How to Start Your Own Felag (Chapter) of Vikings of Vinland

If you’re passionate about living history and dedicated to preserving the authentic spirit of the Viking Age, you can establish your own Felag (chapter) of Vikings of Vinland in your area. This page outlines the necessary steps, requirements, and standards for forming a local chapter.

Overview

Vikings of Vinland is a living history reenactment organization that celebrates the authentic culture, crafts, and martial traditions of the Viking Age. By starting a Felag, you join a community committed to historical accuracy, safe full-contact combat, and the spirit of genuine Viking brotherhood. Please note that the process for creating a Felag is separate from individual membership and liability waivers.

Key Requirements

To apply as a prospective Felag chapter, your group must include:

• A Prospective Hirdman: The leader responsible for guiding your chapter’s growth and ensuring adherence to organizational standards.
• A Head of Hearth: The coordinator for hearth activities, Viking crafts, and non-martial reenactment pursuits.
• At Least 10 Active Members: Members must be engaged in either combat or hearth-focused activities, committed to upholding Vikings of Vinland’s authenticity standards and safety protocols.

All prospective members and leaders must adhere to our authenticity standards and follow the combat system rules and safety guidelines established by Vikings of Vinland.

Application Process

1. Complete the Application Form:

   • A separate application form is available on our website specifically for prospective Felag chapters.
   • This form is distinct from the individual membership application and liability waiver. 

2. Submit Your Application:

   • Include the names and roles of your Prospective Hirdman, Head of Hearth, and at least 10 active members.
   • Submit the name of your chapter you are requesting and shield/banner design. (Subject to approval)
   • Confirm that your group understands and is committed to our authenticity standards and combat safety rules.
   • Verify that all information is accurate before submission.

3. Approval as a Prospective Felag:

   • Once your application is reviewed and approved, your group will be listed as a Prospective Felag.
   • Approval indicates that your chapter meets the minimum leadership, membership, and operational standards.

Induction Ceremony

After your group is approved for full membership:

• Host Visit:
  A representative from Vikings of Vinland will travel to your location.

• Induction and Oathswearing:
  An induction ceremony will be held where your active leadership members will be formally oathsworn as well as any qualified members and welcomed as official members of Vikings of Vinland.

• Formal Recognition:
  This ceremony marks the official establishment of your Felag as a full chapter within Vikings of Vinland.

Additional Standards and Expectations

• Authenticity Standards:
  Every member must adhere to Vikings of Vinland’s authenticity standards, ensuring that all reenactments, crafts, and practices accurately reflect the Viking Age.

• Combat System Rules and Safety:
  Safety is paramount. All combat activities must follow the established combat system rules and safety protocols to protect participants and maintain the integrity of our full-contact training and competitions.

• Living History Focus:
  As a living history reenactment organization, every activity—from battlefield training to daily craftwork—is rooted in historical accuracy and genuine Viking culture. Members are expected to immerse themselves in the historical context and traditions of the Viking Age.

Next Steps

• Review Your Group’s Readiness:
  Ensure that your leadership team (Prospective Hirdman and Head of Hearth) and active members are committed to our authenticity and safety standards.

• Submit the Form:
  Visit our website to complete and submit the application for prospective Felag chapters. An officer of the non profit will be assigned to you and walk you and the group through all the processes required to meet your goals and become inducted. 

• Prepare for Induction:
  Once approved, prepare your group for the induction ceremony and the exciting journey ahead as a fully recognized chapter of Vikings of Vinland.

For additional questions or further details, please refer to our website or contact our organizational leadership directly.

This info sheet is designed to guide you through the process of establishing a new Felag while emphasizing our commitment to historical authenticity and safety. We look forward to welcoming your group into the Vikings of Vinland community!