The Lysts at Castleton are idealy based on René of Anjou's Traictié de la Forme et Devis d'ung Tournoy, written circa 1460. It is our desire to bring a touch of Rene's history to life on the lyst fields of Castleton.

“Go to my cousin the Duke of Bourbon and tell him for me that on account of his great personal courage, valor, and chivalry, I have sent him this sword to signify that I wish to hold a tourney and bouhort of arms against him, in the presence of ladies and damsels, and many others, on the day and time named, and in a place suitable and convenient for this.”

I have come before you to advise, request and notify you on behalf of the very noble and redoubted lords the Dukes of Brittany and Bourbon that if you wish to please them you will attend a very noble tourney and bouhort of arms that has recently been undertaken by them. These lords have agreed together to choose you over all others on account of the great fame of your valor, the renown of your intelligence and the praise of the virtues that have long endured in your noble persons. So, do not refuse, for much good may come of it:

• First, all may know which men are come of ancient nobility, by the way they bear arms and crests.
• Second, those who have failed to behave honorably will be chastised so that the next time they will be wary of doing that which is not fitting for honor.
• Third, each one who takes up the lance and sword will get good exercise of arms.
• And fourth, by chance it may happen that some young knight or squire, by doing well, will get mercy, grace, or an increase of love from his very gentle lady and mistress.