History

Many years ago now, there was a small Shire located in the Kingdom of An Tir. This Shire was on the eve of its own Dark Age. As this Dark Age grew closer more and more of the populas grew restive while others played at the politics of Court games. Those that wanted no part in the politics of Court games began to look for others of similar mind. Many were found.

A household was formed at this time but bore no name. This household, to cater to the diversity of those interested in like company was formed as allies. Each person would hold a voice and each person would form a smaller house with their immediate family or companions. Each of the smaller households could carry on with their interests and be supported and looked to for guidance in their area of interest. This worked well to protect diversity and foster greater interest of household members and new members of the Society for Creative Anachronism in all areas of the SCA. This unnamed household grew strong and members of the Shire that were once considering leaving altogether now had others to count on and to help as needed.

What is now looked back upon as the Golden Age of house Azoth was next and not anticipated. At one large war the house passed the word amongst its members and friends that if we were to form a mercenary group we could out do any other mercenary group simply because we could offer more. The household put together 10 or so fighters consisting of 7 heavies and 3 lights. We also offered an entry for the Arts war point and an entry for the Science war point. We were full service. Throughout that war people from outside our household started to refer to us as the Shire. We had to correct this misconception many times stating that we were just a household from the Shire. This error was born from the fact that the Shire had entered its Dark Age and was unable to put together a cohesive group at events.

Upon returning from this war it was decided that the house should consider its position. What we wanted to do and how we should carry it out. This talk turned to considerations of restructuring the household to be a single household instead of a group of smaller houses. Even under this new structure the household would continue with encouraging all interests and answering the questions of new members to the SCA. It was at this time that the name was chosen. The Household of Azoth had a name.

Today

The members of the Household of Azoth have spread out across the Kingdom of An Tir for various reasons. Most of its members remain active in their areas and continue to uphold the same values that brought us together those many years ago. Some have gone on to win Kingdom recognition while others are exploring new directions.

Many of us wish for a return of those old values that brought us together. To this end the Household of Azoth is returning.

Values

Chatelaine

It is everyone's responsibility to perform the duties of Chatelaine. Azoth does not expect the office of Chatelaine to act as greeter when we are quite capable of doing it ourselves. The office of Chatelaine is meant to be a resource of information.

Knowledge

If Azoth has information it costs nothing to share. If we don't have it we will try and find out who can help. Teaching is only one way to share knowledge.

Inspiration

Encouragement goes beyond saying, "You can do it." Leading or being an active participant can often fullfil the needs for inspiration. Aiding in finding a suitable interest for people wishing to "do more" is also a form of inspiration.

Diversity

Using our differences we are 'more'. Azoth is founded on not requiring that a member 'be' anything to join. In fact, joining is not a requirement to spend time with us. All are welcome.

Openness

Many households form under closed meetings. Azoth feels that for our structure this would be pompous. Azoth will discuss our Household business in the open. The only time meetings will be 'closed' are for surprise planning and for respect.

Respect

Azoth is a group of friends first. Respect is given to our members as we would to our friends. Often a quiet talk will resolve much, even understanding.

Understanding

Being a group there can easily be disagreements. Taking the time to try to understand our differences is parmount. Azoth understands that it may be difficult to broach a topic but is easier when you know that someone else will try to understand.

Meaning

In Alchemy, three elements (Salt, Mercury, and Sulfur) are used to define the substances of the universe. Each has a triune (also Salt, Mercury, and Sulfur) nature. This creates nine basic elements. The tenth element is the binder that holds all else together. This element is called Azoth.

Naming the Household after Azoth is meant to reflect the all encompassing nature of the household. The household is not restricted to but a few elements but is involved in all elements.