Canton of Readstan
 | |
| Gules, a gryphon segreant argent, in base a laurel wreath Or. | |
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Founded: | A.S. XXXIX |
| In Kingdom: | Kingdom of the Outlands |
| Modern location | |
| South Metro Denver area | |
Overview
The Canton of Readstan was a southern canton of the Barony of Caerthe in the Kingdom of the Outlands, active from 2004 through the early 2010s. Initially known as Bloodstone Keep, the canton was founded by a group of SCAdians seeking a more family-friendly and inclusive space within the barony, with a focus on heavy fighting, drumming and dance, and the arts and sciences.
Formation and Early Development
The idea for a new group originated in early 2004, when Countess Adriana encouraged those interested in forming a canton to meet. A planning meeting was held on May 9, 2004 at Lady Mor’s house, drawing attendees from southeast Caerthe and beyond. It soon became clear that two separate cantons would better serve the population.
With the blessing of Baron Kronos of Caerthe, and following his requirements—including a formal written justification and a 75% approval vote—one of these groups began organizing under the name Bloodstone Keep. The first official meeting was held on May 23, 2004, and the group quickly established monthly business meetings at Bemis Library, chose interim officers, and committed to a child-friendly environment.
On September 25, 2004, the group held a formal polling and passed with a vote of 17–5. A petition scroll was presented to the Crown on November 6, 2004, during Crown Tournament and Caerthe’s A&S Competition. That day, Bloodstone Keep became an official incipient canton.
By early 2005, the canton had submitted a name and device (a griffin was chosen over a yale). Their newsletter, Heliotrope Herald, launched soon after, and the group set ambitious goals: double membership, hold two events, and host five demos during the year.
Events and Activities
Bloodstone Keep’s signature events included:
Mountain Mayhem – a whimsical fundraising event, first held May 7, 2005, which became a celebration of Caerthe’s 35th anniversary.
Pas d'Arms – a formal and chivalric fighting event that debuted in September 2005.
Black Hart Ball – a social event with dancing and an A&S competition, held in the fall.
Western Welcome Week Parade – In August 2010, the canton marched in Littleton’s civic parade and won 2nd place in their category.
The group also held successful public demos at Bemis Public Library, Highlands Ranch Girl Scouts, Koelbel Library, Littleton Academy, and the Denver Zoo.
The canton was noted for its energy, pageantry, and public engagement. They frequently traveled and received support from other groups, including Unser Hafen, Caer Galen, Windkeep, and Dragonspine. They also formed a heavy fighting unit, Aegis, and emphasized outreach to newcomers and families.
Leadership and Membership
Founding leadership included Viscount Sterling, who chronicled much of the canton’s early history, and notable contributors such as Lady Mor, Mistress Eirene, Countess Aindrea, THL Robert, Lady Rothin, and m’lord Ximon. The canton drew many of its founding members from outside Caerthe, including former residents of al-Barran and other kingdoms.
Many members received individual awards and recognition during their time in the canton, reflecting the group’s high level of service and activity.
Transition and Later Years
By the early 2010s, the canton was operating under the name Readstan, though the exact timing of the name change is unclear. Under the new name, they continued hosting Mountain Mayhem and other events. A notable example was the January 2011 Gold Key Garb-a-thon, where members sewed loaner garb and built camaraderie.
The group was still active through at least 2011, but it has since gone dormant or been disbanded.