At July Coronation A.S. XXX, the members of the Order of the Laurel invited H. L. Julian Edward Farnsworth of Falconmoors, OGGS, to join their number and become the first An Tirian to earn a Laurel through excellence in archery.
Originally published in On Target, Volume 1, Issue 1, Winter 1996.
At July Coronation A.S. XXX, the members of the Order of the Laurel invited H. L. Julian Edward Farnsworth of Falconmoors, OGGS, to join their number and become the first An Tirian to earn a Laurel through excellence in archery.
One of the most difficult questions for a Laurel to answer is, "What did you do to earn your Laurel?" Master Julian, with the wisdom of one who's spend 17 years in the Society, replied, "You have to be one before you can become one."
Master Julian's talents in the Arts & Sciences matured over years of service to the Shire of Aquaterra, the Kingdom of An Tir, and the Barony of Blatha An Oir.
In 1982, only a year after purchasing his first longbow, Master Julian became the first Chief Archer for the Shire of Aquaterra (the first to hold such a position in An Tir) because he recognized a need to organize the local archery community.
In 1989 Master Julian stepped in as Royal Archer of An Tir when H. L. Thomas of Appledore stepped down. Master Julian still holds the position and constantly strives to make archery fun, safe, and more recognized within the Society.
(Update: Master Julian stepped down as Royal Archer of An Tir in January 1997 and H. L. Eric de Dragonslaire, OGGS, was chosen as his replacement. — GdA)
One year later Master Julian was invited into the Order of the Gray Goose Shaft, an exclusive Order of archers who consistently demonstrate chivalry, archery and light combat skills; and talent in the arts and sciences (see An Tir Archery Awards and Recognitions for more details — GdA). Currently there are only seven members in the OGGS, and recently the members have taken students, called Arcuarii.
(Update: The Order of the Gray Goose Shaft has grown since this article was written. Please see "Prominent An Tir Archers" for more details. — GdA)
In 1988 Master Julian became the newest member of the Sergeantry of Blatha An Oir by earning his Yeoman's buckle and in 1989 he earned his Sergeant's buckle. To earn his place in the Sergeantry of Blatha An Oir, Master Julian proved his proficiency in heraldry, bardic, dance, military science and martial arts, among others.
From 1994 to 1996, Master Julian has made and shown five longbows and several self-arrows. Master Julian is also skilled at making wooden board games and tooling leather into belts and favors for members of his household. Of course, we should not forget Master Julian's skill on the range and on the field. He has earned 26 An Tir archery medallions, two gold Known World medallions, five William Tell championships and several other archery tournament championships.
Master Julian was one before he became one.
(Update: At September Crown 1996, Aquaterra was officially recognized as a Barony and Master Julian Edward Farnsworth of Falconmoors and H. L. Arianne of Falconmoors became the founding Baron and Baroness. Master Julian later transferred his Sergeant's Oath of Fealty and his ranks of Yeoman and Sergeant from Baroness Isabeau to Baroness Arianne. — GdA)
