Celebrating the Middle Ages

On Saturday, I rambled through several areas of Georgetown in search of good feature photos for my friends at the Williamson County Sun.   With three solid photos in hand, I was ready to call it day, but decided to make a swing through San Gabriel Park, a place I thoroughly love.   Driving through, I spotted gentlemen in garb from the Middle Ages  as they took part in a jousting match.   Of course, it brought me to a stop!   As I approached, I found more than 200 members of the Society for Creative Anachronism, an international group that celebrates the pre-17th century period focusing on the Middle Ages and Renaissance.   As it turns out, this particular  group at the park  is comprised of members primarily from  Texas and Oklahoma.   They call it  the Kingdom of Ansteorra.   I’m told they meet here at San Gabriel Park every first Saturday in February for their Candlemas Celebration, harking the end of the winter season (we’re not done with it yet!).  Members are quick to point out that what they do is PLAY, not re-enacting.  Most make their own costumes, or have them made by fellow members.  They also take on names more in line with the Middle Ages.   Brandyn M. Butler, the young man in the opening photo, goes by Brian O’ hullian when he’s in play mode.   He stresses the h in the play name is NOT capitalized, either.   Meeting this very fun bunch marked an end to a good Saturday afternoon.