Silver Peak Mining Company
The Silver Peak Mining Company of Beystone is a craftsmen guild that specializes in the mining and refining of precious metals, particularly silver.
Structure
Unlike a merchant's guild which may have a hierarchy based on political maneuvering, the craftsmen guilds are based on skill. The Silver Peak Mining Company is no different, promoting those who have experience and skill in the silver mines.
At the head of the guild is the Steiger, a mining foreman who bears responsibility for the mine and people within it. The rest of the guild titles are as follows:
- Hutmann - foreman of smaller mines or portions of the larger mines. They report directly to the Steiger.
- Hewer - a miner who loosens rocks and minerals in the mine. They have to spend several years as an apprentice to a Hewer before coming one themselves.
- Apprentice - roles and responsibilities include identifying ores and separating them from the earth, as well as transporting the precious metals around the mine in wagons or carts.
Culture
As the guild mandates each member serve time in the Beystone guard before they can are granted employment, many of their core beliefs and customs remain in lock-step with the military. This has aided in their profession as miners as there are many monstrous creatures in the depths of the mountains, and it helps morale when miners know they can count on one another for defense.
Public Agenda
Acquiring wealth is but one aspect of the guilds motivation to mine precious metals. The guild leaders are strong militarists and heavily support the Beystone guard. In addition to donating a portion of their wealth to the defense of the city, they have also volunteered to silver plate the weapons of various military regiments.
Assets
Because of their successes operating mines within the nearby Silver Peak, the guild has experienced exponential growth in their wealth and equipment. They are able to refine their own metals in refineries located near the Ashrane Peaks and store it in warehouses within the city walls. The League of Southern Marches has taken a keen interest in their success, as it drives wealth for the entire confederation.
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