The museum has special knowledge about the history of textiles and costumes and the fabric of origin. It is a meeting point for those with an interest in local history, or textiles and local fabrics. The tradition of weaving is kept alive and renewed through active collaboration with researchers, artists and designers.
Osterøy Museum was founded in 1920, and was for a long time run by volunteers in the local community. The museum still has strong local roots, and collaborates closely with local groups and organizations and an active group of friends.
Cultural trail – "2000 years in 60 minutes"
We have a marked hiking trail where you can follow the same paths that people walked on 2000 years ago! In the landscape around Gjerstad, you can find many traces of journeys and burials from prehistoric times. The path starts at Gjerstad church and goes through the cultural landscape with a view over Gjerstad and the surrounding villages.
The museum offers
• coffee and home baked goods
• tours at fixed times during the summer season
• summer exhibitions
• lectures
• summer activities for children
• various cultural programs throughout the year