The Keepers of Athena's Thimble - Ruantallan Branch officially came into being in April, A.S. XXXVII (CE 2002). Three members, Lady Kathryne Thompson of Melton-Mowbray, Master Edward Newman and Mestressa Elena Rueda viuda de Lochcarron had traveled from Ruantallan to attend the Athena's Thimble Collegium held that year in Shire of Rusted Woods. It was their intention to seek permission from the Guild to form a local branch of the Guild in Ruantallan. The Guild, under Mistress Gabrielle d'Outre Mer, not only gave permission but a great deal of support and encouragement for the formation of the 'first ever' Branch of the Guild.
The first meeting of the new branch was held in May. Founding Members were: Lady Kathryne Thompson of Melton-Mowbray, Mestressa Elena Rueda viuda de Lochcarron, Master Edward Newman, Lady Janet Kempt, Lady Branwen filia Iohannis de Monmouth and Lady Cristiana inghen Mec-Bead.
The first task undertaken by the new Branch was to host the Athena's Thimble Collegium for the following year at Easter (April 2003). This event, which included a full day of classes, also featured a large exhibition of embroidery and a display of embroidery & textile books. This event was a great success with members from all over the East Kingdom in attendance.
The next task that the Ruantallan Branch chose was to purchase materials that are presently being made into a large East Kingdom banner, flanked by two Blue Tiger Populous Banners. Upon completion by the membership, these banners they will be presented to the Barony of Ruantallan. (You can see pictures of this project on our Embroidery Display page.)
Membership continues to grow in the Ruantallan branch with individual members teaching, doing exhibits and attending panels as often as they can. Meetings are held on the first Thursday evening of each month. In the spring of 2006, on Easter Saturday (April 15th), the Ruantallan Branch will once again host the Athena's Thimble Collegium.
If you would like to read the guild's history, it is available at Athena's Thimble Guild History