HEMA is an umbrella term that stands for "Historical European Martial Arts" also referred to as "Historical Fencing" is the practice of learning to
fence with various weaponry found throughout Europe from the medieval period up until the end of the Renaissance. We do this through the interpretation and study of
historical manuals and sources written by masters of the time period. TMHF's primary source is "A thorough Description of The Art of Combat" as recorded by Joachim Meÿer in 1570 in the city of Strasbourg. Meÿer's work is part of the German lineage of fencing known as Kunst des Fechtens, or KdF for short.
Who are we?
TMHF was originally founded in July of 2022 by Matt C, Jordan, Miles, and Milosh. In May of 2025 we are now a Member run Co-op, our goal is not profit for profit's sake, but to continue to maintain a home for HEMA in Champaign-Urbana and its surrounding communities for people enthusiastic about this hobby and martial art to gather to study, train, and most importantly fence. We have a diverse membership consisting of many people of many different origins and identities. Anyone of any gender, orientation, race, identity, etc. is welcome to join us. For now our classes are 18+ only.
