The Shire

The Shire

The Shire is a region in Eriador inhabited by Hobbits. It was founded in T.A. 1601 (1405 years ago) when Hobbits making their way westward were granted permission to settle in the area by King Argeleb II of Arthedain.

Summary

Main article: History of the Shire

The Shire was a fertile and well-tilled part of Arnor, with many royal farms, cornlands, vineyards, and woods. It had long been deserted during the waning days of the Kingdom when it was known as the splinter-realm of Arthedain; it had been the hunting grounds of the King of Arnor. The Hobbits from Bree got official permission from King Argeleb II of Arthedain to settle the lands. This was finally done in T.A. 1601 (Year 1 in Shire Reckoning) by Hobbits from Bree, led by the brothers Marcho and Blanco. They were joined by other hobbits who lived in Dunland and parts of depopulated Cardolan and Rhudaur.

From the west to the east, the Shire measures 40 leagues (120 miles) from the Far Downs to the Brandywine Bridge. From the north to the south, it measured 50 leagues (150 miles) from the northern moors to the marshes in the south. It consists of approximately 30 villages, as well as numerous hamlets and farmsteads. Some of the more prominent settlements include:

• Michel Delving - the chief town and de facto capital of the Shire. The mayor, postal service and Shirriffs are headquartered there.