Barthen's Provisions
Barthen's Provisions is the largest trading post in Phandalin, owned by Elmar Barthen. It's a key spot for adventurers to buy supplies and equipment. It is open from dawn until dusk and sells low-cost trade wares, such as adventuring gear, as well as rations and other simple goods, and is perhaps the only place west of the Dessarin Valley that carries specialty skull-shaped butter from Butterskull Ranch. However, they do not sell weapons and armor or potions, but Barthen would helpfully direct interested buyers to places where they could find these. For larger orders, Barthen would supply a cart pulled by his ox Vincent to move the goods.
Barthen's Provisions also serves as a trading hub. Clerks Ander and Thistle will unload and load carts of goods and resources that came into, or were to go out of, Phandalin via wagon. Barthen also brokers deals for large sales of livestock and similar goods, bringing together local sellers from as far south as Leilon with buyers as far afield as Waterdeep.
During this time, Barthen's Provisions struck deals to sell dry goods and supplies to logging operations run by Tibor Wester, the half-brother of Townmaster Harbin Wester, as well as deals to sell herds of giant goats on behalf of Dagult Neverember in order to fund rebuilding efforts in Leilon.
Appearance: Barthen's Provisions is the largest trading post in Phandalin. The building is sturdy and well-constructed, typically made of wood, with a large sign bearing its name. The exterior may show signs of wear but is generally well-maintained, reflecting the success of the business.
Interior Layout: Inside, the shop is spacious and lined with shelves and storage areas. These shelves are stocked with a variety of goods, including foodstuffs, clothing, tools, and some adventuring gear. The layout is practical, designed to showcase a wide range of stock while allowing easy navigation for customers.
Proprietor: Elmar Barthen owns and runs the store. He's known to be a friendly, albeit somewhat gossipy, middle-aged man. He is well-informed about the goings-on in Phandalin and can be a valuable source of information for adventurers.
Services Offered: Barthen's Provisions sells general supplies, which are essential for both the townsfolk and adventurers. This includes basic rations, camping supplies, tools, and possibly some basic weapons and armor. The shop might also serve as a point for buying and selling minor trinkets or goods that adventurers find on their travels.
Atmosphere and Clientele: The shop is a bustling center of commerce in Phandalin. It's frequented by locals for everyday needs and by adventurers for supplies. The atmosphere is generally friendly, with Elmar often engaging in conversation with his customers.
Music: Phandalin Shops
Purpose / Function
For adventurers, Barthen's Provisions is often the first stop for stocking up on essential supplies before embarking on quests. It can also serve as a place to gather local rumors, quests, or information about the region from Elmar or other customers.
Architecture
- Style: Barthen's Provisions is likely constructed in a style befitting a small, frontier town. The building is primarily wooden, with a sturdy, practical design. The architecture doesn't lean towards extravagance but rather functionality, to withstand the rigors of a town that's still growing and establishing itself.
- Features: The structure may include a prominent front porch or awning, large windows for displaying goods, and a spacious interior with high ceilings to accommodate shelves and storage. The design could include elements common in medieval or fantasy settings, like timber framing and a pitched roof.
Defenses
- Physical Defenses: As a trading post, Barthen's Provisions might not have robust defenses like a fortress. However, it could feature sturdy, lockable doors and possibly shutters on the windows to protect against theft.
- Security Measures: The store might employ simple security measures like a strongbox for valuable items, and Barthen himself could keep a weapon handy for emergencies. Given the town's size, community-based protection (like a local militia) might also play a role in the store's defense.
History
- Origins: The store likely began as a small venture to cater to the initial settlers and miners in Phandalin. As Phandalin was restored the town grew and Elmar Barthen fixed up the old shop and made it what it is today.
- Role in Phandalin's Development: The trading post would have been integral in supporting the local economy, providing essential goods to residents and travelers, and possibly even aiding in the town's reconstruction after any historical conflicts or disasters.
Tourism
- Attraction for Visitors: While primarily functional, Barthen's Provisions might hold interest for travelers, especially those keen on local color or needing supplies for their adventures.
- Unique Offerings: The shop could have a small section dedicated to local crafts or products unique to the Phandalin area, appealing to those looking for souvenirs or specialty items.
- Role in Local Festivities or Events: It could play a part in local festivals or markets, perhaps setting up a stall or offering special goods during such events.
ADVENTURING GEAR
- Backpack - 2 gp
- Barrel - 2 gp
- Bedroll - 1 gp
- Blanket - 5 sp
- Bottle, glass - 2 gp
- Bucket - 5 cp
- Candle - 1 cp
- Clothes, Common - 5 sp
- Flask or Tankard - 2 cp
- Ink (1 ounce bottle) - 10 gp
- Journal, Soft Bound, 25 Sheets - 7 gp
- Jug or Pitcher - 2 cp
- Ladder (10-foot) - 1 sp
- Lamp - 5 sp
- Lantern, Hooded - 5 gp
- Mess Kit - 2 sp
- Mirror, Steel - 5 gp
- Parchment (one sheet) - 1 sp
- Pick, Miner's - 2 gp
- Piton - 5 cp
- Pole (10-foot) - 5 cp
- Pot, Iron - 2 gp
- Pouch - 5 sp
- Rations (1 day) - 5 sp
- Rope, Hempen (50 feet) - 1 gp
- Sack - 1 cp
TOOLS
- Carpenter's Tools - 2 gp
- Cobbler's Tools - 5 sp
- Cook's Utensils - 2 gp
- Leatherworker’s Tools - 5 gp
- Mason's Tools - 5 cp
- Potter's Tools - 1 cp
- Smith’s Tools - 20 gp
- Weaver's Tools - 5 sp
- Woodcarver's Tools - 2 cp
Founding Date
1465 DR
Type
Shop, Generic
Parent Location
Owner
Characters in Location
Comments