Crested Helm Instructions

Crested Helms are the Heart of the Faire

The lists at St. George are based upon the Baston Course, or Kolbenturnier of the 15th Century. The object of the Lists is to batter off the crest of an adversary. This style of tournament probably developed from the Judicial Combats, which were held on foot, for the lower classes using the Kolben or Baston (club). 

Based on 14th century sources, the Ladies play an integral part in the Lists at St. George Faire. In the Procession onto the field the Fighters are led by their Ladies on chains or cords. And, in 13th century fashion, these same Ladies act as judges and present the Prizes, as well as judging the Crests in the Helmschau (Helm Display).

Crest Construction

Period helm crests were ribbed, fanlike, feathers, bird wings, banners, branches, horn, sculpted animals or human forms, often only the upper part of the body or without the forelegs or arms. The heraldic crest appeared in the last quarter of the 13th century, generally after 1325.

For our purposes; crests must extend a minimum of 6" (six) inches from the top of the helm, and be 3-dimentional, 3" to 4" inches in depth and width, ideally.

Rules of the Lysts

• All Crests will be inspected prior to each Lyst and must be acceptable to the Justiciar and List Marshal. Crests will be combat-tested by the List Marshal. Crest size, construction, and attachments will be rigorously tested. Any Crest that does not present a substantial target that can not be stricken and removed will be disallowed. The decisions of the List Marshal and Justiciar will be final.

• Crests must be attached to the helm in such a manner that they can be removed with one "killing" blow.

• Test blows will be administered.

• Crests must be constructed of durable materials that can withstand multiple blows and falls.

• Paper-mâché is not recommended.

• No mundane or commercially stuffed items are to be used as crests.

• Any single handed weapon style is allowed (including two-sword), NO thrusting, No Great Wepons. Only cutting/striking edge can be used to remove a crest. This assumes that the cutting/striking edge is identifiable.

• Crests must extend a minimum of 6" (six) inches from the top of the helm, and be 3-dimentional, 3" to 4" inches in depth and width.

• Crests must be rigid and substantial enough to present a fair target. Use leather (cuir-bouille was frequently used in period), boning, or wire to prevent their collapse.

• For the Crested Helm Lyst each fighter must have a consort present at the list.

• Tourney styles will be selected by the Marshal and the Justiciar dependent upon the number of fielded fighters: Round Robin, Single or Double Elimination. Each bout is won by a single "kill," unless it is a draw. 

Websites with Information on SCA Crest Construction

Building Crests for Mounted Combat