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
