About the Routiers

Origin

As legend has it, the Society was formed from a discussion in a car on the way back from a re-enactment event in 1985, where historical authenticity was noticed to have been sadly lacking. The Founders (David Green, Dave Sanders and Paul Fisher) resolved to stem the burgeoning influence of fantasy-oriented groups like the SCA by creating a re-enactment society where historical authenticity would be the primary goal, setting an example for others to follow. We have been very successful, and "The Routiers" are now acknowledged throughout Australia as a shining example of historical accuracy and authenticity. We are also well known for our singing, carousing, and ability to have a good time - proving that "authenticity" and "fun" are not opposing concepts, despite what many in less enlightened groups will claim. Contrary to some rumours, the founding fathers of the Routiers were not members of the SCA. However, there have been a few notable ex-SCA members who have joined the 'dark side'.

The Colours

The Regiments of the London Trayned Bandes were named for various colours. Ours is Green. The top left hand side of the flag is the flag of England, St. George’s Cross. We reenact the First Captain's Company, represented by the two charges (the single charge being the Sergeant Major's Colours). Our charges are white caltrops. The Green Regiment was recruited from the city wards of Coleman Street, Basinghall and Cripplegate.

Motto

To take our re-enactment seriously, and ourselves seriously not at all!

What's the point of doing something that's not fun? Life in the Stuart times wasn't miserable (well, not for the middle class people in London we reenact), so neither is our reenactment. This is the opposite tack to some other organisations! Some see us as a fancy dress drinking society, but see ourselves as an authentic as possible fancy dress drinking society.

Events

Soldiers' Council Meeting are held on the first Tuesday of every month at hostelries in areas where Routier population is non-minimal. In a convivial atmosphere, we eat, drink, and discuss upcoming events and other matters of importance.

We sporadically practise our marching (known as drill), according to Drill Manuals published in the late 1630s. We don't do this as much as we'd like, but enough to keep us near the top of the Drill competition at the Yearly Taminick Military Encampment (in 2005 we came second by 1 point at 166 points). For drill dates, please ask a local contact, listed on our Contact page.

Every year we hold a couple of living history weekends. Setting up an authentic soldiers' campsite, we live in period-style tents, eat and drink appropriate food, and fire our muskets on a range (if available). If we're really lucky in winter, it snows - and we get full value from our authentic clothing, and, later, our wool blankets and straw beds. Fencing, shooting and archery competitions and skirmishes add to the ambience.

One of these events per year is designated as a General Muster, where Routiers must present their kit for inspection, to ensure that everyone is up to our ever-improving standard.

Additionally, we attend other historical re-enactment events, not the least of which is the Australasian Mediaeval Convention, the major national event, held every 2 years (odd years, not surprisingly) over the Easter long weekend. This conference covers periods from Ancient Greece to the 1650s. We also attend the annual Military weekend at Taminick for Black Powder period reenactment groups, near Wangaratta in Northern Victoria.