The Sword School is offering a unique opportunity for locals to learn the ancient art of sword fighting. Founded by Skye Hilton, the Midland-based school specializes in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) and offers classes, workshops, and community events focused on medieval and Renaissance-era combat techniques. Since opening in 2018, the school has become a local hub for sword enthusiasts of all levels.
Hilton first discovered HEMA while living in California but knew she would have to start her own fencing club upon moving to Midland in 2018.
“There wasn’t another one for hundreds of miles, so I started at the MLK Community Center, and it slowly grew. Now, we have our own location and not only teach weekly classes and weekend seminars but also volunteer for community events, host parties, and offer an educational outreach program,” she said.
Unlike many modern martial arts, HEMA is deeply tied to historical studies.
“It’s not just about learning a martial art,” Hilton explained. “It’s a study of Western European history and the context of the weapons and armor of the eras.”
The Sword School also collaborates with local theater groups to assist with fight choreography and help obtain weapons suitable for stage use.
The Sword School offers instruction in various historical weapons, including longsword, rapier, saber, Scottish sword and targe, and messer. Weekend seminars cover additional weapons such as knives, greatsword, quarterstaff, spear, and sword and buckler. Classes accommodate all skill levels.
“All one needs to participate is the will to swing a sword,” Hilton said.
All training weapons at The Sword School are designed for HEMA, meaning they are blunted with safety tips and have significant flex. Protective gear, including fencing helmets, heavy gloves, and chest protectors, ensures a safe experience.
“Beginners are instructed on weapon safety, and all practice starts at a slow pace to build control, proper footwork, and timing,” Hilton said.
The Sword School has performed demonstrations at various events across Texas and New Mexico, including a halftime fight demo on ice during a Jackalopes hockey game.
“The idea of adventure is synonymous with sword fighting in pop culture. That’s a big takeaway for a lot of our students—they get to be the hero they’ve always envisioned,” Hilton said.
One of the biggest challenges Hilton faced was spreading awareness about HEMA in Midland.
“Many people are surprised to learn there’s a sword school here,” she said. The school actively works with local organizations and businesses and relies on social media marketing to reach new students. Finding an adequate practice space was another hurdle.
“We needed open space and tall ceilings, which aren’t easy to find. We ended up in the basement of the Momentum Bank Building in downtown Midland—an unconventional but fitting location for us,” she said.
The Sword School is expanding its community presence with medieval-themed events, team-building seminars, tabletop gaming workshops, LGBTQ-oriented events, and volunteer work with the Midland Library. Monthly weapon seminars and special events are also planned.
“In March, we will be hosting our first Women’s Empowerment workshop, which includes self-defense and group therapy sessions,” Hilton said. “We’re also excited about our American Frontier fighting seminar, focusing on Bowie knife and tomahawk techniques.”
As The Sword School continues to grow, Hilton encourages new students to step into their own adventure.
“Be prepared to use your imagination, play, and experiment,” she said. “Step away from the mundane and be the knight, princess, pirate, or warrior you’ve always dreamed of being.”