Ruins of Commonwell near Bywater Pond
Commonwell Map
While Sîrgala was home to only a few traditional Dúnadan castles, it once boasted a selection of estates and manor houses of the sprawling, grand style long favored by the Arthadan and Cardolandren gentry.Most of these fine homes were destroyed during the Second Northern War, but a few still remained in use around the larger villages.Their general design was retained through the centuries in the estates and larger farms of the Hobbit gentry of the independent Shire.One important example of a Dunadan estate was Commonwell, the home of Tamir Whitestag, Reeve of Bywater.Tamir held a lifelong appointment to his post; his estates and some other lands in the area provided him with an income in lieu of a cash salary, which would be undignified for a royal official.It was a comfortable living, supported by a score of servants and fieldhands, making Tamir and his wife, Roane, the focus of what little Dunadan social life existed between Michel Delving and Bree.Tamir spent much less time on official duties than might be expected in a posting so vast .However, he kept a good table and had guests visiting for sport, music, and gossip once or twice a week.Roane occupied herself with managing the estate and her greenhouse.
References[]
- MERP:The Shire