The Norway Building

Experience the incredible story of the stave church model from 1893


The Norway Building was Norway’s contribution to the 1893 Chicago World`s Fair. The pavilion was produced using the “prefabrication method,” pioneered by M. Thams & Co here in Orkanger, and transported to America by ships departing from Orkedalsøren. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey for the pavilion, which, after 123 years in the USA, returned to Orkanger with the help of the enthusiasts behind “Project Heimatt.”

In 1893, the director of M. Thams & Co was Christian Thams. He was also the man who designed, constructed, and resided at Bårdshaug Herregård. The Norway Building and Bårdshaug Herregård share a common history, and today they are situated opposite each other on the Bårdshaug plateau.

Today The Norway Building stands as a monument to Norway’s stave church history and Orklands woodcarving tradition and industrial history. Above all, it stands as a testament to hard work and collaboration.

Experience The Norway Building during your visit to Bårdshaug Herregård. A guide will take you inside the pavilion and share its extraordinary and inspiring story.

We can also offer an aperitif with storytelling in The Norway Building before dinner at the historical manor here at Bårdshaug Herregård.

  • 10-40 people
  • Duration 1 hour (can be adjusted)

Price upon request.