Phandalin Miner's Exchange

Purpose and Function: The Miner's Exchange is a trading post where local miners can have their finds weighed, measured, and paid out. It serves as a key economic hub in Phandalin, particularly for the mining community. The Exchange also helps miners trade their ore for supplies and acts as an unofficial records office, keeping track of mining claims.
Appearance and Layout: The building is likely practical and sturdy, designed for functionality. The interior is probably spacious with areas designated for weighing and assessing minerals, and a counter or office area for conducting business and maintaining records.
Management: The Exchange is managed by Halia Thornton, a shrewd and ambitious human woman. She is known to be knowledgeable about the local mining industry and Phandalin's affairs. Halia's character adds a layer of intrigue to the Exchange, as she may have her own goals and agendas.
Influence: In Phandalin the Miner's Exchange is a significant establishment, reflecting the town's reliance on mining. Its operations impact the local economy, and it could play a role in any power dynamics within the town.

Purpose / Function

The Miner's Exchange serves as a place where miners can have their ore weighed, measured, and paid out. It also functions as a de facto record-keeping office for mining claims and transactions in Phandalin. It plays a critical role in supporting the local mining industry, acting as a commercial hub for miners and contributing to the town's economy.
Players might visit the Exchange for various reasons, such as gathering information, looking for work, or getting involved in the local politics and economics. The Exchange and Halia Thornton can provide leads into various plot threads in the adventure.
For adventurers in "The Lost Mine of Phandelver," the Miner's Exchange can be a source of information, quests, and insight into the town's economic and political landscape. Halia Thornton, in particular, can be a valuable contact or quest giver.

Alterations

Given its practical purpose, any alterations to the building would likely be functional – such as enhancements for securely storing valuable ores or improving the efficiency of weighing and measuring.

Architecture

The Exchange is probably a sturdy, no-frills building designed for utility. It likely has a simple, efficient layout with a large interior space for conducting business and storage.  Being a newer establishment in a recently resettled town, it would reflect the architectural style of a frontier settlement – possibly wood construction with a durable design.

Defenses

Due to the valuable nature of its transactions, the Exchange might have basic security features like strong locks and perhaps a secure vault for storing ore and records. However, it's unlikely to have extensive defensive fortifications.

History

The Exchange was established during Phandalin's recent resettlement, making it a relatively new addition to the town. Its creation coincided with the resurgence of mining activities in the area.

Tourism

While not a tourist attraction in the traditional sense, the Exchange might interest those visiting Phandalin for its historical and economic significance, especially for those interested in the local mining industry.

Founding Date

1489 DR

Type

Bank / Treasury

Parent Location

Phandalin

Owner

Halia Thornton