Historie | Nyeskotfossbrug.com

History

Europe's largest factory

For over a century Skotfoss Brug has played a key role in Norway’s industrial and economic landscape

A century of industry and innovation

Founded in 1872, Skotfoss Brug grew to become one of Europe’s largest paper factories at the turn of the 20th century. It was home to the first electric railway in the Nordic region, and its paper products reached global markets, including the pages of The New York Times.

1872

Grunnleggelsen av skotfoss træsliberi

Waldemar Drewsen, owner of Bentse Brug in Kristiania, Waldemar Drewsen established a wood pulp mill at Skotfoss, to supply raw materials for paper production. By 1881, the mill produced 2,000 tons of pulp annually, marking the beginning of large-scale industry in the area.

1890 – 1892

Construction of the factory

Under Benjamin Sewell’s leadership, the small mill was replaced by an advanced facility with six paper machines, making it one of Europe’s largest paper factories at the time. The new factory became the flagship of Union Co., setting the stage for decades of industrial success.

1892

The first paper is produced

Skotfoss officially begins paper production, setting the stage for its rapid growth.

1892 – 1893

The first electric railway in the nordic region

Skotfoss Brug introduced the first electric railway in the Nordic region, revolutionizing the transport of raw materials and finished products within the factory. This innovation significantly improves efficiency and production capacity.

1896 – 1900

A growing industrial community

As the factory grows, so does the community. Schools, roads, and a church are established to support the expanding workforce. Skotfoss transforms into a thriving industrial village, deeply connected to the factory’s operations.

From early - 1900

Europe’s largest paper factory

In the early 1900s, Skotfoss Brug became one of Europe’s largest and most advanced paper mills, driving Norway’s industrial growth. With cutting-edge technology and a skilled workforce, production peaked at 30,000 tons annually, supplying paper worldwide, including The New York Times.

1986 – 1987

The factory closes: What’s next?

After more than a century of operations, Skotfoss Brug ceases production due to shifting market conditions and increasing competition. The closure marks the end of its industrial era, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and economic impact.

2005

A new chapter begins

In 2005, entrepreneur Svein Levi Sekse purchased Skotfoss Brug, ushering in a new phase for the historic site. He has since operated one of Norway’s largest antique stores within the old factory buildings, drawing visitors from across the country and giving new life to the space. Meanwhile parts of the former factory have been leased out to external businesses and ongoing efforts have been made to preserve and restore the historic buildings.

Today

A new ear

Skotfoss Brug is undergoing a transformation focused on sustainability and redevelopment. While preserving its historical architecture, the site is being repurposed for new business opportunities and cultural activities. By blending history, innovation, and preservation, Skotfoss Brug will preserve its unique character while being developed into a vibrant and dynamic community once again.

A symbol of lagacy and progress

The new logo of Nye Skotfoss Brug bridges history and modern innovation. Inspired by the logo of Union Paper Norway, which once symbolized Skotfoss’ industrial heart.

The logos share a visual connection - Union Paper's handshake represented trust and industry, while our redesign with open hands symbolizes protection, care and renewal. The new logo is a tribute to our history and vision for the future, ensuring that the legacy is passed on in a way that honors our ancestors.

A Pioneer in Norwegian Football

Ludvig Forvald

Ludvig Forvald played a crucial role in introducing football to Norway after being inspired by the sport during his time in England.

In 1894, he founded Odd Football Club, which is recognized as Norway’s oldest existing football club. Serving as the club’s first chairman, Forvald was instrumental in its early development. In 1906, he took the initiative to establish Norway’s first football district association, where he also served as chairman. To promote a standardized understanding of the game, he authored the booklet "Laws and Rules," along with a supplement titled "A Commentary on the Game."

At Skotfoss, Forvald worked as an office manager and lived in the grand Villa Forvald. He was a key figure in the local community and played a significant role in the development of sports. He built both a bowling alley and a tennis court, as well as a cricket field known as “Kroketten.” In 1916, he founded Skotfoss Turn & Athletics Association’s track and field division, and the well-known Forvald Race was held both during World War I and in the interwar period. He also established a tennis club at Skotfoss.

Forvald’s contributions to football and sports in Norway have earned him a place as one of the country’s most influential sports pioneers.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Skotfoss Brug has always been more than just an industrial site; it has been a place of innovation, development and community. As we look to the future, we will honor its legacy by carrying forward the values that shaped it, ensuring that it remains a place where people can continue to build a better future, just as it always has been.

Innovation & Growth

Skotfoss Brug has always been a place of progress, from Norway’s first electric railway to pioneering paper production methods. Now providing a space for forward-thinking companies and researchers, placing Skotfoss Brug at the forefront of testing and showcasing cutting-edge environmental solutions, driving the green transition forward.

Sustainable development

Skotfoss Brug has long been a symbol of ingenuity and growth.. Now, we are building on this rich legacy by restoring and repurposing historic structures into a modern, energy-efficient community. Through sustainable building practices and smart environmental solutions, we ensure that Skotfoss Brug continues to evolve - preserving its heritage while paving the way for a greener future.

A thriving community

Historically, Skotfoss Brug was more than a factory - it was the center of an entire community, where people lived, worked, and built their futures. As we redevelop the site, we are bringing back this sense of connection by creating a modern, sustainable neighborhood where people can live, work, and innovate in one place.