Shay of the Keys

Patrick, If ye be looking fer a crusty camp wench who can pull 'er own weight, I'd be very grateful to you for considering me a potential fer the Buccaneers Camp. I'm a self-sufficient, roll-with-the punches, laughter-loving, blunderbuss-toting woman who has grown up and lived most of her life in unique circumstances. (I tasted domestic meat for the first time as a teen.) My passion is reenacting, and it looks as though I'll be slow in the formal female attire preparedness for this year's PIP, so I'd appreciate you considering me. I am as comfortable with a ladle as a pickaxe, can split wood, scrape hides, haul water, or whate'er you buccaneers fancy. I will take no offense if you'd rather wait till PIP 2010 to consider extending an invite, for I be a first-timer at PIP and understand the seriousness of maintaining as true as PC as possible, and I be an unknown, though serious reenactor. Dear Silkie will be keeping the harpsichord at the Hide, which leaves me free to lay me bones elsewhere and cavort in Boucan style. -Shay of the Keys

Bo, I am interested in the size 7 hat; is it felt? If so, please consider it sold. -Shay of the Keys

Try Britex Fabrics. Located in San Francisco they do swatch requests and are very knowledgeable about historic fabrics. Google Britex; their brocades, wools and silks are all on their 1st floor.

M'dear Shay, sorry for neglecting this post, but I will be happy to assist you as much as possible but I currently have my hands full with two major back to back events coming up at the end of the month. As far as folks helping you out, there are some in Key West that I am assisting with their kits as well, so perhaps with introductions you can all get together and plan on some work weekends. Just give me a bit.... Capt. Sterling, My sincere apologies as I was unaware of the events aforementioned. You, Kass, and Mr. Foxe have been absolutely invaluable in your advice and primary source information. I cannot thank you all enough for the many well-documented pictures, descriptions, and further recommended sources throughout this Pub. I have been doggedly pursuing the threads as I've completed my first handsewn man's shirt a few days ago. Research is proceeding well on the harpsicord, also. Intros to other Pyrates here in the Keys would be lovely, but only if and when you have time. Sincerely, Treva (Shay of the Keys)

Cousin Robbie, 'tis a pleasure ta' meet a Fellow Deck Swabber! I be tickled ta hear ye was adventurin' in the moat, for I too love ta be swimmin' in moats and oceans suchlike when I'm nae playing music. And ne'er woorry, for if'n ye nae be a singer, ye can always be a drinker fer the drinkin' songs. True authentic and all that, it be PC (perfectly cordial). oops, and sorry I be for the "naes"; I be takin' a nip o' Bushmill's tonite in honor of me great-grandmum's Birthday. Ahoy there, and befor' I be's forgettin', did ye get a nice volume out of the armpit-hair instrument? Perhaps it be useful for addin' ta our sea shantey orchestra!

Not to mention, it would make a great sling for a Treva-Shay. Aye, 'tis true, Mister O'Keeffe, and 'twould be quite a comfort. However, I be havin' misgivings as to William Red Wake's suggestion as to the suitability of a well-coated tar joining me, as they all be lookin' quite handsome in their frock coats! However does one pick just one?

Very true. What I said (intended to say): It is an artists ATTEMPT to portray women in seamen garb. It is too tight of a fit compared to other period illustrations of sailors. The cut looks "off," but the pieces (as in what they are) look right, in general. A better thing would be to look through Foxe's collection of period sailor drawings. It looks like much of poor-man/sailor's clothing was often made on only a few sizes and often fit poorly, worse than I would like to wear myself. By modern standards of mass-production fit, they often look a bit "frumpy." Your friend now needs to decide intention, inc. place/group where said outfit is to be worn. -Is it with an established reenactment group? If so, what are THEIR standards? -Is it for general "pirate" events? If so, the standards are often pretty lax. -Is it to recreate the illustration look, as close as possible? If so, that is pretty cool and interesting in-and-of itself, plus an interested tale when worn. That said, some groups (like Sterling indicates) would like something more "period generic" (my words, NOT Sterling's, I'm NOT speaking in his place and don't intend to so do). -Is it for some OTHER purpose? IE-> WHY is the garment set being made in the first place, that indicates what level of "weight" should be put on the illustration. -- For total accuracy in a portrayal, the more common and "period generic" you can make it, the better. Ex. Would a pirate have EVER worn a belted plaid on a ship? Maybe, esp. if in the Western Isles or around Scotland. BUT, it would NOT have been worn in the Caribbean (for a number of reasons) and recoded accounts (primary sources and period secondary sources) have little-to-no historical indicators of belted plaid clad Scotsmen on board a pirate ship on any major voyage or any group reenactment groups are trying to portray. So, I leave my belted plaids for my Jacobite stuff and don slops using only the stuff that does overlap (which a lot does). We need not to make the uncommon common and the common, uncommon. Tartan Jack: thank you for clarifying several points. In explanation, the outfit was made primarily to perform Mary Read for schools and Historic Societies. I wanted to display the illustration on a handbill, as close a match possible to my attire in which I would be performing. I participated at the Hyde St. Pier (San Francisco) Living History Programs for several years and traveled in a 'Time Machine' during my historical soliloquies to tell a sailing history that encompassed the GAoP to post-Gold Rush era Clipper ships as I changed attire. Safety was my #1 focus, education and accuracy 2nd, and entertainment 3rd. The clothing and live steel weapons I used were not PC, but were original and of the 19th Century. I wanted to recreate the look as closely as possible, and retire my original artifacts. And yes, the students knew at the performance end the actual dates of my artifacts, and that they were much more modern than the correct era for Mary Read. That said, I humbly ask assistance to determine how appropriate the clothing may be for PIP. Performing in the schools here in Florida as Mary Read will probably not be happening, with post-911 strictures. Is it too far-fetched to portray a female pirate who's a bit particular about her clothing and when she saw the opportunity to grab some nice silks from the Orient took her share of Booty so she could make herself some attractive clothes?(I even knew better than to use plaid; the trousers are dark blue, coat goldenrod).The baldric is tan leather. Perhaps if the clothing be not loose enough (although I have full range of motion for almost any stage combat move), I could grouse about the idiocy of trying to improve upon the tried and true slops that REAL pirates wear, and not the fashion-fop pride of a woman who thought she could improve upon tradition...Or is that too uncommon? So- here I am wishing to wear and enjoy it, but only if it be correct and won't raise hackles. I've been in Historic Circles all my life far fussier, and I can only say please be honest, and I really appreciate all your help and advice. In gratitude and all sincerity---Shay of the Keys

I'm impressed! Henry Howard's book England's Newest way in all Sorts of Cookery , etc. mentions a receipt (definitely not for the ordinary folk!): 'How to dish up a Dish of Fruits with preserved Flowers - Take a large Dish, cover it with another of the same bigness, and place the uppermost over with Paste of Almonds, inlaid with red, white, blue and green Marmalade in the figure of Flowers and Banks; then take the branches of candied Flowers, and fix them upright in Order, and upon little Bushes erected, and covered with Paste: Fix your preserved and Candied Cherries, Plumbs, Pease, Apples, Gooseberries, Currans, and the like, each in their proper place; and for Leaves, you may use Coloured Paste or Wax, Parchment, or Horn; and this, especially in Winter, will be very proper.' Henry Howard and Patrick Lamb, Esq. (who wrote Royal Cookery, or the Complete Court Cook) were Master Cook nearly 50 years to their late Majesties King Charles II, King James II, King William and Queen Mary, and to "Her present Majesty Queen Anne." Again, these receipts (recipes) were definitely not for the lesser folk! -Shay of the Keys

Mission: the pix of PIP are wonderful; I've searched so many locales and uncovered many scattered gems, and 'tis very nice to find a concentration of them in one area; I know what I'll be enjoying tonight! Thank you! -Shay of the Keys

Hmmmm, A good idea to have a waterproofed cover, especiallly when outside, for showers in the Keys can be unexpected. However, if it looks like inclement weather, I prefer to error on the side of caution and retire indoors early, as the mechanics, wooden case, and artwork will be too fragile to chance abuse in the weather. Transporting it will be fairly easy, as it is awkward but light. (Think of a light, shallow coffin) Thank you, William Red Wake!

Aye, I was delighted to see in your thread that they were listed in Foxe's (The Thieve's Market, Minimum Garb Standards, Post #80 on May, 7, '09). Capt. Sterling, though I am a newbie, I wish to do things correctly, yet within my budget. Back when I had a few more shillings I was in Bangkok and brought this picture to a professional tailor. My goal was at that time to continue performing Mary Read, only I wished the accuracy of sturdy clothes (I had been performing Mary Read in actual 19th century clothing for the schools in Calif. in the early 1990's; my content was true to the storyline, but my clothes were inaccurate and too fragile to continue performing in). Now I find myself desiring to be involved in re-enactments such as PIP. The outfit I had made fits beautifully, with correct colors and fabrics for the time, I believe, according to the primary sources I had consulted and continue to learn from; however, I would have to overstitch by hand all the visible stitching and remove the machine stitching. Also, the material might need aging. Before I irrevocably change the outfit I need to make sure it would be PC acceptable for one of my future characters. I am more than willing to adopt (reverse-engineer) a storyline to match my clothing, if it be feasible, and have a few ideas. However, as you so wisely pointed out in your Capt. Twill- FAQ , I do NOT wish to backwards document. Should I bribe the nearest honest re-enactor from PIP to come and view my current wardrobe to see what be feasible? I have no camera at present, unfortunately. Please note: this attire would be for fighting scenarios, not the wench what plays the harpsichord. I am located in Key Largo. Thank you, Capt. -Shay of the Keys

http://www.bootkeyharbor.com/images/Harbor9.jpg I crewed on this beauty while under sail at 3-4 knots enroute from Key Largo to Marathon. Most fun: learning sailing while my kids were growing up on a 14' FAST Laser at Pinecrest Lake, Sierra Nevada Mountains. Also played on the Hyde St. Pier ships at San Francisco over the years. Nothing to compare to my son, Vintage Sailor, who's crossed the pond in a Morgan 60. But , hey, come PIP, those of you passing through the Keys, come a day early and we can sail or dive and we'll do oysters pirate style for ye that show up.

A rapscallion which shall hitherto be unnamed introduced "Poseidon's Lady" as meself. 'Twas innocently done due to his exuberance at my finally joining your exalted ranks, yet abashed I am to untangle this muddle and my sincere apologies to ye all for any confusion caused. Deception was never my intention in making the acquaintance of you respected personages. Pirate Code and all, ye know... To clarify, "Poseidon's Lady" is no more; Vintage Sailor's dubiously-proud, actual mum is Shay of the Keys. Looks like the young pup be helping me buy double yer welcome drink rations as a proper chastisement! And I be thanking ye warmly for the kind reception ye have given me, whate'er ye wants ta call me! :angry:

"Tis pleased I be indeed, for I have much enjoyed Rusty Nell's wonderful contributions! She be my heroine since I stumbled upon this gathering of truly fascinating folk, and the B.I.B. songs were a joy to discover. Many thanks to you, Rusty!! I've still a myriad of queries concerning dress, but will keep reading the posts and tracing primary sources while working on the harpsichord. Thank you both for your help!! - Shay of the Keys

OOOh! Ye truly be a gem of Ladies, Mistress McDonough, and I am indebted to thee. Aye, let the gents speak of Politicks and such, whilst we make merry with all types of music. I be learning the songs what Nell gave so generously on the posts, and be composing quite a few meself to match the occasion for whens we be taking our ease as of the evenings, plus I 'twould be honored ta play at "The Sealkie's Hide" the current music from 'The Dancing Master; I have the new 1713 edition, and 'tis lovely ta hear! I thank thee! (and if ye be needing any help in borrowing cast iron cookware or extra-large wooden spoons I have them aplenty) -Shay of the Keys, but I be pleased ta have ye call me by my Christian name: it be Treva. Treva-Shay....!?!? !?!? Aye, Mad Dog, deceptively simple yet always striving for accuracy above all else, delightfully obsolete in many ways yet still packing a punch. And.... the French translation for the trebuchet is "to fall over or rotate about the middle"...a handy reminder not to emulate when imbibing!!

OOOh! Ye truly be a gem of Ladies, Mistress McDonough, and I am indebted to thee. Aye, let the gents speak of Politicks and such, whilst we make merry with all types of music. I be learning the songs what Nell gave so generously on the posts, and be composing quite a few meself to match the occasion for whens we be taking our ease as of the evenings, plus I 'twould be honored ta play at "The Sealkie's Hide" the current music from 'The Dancing Master; I have the new 1713 edition, and 'tis lovely ta hear! I thank thee! (and if ye be needing any help in borrowing cast iron cookware or extra-large wooden spoons I have them aplenty) -Shay of the Keys, but I be pleased ta have ye call me by my Christian name: it be Treva.

beautiful

ooooowwwww!! 'Tis terrible cruel of ye, Jack Roberts, for 'tis more than a fathom of months till PIP, and I shall be in a deplorable state of curiousity meantimes. On the other hand, if it's teasing ye like, ye may 'ave met your match. Fair warning, especially if ye be a gamester!

My 'umble apologies, Sir William; I tho't that ye be chastising me. So now I'm right and proper mollified. And 'twould ye be bringing that oud of your'n?

Well, Capt. Sterling, thee be quite the gentleman, and you've truly tickled my fancy, that you have.Truth be told, I be in a tiny humble abode high up overlooking the water, living on an isle with all me windows open year-round to catch the breeze skimming through. For 'tis not the humidity itself but the stillness of the air that most hurt grand pianos and sundry instruments. Like sailing 'pon the water, 'tis the doldrums that ye must be wary of. I thank thee kindly, and must confess that I truly look forward to making music with thems that will have me, for I have a lusty repertoire of after-hour songs.

For shame, William Red Wake! One would hope that an "oud" pyrate as yeself 'twould appreciate a bit a plunder teken from a rich prize, and have a bit 'o unnderstandin' when ye be low on the totem pole when the spoils be divvied an' I be given a fancy chest for doing my part in the fightin' and, and, and... Well you can well laugh like the others when I opened me prize and found it a box of wires and strings and what-have-you, but I taught meself ta' play shanties and whatnot on it, and when we be in port I carries it off to the the nearest ordinary to entertain all, and perhaps create a diversion for me friends what are short of Black Dogs, and I meself can earn a few Black Dogs for me rum instead of havin' ta' sneak out... Anyways, I play it anyways I @###% well please, as the very next booty I claimed included a cheery blunderbuss, so thars' nary a laughter anymores when I play me harpsichord, not evens when it be referred to by its proper name:the Virginals. And as for Mad Dog- well, I'm just down the road a piece from Bone Island and we sees gents in dresses all the time!

I've mightily enjoyed the contributions throughout the Pyracy Pub, and hope you might help me. I've recently joined the Pub, hope to participate in PIP and am searching for my niche. First choice: musician, 2nd:Mary Read's cousin, 3rd:Wench Swimming in Ocean... A professional pianist since age 13, I have a keyboard that I would like to build a case around with appropriate dimensions, wood and square nails, era 1710. Safely yet authentically yellowing the ivories would be a plus, as it has quite a repertoire of GAoP instruments (clavichord,harpsichord, dulcimer, pianoforte). I have a line at present on actual quite-yellowed real ivories. I've played on reproduction and original harpsichords before and they are a pain to constantly tune. This keyboard has an amazing array of realistic voices that would be appropriate for the era. The first piano was made in 1709 by Bartolomeo Cristofori, a Florentine maker of harpsichords who called his instrument:gravicembalo col piano e forte. I'm researching this area at the moment, and would love to hear your ideas on it. I have a wonderful, rare primary source book:John Ashton's Social Life in the Reign of Queen Anne which also has a wealth of info on music,operas and concerts, along with some actual 1713 music. My goal would be to not only educate the public with perhaps the history of the piano, but have some fun in accompanying groups or soloists at both public and private gatherings such as PIP. I LOVE reenacting and have performed most of my life, am comfortable singing, and want to participate in any way @ PIP. I have a motley assortment of weapons and clothing, and would dearly love to do it right with historical accuracy, while maximizing the fun, and keeping on a Billy Bare Bones budget. So- is a harpsichord -playing pirate wench who will be also packing a flintlock pistol too crazy for PIP?

I thank thee, Black Syren! Looking forward to meeting you all, and hoping I can design a signature half as alluring as yours...It's great! -Shay of the Keys

Ahhh, Kian, 'twould indeed be a pleasure to buy ye a pint. Especially for a fellow Irishman (although truth be told me strain's a bit mixed, although me Irish Grandmum six generations back passed on one of the most delectable Bushmill's Whiskey cream sauces you'll ever let cross 'yer taste buds). Hope ye can make it! And I thank thee for the welcome... -Shay of the Keys