The Adrian Empire

The Adrian Empire
Founded in 1987 by medievalists interested in practicing live steel combat, the Adrian Empire, commonly referred to as "Adria", is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to the study and re-creation of Western European culture between the Battle of Hastings (the year 1066) and the end of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I of England (the year 1603). Members work to re-create the arts, skills, and culture of this range of the Medieval and Renaissance eras. Local chapters usually meet on a monthly basis and hold tournaments of combat, archery, and the arts. Occasional regional as well as two annual national "wars" are also held which include both tournaments and group battle scenarios. The rulers of the Empire, the Imperial Crowns, are determined once a year during one of these national wars, Imperial Crown War, held every Labor Day Weekend.

The Empire is divided into various chapters, which administer specific territory granted by their charters.

Operating Principles (as stated in the Lex Adria)

 * Always serve the best interests of our communities.
 * Measure actions by what is in the best interests of the Organization.
 * Communicate openly, honestly and directly.
 * Be visionary: Encourage innovation and learn from our mistakes.
 * Be positive: Seek solutions, and be open to the views of others.
 * Support each other in balancing work, family and community.
 * Support and reward excellence, teamwork, productivity, and growth.
 * Be accountable and honor commitments.
 * Promote research, education, and publication relevant to those cultures falling within the influence of Western Civilization within our period of history.

Vision Statement (as stated in the Lex Adria)
"In the Beginning, the "Ideal" for Adria, as conceived and set forth by the Founders, was that in the chaotic world of our mundane lives, much like the chaotic times in medieval history, we could create and uphold a society where individuals from all walks of life, no matter what rank or title, all have the same opportunities and were all expected to uphold the same chivalric ideals. "The Ideal" was simply exemplifying the best qualities of medieval history and applying them, not only within Adria but within each of ourselves and in thus, making our mundane lives a better place to exist. Self-indulgence and oppressiveness were to be prohibited. Fellowship, compassion, and a need to keep matters simple and to the point were to be embodied by the populace. As founders, our future "Dream" for Adria was that each member would hold a true and honest love for Adria so as to nurture and help her grow into a shining example of what a Noble Society could have been in the past and perhaps should be today and also in the future." - Sir Antoine de Burgandy, co-Founder of Adria