Baron's Ball Held in Waitsburg

WAITSBURG-The Society for Creative Anachronism held its Baron's Ball at the Waitsburg Fairgrounds Oct. 6 and 7. King Christian and Queen Héléne hosted combat competitions and vendors in authentic garb.

The SCA is an international education society that started in 1966. The group selectively recreates pre-seventeenth-century European life, including combat, archery, equestrian activities, costuming, cooking, metalwork, woodworking, music, dance, calligraphy and fiber arts.

The kingdom of An Tir includes Oregon, Washington, northern Idaho, British Columbia, the Yukon and the Northwest territories. SCA members participate in local events, but also travel great distances to what are called "kingdom-level" tournaments.

After the tournaments concluded, a selection of period desserts was shared by firelight. Some children engaged in a game of "graces," using wooden dowels to throw and catch a ring, while others had jobs such as heralding tournament battles.

The SCA returns to Waitsburg Oct. 27 for "As you Like It," the Canton of Akornebir's Championships and Tavern Brawl. All titles are up for grabs: Heavy, Rapier, Archery, YAC, Arts & Sciences and the coveted Master or Mistress of Skullduggery.

Participants will compete to be the best in their chosen field, to win the championship – the most underhanded and despicable in the Tavern Brawl – to earn the right to wear the glorious gold velvet cloak of Skullduggery.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Registration: $15 fee for adults, $5 member discount with proof of membership. Youth 17 & under free. Make checks payable to Canton of Akornebir, SCA Inc.

Waitsburg Towne Hall 121 N. Main St., Waitsburg, WA 99361

Mid-day soups and breads will be available. Evening Potluck Feast.