Markebygdene – the Sami field settlements

The rural field settlements in the northern part of Nordland and Southern-Troms are located in the forest and mountain areas 2-10 km from the seaside. This type of settlement can be traced back to the 8th century, and it was already then a vibrant Sami agricultural and reindeer herding area. Reindeer herding was important, especially for the early settlement. The areas around the field settlements were part of summer grazing for the reindeer-herding Samis who moved with reindeer between Norway and Sweden, but also for the reindeer-herding Samis who lived on the Norwegian side all year round.

From the middle of the 18th century, the field settlements became more permanent. The inhabitants emphasized agriculture and fishing to a greater extent, but reindeer husbandry was still an important means of livelihood for many. The combination of reindeer husbandry, agriculture, sea fishing and harvesting nature made room for a good life, and more livelihood options in difficult times.

Right up until the 1920s, the farms consisted of traditional Sami houses (gamme). Eventually, there was a smooth transition to more modern housing types. Based on the traditional houses and barns, a farm was run which included livestock keeping with a number of different animals. Sheep, goats, and cows were the most common. It was common to have a small growing field and hayfield near the farms, where animal fodder, grain and vegetables were produced for the household.