There are many theories as to the origin of the FaeryFolk and much lore has come down to us concerning their nature and behaviors. Whatever one believes of their nature and origin, they are noted to be attuned to the land and live in the Underworld, which they enter by mounds known as Sidhes. These mounds are their dwellings (as are other underground spots such as caves, caverns and hollow hills) as well as entrances to deeper parts of the earth. Faeries are said to change residence at every quarter - thus reflecting the change in the seasons and within the earth. The "quarters" referred to in this case are actually what the modern pagan traditions refer to as the "cross-quarter" days - Brigid, Beltane, Lughnasahd and Samhain.

The Underworld is also said to be the dwelling place of the Ancestors and in Celtic legend and lore there was not always a big distinction made between the faeries and the ancestors. It was often thought that the dead went to live in the "Blessed Isles of the West," often referred to as the Land of Summer or Summerland. These Blessed Isles of the West were also held to be the original home of the Shining Ones of Old - the Tuatha de Danann. One of the Irish legends states that after the defeat of the Tuatha at the hands of the Milesians, the Tuatha were banished to - or chose to take as their domain - the mounds and the hills: that is, the places below the surface of the earth: the Underworld Realm. This brings in the connection with the faeryfolk - whom some say are the Tuatha de Danaan. 

Of all the nights of the year, it is only on Samhain that the sidhe mounds, hollow-hills, caves and caverns are open and the treasures of the sidhe can be seen. All the spirits are abroad this time of the year - ancestors and other ghosts, pucas, faeries and hosts of other Under and Otherworldly beings. The Sidhe-dwellers were considered by the Celts to be the rulers of Samhain and of the other spirits at large at Samhain. The costume aspect of Halloween/Samhain might possibly come from the custom of "Ritual Disguise." Only those in disguise would dare venture out this night, their disguise designed to confuse the sidhe dwelling faeries, who along with the revered, but sometimes feared, ancestors, were abroad on this night when the veils between the worlds were so thin as to allow easy passage between them.  A Samhain feast was held with special foods and the hearth was prepared for the visit of the Ancestors. Food was left out to propitiate the spirits. In some parts of the Celtic world a place was set for them at the family table. Samhain is a night to honor the ancestors, and the Tuatha de Danaan, and the dwellers in the sidhe, who may, after all, be one and the same.

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Patchwork Merchant Mercenaries had its humble beginnings as an idea of a few artisans and craftsmen who enjoy performing with live steel fighting. As well as a patchwork quilt tent canvas. Most had prior military experience hence the name.

 

Patchwork Merchant Mercenaries.

 

Vendertainers that brought many things to a show and are know for helping out where ever they can.

As well as being a place where the older hand made items could be found made by them and enjoyed by all.

We expanded over the years to become well known at what we do. Now we represent over 100 artisans and craftsman that are well known in their venues and some just starting out. Some of their works have been premiered in TV, stage and movies on a regular basis.

Specializing in Medieval, Goth , Stage Film, BDFSM and Practitioner.

Patchwork Merchant Mercenaries a Dept of, Ask For IT was started by artists and former military veterans, and sword fighters, representing over 100 artisans, one who made his living traveling from fair to festival vending medieval wares. The majority of his customers are re-enactors, SCAdians and the like, looking to build their kit with period clothing, feast gear, adornments, etc.

Likewise, it is typical for these history-lovers to peruse the tent (aka mobile store front) and, upon finding something that pleases the eye, ask "Is this period?"

A deceitful query!! This is not a yes or no question. One must have a damn good understanding of European history (at least) from the fall of Rome to the mid-1600's to properly answer. Taking into account, also, the culture in which the querent is dressed is vitally important. You see, though it may be well within medieval period, it would be strange to see a Viking wearing a Caftan...or is it?

After a festival's time of answering weighty questions such as these, I'd sleep like a log! Only a mad man could possibly remember the place and time for each piece of kitchen ware, weaponry, cloth, and chain within a span of 1,000 years!! Surely there must be an easier way, a place where he could post all this knowledge...

Traveling Within The World is meant to be such a place. A place for all of these artists to keep in touch and directly interact with their fellow geeks and re-enactment hobbyists, their clientele.

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