Let s start with a definition of the word. The Known World Handbook says a Chatelaine is the Officer in charge of greeting and helping newcomers. The badge that identifies them is an ornate gold key upright on a green background. In Meridies the Kingdom Chatelaine is one of the Lesser Kingdom Offices. The current Kingdom Chatelaine s name, address, telephone number and e-mail address is listed in the Kingdom Newsletter Popular Chivalry .
Most Kingdoms have an award for outstanding service in offering assistance and aid to newcomers.
In the Kingdom of Meridies this award is called The Order of the Guiding Hand and members of the Order shall be entitled to place the initials C.G.H.M. after their names. It is given to those persons who have served the Kingdom well and faithfully by giving encouragement and assistance to newcomers and any who have need. What a Chatelaine does varies from group to group. In most groups, the Chatelaine is responsible for providing an introduction to the Current Middle Ages to new or prospective members. The Chatelaine can provide access to educational information such as handouts, booklets and other materials.