2024 GMM Report

Over 50 members gathered virtually and in person in Santa Fe for the biennial General Membership Meeting.

For many, this was their first trip to the Southwest and to New Mexico, but of course, the most anticipated part was re-connecting Ricardians who otherwise live thousands of miles away.

Members began arriving at the hotel on Friday night, but the big day was Saturday, November 2nd, which kicked off with Philippa Langley appearing through Zoom to answer questions from branch members about her life, her research, and her future projects. Christina Smee, a historic guide to Tamworth Castle and former reenactor at the Bosworth Battlefield Center, gave a lively talk about the medieval and earlier origins of Tamworth, its castle, and its significance to English history.

Dom Smee, the “king’s body double” who was featured in the TV show “Secrets of the Dead”, gave the last educational presentation about the late fifteenth-century clothing made specifically for him by one of the UK’s most respected historic costume designers. The costume featured a long gown, hose, doublet, hat, and shoes made to order. Dom also talked about the Voice For Richard project and his participation in that study.

The business meeting followed, and the evening wrapped up with our traditional Medieval Banquet, complete with musicians Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee from Finland playing medieval instruments and singing ballads from earlier centuries.  Mary Miller gave a moving speech about how she came to become a member of the society.

The next day, the GMM wrapped up with a walking tour of downtown Santa Fe by Ana Pacheco, a local historian. In all, members expressed their delight with the whole weekend, and said they’d happily attend another one.