Hurstwic History

The idea of Hurstwic grew from several failed attempts to form re-enactment-LARP style groups. Hurstwic was officially formed in late 1998 by Ron Black (in blue in the photo to the left) and Casey Dorman (in dark red). The two former SCA members were tired of the same old 're-enactment' styled groups who could never seem to get-it-together and just do it. 

Black and Dorman lost interest in the local SCA, feeling left behind by the society due to the local nobility's inability to inform its subjects of events. They wanted more - to be informed and formally invited. 

The two had a dream: a historically accurate living history group that keeps ALL its members involved and aware of what is going on.

After searching the web and re-enactment magazines for suitable groups here in America, Black and Dorman discovered there was nothing. The two set out to create their own group. 

The first attempt was SevenHeads, a combination of the SCA style of combat mixed with historic and fantasy undertones. The two hoped to create the feel Viking-Celtic myth and legend combined with history. They started to write their own manuals and regulations, an endeavor more difficult than they anticipated. This failed to draw in members due to a poor design in combat and the adding of magic to the system. A few changes were made including the name and theme, but still their hopes and expectations were not met. The element of fantasy was corrupting the group, taking it over. 

The two formed a new organization, focused on accurate re-creation of Viking era life. After debate and discussion, a name was chosen: Viking Age Living History Society. Black contacted Regia Anglorum in an attempt to affiliate with them. Subsequently, Regia Anglorum established a formal organization in North America, called Geforðian Strand. VALHS chose to affiliate with the new organization and has become the first local group, called Hurstwic (woodland village). Hurstwic's land grant covers southern New England.

Hurstwic's first year has been tough. Lack of land and money has caused the society to have to struggle to hold events and to get others involved. Members, all with family and work commitments, have had difficulty taking time off to get to events and to other gatherings. This, along with the lack of land of their own, has slowed the growth of Hurstwic. However, Black and Dorman have the ideas and the know-how to make Hurstwic work. Plans are underway to bring the society to a new level.

Hurstwic holds a monthly event, at a local public woodland management area, which gets members out and involved.