Minutes and Newsletters from 1998
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Bealtaine '98 Edition
The Gods apparently wanted to teach us a lesson in humility. At Samhain we said the rain could not stop us.
But Bealtaine was wet. Very wet. And cold. All who attended did the best they could to stay dry and keep in good spirits.
The the majority of the activities that were planned all had to be put off till next year.
This event differed greatly from the previous rainy Samhain. We weathered Samhain much better and many of us wondered why. Most of it was the shear amount of rain we had dumped on us. But it may also be that we over complicated things.
At Samhain we made due with simple tarps tied to trees. Bealtain's pipe frame lean to was not as protective or as accommodating.
The big top experiment was a dissapointment.The lack of a tight frame severely effected the water shedding ability.The roof material formed pockets that eventually collapsed the frame under the weight of the water.
If the event suffered setbacks due to the weather, the food was clearly a success.
Friday's rabbit stew was yummy.
On Saturday, Comyn and Sabha graciously opened their house to the clan for the feast and gave everyone the opportunity to dry out and be warm while eating.
The food was awesome. The smoked birds and roast lamb were great and filling and a change of pace from our usual slabs of feast meats. The side dishes were also quite tasty.
But if the bad weather did anything, it has made us impatient for the next event.
This eddition is a bit late coming, and as I (Aonghus) was mostly preoccupied with organizing and my personal tent fiasco, missed quite a bit of the fun. So any who would like to add some comments to this section are encouraged to email me a paragraph or two highlighting something noteworthy from the event.
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann.
Beltaine, 1998 News
From: Valerian May 11, 1998
Greetings Brothers & Sisters, Well we didn't get to dance, we didn't hold the Champion's Challenge or the He-Man Games, but it was still a fun event. Soggy, but fun. Hopefully the gods will favor us with decent weather at Lughnesadh and Samhain. Thanks go to Comyn and Sabha for the hospitality of their home for the feast, for sleeping quarters Saturday night and for the excellent rabbit stew Friday night. Thanks to Brogan for the fabulous brews, rabbit and the array of game birds. Cheers to Erlan, Eberwolf and Colin, who were brave enough (or drunk enough) to spend Saturday at the site. Nothing much else to say except see you at the next meeting for Pennsic planning. May the gods keep you safe (and dry)! Slan! Valerian
From: Brogan May 13, 1998
Greetings, I hope everyone is finaly dry. In spite of the rain it was grate to see all who attended. Comyn's rabit was exelent, Sabha's tarts were legendary(YUMMMM)! I would also like to thank them for their hospitality. They went out of their way to make a rainy mess into a good time for all. I know our event was a bit on the disapointing side, but Silveroak is haveing an event on July 11 to the 12th. If ya still crave an event like I do, maybe this is somthing to consider. Not only would it be fun and bring us all togeather again but also it would look good that we show up at another clan's event in force.I'm planing on going and if some one wants to drive up with me let me know. OK... I just wanted to thank all who helped make the event fun inspite of the rain. Talk to ya soon, Brogan
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Autumnal Equinox '98 Edition
Clan Meeting Minutes: September 12, 1998
In Attendance:
Officers:
Aonghus - Chieftain
Guthrum - Fili
Comyn - Druid
Members:
Finnoula
Sabha
Erlan*
Probates:
Eberwolf*
Eachna
Friends:
Colin*
* late in attending
The meeting was called to order at 2:15 pm.
Treasury Report:
Guthrum provided a summary of the accounts to date. Members may view the report in the Treasury section.
What News:
What news was tabled in the interest of saving time. Comyn did note that he now has a rug and poles for his tent. Eachna also mentioned that she now has a rug for her tent.
Old Business:
1. The proposed trip to Ireland was the only old business discussed. Finnoula proposed the trip be postponed to May 2000. The motion carried unanimously.
New Business:
1. Persona-non-grata Status - a new classification of status or relationship with the clan was proposed. A -person with persona - non-grata status is not welcome at and may not attend any clan sponsored events. This person would be treated as a nonentity by clan members. It would take a 2/3 majority of voting members in attendance at the vote to confer or revoke this status. - PASSED
2. Conn Lochlainn O'Finn - it was moved that in light of recent events, Conn's "Friend of the Clan" status be rescinded. - PASSED
3. Clan Law - Guthrum, as Fili, moved that the Clan vote to accept the laws as they currently stand - PASSED
4. Events - In the past activities which are planned for events have often been forgotten or passed over due to the momentum of other activities. It was suggested that the bard's duties be expanded so that the "Bard shall be responsible for maintaining the agreed upon schedule of events as set by the clan in consultation with the Chieftain. - PASSED
5. Samhain Event
A. Dates: Friday October 31st - Sunday November 2nd
B. Feast: The following tasks were assigned for the feast
SabhaWelcome stew for Friday night set up
VollundBeer
AonghusBarley dish
EachnaLeg of venison
GuthrumMashed turnips and roasted vegetables
Eberwolf Honey butter
ValerianPottage
FinnoulaDessert
FalgonBread, cheese, fruit for Saturday day board
BroganHome made bread
C. Ceremony: As always the ceremony will be run by the Druid. Comyn will be supplying wood and the wicker man
D. Masks are strongly recommended for all attending Samhain. Time will be set aside for mask making - plan to make elaborate masks requiring drying ahead of time. Contact Sabha for instructions on how to make blanks like the ones available last year - they take at least a day to make.
E. Each tent group is asked to bring tablecloths for the feast. (Aonghus, Comyn & Sabha, Guthrum & Finnoula, and Collin have already committed to tablecloths).
6. Clan Elections. Elections take place at Samhain. It was suggested that in the future no clan member be allowed to hold both an office and an administrative duty unless there is no other member available to fill the vacancy. This motion was passed and then after further discussion repealed. The motion would have forced an unwilling member to hold an office or position even if some one else was willing to hold two positions.
7. It was moved that preambles and dates for changes be added to the laws. There was no second for the motion as this is considered two separate issues.
8. Some of the previous Filidh have written preambles for the laws. It was proposed that these preambles be added as permanent parts of the laws. The discussion moved to the archival of clan documents. Keeping the laws and the history (and thus preambles) is already a part of the Fili's job - so further legislation is unnecessary. - DEFEATED
9. Clan Trailer - the purpose of the proposed clan trailer would be to house the kitchen and possible a hot water heater/filter shower. A cost and labor analysis was requested and Guthrum has agreed to help with the research. It was also proposed that clan members donate money to the project as the preliminary cost estimates exceed the clan budget.
10. Yurt - A twenty foot Yurt seen by the clan at Pennsic appears to be the ideal size for our group. However the engineering of the yurt still needs careful consideration as the Pennsic Yurt was very complicated - our whole camp broke down before the yurt did.
11. Honor Price (log na enech ) Laws - The honor price laws as posted by Aonghus were reviewed and PASSED with minor changes. See the new Honor Price Laws in the Clann Law section.
The following items were TABLED
12. It was proposed that lateness to a scheduled gathering could be considered grounds for paying log na enech if it inconveniences a member who is forced to wait.
13. Any member can remove an unsafe person from an event
14. Any member who witnesses disruptive behavior is responsible for alerting an officer.
Minutes supplied by Sabha, Clan Sencha.
Please note:
Without question, interruption and lateness add significantly to the amount of time we spend in meetings, as well as having other detrimental effects to clan harmony and moral. Fines were handed out at the meeting for lateness, interruption, and lack of torc. All the fines that were assigned were rescinded as we have been lax in the past to hand them out. This meeting, however, should serve as a warning that, henceforth, clan meeting rules will be applied more strictly.
It should also be noted, that this meeting saw a record number of laws passed in a minimal amount of time. Part of this was due to the application of fines as noted above, but majorly it was in the organization in which the new proposals were presented. Copies of the proposals were handed out to all in attendance so people could consider them in detail. Also, the chieftain had an agenda, listing the majority of items to be considered at the meeting.
Though not a law at this time, It is strongly suggested that anyone with a proposal, however simple or complex, should hand out copies to all in attendance at the meeting, and, prior to that meeting, should inform the chieftain so that item can be added into the meeting agenda.
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann.
(There was no official Newsletter, so these comments from AOL Message Board must suffice)
Imbolc 1998 News
From: Aonghus Feb 8, 1998
Wow
That was one hell of an Imbolc. Im still burnt out from it all and suffereing from sensory overload. I am way to tired to list my thanks individually to each and every one of you who all made this event one of the best... so I think for now I'll say: Great job Tuatha de Bhriain and thankyou Silver Oak for being part.
From: Connar Feb 8, 1998
To echo the sentiments of your beloved chieftan, WOW!!! On behalf of House Silver Oak, I can't begin to express our gratitude for the hospitality and awesome time shown to us. I am well aware of the phenomenal kindness you folks are capable of, and I extole those virtues as often as I can, yet nothing prepared Mordred and Rayn for the real thing. They were absolutely floored and wish to extend the most sincere thanks to EVERYONE! Mordred says participating in the auction was "pisser", and we're all so thrilled about the extreme tolerance you showed for the lovely Kia. Any and all of you have an open invitatiion to visit any time. I know that my humble words will in no way attest to the way they feel. Let me just say that they could do nothing but talk about how great of a time they all had the whole four and a half hour ride home, and then a half hour more while unloading! To me, the whole event felt like a circle was being completed. Most of you know full well that I consider you the coolest Celts in the universe, and seeing my new good friends get along so well with you was a very moving thing. I had no idea how much I missed all of you and think myself a fool for not coming back around sooner! I could think of a lot of reasons why this weekend was the best time we've had in a long time, but it can all be summed up in one, and that is you guys. Give yourselves a big pat on the back thanks so much for everything! You WILL see a lot more of us! Rayn, Mordred, and Connar
From: Guthrum Feb 11, 1998
That was the best indoor event we've had. The feast was supurb. The atmosphere was completely medieval. Everyone got into persona and stayed there. It was truely great. I think that the ceremony that Comyn did was incredible. I think that everyone watching could imagine that a real druid might act just that way. I think that the group as a whole is getting more serious about being historically accurate and still having fun doing it. I guess that isn't impossible after all. Guthrum
From: Larry Feb 11, 1998
TOO COOL!!!! I had the best time!!! Everything was great! The people, the food and of course the DRINK! I just wanted to say thanx to everyone for making this the best event Yet(I know I onley been to 3)! I felt very welcome and met some great people. ------ PS. I did some reserch on coin minting and hope to have a better way of making clan money. SEE YA, LAB
From: Mainlia Feb 25, 1998
I would like to thank the clan for a wonderful event. Things went well, I really enjoyed the auction, and the feast. Special thanks to Valarian for the excelent hand made shawls for the girls. I vote for a large clan gathering at Pennsic.
From: House Silveroak Feb 28, 1998
Greetings to all of Tuatha de Bhranian! I realize it's now long after the feast of Imbolc, but my wife and I have just recently entered the twentieth century (i.e.-bought a computer). As head of this household, I wish to add to the posting that Connar made on our behalf earlier. I speak for us all when I say that none of us had ever seen a ceremony conducted the way Comyn did. It was riveting. I have found that too often we claim to be medieval recreationists yet we don't practice any of the old traditions. It was refreshing to see that some still do. I wish to extend an open invitation to all Clan members to please attend the first annual House Silveroak Highland games! The tentative dates are for the last weekend in june- 6/26-6/28/98. Nothing is set in stone yet, so let me know if the dates clash with any Clan events. It's the wkend after Norseland's summer thyng, so that they should be able to attend. A rough listing of events and directions will be posted later as they become more clear. It will include much festivity, I assure you all. In closing, thank you all for making our introduction to your Clan both wonderful and memorable. Special thanks to Aongus for opening his home to us. Moran taing!, Mordred and Rayn Watson and Connar Tentbane
From: Valerian Mar 2, 1998
Greetings Everyone! Congratulations to Brogan for finally choosing a name. I am looking forward to reading the persona story. Thanks also and cheers to Brogan for his excellent work with the jockey box. Just wanted to drop a quick note to say "Hi" and to try to persuade everyone I can to attend Pennsic this year. I have been hearing about how good this particular event is for the past 5 years and I am finally going. It would be nice to have a strong representation there, especially since we are growing stronger as a clann. Please, even if you are only mildly interested now, try to go. To House Silveroake, welcome. It was good to have you there at Imbolc and I look forward to seeing you at future events. Thanks to Mordred to helping make the auction a very fun and memorable experience. I will try to attend the games in June. Sounds like fun.
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Lughnasad '98 Edition
Pennsic was an all time blast. Though there were a few rough spots, the clan managed to have a nice camp and sharing the day to day tasks went fairly smooth.
Attending Pennsic were Aonghus, Valerian, Falgon, Volund, Guthrum, Finnoula, Mainlia, Cymrot, Erlan, Brogan, Eachna, and Collin. At the communal meal on Saturday, the names of all who were not in attendance were spoken to remember those who could not be with us.
To the delight of some and the dismay of others, we camped in the bog, our ancestral Pennsic camping area, and stayed quite and uncharacteristicaly dry.
Old friends were caught up with and new friends made, as is such with every Pennsic.
Many ideas were being kicked around to further enhance our enjoyment of future Pennsics. These ranged from a bigger camp grill, a new sheet wall, better lighting, to a building a clan kitchen trailer. Needless to say these projects will require a bit of planning, monetary resources and good deal of sweat to come to fruition.
As no single author could relate to you all of the happenings at Pennsic, we will keeping true to our oral traditions for the best of Pennsic tales will surely (most likely repeatedly) be told around the bonfires or future gatherings.
Reminder:
Many clanfolk are planning to attend Norseland Fall Thyng Assembly on the weekend of Sept. 18th - 20th.
No meeting was held at Pennsic, but some issues were informally mentioned that will undoubtedly be raised at the Autumnal Equinox meeting.
One major proposal that may come up is the restructuring of the honor price system which. The main proposal is listed below but there are some addition considerations that will be brought up along with it so its final form may alter slightly.
Change "member" to "Aurrad" (person of legal standing within the Tuatha)
Deorad = non member
Chieftain-21
Clan Fili-20
Clan Drui-19
Clan Bard-18
Aire Déso, Champion, Sao re Ceird / Scolaire, and Feni - 15
Aire- 12
Warrior, Ceird / Scolaire, Other positions -10
Aurrad- see below
Probate- 1/4 of sponsor's log na enech
Non members and honor price:
Deorad have no honor price unless they belong to a group that has established a treaty with us, in which case their log na enech will be established as needed following clan standards.
An official friend of the clan has no honor price per se, but, if an Aurrad wishes to enact suit on the friend's behalf, their log na enech will be established as needed following clan standards.
An offence against a guest is an offence against the host. A member may enact suit for their honor price if their guest is wronged. 1/4 of the payment goes to the guest.
Punishment:
Honor price can be reduced by the chieftain or by a 2/3 vote of the clan for punitive reasons.
A member on inactive status or designated as Fuidir will have half their normal honor price.
Rewards:
A member may gain station either by claim or by grant.
The member makes a claim for higher honor price after they have acquired all the equipment and completed all deeds associated with that status. The claim is made at a clan event. The equipment is reviewed to make sure it meets the clan standards by the chief, poet, and bard. The poet or bard announces the new status/honor price. As long as the equipment is maintained, regularly utilized, and the member remains in good standing, the status holds.
A grant is made at a clan meeting. A member's Honor price may be increased by the clan in recognition of outstanding contribution, service, or tenure by a 2/3 vote.
Though a member may start with a higher title / honor price though the nature of fortune or grant, they may not claim an increase until they have satisfied all the requirements of lower status.
Status:
Aire Déso (lord of vassalry) - an Aire who has been elected to head a subchapter of the clan and whose subchapter holds one camping event per year and has either communally or individually acquired, maintains, and regularly displays all items of the "Household set".
Sao re Ceird / Scolaire - Aire who has been elected as the head of a guild or college. Any non-Aire may be elected as the "acting" head of a guild but may not claim full honor price until they become an Aire.
Aurrad status
When a probate is made a member, their honor price will be graded from there as they acquire, maintain, and regularly display the items below:
1-A set of period style garb of wool or linen (blends of good quality are acceptable)
1-Period footwear
1-A period bowl and/or plate and A period drinking vessel
1-A period knife (eating or dagger type)
1-A period table cloth
1-A simple rectangular cloak or shawl of wool, linen, hide or fur and A period cloak pin fastener or broach
1-A period tent
Aire status:
To claim Aire status, an Aurrad must acquire, maintain, and regularly display:
Attendance- 3 events a and three 3 meetings a year
Tenure - must have been a Aurrad for 1 year
Attitude - must exhibit clan spirit
3 sets of period garb of good quality
A period tent furnished to keep mundania out of site
A period table section for the great table
A period banner
Period Candles or period oil lamps
And either the Aristocracy set, Warrior set, or Hospitaler set
Aristocracy set:
A period sword
A period javelin
A period shield
Warrior set:
A period spear
Clan standard heavy weapons tournament armor (full suit)
Clan standard heavy weapons tournament sword
Clan standard heavy weapons tournament shield
Hospitaler set:
A high quality period serving platter
A high quality period serving bowl
A high quality period serving pitcher
A high quality period woven basket
A period tent large enough and furnished to receive visitors
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann.
These comments from the AOL Message board relate to the Pennsic XXVII War
Pennsic98News
Eberwolf
Aug 16, 1998 10:51
Greetings Clannsfolk.
Welcome back to those of you who attended the great Pennsic war. I hope this message finds you all safely home. I look forward to hearing the tales of great deeds which transpired on your trip.
By the way, the new website looks great. All Hail Aonghus!
Hope to see you all soon.
Brogan
Aug 17, 1998 12:29
Greetings!!! We made it back from Pensic!!! All those who couldn't attend were missed and remembered! We all have a bunch O' tales to tell. I'm looking forward to the time when we all can drink some ale and share the stories around a fire. The People I've meet, new friends made, things experienced and randome acts of kindness were overwhelming!! I now know why People quit jobs and or put their mundaine life on hold to attend. COUNT ME ONE OF THEM!!!!! Hope to see you all soon!
Connar
Aug 18, 1998 22:25
Wow!! What an awesome war. I can't begin to express the gratitude I feel for the Clan'shospitality and friendship. I always had a cold drink, a place to sit, and friendly faces to laugh with, and we did laugh. A very special thanks to Valerian and Eachna for thier priceless help with waterbearing and feeding the fighters, if you weren't pagan you'd be angels. I'm speechless...........
Brogan, Colin, Falgon, .....I don't think my body will ever recover from the punishing laughter we took part in. I can't remember a more hilarious time....ever...and hey, Volund even stopped by!
Guthrum and Finnoula were a pleasant suprise and it was great seeing Manlia, for even a short time, and finally meeting Cymrot.
Last but not least, Aonghus. What can I say....a truere friend and brother could not be dreamed of. Thank you for the honor of letting me fight with a clan favor, it will ALWAYS hold the highest place of honor for me, and thank you again for the hospitality. Be proud of your people as I am proud to know them....See you all soon.
Guthrum
Aug 20, 1998 12:10
What a great war! For everyone who missed it, you were remembered and missed. On the last night we were sitting around having dinner and named each person who wasn't with us. It was particularly nice that we all had period tents. It made it possible to really escape this century and arive in the fifth. If we can achieve this at our future events we will really acomplish something.
Colin
Aug 26, 1998 13:51
Hello All, Good to hear that every one is home from the war in one peice. Looking back at the war I'm woundering why I skiped those years in between. I'm looking foward to the next event localy. Is anyone planing to attend Norse Land's fall thyng on Sep. 18th 19th 20th. Hope to see everyone soon.
Ogier
Aug 27, 1998 21:10
Greetings to my freinds of Tuatha de Bhriain!
It was great to see so many of you at the War this year. your hospitality was wonderful and I would like to thank the beutiful Valarian and the lovely Eachna for their wonderful attention on the battlefield! Brogan the feast was fantastic and it was great to hear Mainlia sing! And last but not least it was a great pleasure, as always, to see my friend Aongus. My freinds of the clanne helped make this a memorable (though short) war for me Thank you and I hope to see you all at Fall Thyng, if not I plan on coming down for Samhain so I will see you all then...
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Samhain '98 Edition
Clan Meeting Summary: October 31, 1998
Election Results:
Officers:
Chief - Aonghus
Druid - Erlan
Fili - Guthrum
Bard - Comyn
Administration:
Sencha- Sabha
Statchiste - Finnoula
Feni - Mainlia
Other:
Brewey - Valarian
Meeting Notes:
Important Announcement
The Winter Solstice Meeting will be held Sunday, December 6th at the house of Finnouola and Guthrum at 12 Noon.
Business at the meeting was kept to a minimum. Mordred, Rayn, and Debbie (Eberwolf's girlfriend) were made Honored Friends of the clan.
Event Summary
Our New Year event was one of the best ever. The gods smiled upon us and gave us clear weather and sunshine during the day, and black sky dotted with shining stars and the occasional meteor at night.
The camp was a warm and cozy place that did well to protect us from the approaching winter chill. The periods tents really made quite a difference in the overall atmosphere. The clan has really succeeded in making mundane tents a thing of the ??past??!! :)
The feast was yet another success and statement of the cullinary skill of our clan. Truely it was a feast fit for a Ard Righ.
The ceremony marked a clear turning point in not only the year but in the clan as well. The wickerman wast sent off with our gifts to the spirits, who seem to be pleased with us as more things seem to be comming together. Though wild holws were heard thoughout the night, the masks did their job well as no incedence of malevolent spirits were reported. The masks made were great and stand as a testement to the creativity of our kinsman and friends. Some of them were down right spooky.
If one flaw needed to be found with the event, I think most of us would say - "it ended". I know many of us had no sooner packed up from Samhain as had thoughts of Imbolc.
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann.
Comments from the AOL message board relating to Samhain 1998
Samhain 1998 News
Mainlia
Nov 1, 1998 21:20
Happy Samhain, Im sorry I could not make it this year. I did celebrate with a large bonfire. If you looked north after dark and though you saw a orange glow or some sparks it was just me burning a cord or two. I do have about a cord left to burn when I move could be fun if anybody is interested. Mainlia
Eberwolf
Nov 2, 1998 01:21
WOW!!! What an event. Thanks to everyone who was there for making it GREAT! Let's just try to keep making them better and better. See ya all soon.
Aonghus
Nov 4, 1998 20:34
Samhain was truely an awesome event. The feast was incredible... did anyone get pictures of the spread?? The ceremony was great... the masks were damn spooky and surely kept away the angry spirits of the dead.. all the period tents glowing with candle light made such a great atmoshere.. it sorta reminded me of those quaint little christmas villages.. it imparted such a warm, homey feeling even in the chill autumn air. -I thank the gods for clear weather.. I keep thinking what a shame it will be to have to wait for spring for another camp out. - My sincerest condolences to those who didnt make it, and my heartfelt thanks to all those who shared the experience that was Samhain.
May all our events be as successful...
Erlan
Nov 7, 1998 21:26
Blessings to all who read this, from your Druid. The winds were quiet and the sun was strong on our Blessed Samhain. I faced the unknown with strength and I have spoken with our ancestors and they promise a cold winter. A cold winter will bring us warm friends and strengthen our sould. The spring season will be upon us early and the lands will gift us well. I wish to thank the members for choosing me, Erlan, as your Druid. I will enspire to do the most that I can for this clan of ours. In peace and greatness. Erlan Nordenskol
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Imbolc '98 Edition
Meeting Announcement
The Spring Equinox Meeting will be held at Comyn's house on Saturday, March 21stat 2:00pm sharp. Please inform Aonghus ASAP if you will not be attending or if you will be late.
Items on the meeting agenda so far include Pennsic, Clan funded project proposals (yurt) , and possibly a reading and discussion of clan laws and policy.
We are planning on getting pizzas to sustain the clan through the meeting, so please bring a few dollars to chip in.
Items of Note
Cate has settled on a persona name and henceforth shall be known as "Finnoula"
Larry also has settled on a persona name and henceforth shall be known as "Brogan"
Imbolc Event Highlights
In past newsletters summarizing events, it has been standard practice to site those members who put in that extra effort to make the event a success. This has become very difficult to do lately as the overall level of participation has increased dramatically. This practice becoming a thing of the past is a credit to all members. It seems now that there are only highlights to recount. These highlights did not make the event, that credit, as I said, belongs to all, these highlights merely provided something a little extra special.
The feast was magnificent. Falgon provided a wealth of finger foods. Valarian made some great pottage. Sabha provided a hearty barley dish, Guthrum and Finnoula made an exquisite squash soup, Aonghus supplied honeyed carrots. Brogan gave the clan a special treat with the rabbits and veggies he cooked. Volund prepared the main course of beef, roasted to perfection. A special thanks to Comyn and Sabha for supplying the freezer space.
Vollund, Brogan and Mainlia supplied the brew. Volund supplied a very tasty cherry ale. Mainlia's cider was enough to knock the mightiest warrior on his kilt. Brogan suplied some hearty ale and gets special mention for building and donating the awesome barrel "jockey box", which provided some great atmosphere.
A special nod to Erlan who provided some ingenious candle holders and table dressings.
The feast was followed by the first clan auction. The auction ran way long and dominated the majority of the event. Its overwhelming success took the clan by complete surprise and was a load of fun for the bidders and provided some needed equipment to the newer members and guests. The items for bid were a combination of donated and unclaimed items from the clan lost and found that Comyn maintains. Those people who got caught up in the moment and perhaps bought on an impulse stuff they might not use can comfort themselves by knowing that they have helped fill the clan coffers and can donate any unwanted items to next years auction. A special thank you to Comyn who presided over the auction till he lost his voice. A special thank you to Mordred of house Silveroake for taking over the guise of auctioneer from Comyn (that should give you some indication of how long it went on).
After Comyn regained his voice, the ceremony was held. Comyn gave a commanding performance as Druid. All present were given the opportunity to partake of the gifts of Brigit. A thank you to Valarian, our clan Bard, who assisted in the distribution of the "sheep's milk".
After the ceremony, Eberwolf rose and delivered an ancient poem which completely captivated all present. Eberwolf's passionate delivery was so compelling that others who had prepared poems and song were completely awed out of performing. I think next time Eberwolf will be the last act, as his talent proves to be quite the showstopper.
This event also saw the distribution of more clan coins. In addition to bronze, the clan issued its first silver coins. Though these coins were an improvement over the first minting, even further improvements are planned. Everyone was given the opportunity to buy some as they were rationed out and the clan sold out of all coins. Another minting is in the works to provide more coins for Bealtaine.
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann..
Clan Tuatha de Bhriain
Winter Solstice '98 Edition
Clan Meeting Summary: December 6, 1998
Meeting Notes (prepared by Sabha)
Meeting atendance can be found in the Roster Section.
Finnoula's treasury report can be found in the Treasury Section.
Old Business:
1. Eberwolf's membership. Guthrum raised the matter of Eberwulf's membership. The motion to grant full membership to Eberwolf passed unanimously with all members present voting and with a proxy vote by Comyn.
New Business:
1. Imbolc: Imbolc will be held at Swan Lake February 6th, 1999, Assignments for the feast are as follows:
Feast:
Roast pork with vegetablesBrogan
Seafood Stew/SoupErlan
Kale/GreensGuthrum
Barley with VegetablesSabha
PottageValerian
Cheese/FruitFalgon
Bread/Honey ButterEberwolf
Beverages:
Mulled Wine or Cider, CordialsEachna
BeerVollund
Desserts:
Baked ApplesComyn
Bread Pudding w/ CherriesFinnouala
Valerian has been asked to bring table dressings
CRAFT FAIR: We will be holding our first annual craft fair at Imbolc. All those attending Imbolc will be required to bring a craft. All crafts should be accompanied by a card listing the craft-person's name with a brief description of the craft and techniques used. The penalty for failing to bring a craft is one year of satirizing by the poet. Those subject to being satirized may avoid the penalty by paying honor price.
AUCTION: Comyn will be responsible for conducting the second annual clan auction. Clan members are asked to donate items they no longer want or need to the auction. You may also submit your crafts for the auction
ENTERTAINMENT: The bard and poet have been asked to prepare something to entertain the clan.
POST EVENT: Will be held at either Aonghus' house or Comyn and Sabha's house - details will follow with the event invitations.
2. FIRST AID - It has been requested/suggested that the clan take a first aid class (perhaps taught by Mainlia) so we are better prepared in case of emergencies. The clan will also obtain a RED CROSS certified First aid kit. Each clan member will be asked to complete a medical information card listing known allergies and medical conditions. Directions to hospitals near event sites and emergency phone numbers will also be kept in the first aid kit. Any clan member with special medical needs will asked to contribute an emergency kit to care for their needs (ex - bee sting kits, inhalers).
3. KITCHEN TRAILER - Erlan and Valerian have recently spent some time planning out the kitchen trailer. Their proposed trailer would have space for sinks, cold storage, dry goods storage, and long storage. A place for storage of the first aid kit will also be included. At the event site the trailer converts to become a kitchen on wheels with work space, storage space, a protective covering, washing and drying space and cooking space (with the help of a coleman stove). Provisions can be made to equip the trailer with running hot and cold water through the use of a propane water heater. It was moved and approved that Valerian be placed in charge of preparing detailed working drawings and a cost estimate.
4. FUND RAISING/SPIRIT - Guthrum's sister is now working with a company that does custom printing, enscribing, etching…on items such as bumper stickers, bottle openers, T-shirts, car magnets, mugs….. Ideas about having a booth at Pennsic to sell Celtic miscellany were discussed. Erlan, who has actually merchanted at Pennsic described the harsh reality of being a merchant. Instead of actually running a booth, we will look into whether it is possible to either sell at the bazaar or do a "shop at our place" thing. Guthrum will be looking into getting more details about pricing and custom artwork.
Clannsfolk should take advantage of the Message Board to communicate their opinions and ideas on these and other subjects with the clann.
In previous versions, this page was black and there were some graphic images. Bringing it to the TdB site has necessitated the removal of these elements for now. I enjoyed keeping this record for 1998 and it still serves as a nice reference to the Celtic yearly cycle though the specific events recounted may no longer be relevant.
It is traditionally the duty of the Druid to keep the calendar of the Clann. Through augury and the study of the Clann's oral history he determines the most auspicious dates for ceremonies, feasts and raids. The people of Bhriain make their accounting of time based largely on the ancient agrarian festivals, the solar year and the lunar cycles. What follows is a calendar for the Tuatha de Bhriain, so that all Clannsmen may better plan for the feasts to come. As the wheel turns, the Druid will ensure that some short commentary regarding the events of each celebration are recorded here.
I, Comyn, held the great honor of leading the Clann spiritually for one turn of the wheel. The Druid's staff has now passed to another. May she find the courage to face the perils of the otherworld and the strength to lead the Tuatha through them.
The harvest was well, and our celebratory feast was joyous but for the absence of three sturdy warriors whose presence around the fire was sorely missed. The New Year was celebrated by a fantastic feast held under tarps
tied against a violent deluge the like of which had not been seen by the people of Bhriain before. Some men grumbled that it had been worse at a Pennsic War two summers ago, but those who had not been there did not take
much stock in their tall tales Aonghus directed the raising of a feasting tent and communal fire on high ground which proved his good judgement. He then ordered the construction of a stacked wall of split wood to be raised under the tarps. The communal labour brought great harmony to the Clann. Vollund supplied a whole side of beef, part of a beast that could not be kept through the winter and had to be slaughtered. One third was eaten, the rest put away for Imbolc. Some small offerings of food and wine were made to the Good God in a selfish attempt to stop the rains, but it was not to be. They persisted throughout the night. Thanks were given to Momus and Kresny who strode about the camp's perimeter in wonderful death masks confusing all wandering dead who might otherwise have found our tiny dry haven from the flood.
Some say that Yule is the Saxon word for "wheel". I know the Roman dogs call this holiday the "Solstice". It is quite an oversimplification of such a grand event! The first ray of the sun on the following morning passes
through the window box at Newgrange and lights the inner chamber. The light rays fall on a spiral whose symbology is very ancient and arcane. As was traditional, our Clann held a feast indoors (as little can be done out of doors) and celebrated the occassion with good food and good company. Thanks were given to Sabha for providing a stuffed, roasted bird. None who tasted it will soon forget the apple tart that was shared under her roof either! Candles were lit to light Sun God's way north. His travels in the south have made him quite impotent and miserly. We hope that he will be "reborn" soon and that the days will start to get longer. This is the longest night of the year. Plans were made for Imbolc and just begun for a great expidition to be made two Yule's hence.
"The wheel of the year has spun again and the Clann stands as at a ford on the river of time. On the far side, the Sun God lights our way toward spring. His first rays creep toward us, but we may yet remain in the hags
grip for some time. Tonight we gather to celebrate the gifts of the goddess of healing, and the arts, and to call to the God of the sun and light his way homeward with the light of inspiration!" Another indoor feast,
traditionally held at our lodgings on the Swan Lake, House SilverOake was warmly welcomed after a long journey and offered hospitality. A grand auction was held, the first of what may proove to be an annual event for the Clann. A feast unsurpassed was served of beef and barley and four coneys in herbs as well as cheeses and other fine dishes (Pottage, as always was standard Clann fare). Eberwolf delighted the Clann with his stirring performance!
The Chieftan called for an assembly at the home of Comyn and Sabha, recognizing the day as matos, or of good omen to plan activities for the coming spring. The night was only as long as the day, but the Sun God's brilliance was dimmed by clouds thrown by the Hag in a last wintery effort. Snow fell on this night, but it amounted to naught. Shorter nights signal the return of the Goddess. Brogan gifted Comyn with a staff of immense power and beauty; it being topped by a glorious skull whose story will doubtless be told around a campfire in the Clann's near future. The energy of the Clann is waxing and many projects are undertaken. It is traditionally a good time to seek the Druid for luck on raids and expeditions after the long winter.
By tradition, the flames of all fires are doused on Beltaine eve, however, they are usually not put out by rain. The weight of the water brought down the big-top raised by Comyn to fulfill his vow of Samhain. The wind slammed rain against those huddling under tarps as they struggled futily to light and keep aflame the sacred "needfire". The sons of Mil returned with a vengance to scour the land and drown the crops. It is traditional that the Clann move their cattle to higher slopes and better grazing land at this time
of year, but this became apocryphal as Clannsmen scurried to the higher and drier home of Comyn and Sabha to salvage the feast. And feast we did! Roasted birds of many varieties were prepared by Brogan to mention only one highlight. The ceremony of the twin fires was not performed. The Clann is cautioned against making any raids until such time as the gods may be properly appeased.
The Sun seems to stand still for a short time and then, as the wheel of the year turns, it begins to lose its power and days start to get shorter. Traditionally, the tribal god and goddess marry at this time.
First harvest, first bread of that harvest. The name for this festival comes from Lugh, another name for Bel whom our brethren on the continent worship with true Celtic vigor. Seldom have the people of Bhriain had the
time to celebrate this festival properly. This year, however, Aonghus led the Clann to war in Pennsic and there many a brave man met his match (and drank grog with him) if the tales I hear are true. One soul, who dared to walk the mounds one night, was claimed by Aine. It may be true what they say in Dun Aine that she will ever come to claim one man each year.
Height of harvest, wine making begins. We met at the home of Aonghus to discuss law and plan the new year's feast. Much there was to discuss, but our Chieftan guided the proceedings through rocky waters to safe harbor
in record time!
Bringing in the last of the harvest is work worthy of praise!