked about to see what I could get into.

 

My travelling companion, Sindri Brynjarsson, was able to fight in the armored combat tournaments and got in on several pickup fights. Here is video of the tournament.

After some socializing, I found myself on the fighting field helping Lord Benjamin de Hatfield and Sir Legio Uv Orkney with the tournament administration. And, shortly in I found myself as a voice herald for the tournament. That was a first I think. I don’t believe I ever specifically did voice heraldry for an entire tournament before. I took a few rounds of introductions before I got into the swing of things and started getting name pronunciations right. But, it was enjoyable. I started feeling a ‘Vegas fight announcer’ vibe as I got comfortable and had some fun with it. Normally, when I raise by voice I just sound like an angry person (military command voice be like that), so I do so rarely. With a little radio DJ inflection though,  I don’t think I sound too mean. My only concern is that the pitch of my voice can be a little low and I think it might be hard to hear in some conditions. Lord Benjamin handled the salutes and such. Which offloaded about half of what a normal voice herald job involves. That made things a lot easier for this first timer.

 

I might have to look into doing voice heraldry some more in the future. The only issue I had was potential throat soreness, but I had some Ricola on me and that solved my voice issues before they became a problem. I don’t talk a lot normally and public speaking is ‘a punishment’ generally in my mind. Like, I get shaking nervous in formal settings where I have to speak. It’s horrible. But, field heraldry is just shouting into the wind. No real audience other than the grass and trees, unlike having an audience and the feedback of facial expressions and body language. So, no nervousness. Just reading the names from the cards and such. 

 

Sindri and I only visited for the day. We stayed on the tournament field for almost the entire time. The event also had classes and live weapons in other locations of the site. The feast later in the day had a lot of bacon, true to the events name and by all accounts was really good. When Bacon Bash next appears on your calendar, circle the date and make an effort to visit. It is worth the trip.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - Meridian Grand Tournament

Camp Discovery
Gainesboro, TN
26-28 September 2025

On the 26th day of October, Anno Societatis LX, I made my way into the hills and dales to the west of Easaraigh to attend the Kingdom of Meridies premier armored combat tournament, the Meridian Grand Tournament (MGT). The event was hosted at Camp Discovery. The site is a favorite and has a long history for the Shire of Easaraigh as a place of good times and treasured memories. Many Easaraigh events have been held there in the past, having the Kingdom host an event there a blessing for us as we are so near.

Image of the tournament field, the MGT champion banner blowing in the wind.

On Friday evening, I attended the vigil for a friend, Xenos Theodrikes, who was to be elevated to the Order of Chivalry on the following day. While standing as a guard, I watched the coming and going of many esteemed persons from Meridies and other kingdoms. The vigil is a blur for the vigilant. We get to celebrate their coming elevation. They get sequestered away and held in place by sage council, the occasional anecdote, some humor, and shared wisdom. Xenos’ vigil ran late into the night, there on the shores of Flynn Creek, lit by firelight and heralded by the laughter and voices of communion. I bid my farewell while the vigil was still going strong to find my way home to rest for the coming tournament.

Xenos, on vigil in a tent, receives counsel from TRMs Lochlainn and Paraskova.

The following morning, I returned to prepare for the tournaments. There are 6 tournaments in total at MGT. I had planned to compete in 3 of the tournaments, the Count Francois Duvant Memorial Chalice Tournament, the Sable Sword Challenge, and the Sir Lee Fribrand Memorial Great Weapons Tourney. But, I withdrew after participating only in the first two of my intended. An injury that has been plaguing me for some time made me think better than attempt a third tournament. That is a story for another time and audience. I made it to the second round of the Chalice and fought 10 or 12 fights in the Challenge. While my showing was not spectacular or noteworthy, I mostly enjoyed myself and had a good time in the tests of skill I was able to participate in. 

 

In the morning, I helped marshal the Armatura, a 3 v 3 bear pit format tournament. A rapid, endurance test starts MGT off with a bang. The Legio Ursi sponsors the tournament and its our job to keep it moving to run as many matches as possible in the allotted time period.

 

The second tournament was the Order of the Blade’s Sabre Tourney. I assisted marshalling again and helped to keep things on schedule. This is a single weapon tournament, single elimination with lethal double-kills. 

 

Image of my helmet, gauntlets and list tree shield.

Still early in the day, I armored for the Count Francois Duvant Memorial Chalice Tournament hosted by our Order of the Chalice. This is a donation tournament where the entry fee is required. It is single elimination, open to any weapon style. The collected fees and additional donations are sent to a charity of the champion’s choosing, which is traditionally a woman’s shelter or something similar. This year, our community contributed $4,700 and the Order of the Chalice was able to send proceeds to Stepping Stones Safe Haven in Murfreesboro, TN. The tournament is a truly worthy and wonderful endeavor to participate and contribute in.

 

On the heels of the Chalice Tournament, the Order of the Sable Sword’s Challenge Tournament was held. This is a William Marshal style event. I helped the Order get things going before joining in myself. Much like the Armatura, this tournament is more about accumulating a number of wins more than anything else. It can be quite a test of endurance if you are doing well.

 

The final open participation tournament, which I withdrew from, was the Sir Lee Fribrand Memorial Great Weapons Tourney. Polearms and greatswords are the only weapons styles allowed, fought to single elimination each round. 

 

MGT List Tree with the shields and heraldry displayed of the champions for the Grand Tournament.

The last tournament of the day is the Earl Richard Raefen Grand Tournament. The top 2 from each of the day’s tournaments along with 6 chosen combatants for a tournament of 16 are matched to determine the overall MGT champion. This year, the champion was Sir Haldr. He had an excellent day. One of Easaraigh’s own, Sindri Bynarsson, was asked by the Order of the Laurel to represent them in the Grand Tournament. He represented himself, our Shire and the Order of the Laurel well. I was very happy for him. It’s a big honor to be chosen. I had that honor for the Pelican at my last MGT. It really made my day.

 

While MGT is a big ‘stick jock’ day for us in the Armored Combat community, it is also a great day for just reveling in our hobby. Under my day shade, field side (thanks to Sir Conal MacDale), members of my shire congregated. We shared the day in each other’s company, bonding, laughing, and witnessing the event together. That part of MGT is more important to me that anything else and that shared moment in time is what I will remember in the years to come.

For those interested, here is a video playlist of the tournaments and the royal court that I captured.

MGT 2025 Playlist

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde', Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies