In the begining there were men with sticks and boards. They fought for the West and did wave their sticks and boards in a most frightening manner. Then from this pack of brave and noble men did come Duramen; and it was good.

From this did come two brave brothers; the first of which was Strider. And Strider gathered from all parts of the West people whose hearts were as pure as Duramen and he did call this group of people, House Persistent.

Then did Strider ride north until the West became An Tir and the sting of the burning sun beat down on his back no more. Rain fell to quench the thirst of his men and wash the blood clean from there hands. There did his mighty household thrive and prosper.