Longbeards

"...he lived for so long that he was known far and wide as Durin the Deathless. Yet in the end he died before the Elder Days had passed! and his tomb was in Khazad-dum; hut his line never jailed, and five times an heir was born in his House so like his Forefather that he received the name of Durin. He was indeed held by the Dwarves to be the Deathless that returned; for they have many strange tales and beliefs concerning themselves and their fate in the world." — LotR III p. 4 3 9

No House of the Khazad stands above that of Durin's Folk. They are the oldest and noblest lineage, for they trace their line back to the first of the Seven Fathers. Their ancient spirit, coupled with the Kindred's role in history, makes Durin's House the most experienced tribe, the first among jealous equals. Physically, Durin's Folk are no different than other Dwarves. Slanted tales citing their superior stature and strength are confined to the biased libraries of Erebor and Khazad-dum. They carry themselves with assurance and bearing, but this is not function of greater size.

HAIR AND DRESS
Instead, the Naugrim of the First House differ from their brethren in less obvious ways. Those of Durin's Tribe allow their beards to grow freely throughout their lives, and wear them forked and braided. Then they tuck the whiskers into their belts, allowing slack for sudden movement. Many plait their flowing hair as well and, in each case, they utilize elaborate knot patterns particular to their family. Durin's Folk also employ a distinctive colored hood, in lieu of a cowled cloak. Most lack adornment; rather, they rely on bright, solid hues to embellish otherwise graceless lines. Flaps or a mask are often sewn into the hood, so that the face can be covered or protected. ("Dwarf-women make widespread use of these coverings.) Durin's Dwarves wear their hoods over traditional Dwarven garb: a leather jerkin or wool tunic, a wool or linen shirt, tight-fitting trousers, and one piece shoes or inner-boots. When active or about in the world, these Naugrim don heavy leather boots and a cloak or shawl fastened with a decorated brooch. Given their fondness for crafts, all of their clothing is well made and generously accented with refined borders and crenelated trimwork. Dwarf-lords wear even finer garments, and often add gold or silver tassels to the peaks of their hoods.

REVERENCE FOR THE "DEATHLESS"ONE
Nonetheless, Durin's Folk are occasionally lost in thought and sit back to reflect the trials and wounds of their Kindred. Tales of Moria are often the focal point of these ponderings, but most dwell on the spirit of the Tribe. No Dwarf-lord is as respected or as feared as Durin I, "The Deathless." The First Father, maker of the Kindred, founder of Khazad-dum, Durin is a venerated symbol whose blood flows through both the veins and the thoughts of his ancient brood. Durin I lived many years past the span allotted other Dwarves and, after a time, his folk claimed he was immortal; thus his name. The truth, however, rests in another account. This tale speaks of Durin's spirit. A version drawn from the "Dunland Tablet" follows: "To You it is told that Durin shall live seven times, and each Time He shall rule His Line in his own Name. And with each Coming of the King, a great Event will transpire, so that the History of the Folk will never again be the same. And each such Event shall cause a Trial to happen, and an always greater Doom willjollow. But the Kindred will prevail, and make Its Way above all Darkness. Until the Last Coming, when the Lastking shall Rule the House in a Glory beyond the Height of all before It, in the shining Mansions of Khazad-dum." So it is written that there will be seven Durins, and that Durin VII will be the "Lastking." It is a story as old as Durin's Folk, and has always colored their outlook. In many ways, it explains the strange sense of destiny that has allowed the Kindred to prevail against incredible adversity. No tribe of the Khazad has faced so many obstacles, nor overwhelmed as many barriers. Unlike many of their brethren, Durin's Line has steadfastly clung to the future of their line—despite the Ring-curse and the Dwarven weakness for wealth and possessions. Farsighted sacrifice has often marked their choice of paths, and seems to linger in their bones. Of all the Naugrim, then, those of the First House are most special.