Herstmonceux Castle, 23-25 August 2008

The Knights of Herstmonceux Castle

invite all

Medieval Re-Enactors from around the World

to

Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex, England

Don't miss this annual opportunity to see old friends and make new ones. Join members of the Medieval Siege Society for the daily siege as it unfolds around the walls of the 15th century moated castle and concludes on the battlefield (participants must meet standards of dress and safety requirements set by the MSS).
Register for the world class English longbow tournament as Europe's finest bowmen gather to compete for prestige and prizes. Organized by the MSS all ages and skill levels are welcome; see the 'Archery' section for further details. Complete the on-line 'Traders' form to reserve space in the historic handcrafters medieval market (limited covered space may be availabe by pre-arrangement). Compete against Europe's finest riders in the mounted skill-at-arms tournament.	Erect an encampment and enter the living history competition for cash prizes. Musicians, puppeteers, jesters, acrobats, storytellers, witches, fortunetellers are welcome to perform on the village stage. Separate free plastic camp with hot showers available or on site bed and breakfast. Gather around the camp fire each night with your family and friends or enjoy the atmosphere in the medieval banquet tent....stop a while for a cup of mead or real ale and a hearty meal with friends old and new.
Would you like to join the Knights of Herstmonceux ?

The period represented is that of the War of the Roses, 1379 to 1485. Appropriate because Herstmonceux Castle was built in 1302 and by mid 1400 Herstmonceux and its Castle was well established as a powerful and prosperous estate. Costumes of this period were some of the most colourful and therefore offer our members a wide range from which to chose.

Mounted tournaments had become popular by then, allowing for groups to incorporate horse and rider as well as all manner of members on foot. The Hundred Year War ended in 1453 and village festivals were becoming a popular way to celebrate peace. During this period houses or groups, similar to the Knights of Herstmonceux, became prominent as in the Houses of York, Lancaster and Percy. The end of the War of the Roses was 1485 when Richard III died at the Battle of Bosworth and this corresponds, approximately, with the end of our era.

AIMS OF THE GROUP

To promote Herstmonceux Castle as part of England's heritage.

To raise funds for the ongoing maintenance of Herstmonceux Castle and other charities, as was the duty of all good knights of the period represented.

To create and promote a medieval festival based at Herstmonceux Castle, which is recognized internationally as one of the 'not to be missed annual events'.

To encourage people to take an interest in their heritage.

MEMBERSHIP AND BENEFITS

1. Membership is free. Renewal will be due annually at the Herstmonceux Castle Medieval Festival.
2. Members will receive a regular group newsletter.
3. Members will be entitled to invitation and free admission to all events run by The Malcolm Group (Events) Ltd. worldwide.
4. Members will be entitled to wear the Knights of Herstmonceux colours and insignia.
5. Members will be entitled to call Herstmonceux Castle their historical place of residence when they meet other medievalists.
6. Members will be the official hosts of England's Medieval Festival at Herstmonceux Castle, held annually on August Bank Holiday weekend.
7. Members can have an amateur or professional interest in reenactment and those of all levels are welcome. Market traders, craftsmen, medievalists and living history enthusiasts are all welcome. The Knights of Herstmonceux is an umbrella organisation that will offer something for everyone.