In period the Chatelaine was an assistant to the seneschal. They acted as the gatekeeper, and would greet important visitors. They were also the keeper of the keys for the castle and estate.

In the SCA the Chatelaine greets newcomers, and helps them to become involved in the SCA by answering their questions, introducing them to other SCAdians that are interested in the same things they are and lend them loaner garb. The one of the badges of the Chatelaine office is a silver key, it is also what the collection of loaner garb is called.

Mor's Handbook - Mor the Merry was the Barony of Windmasters' Hill Chatelaine. She put together a Newcomers handbook that is quite good. The book has an overview of what the SCA is about and introduction to the culture. Every newcomer should have one.

It is in Word (.doc) format now. I will try to get it in the Adobe (.pdf) format soon.

This page was last updated on 01/20/2008 by Baron Eógan mac Ailpein.