About

History

The Noble and Most Singular Order of the Blue Carbuncle was founded on January 6th, 1971 and led by James T. Covert; the eleven charter members first met on the campus of the University of Portland. The singular purpose of the Order is to promote, extend, further, advance, encourage, dignify, elevate, and generally improve the study and employment of the Sacred Writings and Sherlockian Studies. The name is taken from “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle,” published by the Literary Agent, Arthur Conan Doyle, in January 1892.

The Society is dedicated to the pursuit and appreciation of the singular exploits of the wisest and noblest of men, Sherlock Holmes, and his faithful Boswell, Dr. John H. Watson.

Meetings

We generally have monthly business & discussion meetings at members’ homes, except when there is a special event. Snacks are potluck. Guests are welcome. The meeting content may include:

• Quizzes or games
• Story discussions
• Scholarly presentations
• Items of Sherlockian interest
• Fun

Because we meet at private homes, we don’t publish the meeting locations on the Internet. Please email us at bluecarbuncle1971@gmail.com if you’re interested in attending a meeting or event.

Special Events

• The Master’s Dinner, January: Formal banquet to celebrate Sherlock Holmes’s birthday. Open to members and invited guests only.
• Memorial Ceremony, May: Commemoration of the “death” of Sherlock Holmes at Reichenbach Falls
• Watson’s Picnic, July/August: al fresco barbecue to celebrate Dr. Watson’s birthday
• The Holiday Party, December: Holiday celebration to enjoy seasonal frivolity.
• Ad hoc events such as plays, meetings with visiting Sherlockians, teas, and other special field trips

Membership

We welcome all those who love Sherlock Holmes in any of his incarnations. Guests are welcome at meetings and events (except the Master’s Dinner). Provisional new members are dubbed Eggs and must attend at least three meetings and show a desire to participate in our Sherlockian events.

Officers 2026