Decoding the Mystery: How Peers Are Chosen in Calontir

Have you ever wondered how someone becomes a peer in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA)? It’s a practical process, yet one that seems shrouded in mystery to many.

The information I’m sharing in this second of five posts on becoming a peer isn’t confidential. It’s pretty standard stuff, I’m speaking from my perspective as a Laurel from the Kingdom of Calontir.

The Power of the Crown

First things first: the power to create peers rests solely with the Crown– the King and Queen. They have the authority to honor individuals and welcome them to a peerage order — Knight, Laurel, Pelican and others.

There are a couple of straightforward rules. For instance, the elevation must happen at an official SCA event, not during a casual gathering, and the person must be a resident of the Crown’s own Kingdom. Other than those limits, the Crown can choose whom they deem worthy at their discretion.

Enter the Peerage Order Meeting

Now, you ask, what’s the deal with the peerage order meeting? Think of the order’s peers as the Crown’s trusted advisors. When the Crown plans who they’ll elevate at the begining of their reign, they turn to their peers for guidance. It’s a practical setup because, let’s face it, the Crown can’t know every deserving candidate across the realm.

The order members are well-connected and recommend qualified people to the Crown. But, here’s the twist: while the council advises, the final decision always rests with the Crown. Their Majesties will consider the order’s information or choose to go in a different direction entirely–it’s all up to them.

Watch Lists Revealed

One interesting aspect of the process is the use of “watch lists”. These are not secret documents predicting a future peer-to-be. They’re more like organizational tools. In Calontir, it is a list maintained by the Crown and passed to the Heirs. It typically features candidates under active consideration, discussed in detail during order meetings. At it’s end it may include names of budding future candidates needing more observation.

Some kingdomes organize this into a “short list” and a “long list”. The people on the “short list” are also found at the top of the “long list”. Calontir Laurels have only one list. In the order council meeting we just discuss as many candidates as possible, beginning at the top.

Inside a Peerage Meeting

Let’s peek inside a typical Calontir Laurel meeting. It usually starts with the Crown informing the populace when there’s a meeting. Everyone involved—the Crown and order members—gather in a secluded space. After the Crown welcomes everyone they give us the plan for the meeting. We then dive into an discussions about candidates from the List. Imagine a lively casual exchange as we discuss each candidate’s progress, contributions to the kingdom, and any areas they need to work on. It’s not just a checklist. Sometimes, it sparks passionate debates or philosophical discussions. Ultimately, after weighing all viewpoints, the Crown moves on to the next candidate. Depending on who’s running the show, a vote of some sort is taken. In private the Crown decides on the next steps—whether to set a date to start the elevation process, or table the decision for later.

Beyond the Meeting

The process isn’t just about meetings. In far-flung kingdoms like Drachenwald, they even conduct “pollings” via letters or emails for peers can’t attend in person. It’s a practical workaround, though it lacks the lively debate of face-to-face meetings.

Imperfections and Realities

Like any human-run system, this one isn’t flawless. There are concerns about favoritism, delays in decision-making, and regional biases. Yet, despite its imperfections, it’s the framework we have—and it gets the job done. It’s a reminder that behind the grandeur of medieval pageantry, there’s a functional but sometimes messy process at work. What you have to know about making peers is that the Crown does it, and does it pretty much when, where, and to whom it wills.

Conclusion

So, there you have it—the not-so-secret process of choosing peers in the SCA. It’s a blend of tradition, practicality, and human dynamics. Next time you see someone being elevated at an event, you’ll know there’s more to the story than meets the eye. It’s a process shaped by history, adapted by different kingdoms, and respected by those who partake in it. Whether you agree with it or not, it’s a fascinating glimpse into how our community honors its most proficient members.

Understanding these inner workings can deepen your appreciation for the peerage system and the dedicated individuals who uphold it. After all, in a realm of knights, artisans, and scholars, recognition is more than just a title—it’s a mark of respect earned through service, skill, and the trust of the Crown.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you encountered the peerage selection process in the SCA before? Perhaps in a kingdom other than Calontir. Do you have any questions or insights to share? Please, drop a comment below–I’m eager to continue the conversation with you!