Medieval Faire Takes Over Mohr Library

Swords, armored combat, wooden axes and historical costumes ruled the grounds of the new on May 14, as the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) and former Johnston resident Jaye Brooks Sr. — a/k/a King Lucan Von Drachenklave VIII — recreated medieval times.

Brooks, who said his interest in medieval times was ignited at the old Mohr library by reading The Lord of the Rings and countless other science fiction books, said the new Mohr library is beautiful, but he remains nostalgic for the original building.

Now is a New Hampshire resident, Brooks now works as a senior project manager for a business servicing company. He has been a member of the SCA for 26 years.

"Medieval times are all about learning how to survive," said Brooks — people had to plant theor own food, make their own clothes, do a lot of bartering and had to get along with people in the community.

Tom Seal, organizer of the Medieval Faire, explained that this was the first year for the faire and how he plans to bring it back to the community annually.

Members of the SCA and "King Lucan VIII" brought the community back in time to the Middle Ages by recreating armored combat, fencing, archery, and blacksmithing. 

There were also SCA members demonsrtating how to throw wooden axes at specific targets. Maya Johnson, alias "Lady Dhani," an SCA member for 12 years, explained that for safety reasons, the public could not participate in the weapon throwing.

As the public roamed the grounds to learn about the Medieval times, Renaissance and Medieval music filled the air, provided by Marion "Ingebjorg Valtharsdottir" Anderson and her guest Sharon Albert.

Young Adult Librarian Tanya Paglia showed children the art of calligraphy and how to make glorious goblets.

"The Medieval Faire is different," said Paglia, "and the costumes are beautiful."

One special garment that was on display was recently made by SCA member Ronald Dubray, a.k.a "Ouzzl," which is ancient German for "Black Bird."

A modified version of an open-front shirt made out of chain metal, Dubray explained that he made it over the course of the winter sitting on his couch in the evenings. The chain metal shirt has $150.00 worth of metal and weighs 35 pounds.

Brooks, decked out in his purple King Lucan VIII costume, said the believes the new library will create a whole new generation of youth who can explore medieval times.

For more information on the SCA and the returning king, visit the King Lucan VIII web site.