Scion Societies

[Pat " A Study In Scarlett" O'Hara]

I was wondering what scion societies some of you might belong to? I lived in Chicago for many years and still maintain my membership with The Torists and The Criterion Bar Association.

[Azalea]

Isn't it remarkable how a love of ACD's Sherlock Holmes brings people together.
It is certainly great to hear about your participation in the Savannah Library fund raiser. By far this fund raiser was the most interesting I have seen or heard of in the area - not just for the library. As Holmes would say, "Excellent my dear Sherwood, Excellent." Hope a return will be in your future plans.
By the way, I do love your avatar. Great picture. I noticed it just after you signed on here.

[David R. McCallister]

Ms. Azalea, Just jumping in to note that there once was a scion society in Savannah by the name of the Tenants of Baker Street. I knew Mr. MacAlister, a kinsman of mine, there. I wrote for their scion publication, the "London Times". Alas, I think they are indeed defunct. I think you are correct that the nearest geographical scions are in Atlanta (Confederates of Wisteria Lodge) and Columbia, SC. (Hansom Wheels). The event at the Savannah library this past January '07, was wonderful. Mr. Holmes even graced us with one of his rare appearances- for confirmation, see Mr. Sherwood. I think that a Jax/Sav/Chas. area group would do well. The Pleasant Places of FL is quite spread out on the Gulf coast and on the Atlantic coast there is the Tropical Deerstalkers in Mimai ; and that's it right now, although there have been several other sciosn in FL at various times. There's an All-South Scion event coming up in April, I think; in Chattanooga, I believe (I'll have to check). Perhaps we will meet you there? Yr Obt Svt, David McCalllister

[Azalea]

How small is this world we live in. Great that you enjoyed the event in Savannah. Perhaps you will return - sooner than later. I would love to learn more about the April function. There may be others who would enjoy a trip to Chattanooga. I do plan on trying to get something going here. I know a few folks who "like" SH - "like" could change to more. You can never tell what may come from a little effort.

[Dana]

I belong to the Hudson Valley Sciontists! We've got a dinner coming up in December-- the dinner in May was beyond fun, so I'm eagerly awaiting this one.

[John C. Sherwood]

I've launched a topic here that can keep us all up-to-date about upcoming Sherlockian events. Be sure to post some details about your December dinner!

[Pat " A Study In Scarlett" O'Hara]

I found one of the events the Torists International, a Chicago scion hosted on a site. Here is the link for those who might like to see an example of the merry making.
http://www.sherlock-holmes.com/torists.htm
I enjoyed going to scion meetings. Very interesting topics, activities and great people. I hope everyone can join a group should you get the chance to find one in your area.

[Helene O'Troy]

I've considered a few times joining The Red Circle here in DC, but I've never really been able to get ahold of them. They don't have a website and seem to be a bit underground. Like London Calling, I thought it might be a bit presumptuous of me to simply send a note to the address in the newspaper demanding membership.
I am quite tickled that it seems to be the oldest Scion Society founded by a woman.

[Scott Monty]

Peter Blau - who runs the Red Circle - announces their meetings every month (or quarter - I forget how often they meet) in his newsletter, which is published in print as well as online at the following locations:
Sherlocktron
WelcomeHolmes
ConanDoyle

And if you'd like to hear a bit about Peter himself, how he came to run the Red Circle, please check out my interview with him:
Part 1
Part 2

Except for the Baker Street Irregulars, all Sherlockian societies have open membership. If you're interested, don't be shy! Reach out and get involved. You know about the society, but I'd say it's long odds that they know about you, so speak up - it's not only acceptable, it's encouraged!

[Ann Margaret Lewis]

Hey, Scott, it occurred to me the other day that Mr. Blau should find a way to make an RSS feed of his newsletter.

But then, maybe I think too much.
--Ann

[John C. Sherwood]

The Red Circle does send out snail-mail announcements to those who give Peter a few dollars for the privilege (it's a pittance, believe me). The real expense is the cost of the meals at the National Press Club, but the meetings are always very enjoyable and quite open to anyone who's interested. A "lodge" has been announced for the evening of Friday, Dec. 7, which sadly I can't attend as I will be on the road to Michigan to arrange for two presentations there. If you go, please extend my regrets!

[Ann Margaret Lewis]

Okay, maybe I'm a newb or something. But I didn't know one could join scions in areas not local to you. Heh. I guess I can join some other scions!

Right now I'm a member of the Illustrious Clients of Indianapolis and Hounds of the Internet. For now. I think I'm going to have to start being a joiner! LOL

[Dana]

I'm with you-- I only joined the one whose events I could attend. Here here for joining, though!