Eligibility and Requirements of Membership

The following are the requirements that need be met should a prospect be reviewed for potential membership. This also constitutes the standard for conduct expcted for Chateau members. Should these be consistently transgressed by a current member, membership will be revoked by the head of house. We stand for something more than just a group of folks who camp together. We are a service focused house of Courtiers, highly motivated by "The Dream" of a more Chivalrous, Honorable, Courteous and Gracious Society.

Identity –
Your word is your bond and your name becomes the guarantee of the bond. All members must have a name and device registered or in the process. If it is passed, it is expected that the member will display it proudly. Members have the right to display the badge of Chateau Flammel. Defaming this sign by poor behavior will be taken very seriously.

Diligence –
A Member must practice one art form (minimum) whether it be fine, functional or martial in nature. It is expected that the member will become a teacher of this craft. It is likewise an expectation that Members continue to grow their skills throughout their time with us and share these skills with those willing to learn. Likewise, members are expected to participate in household projects.

Maturity –
Members must be 18+ years of age to join as full members in good standing, though they may be “affiliates” through a member parent. However, the behavior of the child reflects upon the parent and the presence of a consistently unruly, unkempt child can be grounds for removal from the house.

Appearance –
We strive to enhance the feeling of the period atmosphere, and so, members are expected to attire themselves in a manner of period dress that aids others in forgetting the modern world, by virtue of its authenticity and/or artfulness. Likewise, we strive to conduct ourselves in such a way as to theatrically portray our personas in an engaging and enjoyable way for ourselves and others. Members should be clean and polished at all times.

Comportment –
“The Dream” of the Society is one we respect most highly, in word and deed, by making an effort to embody the virtues of Chivalry, Courtesy, Temperance, Honor, Loyalty, Prudence, Franchise and Courage. A member of this house should abide by these guiding ideals, and likewise, be forthright and truthful when these virtues are imperiled. They are never more in danger than when they are forgotten by one who transgresses them and none will speak of it out of fear of controversy or reprisal. Know when to speak and to be silent. Never leave the weak or the innocent undefended and those with great potential left in miserable ignorance. One must keep their oaths and assist others in staying true to their own.

Service –
The Chateau was formed to answer a need of a Barony at that time, and so service is still emphasized in addition to development in the arts. The Society is reliant upon the local groups for its survival and well-being. And so, members are encouraged to serve at the local level, however they may be willing and able within the realm of reason. If there is a need for an officer in the local area or the opportunity to move to the Kingdom level instead (of the same job), we encourage Chateau members to favor the local group. it is hoped that our members will volunteer to be autocrats who can push each event they undertake to the next level rather than only duplicating what has already been done. Likewise, instructing others is paramount. Chateau Flammel is a school dedicated to creating new teachers and mentors. Members are expected to offer instruction.

Graciousness –
We respect the three-fold law of returns, and so embrace the belief that one gets out of the Society what is put into it. Thus, wishing to enhance the ambience of the Modern Middle Ages, as well as the overall opportunity for enjoyment, we encourage members to offer hospitality to others whenever possible. Whether it be an offer of a chair to the weary, sharing a meal with the hungry or hosting some joyous occasion, we hope to bring greater joy where we go. Our motto is "Magis gauisus, minor fimus", as translated from Latin: "More happy, less crappy." We try to lighten each other's day and everyone else's by extension.

House Ranks:

Novice – A novice is a probationary member who is working toward full membership but has not yet completed all requirements and are being given a year to improve significantly enough to be elevated. They are not permitted to yet bear the badge of the house, but benefit from focused instruction and protection from the house.

Journeyman – A journeyman member is one who has shown excellence and growth, who is recognized within the larger sphere of the barony and kingdom and has received recognition for such (usually, a grant of arms).

Prior - A prior is one who is sought out as a teacher and is a leader, proactively seeking ways to improve the society at all levels. A prior is a pillar of strength and guidance to others within and outside of the house.

Patron – A patron is a founding member and those in whom the house has placed it's care and reputation, including our household Champion and Administrators.

Affiliates –
Not all who participate with the house are members, some are “affiliates”. Affiliates enjoy many of the same benefits of the house as a guest, but are not able to join for a variety of reasons. These causes may include being underage family of a Member, membership within another mutually exclusive group and religious prohibitions. We still respect their participation and welcome them in our company and camp. Affiliates do not participate in household customs, do not vote on house matters or sit in on household meetings. However, Affiliates are subject to the same code of conduct as is any other member while staying in the Flammel camp.

Alliances/Affiliations –
Currently, Chateau Flammel holds affiliations of mutual support with House Auklandus, House Morien and is under the patronage and protection of Delarosa Manor.