Places with a story
Saltdal bygdetun
Saltdal bygdetun preserves the former Skippergården at Saltnes, a place where valley farming met coastal trade. Original merchant buildings and houses brought from elsewhere in Saltdal reveal the district’s connections across mountains, fjords and the northern fishing grounds.
The place1
The main house belonged to the Ellingsen trading family’s headquarters from 1751 to 1899. It and the nearest storehouse survive from Saltnes’s trading period. Other buildings were relocated from Rognan’s shore, mountain farms, southern settlements and Dverset, so their different origins matter when reading the museum yard.
History and local connections1
Saltnes developed around trade, a church and shipping. Sámi traders travelled from Arvidsjaur in Sweden with goods including reindeer products, silver and birch bark, returning with cloth, coffee and other supplies. Local farmers also bought provisions and equipment for the Lofoten fisheries. The municipality acquired the property in 1975, and it became a museum in 1977.
What to look for12
A guided visit connects Skippergården’s business history with boats, Myrlandstua and the former school from Dverset. The houses offer contrasting perspectives on domestic life, education and work. Blodveimuseet occupies the same site but presents a separate subject, the wartime history associated with forced labour.
Planning a visit12
The museum is at Tunvegen 1 on Saltnes, about two kilometres north of Rognan. Nordland Museum provides current seasonal information and advance-booked tours outside regular opening. The historic houses have not been adapted for all mobility needs, so ask about access before visiting. Confirm tour language and availability through the museum’s booking service.
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