In a quiet field nestled near St. Regis, the echoes of history rang out this past weekend as the Barony of Sentinels’ Keep, Kingdom of Artemisia, hosted its much-anticipated Archers’ Dream event; a celebration of medieval martial prowess, craftsmanship, and camaraderie.

Nobles and commonfolk alike gathered for a weekend filled with arrows, axes, and artistry. Archers from across the Kingdom descended on the site to compete in the Baronial Championships for archery, thrown weapons, youth archery and youth thrown weapons. Among the weekend's highlights were thrilling combat archery rounds, a moonlit night shoot, and the impressive 200-yard clout shoot.

In the ambassador shoot, open to archers from outside the Barony, participants chose their targets and distance as the event wasn’t just about competition; it was a time for learning, sharing, and stepping back into the past.

Archos Tomothy of Sherwood offered a hands-on workshop on finger-loop braiding, helping newcomers craft their own period cords. Archers were treated to a detailed class by Atlicus on Western/Mediterranean vs. Eastern thumb-release techniques. DKAG Archos Henry of Bohemia led an hour-long class reviewing the new Target Archery Rule Book and offered Target Archery Marshal authorizations.

Meanwhile, the war-minded turned their attention to siege craft. Kingdom Siege Deputy Morgan the Bald led an engrossing class covering the differences between ballistae, catapults, and trebuchets, the science behind tension and torsion, and a dive into ancient engineering feats like the Roman camshaft and pneumatic ballista.

The hand-to-hand one-on-one battles were far from WWE ‘scripted’ wrestling as these battles were ferocious and intense. Contests lasted a mere minute or so but the sweat pouring out of the armor was real, as well as the laughter and happy-go-lucky conversations between the two as everyone on the field are friends. Weapons did not have sharp edges and the soldiers were careful with skilled blows not to hurt but only to exhibit strength. These clashes lasted a mere moment, making one wonder what truly happened on the battlefields and how Mel Gibson contained all that energy in "Braveheart."

Evenings were no less magical. Perfect weather with stars emerging, attendees gathered around the bardic fire, sipping beverages from pewter mugs, singing songs, telling tales, and celebrating the day’s victories. 

There was even a onesie party, because what is medieval camping without a touch of modern silliness? 

A community meal of gyros was served on Friday evening for a token of an Alexander Hamilton bill, unless patrons brought and prepared their own vittles. As authentic as they were, propane heaters and George Foreman grilles were kept inside their tents and yurts as one today can only sacrifice so much.

Participants were also invited to try their hand at the Atlatl, shop with local merchants, and enjoy the peaceful setting of a community deeply devoted to bringing history to life. Games of chess were played under canopies as visitation was enjoyed by members and newbies were heartily welcomed. For those who arrived early, camping spots were available, with the lighthearted warning that early birds might be “put to work with setup.”

Archers' Dream proved once again that the Barony of Sentinels’ Keep is a bastion of skill, fellowship, and historic reenactment. As the last arrows were loosed and fires burned low, one thing was clear, dreams were lived, and legends made.

    Spectators enjoyed the fighting while those who battled waited for their turn. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)
  

    Archos Timothy of Sherwood hails from Massachusetts and was on site as a competitor and instructor on the craftsmanship of arrows and archery equipment. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)
  

    The weapons were authentic as possible in weight and size but safe for battling opponents. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)
  

    The Society for Creative Anachronism is an international organization interested in the research and recreation of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The hierarchy is complex, and the kingdoms are vast, but the Scadians who participated at the Archers’ Dream festival could not have been more welcoming to the curious commoner. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)