An encyclopedia of Middle-earth and Numenor

Kings of Rohan

Other Rohirrim

Eotheod

Northmen

Eorl was born in 2485 of the Third Age. His father was Leod, the leader of the people called the Eotheod who lived in the far north near the source of the Anduin. When Eorl was 16 years old, Leod was killed by a wild horse that he had tried to tame. Eorl captured the horse and named him Felarof. Felarof submitted to Eorl and became his steed and was the father of the mearas who were the steeds of Eorl's descendants.

Eorl succeeded his father as the leader of the Eotheod. They were a numerous people with many horses. They needed more room to roam, but there was nowhere for them to go.

On March 25, 2510 - when Eorl was 25 years old - an errand-rider named Borondir arrived with a message from Cirion, the Steward of Gondor. Gondor was being threatened by Men from Rhun called the Balchoth, and Cirion sought Eorl's help in defeating them. Eorl agreed to come, because he knew that if Gondor fell, all of Middle-earth would soon be conquered. He assembled his Council of Elders to prepare to ride south.

On April 6, Eorl rode forth with an eohere - or mounted army - of 7,000 fully armed Riders and several hundred mounted archers. Only a few hundred Riders were left behind to guard the women, children, and elderly. The eohere rode southward through the Vales of the Anduin - a journey of over 500 miles.

When they passed Dol Guldur in Mirkwood - where Sauron dwelled in secret - a darkness emanated from the fortress, and Eorl turned westward to avoid it. But then a white mist came from the woods of Lothlorien that stood across the River from Dol Guldur, and the Riders were hidden and continued safely on their way.

Eorl arrived at the Field of Celebrant on the morning of April 15. Gondor's army was being attacked on two fronts by the Balchoth and Orcs from the Misty Mountains. Eorl and his Riders attacked the enemy from the rear, slaying many and driving the rest across the River Limlight. South of the Limlight lay the province of Gondor called Calenardhon, and Eorl and his Riders pursued the surviving enemies until the land was free of them.

After the Battle of the Field of Celebrant, Eorl accompanied Cirion to the Mering Stream on the southeastern border of Calenardhon, where they parted company. Cirion asked Eorl to meet him there again in three months and committed Calenardhon to Eorl's care in the meantime.

When they met again in August of 2510, Cirion brought Eorl to Halifirien, the Hill of Awe, in the Firien Wood. There Cirion offered Eorl the land of Calenardhon as a new homeland for his people in gratitude for their service to Gondor. Eorl was deeply grateful for the Gift of Cirion, whom he admired. He accepted and he swore an Oath that his people would always come to Gondor's aid in time of need. Eorl realized that their peoples needed to remain allies in order to face the growing danger in Middle-earth.

Eorl left about half his force to guard Calenardhon and returned to the far north to gather his people and their possessions. He led them back to their new homeland, and it became known as the Mark. In Gondor, the new land of their allies was called Rohan.

Eorl was King of the Mark for 35 years. He chose the hill at the entrance to the valley of Harrowdale to be the site of the town of Edoras. But Meduseld, the Golden Hall, was not completed in Eorl's lifetime, and he dwelled at Aldburg in the Folde. Eorl's son Brego was born in 2512.

In 2545, Rohan was attacked by Easterlings. The attack was thwarted, but Eorl fell in battle. He was buried in a mound outside Edoras, and his horse Felarof was buried with him. His son Brego succeeded him as King of Rohan.

Rohan continued to be ruled by the House of Eorl, and the people of Rohan called themselves the Eorlingas, or the Sons of Eorl. The Oath of Eorl was not forgotten. During the War of the Ring, King Theoden of Rohan honored his ancestor's Oath and came to Gondor's aid at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. The Oath of Eorl was renewed by Theoden's successor King Eomer, who pledged continued friendship to Aragorn, King Elessar, of the Reunited Kingdom of Gondor and Arnor.

Names & Etymology:
Eorl means "nobleman, lord" in Old English. The title earl is derived from this word. Eorl was known as Eorl the Young because he was only 16 when he became the leader of his people, and also because he remained golden haired and youthful in appearance until his death.

Eorl was called the Lord of the Eotheod and the Lord of the Riders. He became the first King of Rohan in 2510, but he was also called the King of Calenardhon - the original name for the region - and the King of the Mark.

Genealogy:
For the descendents of Eorl see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "The Riders of Rohan," p. 33, 38; "The King of the Golden Hall," p. 112, 116, 120, 127; "Helm's Deep," p. 142; "The Road to Isengard," p. 155; "The Voice of Saruman," p. 184-6
The Return of the King: "The Steward and the King," p. 247; "Many Partings," p. 254-56
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "Gondor and the Heirs of Anarion," p. 334; "The House of Eorl," p. 344-46, 349
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," passim
Old English

Brego

Brego had three sons: Baldor, Aldor, and Eofor. Brego and his eldest son Baldor explored the valley of Harrowdale looking for safe places for their people in time of need. They found the stair leading to the refuge of Dunharrow, and beyond Dunharrow they found the Dark Door to the Paths of the Dead. There they encountered an old man who told them that the Door was guarded by the Dead and was not open to the living.

In 2569, Brego finished the construction of the Golden Hall of Meduseld, where the Kings of Rohan continued to dwell for many generations. At the feast celebrating the completion of Meduseld, Baldor announced his intention to enter the Paths of the Dead despite the old man's warning. Baldor entered the Dark Door and was never seen again.

Brego was deeply grieved by his eldest son's death and he died shortly thereafter in 2570. He was succeeded by his second son, Aldor.

Movie Note:
In the film version of The Lord of the Rings, there is a horse named Brego - which Aragorn notes is a kingly name.

Names & Etymology:
The name Brego is from the Old English bregu meaning "ruler, chief, king."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Brego see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Muster of Rohan," p. 70-71; "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 367, 371
Old English

Aldor the Old

Aldor became King of Rohan in 2570 after his brother Baldor was lost in the Paths of the Dead and his father Brego subsequently died of grief. That same year, Aldor's son Frea was born. Aldor already had three daughters.

During Aldor's reign, the population of Rohan increased. The Rohirrim settled in the valley of Harrowdale and other valleys of the White Mountains. Aldor drove the Dunlendings out of western Rohan and back to their own land of Dunland beyond the River Isen.

Aldor ruled for 75 years and lived to be 101. He had the longest reign of any King of Rohan. He died in 2645 and was succeeded by his son Frea.

Names & Etymology:
The name Aldor is dervied from the Old English ealdor meaning "elder" as well as "lord, king." He was called Aldor the Old because he had a long life and reign.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349, 351
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 367, 371-72
Old English

Fréa

Names & Etymology:
The name Fréa means "king, lord" in Old English.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Old English

Fréawine

Names & Etymology:
Fréawine means "lord and friend" in Old English.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 348-49
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 373
Old English

Goldwine

Names & Etymology:
Goldwine means "generous king" in Old English.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Old English

Déor

During Deor's reign, Rohan was increasingly troubled by Men from Dunland, which lay west of Rohan on the other side of the Misty Mountains. Unknown to the Rohirrim, Dunlendings had crossed the border into the Westfold of Rohan and had made settlements around Isengard and on the edge of Fangorn Forest. They became hositle to the Rohirrim and began making raids on the herds of horses in the Westfold.

In 2710, Deor led a force to the Westfold to investigate. The Rohirrim encountered and defeated a host of Dunlendings and proceeded to Isengard. Isengard was a stronghold of Gondor, and Deor expected to find allies there. But the line of Gondorian chieftains who had guarded Isengard had died out and had been replaced by a local family who were friendly with the Dunlendings. Deor arrived to find Isengard in the hands of the enemy.

Deor was unable to recapture Isengard. He sent word to Egalmoth, the Steward of Gondor, but no help could be spared, and Isengard remained occupied by Dunlendings. A strong force of Riders was maintained in the Westfold to keep watch on Isengard.

Deor died in 2718 and was succeeded by his son Gram.

Names & Etymology:
The name Déor means "brave, bold, fierce" in Old English.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 372-73
Beowulf Glossary

Gram

Names & Etymology:
The name Gram means "angry, cruel, fierce" in Old English.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Old English

In 2754, Helm refused to give his daughter's hand in marriage to Wulf, son of Freca - a Man of Rohan who was akin to the Men of Dunland. Freca was an untrustworthy man who sought power for himself and ignored the King's rule. He was enraged by Helm's refusal and insulted him. Helm responded by slaying Freca with one blow from his mighty fist. Thereafter he was known as Helm Hammerhand.

Freca's son Wulf invaded Rohan in 2758 and captured Edoras. Helm's son Haleth died defending Meduseld, the King's hall. After suffering a great defeat at the Fords of Isen, Helm and his people took refuge in the stronghold that became know as Helm's Deep. They were besieged there during the Long Winter of November 2758 to March 2759. After Yule their supplies ran low and they were starving. Helm's son Hama went out in search of food and never returned.

The loss of his sons and the need of his people made Helm grow fierce. He began go out alone, dressed in all white, to raid the enemy camps and kill any Dunlendings he encountered. Each time he sounded his great horn, and his foes fled in terror. The Dunlendings believed that Helm could not be touched by any weapon and that he killed with his bare hands, and they began the false rumor that he ate his victims.

One night in 2759, Helm left Helm's Deep and did not return. His men found him at dawn, standing frozen on Helm's Dike. When the Long Winter ended, Helm's nephew Frealaf drove out the invaders and became King of Rohan. Helm was buried in the last mound of the first line of Kings outside Edoras. The simbelmyne grew thickest on Helm's burial mound, covering it like a blanket of snow.

Names & Etymology:
The name Helm is from the Old English meaning "protector, defender." This root is also found in the word helmet. Helm was called Hammerhand because of the great strength of his fist, with which he slew Freca.

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Helm see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "Helm's Deep," p. 136, 144, 146
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 254-55
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 346-49
Old English

Fréalaf

In 2758, Rohan was invaded by the Men of Dunland led by Wulf. The Dunlendings captured Edoras and Wulf sat on the throne in Meduseld. Frealaf retreated to the refuge of Dunharrow with a small group of Rohirrim. They remained there during the Long Winter of 2758-59. When the spring thaw came, Frealaf led a raid on Edoras. Frealaf killed Wulf and reclaimed the capital city. By the end of 2759, Frealaf and the Rohirrim had driven the Dunlendings out of Rohan.

Helm Hammerhand and his two sons Haleth and Hama had died during the invasion. Frealaf was the nephew of King Helm and he became the first in the Second Line of Kings. His coronation was attended by Saruman, who brought many gifts. Saruman had been given permission to live in Isengard by Beren, the Steward of Gondor. Frealaf believed that the Wizard would be a strong ally to have on Rohan's western border, and in the years of hardship that followed the war and winter, the Rohirrim profited from their friendship with Saruman.

Frealaf died in 2798. His tomb began a new line of burial mounds outside Edoras. Frealaf was succeeded by his son Brytta.

Names & Etymology:
The name Fréalaf is composed of the Old English fréa meaning "king, lord" and láf meaning "what is left, remnant, survivors." This name may refer to Frealaf being the only surviving heir of King Helm. He was called Frealaf Hildeson because he was the son of Hild.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 348-49
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 373
Old English

Brytta

Beginning in 2800, Rohan was troubled by Orcs who fled the Misty Mountains after they were defeated by the Dwarves in the Battle of Azanulbizar. Many Orcs came to the White Mountains on the southern border of Rohan and the Rohirrim fought for many years to drive them out. At the time of Brytta's death in 2842, it was thought that all the Orcs were gone, but in fact Brytta's son Walda was killed by Orcs only nine years after he succeeded his father. It was Walda's son Folca who routed out the last Orcs from the White Mountains.

Names & Etymology:
The name Brytta means "giver, dispenser" in Old English in reference to Brytta's generosity. He was also called Léofa, which means "beloved" in Old English.

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Brytta see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349-50
Old English

Walda

Note:
"The Tale of Years" states that Walda died in 2861 but this appears to be a typographical error since his reign was supposedly nine years long. The correct date of 2851 is given in "The House of Eorl."

Names & Etymology:
The name Walda is from the Old English weald meaning "power."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Walda see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349-50
Appendix B of The Lord of the Rings: "The Tale of Years," p. 369
Old English

Folca

By 2864, the last Orc stronghold in Rohan was destroyed. Folca then went boar hunting in the Firien Wood. He slew the Great Boar of Everholt, but the boar wounded Folca with its tusks and Folca died. He was succeeded by his son Folcwine.

Names & Etymology:
The name Folca is derived from the Old English folc meaning "folk, people, nation."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Folca see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 350
Old English

Folcwine

Folcwine had four children. His twin sons Folcred and Fastred were born in 2858. He also had a daughter. His youngest son Fengel was born in 2870.

Rohan was strong during Folcwine's reign. Folcwine took the west-march of Rohan, between the Rivers Isen and Adorn, back from the Dunlendings. Folcwine also reorganized Rohan's military forces so that the full muster - called the eohere - was made up of 100 companies, and each company - or eored - had at least 120 Riders. Thus at full strength the eohere of Rohan could number about 12,000 Riders.

In 2885, Folcwine sent a force of Rohirrim to Ithilien to help Gondor stop an invasion by the Haradrim. In doing so, Folcwine fulfilled the Oath made by Eorl, the first King of Rohan, to support Gondor in time of need, and he also repaid Gondor for the aid they sent to Rohan after the Long Winter. Folcwine wanted to lead the army himself, but he was persuaded to send his twin sons instead. The Haradrim were defeated, but Folcred and Fastred were killed. The Rohirrim buried them on the banks of the River Poros in Ithilien. Turin II, Steward of Gondor, sent Folcwine a weregild of gold as compensation for his loss.

Folcwine died in 2903. He was succeeded by his youngest son Fengel, who was a greedy and unpopular King.

Names & Etymology:
Folcwine means "protector of the people" or "friend of the people" from the Old English folc meaning "folk, people, nation" and wine meaning "friend, protector."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Folcwine see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The Stewards," p. 335; "The House of Eorl," p. 350
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 315 note 36; "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 364 note 4
Old English

Fengel

Fengel became the King of Rohan in 2903. He was not a popular King. Fengel was a greedy man; he was a glutton and he coveted gold. He fought with his Marshals and with his son Thengel, who left home for Gondor when he grew to manhood and did not return until after Fengel's death in 2953.

Names & Etymology:
The Old English word fengel means "lord, prince, king." It is related to the word feng meaning "capture, prey, booty" - apparently a reference to Fengel's greed.

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Fengel see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 350
Old English

Thengel

Thengel lived in Gondor for many years and became acquainted with their customs and language. He won honor in the service of Turgon, the Steward of Gondor. In 2943, Thengel married Morwen of Lossarnach, who was 17 years younger than he. They had five children altogether - four girls and one boy. The first three were born in Gondor, including their second child and only son Theoden in 2948.

In 2953, Fengel died and Thengel was summoned home. Thengel was reluctant to leave Gondor, but he returned to Rohan to become King. He was considered to be a good and wise ruler, though some of the Rohirrim disagreed with his continued use of the language of Gondor in his household.

During Thengel's reign, Saruman began to fortify Isengard, but the extent of the threat that the Wizard posed to Rohan was not apparent at that time. Aragorn came to Rohan in disguise under the name Thorongil and rode in the service of Thengel for a time.

Thengel's youngest child Theodwyn was born in 2963. Thengel died in 2980 and was succeeded by his son Theoden.

Names & Etymology:
Thengel is from the Old English þengel meaning "prince, king, lord, ruler." He was referred to as Thengel the Thrice-renowned (TTT, p. 184).

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Thengel see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 255
The Two Towers: "King of the Golden Hall," p. 127; "The Voice of Saruman," p. 184
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The Stewards," p. 335; "The House of Eorl," p. 350
Old English

Théoden

Éomer

Elfwine

Names & Etymology:
Elfwine was known as Elfwine the Fair. Elfwine means "Elf friend." The word wine means "friend" in Old English.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 352
Unfinished Tales: "The Disaster of the Gladden Fields," p. 286

Baldor

Brego and Baldor explored the valley of Harrowdale seeking a refuge for their people. There they found the Dark Door leading to the Paths of the Dead. It is said that an ancient man was sitting before the door. When Brego and Baldor tried to pass him, the old man said: "The way is shut. It was made by those who are Dead, and the Dead keep it, until the time comes." Baldor replied, "And when will that time be?" but the old man died without answering. (RotK, p. 71)

At the feast dedicating the newly built hall of Meduseld, Baldor made a rash vow to walk the Paths of the Dead. In 2570 of the Third Age, he entered the Dark Door and was never seen alive again. The Dead followed Baldor silently through the Paths of the Dead to the door of an evil temple hall, where they broke his legs and left him to die. Baldor's father Brego died of grief and Aldor became King of Rohan.

On March 8, 3019, Aragorn and the Grey Company entered the Paths of the Dead. Deep inside the tunnels, they found Baldor's body in front of a locked door. He was still clad in his gilded hauberk, golden helm, and belt of gold and garnets, but his sword was notched and broken and he appeared to have been clawing at the door when he died.

Names & Etymology:
In Old English, Baldor is a variation of Bealdor meaning "lord, prince, hero." The word beald means "bold, brave." In Norse mythology, Baldur was the son of Odin.

Also called Baldor the Hapless, no doubt because of his unfortunate end.

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Baldor see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Passing of the Grey Company," p. 60-61; "The Muster of Rohan," p. 70-71; "Many Partings," p. 255
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 349
Appendix B of The Lord of the Rings: "The Tale of Years," p. 368
"The Rivers and Beacon-hills of Gondor," by J.R.R. Tolkien, edited by Carl F. Hostetter, commentary by Christopher Tolkien, in Vinyar Tengwar #42, July 2001, p. 22 note 6 (on the locked door and Baldor's fate)
Old English

Ceorl Rider of Rohan. Ceorl fought in the Second Battle of the Fords of Isen on March 2, 3019 of the Third Age. The Rohirrim were driven back across the River Isen with great losses, and still more forces came from Isengard including both Orcs and wildmen of Dunland. While Erkenbrand gathered what Riders he could toward Helm's Deep, Ceorl was sent southeast as an errand-rider. Ceorl was exhausted; his helm was dented, his shield was cloven, and his sword was notched.  On March 3, Ceorl encounted an army of Riders. He assumed they were led by Eomer, and he gave them news of the battle and told them they should turn back to Edoras. Then King Theoden revealed himself and Ceorl was overjoyed and knelt and offered his sword to the king. Ceorl was given a fresh horse and rode with the king to the Battle of Helm's Deep. His fate is not known. Names & Etymology: In Anglo-Saxon, a ceorl was an independent peasant landowner. It is related to the word churl. Ceorl also contains the element éo meaning "horse" that is common among the Rohirrim. Sources: The Two Towers: "Helm's Deep," p. 132 Suite 101 article: "Ceorl: What's in a Word?"

A Rider named Ceorl in the  New Line film

Déorwine

Names & Etymology:
Déorwine means "brave friend" or "brave knight" from the Old English déor meaning "brave, bold, fierce" and wine meaning "friend" or "protector."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 120, 125
Beowulf Glossary

Dúnhere

At the Second Battle of the Fords of Isen on March 2, 3019 of the Third Age, Dunhere led half an eored in a charge against Saruman's forces that allowed most of Grimbold's men to retreat to safety. He survived the battle himself through his courage and skill at arms.

A week later, the muster of Rohan was held in Dunharrow. Dunhere greeted King Theoden when he arrived on March 9, 3019. He told the King that three days before, a Winged Nazgul had descended on Edoras and Gandalf the Grey had counselled the Rohirrim to muster in the valley rather than the open fields. Dunhere dined with the King and the muster was held the next day.

Dunhere was killed at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields on March 15. He was buried in the Mounds of Mundburg with the other Men of Rohan and Gondor who fell that day and his name was remembered in song. The people of the Westfold were deeply grieved at his passing.

Names & Etymology:
The name Dúnhere means "hill warrior" from the Old English dún meaning "hill" and here meaning "army, host."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Muster of Rohan," p. 66, 69; "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 362-63, 366 note 13
Old English
The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 571

Around 3014, Theoden fell under the influence of his traitorous counselor Grima Wormtongue, who issued orders in the King's name to members of his household including Elfhelm. As the threat of war from Saruman became apparent, Theoden's son Theodred assumed command of Rohan's forces.

In February of 3019, Theodred sent for aid from Edoras. Elfhelm led four companies to the Fords of Isen, but when he arrived on February 25, Theodred had been mortally wounded and Grimbold was defending his body from two great axemen. Elfhelm came to Grimbold's aid and slew one of the axemen while Grimbold killed the other. The rest of Saruman's forces were driven back by Elfhelm's companies and the First Battle of the Fords of Isen ended.

Grimbold was given command of the forces of the West-mark by Erkenbrand, and Elfhelm remained in charge of the forces from Edoras. The two commanders cooperated, but they were unsure of what their next move should be. Elfhelm advised that they should abandon the Fords of Isen and arrange their forces on the eastern side of the river to prevent Saruman's army from overrunning the Westfold and driving the defenders into Helm's Deep. Grimbold did not want to abandon the Fords for he feared that Saruman's army would thus be able to cross the river behind them. It was decided that Grimbold would defend the Fords while Elfhelm would align his forces on the eastern side of the river.

Elfhelm's assessment of Saruman's intentions proved correct. During the Second Battle of the Fords of Isen on March 2, Saruman unleashed a vast army 10,000 strong that came down both sides of the river. If Elfhelm had been in command, he would have withdrawn and joined the forces of Erkenbrand to strengthen the defense of Helm's Deep. But he remained in position until after midnight, when they were attacked by silent wolf-riders in the dark. Elfhelm's companies were cut off from Grimbold's men and Elfhelm was forced to retreat eastward. Saruman's forces overran the Westfold and proceeded to Helm's Deep.

Gandalf arrived on March 3 and gathered the scattered forces of the Rohirrim. Elfhelm's men buried the dead at the Fords of Isen. Elfhelm then led many of his Riders back to Edoras to guard against a possible attack by wolf-riders and plunderers. The rest of the forces followed Gandalf and Erkenbrand to Helm's Deep, where Saruman's forces were defeated at dawn on March 4.

When the Rohirrim rode to the aid of Gondor on March 10, Elfhelm became a Marshal of the Mark and he commanded the first eored of the Muster of the East-mark. Elfhelm allowed a Rider called Dernhelm to join his eored. Dernhelm was actually the King's niece Eowyn in disguise, but if Elfhelm recognized her, he said nothing about it to the King. Elfhelm also purposefully ignored the presence of Merry Brandybuck in his company until he tripped over the Hobbit and mistook him for a tree root on the morning of March 13. Elfhelm explained to Merry that the Wild Men of the Druadan Forest had offered to lead the Rohirrim through the woods to Minas Tirith.

Elfhelm had been to Minas Tirith before and he was familiar with the approach to the City. On the night of March 14, scouts reported to Elfhelm that they had found the bodies of Hirgon and his companion – the errand-riders of Gondor who had come to Rohan with a request for aid. Elfhelm concluded that the errand-riders had never made it back to Minas Tirith with news that the Rohirrim were coming.

At dawn on March 15, the Rohirrim reached the Pelennor Fields. Elfhelm led his company on the right as the Rohirrim charged onto the battlefield. They rode among the siege-engines and attacked the Enemy forces, driving them into the fire-pits. King Theoden was slain during the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, but victory was achieved after the arrival of Aragorn with reinforcements.

Elfhelm was left in command of the Rohirrim who remained in Gondor when Eomer rode to the Black Gate with the Host of the West. On March 17, Elfhelm led 3,000 Riders to Anorien and routed the Enemy forces who had invaded that region and blocked the Great West Road.

On May 1, Elfhelm attended the coronation of Aragorn as King of the Reunited Kingdom of Gondor and Arnor. Eomer had become King of Rohan, and he appointed Elfhelm as the Marshal of the East-mark.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "The Road to Isengard," p. 157
The Return of the King: "The Ride of the Rohirrim," p. 104-105, 109-11; "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 114; "The Last Debate," p. 158; "The Steward and the King," p. 244
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 356, 358-69

Elfhild

Source:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 351

Eofor

Eomund - the father of Eomer and Eowyn - was descended from Eofor through many generations. Eomer inherited Aldburg and used it as his base before he became King.

Names & Etymology:
The name Eofor means "wild boar" in Old English.

Sources:
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 367 note
Old English

Éomund

Eomund and his family lived at Aldburg in the Eastfold. Eomund was the chief Marshal of the Mark and was responsible for guarding the eastern marches of Rohan. One of his main concerns was protecting the horses of the Rohirrim against Orc raiders. Eomund was brave and fearless but he was also impulsive, and he often pursued Orcs with insufficient caution and few Riders. In 3002, Eomund followed a band of Orcs into the Emyn Muil, where he was ambushed and killed.

Theodwyn became ill and died shortly afterwards, and Eomer and Eowyn were taken in by their uncle, King Theoden. Eomer later became the King of Rohan.

Names & Etymology:
Also called Eomund of Eastfold. The name Éomund is composed of the Old English eoh meaning "horse" and mund meaning "guardian, protector."

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 351
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen - Appendix" p. 357 (footnote)
Old English

Éothain Rider of Rohan. Eothain was a member of the eored - or company - of Eomer, the Third Marshal of the Mark. Eothain was present when Eomer's eored encountered Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli on February 30, 3019 of the Third Age. He laughed at the mention of Hobbits, calling them legends from children's tales, and he suggested to Eomer that they leave the Three Hunters behind or bind them and take them before King Theoden. But Eomer listened to Aragorn's story and at length he agreed to lend horses to the Three Hunters. Again Eothain spoke, objecting to a horse of Rohan being given to a Dwarf. In the end, Gimli rode behind Legolas on Arod and Aragorn was given Hasufel. Names & Etymology: Eothain means "horse warrior" from the Old English eoh meaning "horse" and thain, a warrior in service to the king. Sources: The Two Towers: "The Riders of Rohan," p. 37, 41

A Rider named Eothain in the New Line film

Eowyn

In his youth, Erkenbrand was an officer in the King's Riders. As Lord of the Westfold, Erkenbrand was the highest ranking lord in western Rohan. He lived in the Hornburg of Helm's Deep, across the Gap of Rohan from Isengard. As the threat of attack from Saruman increased, Erkenbrand repaired and strengthened the defenses of Helm's Deep.

Erkenbrand became the commander of Rohan's western defenses after the death of King Theoden's son Theodred at the First Battle of the Fords of Isen on February 25, 3019 of the Third Age. When Erkenbrand learned the news the next day, he sent word to King Theoden and asked that Eomer be sent with all available Riders to help defend the Fords of Isen against an invasion by Saruman's forces. But help was delayed by the treachery of the King's counsellor Grima Wormtongue, who was secretly in the service of Saruman.

Erkenbrand's intention was to defend Helm's Deep in order to prevent Saruman's forces from continuing on to the capital of Edoras. Many of the people of the Westfold took refuge in the Glittering Caves behind Helm's Deep and food and supplies were gathered there. Erkenbrand left about 1,000 Rohirrim at Helm's Deep and he put Grimbold in charge of defending the Fords of Isen, while Erkenbrand himself went to gather the rest of the forces of the Westfold.

Erkenbrand was able to round up about 1,000 Rohirrim, including some of the best Riders in the Westfold. On the night of March 3-4, he was met by Gandalf the White and together they proceeded to Helm's Deep. They arrived at dawn on March 4. Erkenbrand sounded his horn as he and Gandalf descended into the Deeping-coomb, while King Theoden led a charge from the Hornburg. Saruman's forces were terrified: the Men surrendered and the Orcs retreated into a forest of Huorns sent by Treebeard and were never seen again.

Afterwards, Erkenbrand told the Men of Dunland who had fought for Saruman that they would be free to return home if they swore an oath never to wage war against Rohan again. But first he set them to work burying the dead and repairing the damage to Helm's Deep.

When King Theoden led the Rohirrim to the aid of Gondor, Erkenbrand was left in charge of the defense of Rohan. He was chosen because of his experience, dignity, and authority. Erkenbrand's nephew Dunhere accompanied King Theoden and was killed in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields.

After the War of the Ring, Eomer became King of Rohan and he named Erkenbrand the Marshal of the West-mark.

Names & Etymology:
Erkenbrand was called both the Lord of the Westfold and the Master of the Westfold as well as the Lord of the Deeping-coomb - the valley where Helm's Deep was located. He became the Marshal of the West-mark.

Erkenbrand means "precious sword" from the Old English eorcan or eorclan meaning "precious" and brand meaning "sword."

Sources:
The Two Towers: "Helm's Deep," p. 132, 134, 136, 147; "The Road to Isengard," p. 148, 150
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 359-62, 364-66, 368-69
Old English

Fastred

Note:
For the son of King Folcwine see Folcred and Fastred below.

Names & Etymology:
The name Fastred is from the Old English fæstræd meaning "firm, constant, steadfast."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125
Old English

Folcred and Fastred

In 2885, Folcred and Fastred led a force of Rohirrim to Ithilien to help Gondor stop an invasion by the Men of Harad. The Haradrim were defeated in the Battle of the Crossings of Poros, but Folcred and Fastred were both killed while fighting side by side. They were buried together in a single mound called Haudh in Gwanur, the Tomb of the Twins. Turin II, the Steward of Gondor, sent a weregild of gold to Folcwine as compensation for his great loss. Folcwine's youngest son Fengel became his heir.

Names & Etymology:
The name Folcred is from the Old English folcræd meaning "public benefit." The name Fastred is from the Old English fæstræd meaning "firm, constant, steadfast."

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The Stewards," p. 335; "The House of Eorl," p. 350
Old English

Gálmód

Names & Etymology:
Gálmód means "wanton, licentious, light-minded" in Old English.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "The King of the Golden Hall," p. 118
Old English

Gamling Man of Rohan. Gamling was from the Westfold. He understood the language of Dunland beyond the Gap of Rohan, and he was familiar with the hatred that the Dunlendings had for the Rohirrim. At the time of the War of the Ring at the end of the Third Age, Gamling was an old man. Erkenbrand left Gamling in charge of the forces defending Helm's Dike - a fortification across the Deeping-coomb before the stronghold of Helm's Deep. Gamling's grandson was with him. In total, about 1,000 men had been left to defend Helm's Deep, though Gamling noted that most were very old or very young. On March 3, 3019, King Theoden arrived at Helm's Deep with reinforcements from Edoras. As Saruman's forces approached, Gamling and his men pulled back from Helm's Dike and entered the stronghold.  Gamling heard Gimli's warning that Orcs had entered a culvert under the wall, and he led the Men of the Westfold in a charge that drove the Orcs back. Gamling then asked Gimli to help block up the opening, but Saruman's forces later breached the Deeping Wall using an explosive device. Gamling retreated into the Deep with Gimli and Eomer. There they defended the narrows before the entrance to the Glittering Caves until dawn, when Gandalf and Erkenbrand arrived and the Battle of Helm's Deep was won. Names & Etymology: Gamling means "old man" from the Old English gamol meaning "old, aged, ancient." Also called Gamling the Old. Sources: The Two Towers: "Helm's Deep," p. 136, 141-42; "The Road to Isengard," p. 148

Bruce Hopkins as Gamling in the New Line film

Gárulf

Names & Etymology:
The word gar means "spear" in Old English; the word ulf or wulf means "wolf."

Source:
The Two Towers: The Riders of Rohan, p. 42

Gléowine

Names & Etymology:
The name Gléowine is composed of the Old English gléo or glíw meaning "music, mirth" and wine meaning "friend" or "retainer."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "Many Partings," p. 254
Old English

Gríma Wormtongue

At the First Battle of the Fords of Isen on February 25, 3019 of the Third Age, Grimbold covered the retreat to the Fords when the Rohirrim were surprised by Saruman's forces. Grimbold then commanded the defense of the west side of the Fords, while Theodred manned a small island in midstream. The Rohirrim were attacked from the east by Dunlendish horsemen and Orc wolf-riders plus two battalions of Uruk-hai.

A company of axemen who appeared to be part-Man, part-Orc attacked Theodred's position. Grimbold's position was also attacked, but he saw that Theodred was in trouble and ran to his aid. Theodred was struck down before Grimbold could reach him. Grimbold slew Theodred's killer and defended his fallen commander from the axemen.

Then Elfhelm arrived from Edoras with reinforcements. Most of Saruman's forces withdrew, and Grimbold and Elfhelm battled the axemen, each slaying one over Theodred's body. Grimbold and Elfhelm held the Fords through the night, and in the morning there was no sign of Saruman's forces.

Saruman did not proceed immediately with his invasion plans, due in part to the actions of Grimbold and Elfhelm at the Fords of Isen. If Saruman had not delayed, he would most likely have succeeded in conquering Rohan.

Erkenbrand, Lord of the Westfold, became commander of Rohan's western defenses after Theodred's death. He went to gather his scattered forces and left Grimbold in charge of the defenses at the River Isen, while Elfhelm remained in command of the troops from Edoras.

Grimbold and Elfhelm disagreed about their strategy. Elfhelm felt that the Fords of Isen were no longer of strategic importance. Grimbold wanted to defend the Fords as the Rohirrim had traditionally done, and he feared that if they abandoned the Fords, Saruman's forces would cross the Isen behind them and cut them off. It was decided that Grimbold would remain to defend the Fords while Elfhelm aligned his forces on the eastern side of the river.

At noon on March 2, Grimbold's position was attacked by a company of Saruman's best fighters. The Rohirrim were outnumbered, but they managed to hold out until sunset, when they were forced to withdraw to the eastern side of the river. Many of Grimbold's men were killed, but they had slain a greater number of Orcs.

Grimbold was resolved to defend the Fords for as long as he could before Saruman's army overwhelmed them. At midnight, the vanguard of Saruman's army forced the crossing of the Fords and surrounded Grimbold's camp. Grimbold's men formed a shield-wall that Saruman's forces could not breach. But the Rohirrim were trapped and Grimbold realized that he must abandon the Fords so that his men could survive to continue the defense of the Westfold elsewhere. To that end, Grimbold sent half a company of Riders under Dunhere out through the shield-wall. They doubled back and attacked Saruman's forces, causing confusion and panic and allowing most of the Grimbold's forces to safely retreat.

Gandalf arrived on March 3, and he advised Grimbold and his men to head southward to join their lord Erkenbrand. At dawn on March 4, Erkenbrand and Gandalf led 1,000 men of the Westfold to help break the siege of Helm's Deep.

When the Rohirrim rode to Gondor to help fight the forces of Mordor, Grimbold acted in the capacity of Third Marshal of the Mark. He commanded the Muster of the West-mark in place of Erkenbrand, who remained in Rohan. At the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, Grimbold led his riders on the left flank as the Rohirrim charged onto the field. Grimbold was killed in the battle, and he was buried in the Mounds of Mundburg outside Minas Tirith along with many other Men of Rohan and Gondor.

Names & Etymology:
The name Grimbold is composed of the Old English word grim meaning "fierce" and the word bold.

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Ride of the Rohirrim," p. 111; "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 124-25
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 355-66, 368-36

Guthláf

But then the Lord of the Nazgul descended on the field mounted on a Fell Beast. Theoden was slain and Guthlaf was also killed. The banner was given to Eomer, the new king. The bodies of Guthlaf and the other slain Riders were set apart from their foes and their spears were planted around them until they could be removed from the battlefield. Guthlaf was buried in the Mounds of Mundburg with other Men of Rohan and Gondor who were slain in the battle. His name was remembered in song in Rohan.

Names & Etymology:
The word guð means "battle, war" in Old English. The word láf is interpreted with various meanings including "remnant, survivor, legacy, heirloom, sword." Thus, Guthláf may, ironically, mean "battle survivor."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Ride of the Rohirrim," p. 112; "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 114-15, 118-20. 124-25
A Tolkien Dictionary by Robert Ireland
Old English
The Riddle of the Remnant: The Solving of Laf by Phyllis Portnoy

Haleth

Since both Haleth and his brother Hama were killed during the invasion, the First Line of Kings of Rohan ended and Frealaf became the first of the Second Line of Kings.

Names & Etymology:
The name Haleth is from the Old English hæleþ meaning "man, hero, fighter." (Note that there was also a woman of the Edain named Haleth whose name had a different meaning in their language.)

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 347-49
Old English

Aragorn was reluctant to part with Anduril, but Hama said that it was the will of King Theoden and that Aragorn must put aside his sword or fight with all the Men of Edoras. At last, Aragorn agreed but commanded Hama to prevent anyone from touching Anduril. The others left their weapons, but Gandalf kept his staff. Hama allowed this, saying:

"The staff in the hand of a wizard may be more than a prop for age. Yet in doubt a man of worth will trust to his own wisdom. I believe you are friends and folk worthy of honour, who have no evil purpose."
The Two Towers: "The King of the Golden Hall," p. 116

Hama was then sent to retrieve Theoden's own sword Herugrim from Grima and to bring the traitorous counsellor before the King. Grima was reluctant to give Hama the keys to the chest where Herugrim was stored, and when Hama opened it he found many other stolen items besides the sword. Two guards escorted Grima to Theoden and Hama knelt and presented the King with Herugrim.

When Theoden led the Rohirrim forth from Edoras to battle, Hama suggested that Eowyn, the King's niece, be left in charge of the people who remained behind. Theoden agreed and told Eowyn to lead his people to the refuge of Dunharrow.

Hama accompanied King Theoden into battle. During the Battle of Helm's Deep on the night of March 3-4, Hama was killed while defending the Gate. The attackers hewed Hama's body after he was dead. Hama was buried in a solitary grave in the shadow of the Hornburg. Theoden himself cast the first earth upon Hama's grave.

Names & Etymology:
Háma is from hám meaning "home, dwelling" in Old English.

Hama's title was Doorward, or Doorwarden, meaning he guarded the doors of Meduseld. He was also a Captain of the King's Guard.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "The King of the Golden Hall," p. 114-16, 120-23, 128; "The Road to Isengard," p. 150-51; "The Voice of Saruman," p. 185

Háma, son of Helm

Helm was deeply grieved and he often went out alone and killed many Dunlendings until he froze to death. Haleth had also died during the invasion, so the First Line of Kings ended with Helm. Helm's nephew Frealaf succeeded him, beginning the Second Line of Kings.

Names & Etymology:
Háma is from hám meaning "home, dwelling" in Old English.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 347-49
Old English

Harding

Names & Etymology:
The name Harding means "son of the bold one" from the Old English heard meaning "bold, hardy" and the ending -ing denoting "son of."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125
Old English

Herefara

Names & Etymology:
The name Herefara is composed of the Old English herë meaning "host, army" and faran meaning "travel, wander."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125
Old English

Herubrand

Names & Etymology:
The name Herubrand means "flaming sword in Old English from heoru meaning "sword" and brand meaning "flame."

Sources:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125
Old English

Hild

Names & Etymology:
The name Hild is from the Old English meaning "war, combat."

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 348
Old English

Horn

Source:
The Return of the King: "The Battle of the Pelennor Fields," p. 125

Morwen Steelsheen

In 3014, King Theoden began to fall under the influence of his counsellor Grima Wormtongue, who was secretly in the service of Saruman. Grima tried to turn Theodred and Eomer against the King and against each other, but they remained loyal and steadfast. Saurman therefore decided that Theodred had to be eliminated because the King's son posed a threat to his plan to conquer Rohan.

Theodred was the Second Marshal of the Mark. He was stationed at Helm's Deep. He was responsible for the defense the western frontier and the Gap of Rohan, where Saruman dwelled in Isengard. After King Theoden became ill and ceased issuing orders, Theodred took it upon himself to assume command of Rohan's forces and organize the defenses. He realized that Saruman was planning to invade Rohan, so in February of 3019 he summoned reinforcements from Edoras led by Elfhelm.

Theodred's scouts had reported that troops were mustering at the gates of Isengard. On February 25, Theodred led his forces across the River Isen to meet them, but Saruman's army was larger than he expected, and Theodred was forced to retreat to the Fords of Isen.

At the First Battle of the Fords of Isen, Theodred and his eored manned a small island in the middle of the Fords, while Grimbold held the west bank and the main force of the Rohirrim crossed to the eastern shore. Saruman's forces attacked Theodred's position relentlessly, while elsewhere the Rohirrim were prevented from coming to his aid. It later became apparent that Saruman had given orders that the Theodred must be slain at all costs.

Grimbold managed to reach the island, but he was too late. Theodred was struck down by a huge assailant who appeared to be part-Man, part-Orc. Grimbold slew him and defended his fallen commander. Elfhelm's reinforcements finally arrived and defeated the attackers. The rest of Saruman's forces withdrew since their main objective of eliminating Theodred had been achieved.

Before he died, Theodred said to Grimbold and Elfhelm: "Let me lie here - to keep the Fords till Eomer comes!" (UT, p. 359) Theodred was buried with his fallen men on the island in the Fords of Isen. Their spears were planted in a circle around them, and Theodred's banner flew atop the burial mound.

King Theoden was left without an heir. He later named his nephew Eomer his successor, and when Theoden died at the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, Eomer became King of Rohan.

Names & Etymology:
The name Theodred is composed of the Old English words ðeod meaning "nation, people" and ræd meaning "advice, counsel, wisdom."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Theodred see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
The Two Towers: "The King of the Golden Hall," p. 117, 127; "Helm's Deep," p. 132; "The Road to Isengard," p. 156-57; "The Voice of Saruman," p. 185
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 351
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen," p. 355-61, 364-65, 367-69
Old English

Théodwyn

Theodwyn married Eomund of Eastfold in 2989. They had two children: Eomer, born in 2991, and Eowyn, born in 2995. The family lived at Aldburg in the Folde. Eomund was the chief Marshal of the Mark responsible for the eastern marches. In 3002, Eomund was slain by Orcs. Soon afterward, Theodwyn became ill and died. Her brother King Theoden took Eomer and Eowyn into his home and raised them as his own.

Names & Etymology:
Théodwyn means "People's Joy" from the Old English ðeod meaning "people, nation" and wynn or wyn meaning "joy, delight."

Genealogy:
For the family tree of Theodwyn see Eomer: Genealogy.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 350-51
Unfinished Tales: "The Battles of the Fords of Isen - Appendix" p. 357 (footnote)
Bright's Old English Glossary

Wídfara

Widfara sensed a change in the air and a faint Sea breeze from the South. He told King Theoden that the morning would bring new things. Theoden replied, "If you speak truly, Widfara, then may you live beyond this day in years of blessedness!" (RotK, p. 110) The next day during the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, the tide was turned when Aragorn arrived from the South in the ships of the Corsairs.

Names & Etymology:
In Old English, wíd means "wide, vast, broad, long" and wíde means "widely, far and wide." The word faran means "travel, wander." Wídfara may mean something like "far traveller" or "wide wanderer."

Source:
The Return of the King: "The Ride of the Rohirrim," p. 110-111
Old English

---

Éomund

Names & Etymology:
The name Éomund is composed of the Old English eoh meaning "horse" and mund meaning "guardian, protector."

Sources:
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 302, 305; Index, p. 435
Old English

Forthwini

Forthwini succeeded his father as the leader of the Eotheod sometime in the 1900s. During his reign, the Wainriders made frequent raids on the lands of the Eotheod, coming through Mirkwood and up the Anduin. Forthwini warned King Ondoher of Gondor that the Wainriders who occupied the Eotheod's former lands in Rhovanion were regrouping and might be receiving reinforcements from Rhun.

In 1944, the Wainriders attacked Gondor on two fronts. The Eotheod fought with Ondoher and the Northern Army of Gondor but the Wainriders defeated them. Ondoher was killed as was his son Faramir, who had joined the Eotheod in disguise. The Wainriders were later defeated by Earnil in the Battle of the Camp.

Note:
In the story related in Unfinished Tales the leader of the Eotheod during the battle with the Wainriders had an indecipherable name beginning with Marh- (UT, p. 294). It's not clear whether this was a military leader or whether Forthwini had been succeeded as leader of the Eotheod by the time the fighting began.

Names & Etymology:
The name Forthwini appears to contain the word forð meaning "forward, onward" in Old English along with the ending wini from wine meaning "friend, protector, lord" but this translation is uncertain. The name may be of Gothic origin.

Source:
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 291, 294, 311 note 6
Old English

Fram

A great Dragon called Scatha lived in the Grey Mountains. Fram slew Scatha and freed the Eotheod from the threat of Dragons. Fram claimed Scatha's hoard which included many treasures such as the Horn of the Mark.

The Dwarves disputed Fram's claim because they believed the treasure had originally belonged to them. Fram refused to give the Dwarves even a share of the treasure. Instead he sent them a necklace made of Scatha's teeth, saying: "Jewels such as these you will not match in your treasuries, for they are hard to come by." (App. A of LotR, p. 346) The Dwarves were insulted and it is said that they killed Fram.

Names & Etymology:
The name Fram means "strenuous, active, bold, strong" in Old English.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 345-36
Old English

Frumgar

The Eotheod migrated to the north after they learned of the defeat of the Witch-king of Angmar. The Witch-king's realm had mainly been west of the Misty Mountains, but it had extended to the eastern side as well, and the Eotheod drove out the remnants of the Witch-king's forces. The new land of the Eotheod was between the Misty Mountains and the Forest River north of the confluence of the Greylin and Langwell which formed the Anduin.

Frumgar had a son named Fram who slew Scatha the Worm.

Names & Etymology:
The name Frumgar means "leader, patriarch, chieftain, noble" in Old English.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 344-46
Appendix B of The Lord of the Rings: "The Tale of Years," p. 367
Old English

Léod

Leod was a tamer of wild horses. He captured a wild white foal which grew to become a great horse. Around 2501, Leod tried to mount the horse but the horse bolted and threw him. Leod struck his head on a rock and died. He was 42 years old at the time.

Leod was succeeded by his 16-year-old son Eorl. Eorl recaptured the horse, which he named Felarof. Felarof became Eorl's steed and was the ancestor of the breed known as the mearas.

In 2510, Eorl led his people to the aid of Gondor at the Battle of the Field of Celebrant and was given the land of Rohan as a reward.

Names & Etymology:
The name Léod means "man" and "chief, prince, king" in Old English.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "The House of Eorl," p. 344-46
Old English

Marhwini

The Wainriders occupied the Northmen's lands and many of the Northmen were enslaved. Marhwini escaped with some of his people and led them to live west of Mirkwood in the Vales of the Anduin. They settled between the Carrock and the Gladden and became known as the Eotheod, or "horse people."

In 1899, Marhwini learned that the Wainriders were planning to invade Calenardhon - a province of Gondor west of the Anduin. He also learned that the enslaved Northmen were planning to take advantage of the Wainriders' absence by staging a rebellion. Marhwini informed King Calimehtar of Gondor who led an army to Dagorlad to meet the Wainriders. Marhwini and the Eotheod attacked the Wainriders from the flank and rear and the Wainriders were defeated.

The Eotheod pursued the surviving Wainriders eastward hoping to drive them away from the Northmen's lands and back to Rhun. But the rebellion of the Northmen had failed and most had been killed by the women, youths, and old men of the Wainriders who had remained in their homesteads. Although the Wainriders had been greatly weakened, Marwhini did not reoccupy his former lands but instead returned to the Vales of the Anduin.

Marhwini was succeeded by his son Forthwini who later assisted King Ondoher of Gondor in another war against the Wainriders. The alliance of the Eotheod and Gondor was also remembered centuries later in 2510 when Cirion, Steward of Gondor, sought the help of Eorl the Young at the Battle of the Field of Celebrant.

Names & Etymology:
The name Marhwini means "horse friend" from the Gothic marh meaning "horse" and wini meaning "friend."

Sources:
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 289-291, 311 note 6

Marhari

In 1851 of the Third Age, a group of Men called the Wainriders from the East began to invade the lands of the Northmen on their way to attacking Gondor. Marhari joined forces with King Narmacil II of Gondor to fight the Wainriders. In 1856, they fought the Battle of the Plains south of Mirkwood. The Wainriders were victorious and King Narmacil II was killed. Marhari was also killed while fighting in the rearguard during the retreat, but his actions allowed much of Gondor's army to escape.

Marhari was succeeded by his son Marhwini, who gathered some of the surviving Northmen and settled in the Vales of the Anduin. They became known as the Eotheod and were the ancestors of the Rohirrim.

Names & Etymology:
The name Marhari includes the Gothic word marh meaning "horse."

Sources:
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 289, 311 notes 5, 6 and 8

Vidugavia

The lands of the Northmen bordered on Rhun where the Easterlings lived. The Easterlings were enemies of Gondor. Some of the leaders of the Northmen sided with the Easterlings in order to gain power or wealth for themselves, but Vidugavia allied himself with Gondor. In 1248, Vidugavia helped Gondor defeat an army of Easterlings and gained the favor of Gondor's regent Romendacil.

Romendacil sent his son Valacar to be an ambassador at Vidugavia's court in 1250. Valacar married Vidugavia's daughter Vidumavi and they had a son named Eldacar in 1255. Some Men of Gondor opposed their marriage because they did not want the future King of Gondor to be of mixed blood. When Eldacar became King in 1432 the civil war of the Kin-strife began.

Names & Etymology:
The name Vidugavia is derived from the Gothic Widugauja meaning "wood dweller." Vidugavia used the title King of Rhovanion although his realm did not cover all of Rhovanion, or Wilderland.

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "Gondor and the Heirs of Anarion," p. 326-27
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 288, 311 note 6
The History of Middle-earth, vol. XII, The Peoples of Middle-earth: "The Making of Appendix A," p. 259-60

Vidumavi

In 1260, Valacar returned to Gondor with Vidumavi and their children. Vidumavi adapted herself to the customs of Gondor. She learned the language and manners of her new people and she taught her children well. She also took the name Galadwen, which was a translation of her name into Sindarin. Vidumavi was fair, noble, and courageous and she was welcomed and well-liked by those who knew her.

Nevertheless, there were some people in Gondor who were opposed to Vidumavi's marriage to Valacar. They believed the Northmen to be inferior, and they thought that Eldacar was not fit to be King of Gondor because he was of mixed blood. They also feared that the lifespans of Eldacar and his descendants would decrease because the Northmen had shorter lives than the Men of Gondor.

Vidumavi died in either 1332 or 1344. Although her age at the time of her death is not known, it was said that she had a long life for one of the Northmen. Assuming she was at least 18 at the time of her marriage, she appears to have been at least 100 years old when she died. Her husband Valacar survived her and became King of Gondor in 1366.

When Eldacar became King in 1432, the civil war of the Kin-strife broke out in Gondor. The rebels opposed Eldacar's mixed heritage, and one named Castamir usurped the throne of Gondor in 1437. Eldacar reclaimed the throne in 1447, but the war was costly and the lives of many Men of Gondor were lost.

Eldacar lived to the age of 235. His lifespan was apparently unaffected by his mother's lineage. The lifespans of the Men of Gondor did eventually decrease, but this owed more to the fact that the gift of long life granted to their ancestors in Numenor was fading now that they dwelled in Middle-earth.

Names & Etymology:
The name Vidumavi means "wood maiden" in the language of the Northmen. It is derived from Widumawi in Gothic - an ancient Germanic language. Vidumavi took the Sindarin name Galadwen which also means "wood maiden" from galadh meaning "tree" and wen meaning "maiden."

Sources:
Appendix A of The Lord of the Rings: "Gondor and the Heirs of Anarion," p. 326-28
Unfinished Tales: "Cirion and Eorl," p. 311 notes 5 and 6
The History of Middle-earth, vol. V, The Lost Road and Other Writings: "The Etymologies," entries for GALAD and WEN
The History of Middle-earth, vol. XII, The Peoples of Middle-earth: "The Heirs of Elendil," p. 198-99, 213-14; "The Making of Appendix A," p. 259-61

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