As the Barony's Chatelaine, it is with great pleasure that I offer you my services in helping your transition into the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) to be a pleasurable and meaningful experience. It is my hope that the attached Guide will provide you with enough basic information to help you participate in the Des Moines Chapter of the SCA, also known as the Barony of Coeur d'Ennui. While the information contained within this Guide is fairly extensive, no one publication can possibly answer every question that may arise. Please feel free to ask me, or anyone else involved in our group, any questions that this Guide does not address.

This Guide will include some of the following information:

What is the SCA?
Learning Vocabulary
Learning to develop your persona
Choosing your SCA Name
SCA Etiquette
Making your first set of medieval clothes
List of awards
Officer Descriptions

As every member has learned, the best way to become more acquainted with the SCA is to participate. Whether that be in the local activities that the Barony sponsors, or traveling to what we refer to as an event. This is a gathering of SCA members from different locations to learn about new interests, play games, display current projects they may be working on, participate in fighting, enjoy a delicious feast, and so much more. Going to an event is an excellent way to meet new people and develop new interests. The SCA is a unique experience for everyone. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and let you imagination take you to places you've never been before.

Best wishes to you on your journey forward into the past.
Yours in Service always,

Clemence L'Estrange
Barony of Coeur d'Ennui