About

Who Are We?

The Barony of Rivenoak is a small section of the larger, world-wide Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). Nestled within Butte County, California, the Barony of Rivenoak celebrates community and curiosity, focused through the lens of pre-1600's history. With weekly activities within Butte County and larger events spread across the country, the Barony of Rivenoak welcomes all who wish to learn something new (be it swordfighting, brewing, sewing, or more) within a supportive and inclusive group of nerds. 

What is the SCA?

The Society for Creative Anachronism is an international non-profit volunteer educational organization. That's fancy speak for a community of people around the world who get together to learn about and celebrate pre-1600's societies and cultures. Unlike reenactments, the SCA is not interested in reliving history, but rather reviving lost skills and knowledge in the most hands-on way possible. This includes dressing in pre-1600's attire during events like the Barony's annual Yule Feast to learning how to fence with a rapier or weave on a loom. One of the best benefits of the SCA is that these skills are often helpful in your day-to-day life, like learning leatherworking, candlemaking, or making your very own mead to share with friends.

 If you enjoy Renaissance Faires and want more, are passionate about learning new skills, or are simply seeking new friendships, come and meet your local SCAdians. The SCA is broken down into many kingdoms around the world. The Barony of Rivenoak (Butte County) is a part of the Principality of Cynagua (Northern Nevada, California Central Valley, and the Sierras) which is, in turn, a part of the Kingdom of the West (Northern Nevada, Northern California, Alaska, the Pacific Rim, and Thailand). Not in Butte County? Find your local branch here. 

What Can I Expect?

Friendship, new hobbies, and some fun historical facts to confuse friends and family with! Your SCA experience will vary depending on your interests. During most of the year, the Barony meets up in mundane (everyday) clothing to do a wide variety of activities including but certainly not limited to:

During events, both local and within the larger SCA community, the Barony dresses in pre-1600's attire (called garb) and joins in creating friendly Medieval-esque tent villages. Here, SCAdians sit under the shade and play games, eat delicious food, gab about all sorts of topics, and compete in Wars and Arts and Sciences competitions. For many, the SCA is a fantastic way to gain friends and hobbies, while for others it becomes a second home, a place for found family and dedication to forgotten arts. Join for as much or as little as you would like. All are welcome, including children!

How Do I Join?

While the SCA does have a paid membership program for those who wish a fuller experience (such as competing for the title of King or Queen), membership is not required to join in at local activities or visit events. The best place to start is to check the local Events and Activities calendar to see what might interest you, then arrive with curiosity and a willingness to learn something new. You don't need fancy garb or an encyclopedic knowledge of the Tudors. Simply arrive and be welcomed into the fold! 

You can also join our highly active and helpful Facebook page!