In order to successfully operate a Kingdom, Barony or Canton within the SCA, a group of officers is put in place to handle the administrative aspects of running that group. A big part of an officer’s job is creating reports, which are then sent to the next level of officers for review and forwarding. The goal of the reports is to capture a history of activity within the group and produce a census. Officers normally have a term of two years and are usually voted on by the existing Officers.
The role of an Officer is very important, and these reports are very important. For example, when Court is held and individuals are given awards, these are then recorded by the Herald and sent in as a report. The granting of these awards is then recorded in the Ealdormere Order of Precedence (this is the record of who has been given what). Years may pass between awards for individuals, so it is important that what was given is recorded so that the same award is not granted twice at a later date. If the Herald fails to submit this report, all that information is lost.
Reports are easy to do so long as the officer keeps on top of things. Typically it is best to keep a running list of activities between reporting periods. A basic description of the officer duties are:
Baron and Baroness
The Baron and Baroness are not actually officers. They serve as the representative of the Crown, which allows them to hold Court and give Baronial Awards. The Baron and Baroness will hold officer meetings to keep in touch with activities within the Barony, discuss any concerns, as well as plan for Baronial activities and projects such as Baronial BBQ’s, Demonstrations, and items to be made or purchased for improvements that benefit the Barony.
Seneschal (Every group requires one)
The Seneschal acts as the administrative head of the group and ensures activities fall within the guidelines of the Kingdom Laws. This person has signing authority on financial matters and produces a yearly census. A Baronial Seneschal has the additional role of helping new local groups get started.
The Exchequer (Every group requires one)
Basically handles the financial matters of the group.
Marshals
These people act as a combat supervisor of activities for the group. A group is required to have a Marshal in order to host combat activities of that particular type. There are Rapier, Heavy Combat, Thrown Weapons and Archery marshals.
Minister of Arts and Sciences
This office coordinates arts and sciences activities for the group, arranging classes and demonstrations, and leading participants to others who work in fields of their interest.
Herald
The Herald is in charge of heraldic activities, such as the creation and registration of names and arms. They also produce Court Reports.
Chatelaine/Hospitaller
In charge of welcoming and facilitating new participants into the SCA. This includes recruiting and transitioning members from other branches.
Lord Clerk Registrar/Webminister
This officer is in charge of maintaining the Internet presence of the group.