History
Grimstad’s low-key atmosphere, peacefulness and charm belie its past importance: between 1865 and 1885 it was one of the greatest shipbuilding centres in the world. The oak forests that grew on the surrounding hillsides were chopped down and sawn into timbers to supply the booming industry; at one point the town had 40 shipyards and 90 ships were under construction simultaneously.
During the same period, a land shortage caused local farmers to turn to fishing and many an inland farm homestead doubled as a shipbuilding workshop. By 1875 Grimstad had a home fleet of 193 boats.
Grimstad
Things to do
- Entertainment (1)
- Restaurants (6)
- Sights (3)
