Home / Arts and Entertainment / Tolkien's 'Orthanc'? Historic Folly Tower Seeks £50K to Save Bricks
Tolkien's 'Orthanc'? Historic Folly Tower Seeks £50K to Save Bricks
28 May
Summary
- Faringdon Folly, built in 1935, requires essential repairs due to weather damage.
- The landmark needs £50,000 more funding after raising £370,000 for renovations.
- The folly is rumored to have inspired JRR Tolkien's Saruman's Tower, Orthanc.
Faringdon Folly, a distinctive building originally constructed in 1935, is currently undergoing essential repairs aimed at fixing leaks and erosion caused by adverse weather conditions. These 16-week renovations to the brickwork commenced on April 9th and are scheduled for completion at the end of July.
The Folly Tower & Woodland Trust has successfully raised £370,000 towards the estimated £420,000 cost. They are now seeking an additional £50,000 from the community to cover the remaining expenses.
Built by the eccentric aristocrat Lord Berners, the folly is considered one of the last major extravagances of its kind in the UK. Research suggests a connection to JRR Tolkien's works, with speculation that it served as the inspiration for Saruman's Tower of Orthanc.
"Prevailing winds and lashing rain constantly batter the brickwork, leading to mortar erosion and water ingress," stated the trust. Over 8,000 of the approximately 40,000 external bricks require repointing. The trust emphasizes that these are crucial repairs to prevent further deterioration and preserve this iconic regional landmark for future generations.
