This was an unexpected gem experienced near the end of our Voyage of the Midnight Sun cruise through Norwegian fjords and across the Arctic Circle. The fortunate few of us who went on this shore excursion were transported back to the 1840s, situated near the harbor in an old timber building that was packed with artifacts from rural Skudeneshavn during the period where herring fishing flourished here, including fishing nets, a small boat, and a fish holding tank made of wood; a dentist's chair; a cobbler's shop; an intact furnished living room and bedrooms; many maritime objects; and all manner of appliances, such as primitive washing machines of the 1800s where rollers were a prominent feature. It was as if time stood still inside this building, and transported us to a faraway time and place.
The tour was self-guided and unrushed, up and down via creaky staircases through several rooms filled with exhibits. Well-informed and helpful guides were available to answer questions. If in the vicinity of Skudeneshavn, I highly recommend visiting this museum. read more