Ah that brings back memories! Lol I had one of those in my smaller elven city for ages.
I think it's just part of the Elvenar story, you would have to find an original player from Beta 2/test server, and they are pretty scarce, to ask.
There is always a Q&A with a new event; sadly they seem to be hosted by newer hires, but if you ask your question there, the social media coordinator may track down an answer for you.
I would say, watch sharp for this event on September 8 or 9th.