Elderburough (Elder-burrow)

Elderburough was once a thriving town known for its strong, hardworking locals and its rich mining and farming industries. But over time, the working-age men of the town began to leave for other opportunities, and the mining and farming industries gradually declined. The town's leadership fell to a custodian named Tyrol Elder and an organization called the Mercantile Army. Despite these changes, Elderburough remains a proud and resilient community, with a strong sense of history and tradition. The locals are known for their physical strength and their rugged, independent spirit, and many still make a living from the semi-arid hills that surround the town. Horse symbols can be seen everywhere in the city, from the banners hanging from the city's buildings to the crests on the city's guards' uniforms.
But the town's future is uncertain, and many wonder if the decline of its once-thriving industries can be reversed. Some say that only a new generation of leaders, with fresh ideas and a vision for the future, can save Elderburough from a slow decline into obscurity. Only time will tell what the future holds for this unique and fascinating town.

Demographics

Humankind 90%, Dwarfkind 4%, Other 6%
Elderburough has a population of approximately 11,200 locals, and is known for its strong, hardworking people and its rich mining and farming heritage. The town's demographics are diverse, with approximately 90% of its population being human, 4% being dwarves, and the remaining 6% being made up of other species. Elderburough is undergoing a phase of formation and revitalization, with many immigrants of various species moving to the town and bringing new life to the established order. These immigrants are drawn to Elderburough by its lenient norms and affordable living, and they enjoy full legal protection under the laws that govern daily life in the town. The town's economy is supported by the investments of the merchantile army, and those who are content to live off the fruits of their labour can find a comfortable and affordable life in Elderburough, as taxes are currently non-existent and land fees are minimal. This growth unfortunately does not offset the numbers of men who take leave of absence to work on Esmunds many projects.
The human population of Elderburough is made up of people from many different backgrounds and cultures, and this diversity is an important part of the town's identity. Many of the town's human residents are descendants of the original settlers who founded Elderburough in 1824, and they are proud of their heritage and their community. Other human residents are more recent immigrants who have come to Elderburough in search of a better life, and they have brought new ideas and perspectives to the town. The dwarven population of Elderburough is relatively small, but they are an integral part of the town's community. The dwarves of Elderburough are skilled craftsmen and artisans, and they are known for their high-quality workmanship and attention to detail. They are also known for their love of ale and their hearty appetites, and they are a popular presence at the town's inns and taverns.
The remaining 6% of Elderburough's population is made up of other species, both human and non-human. These species include elves, halflings, and others, and they are an important part of the town's diverse community. These non-human residents are protected by the same lenient norms that govern daily life in Elderburough, and they enjoy the same rights and privileges as their human and dwarven neighbors.
Overall, the demographics of Elderburough reflect the town's rich history and its current phase of growth and change. The diverse population of the town is an important part of its identity, and its lenient norms and affordable living make it an attractive destination for immigrants of all species.

Government

The town of Elderburough is governed by the Mercantile Army, which is a large merchant-based guild that is gradually forming a government in the nation of Esmund. The town of Elderburough is presided over by a mercantile army custodian, who is elected by the members of the mercantile army. The mercantile army emerged as a response to the decline of the town's mining and farming industries. As these industries declined, the merchants and traders of the town banded together to form the mercantile army, with the goal of preserving and protecting the town's economy and way of life. Over time, the mercantile army grew in size and influence, and began to assume more and more of the functions of government.
The custodian government of Elderburough functions as a representative democratic government, with the custodian serving as the head of government. As the head of government, the custodian is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the town, as well as representing the town's interests at the national level. The custodian works closely with the various guilds and committees that make up the mercantile army, and is responsible for ensuring that the town's government is responsive to the needs and concerns of the town's residents.
The custodian government of Elderburough is also responsible for making and enforcing laws and regulations that affect the town. This includes a wide range of issues, from public safety and health, to economic development and environmental protection. The custodian works with the town council and other local officials to ensure that the town's laws and regulations are fair and effective.
Overall, the custodian government of Elderburough is focused on preserving and protecting the town's unique way of life and its strong traditions of trade and self-reliance. By working closely with the town's residents and other local officials, the custodian ensures that the town remains a thriving and vibrant community, even in the face of economic and social change.

Defences

The city of Elderburough does not have any significant fortifications, but it does have a standing garrison that is prepared to defend the city against any raid attempts. The garrison consists of decently equipped and trained soldiers, who are capable of providing a strong defense against any potential attackers. In addition to the garrison, the city's municipal district is heavily fortified, and is guarded by a reasonable contingent of soldiers. This district serves as the seat of government and the residence of the city's ruler, and is therefore a key target in any attack on the city.
Despite the lack of fortifications, the city's residents are known for their strong and independent spirit, and many are capable of defending themselves and their property against any threats. This, combined with the presence of the garrison and the fortified municipal district, provides a strong defense against potential attackers.

Industry & Trade

he city of Elderburough was once a thriving hub of commerce, known for its strong mining and farming industries. The city's mines produced a wealth of valuable materials, including platinum, which was in high demand throughout the nation of Esmund. The city's farmers cultivated a variety of crops, including grains such as barley, sugarcane, and semi-arid plants, which thrived in the city's semi-arid climate. However, the city's fortunes have changed over time. Many of the working-age men in the city have left to seek work on large construction projects in other parts of Esmund, leaving the farming and mining industries in a state of decline. As a result, the city's economy has shifted and adapted, with new industries and businesses emerging to take their place.
Despite the challenges faced by the city, its residents remain hardworking and resilient. They continue to work the land and extract valuable resources from the earth, and are known for their resourcefulness and determination. The city's markets and shops are filled with a wide range of goods and services, and the city's taverns and inns are always bustling with activity.
The city of Elderburough may have changed over time, but it remains a vibrant and dynamic place, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The city's residents are proud of their heritage and traditions, and are determined to continue building a bright future for themselves and their children.

Infrastructure

The town's infrastructure is barely maintained, and many of the roads and pathways that connect the town to the surrounding hills and forests are in poor condition. The town square is still the heart of the community, but many of the shops, inns, and taverns that once surrounded it have closed or fallen into disrepair. The town's main industries, mining and farming, are still supported by a network of mines and farms that dot the surrounding hills, but these operations are struggling and barely scraping by. The town's garrison of guards is still present, but it is underfunded and understaffed, and struggles to keep the peace and protect the town from threats. One of the most notable features of Elderburough's infrastructure is the aqueduct that runs through the town, bringing fresh water from the hills. The aqueduct is an engineering marvel, and it has been essential to the town's survival in the semi-arid climate. It is a source of pride for the town's residents, and is carefully maintained by the town's custodian and the Mercantile army.

Districts

The city of Elderburough is divided into several distinct districts, each with its own unique character and history. For example, the old mining district is characterized by old mining buildings and equipment, as well as a strong sense of community and shared history. The farming district is characterized by open fields and farmhouses, as well as a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. In addition to these districts, the city also has a bustling commercial district, which is home to a variety of shops and businesses, as well as a large tavern called "The Needy Grub." This tavern is a popular gathering place for the city's residents, with a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of food and drink.
The city also has a municipal district, which is home to the custodian and lawkeepers. This district is characterized by reworked ruins from a civilization of old, and is heavily fortified. The municipal district is an important center of government and law enforcement in the city, and is guarded by a medium sized garrison of hand picked fighters, albeit lacking in much real combat experience.
Another important district in the city is the religious district, which is home to the city's temples and shrines, as well as the homes and institutions of the city's religious leaders. The religious district is a center of learning and spirituality, and is visited by pilgrims from all over the city and beyond. Finally, the city has an artisan district, which is home to the city's craftsmen and artisans, who produce a wide range of goods and services. The artisan district is known for its high-quality products and skilled workers, and is a major contributor to the city's economy. Overall, the city of Elderburough is a vibrant and diverse place, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The different districts of the city each contribute to its unique character and identity, and the city's residents are proud of their heritage and traditions. The Needy Grub, as the central gathering place of the city, is an important part of this community, and is visited by residents and visitors alike

Guilds and Factions

The Artisans Guild: This guild is made up of the city's craftsmen and artisans, who produce a wide range of goods and services. The guild is known for its high-quality products and skilled workers, and is a major contributor to the city's economy. The Mercantile Army: This guild is a large merchant-based organization that is gradually forming a government in the nation of Esmund. The guild is presided over by a mercantile army custodian, and is responsible for overseeing the city's trade and commerce. The Farmers' Guild: This guild is made up of the city's farmers, who are responsible for cultivating the city's agricultural land. The guild is known for its hardworking and self-reliant members, and is an important part of the city's economy. The Miners' Guild: This guild is made up of the city's miners, who are responsible for extracting valuable materials from the earth. The guild is known for its expertise and experience in mining, and is an important part of the city's history and heritage. The Guild of Lawkeepers: This guild is made up of the city's lawkeepers, who are responsible for enforcing the law and maintaining order in the city. The guild is known for its dedication and professionalism, and is an important part of the city's defense against potential threats.

History

The city of Elderburough has a long and fascinating history, dating back to its founding in 1709. According to legend, the city was once a gathering place for centaurs, a mythical race of horse-like creatures, who lived in the area long ago. As the centuries passed, the city grew and prospered, thanks to its rich natural resources and its hardworking inhabitants. The city's mines produced a wealth of valuable materials, including platinum, which was in high demand throughout the nation of Esmund. The city's farmers cultivated a variety of crops, including grains such as barley, sugarcane, and semi-arid plants, which thrived in the city's semi-arid climate.
Despite its many successes, the city has also faced its share of challenges and setbacks. In the early 1800s, a series of droughts and plagues decimated the city's population, and many of its residents were forced to flee to other parts of Esmund. The city's economy was also hit hard by the collapse of the platinum market, and many of its mines were forced to shut down.
Despite these challenges, the city has managed to survive and rebuild, thanks to the determination and resilience of its residents. Today, the city is a vibrant and dynamic place, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The city's residents are proud of their heritage and traditions, and are working to create a better future for themselves and their children.

Points of interest

• The Needy Grub Tavern: This tavern is a popular gathering place for the city's residents, with a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of food and drink. The tavern is known for its hearty meals and strong drinks, and is a favorite of the city's hardworking miners and farmers. The tavern's walls are adorned with the tools and equipment of the city's tradesmen, and its floors are worn and scarred by the boots of its many patrons.
• The Grand Marketplace: This marketplace is the heart of the city's commerce, and is filled with shops, stalls, and merchants from all over Esmund. The marketplace is known for its vibrant atmosphere and its wide range of goods, from exotic spices and fragrant herbs to fine silks and precious gems. The marketplace is a bustling and chaotic place, with the sounds of haggling and bargaining filling the air.
• The Plowman's Fields: These fields are located on the outskirts of the city, and are home to the city's farmers and their families. The fields are vast and sprawling, with rows of crops stretching as far as the eye can see. The fields are tended by the city's hardworking farmers, who are known for their skill and determination. The fields are a vital part of the city's economy, and are a source of pride for the city's residents.
• The Temple of Lequus: This temple is dedicated to Lequus, the deity of farmers, fishermen, stable hands, brewers, traders, horsemen, forest folk, hunters, wood crafters, and builders. The temple is a grand and imposing structure, with towering spires and gleaming marble floors. The temple's main hall is filled with the flickering light of a thousand candles, and is perfumed by the sweet smoke of incense. The temple's priests and acolytes are known for their wisdom and devotion, and are revered by the city's residents.

Tourism

Tourism in Elderburough is a relatively new development, as the city has only recently begun to open up to outsiders. When travellers arrive in the city, they are often met with a mix of courtesy and mistrust. Despite this initial suspicion, visitors who take the time to get to know the city and its people often find that Elderburough has much to offer. The city is home to a rich and vibrant culture, with a strong sense of history and tradition. Visitors can explore the city's many districts, including the bustling marketplace, the grand temples, and the picturesque fields. The Mercantile Army, which serves as the city's governing body, is working to improve the city's infrastructure and support its growing economy.
While tourism in Elderburough is still in its early stages, it has the potential to bring new opportunities and prosperity to the city and its residents. Visitors who are willing to look beyond the city's initial mistrust and explore its many wonders will be rewarded with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Architecture

The architecture of Elderburough is a distinctive blend of old and new, reflecting the city's complex history. The city was founded on the ruins of an ancient settlement that has been long forgotten, and many of its buildings incorporate materials from that ancient civilization. However, due to the scarcity of timber in the area, many of the city's buildings are constructed from a mix of different materials, leading to a somewhat chaotic and unpredictable appearance. Despite this, the city's residents take great pride in their homes and buildings, and many of them are decorated with intricate carvings, colorful paintings, and other ornamental touches. In short, the architecture of Elderburough is a unique and fascinating blend of old and new, reflecting the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Geography

The geography of the region surrounding Elderburough is diverse and varied. The city is located on the edge of a vast grassland, with gently rolling hills to the north and a wide and winding river to the west and south. The river flows out of the Esmundian mountains and into the grasslands, providing a rich source of water and life for the region. To the south of the city, the hills continue for many miles, eventually giving way to the rocky and unforgiving mountains of the Esmundian range. These mountains are home to some of the richest deposits of platinum in the world, and they have been heavily mined over the years.
The geography of the region surrounding Elderburough is a fascinating mix of rolling hills, wide grasslands, and rugged mountains, providing a rich and varied landscape for the city and its residents.

Climate

The climate of the region surrounding Elderburough is semi-arid, with hot summers and cool winters. The summers are typically dry and sunny, with temperatures reaching into the 30s during the hottest months. The winters are cooler, with occasional snowfall and temperatures ranging from the mid-0s to the low 10s. Overall, the climate of the region is generally mild and pleasant, with plenty of sunny days and comfortable temperatures throughout the year. This makes it an ideal location for farming and other outdoor activities, and it is one of the reasons that the city of Elderburough was able to thrive in its early years.

Natural Resources

The region surrounding Elderburough is rich in natural resources, with a variety of minerals, plants, and animals that can be found in the area. The most valuable of these resources is platinum, which is abundant in the Esmundian mountains to the south of the city. Other minerals that can be found in the region include gold, silver, copper, and iron, as well as various types of gemstones. In addition to minerals, the region is also home to a variety of plants and animals. The grasslands to the north and west of the city are home to a wide variety of grasses and other plants, which provide food and shelter for a variety of animals. These include deer, rabbits, birds, and other small creatures, as well as larger predators like wolves and bears.

Founding Date

1824

Type

Large town

Population

11200

Location under

Esmund

Owning Organization

The Mercantile Army

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