Farmland

Farmland is a facility of universal presence in any 6-mile hex that's inhabited, specifically of types-7 through -1. Most often, these farms are rectangular in form, with open or closed yards, surrounding or within walking distance of the house proper. This is true whether or not the farmer and family owns the land, or if, as in the case of estate farming, the designated farmland of a serf or peasant is laid out in lots side by side with those of other families. Farmland in such cases is overseen by a Hayward, who carries the authority of the local squire or noble, but normally farms are managed by individual families.

Forms

Type-7 symbolised by 2-bread, producing 3 pts. of food (6800 lbs./pt. at 1,518 calories per lb.) over an area of 108 to 217 acres. This is typically divided into virgates of 30 acres each, though exact sizes vary. 2-3 persons may occupy a 15-acre or less Bovate. Acres have a 3:1 yield, with 35% of the resident's food originating through hunting, fishing, foraging and minimal stock raising. Farm population: 20-40. Total excess production: 8,640 lbs. per year.

Residents are unaffiliated peasants, or cotters, subject to tax farmers but not to a local noble or squire. Families dwell in 15 ft. square hovels, supported by unsheltered gong boxes located 60 ft. distant from house. Type-7 hexes with hammer upgrades this accommodation to a 20 ft. square daub & wattle house.

Type-7 hexes with settlements assign cotters as serfs, working as sharecroppers under a landlord. Settlements also increase the amount of food produced and number of residents (see type-5, below).

Type-6 Similar in food production and farm sizes to type-7 hexes, with individuals eating better quality food. Farm population 20-50. Excess production: 7,410 lbs. per year.

Residents are freeholders with land rights, paying taxes to the realm. Dwelling sizes vary around 500 sq.ft., made of daub & wattle, with ancillary cowshed, coop, pig pen and roofed outhouse surrounding a semi-enclosed yard.

Type-5 symbolised by 3-bread, producing 7 pts. of food. Additional food production due to increased number of farms and a higher rate of yield (3½:1), with a lesser dependence and access on or to foraging. Farm population: 50-100. Total excess production: 20,160 lbs. per year.

Residents are 30/70 freeholders and serfs, the latter subject to landholders and the occasional squire. Serfs dwell in hovels. Freeholder dwellings vary around 550-600 sq.ft., made of wood, mud & daub construction with tiled roofs; enclosed yards include 4-6 buildings, barn and sheds. Increased use of chamber pots among freeholders.

Type-5 hexes with settlements will usually include the freeholder's dwellings within or adjacent to the main hamlet.