diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ceeb214
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+# heka-riemann-encoder
+
+This is an encoder plugin for [heka](https://github.com/mozilla-services/heka) that allows heka to forward events to [Riemann](http://riemann.io). This allows users to leverage the existing TCP output plugin (and TLS support) provided by heka.
+
+## Credits
+
+The general gist of riemann communication was based off of [raidman](https://github.com/amir/raidman).