Norðoya Fornminnissavn – The Northern Museum – was founded in 1968 and is housed in the charming old merchant house in Klaksvík, built in 1838 as a branch of the Danish monopoly trade in Tórshavn. Although the monopoly was abolished in 1856, the building remains untouched, carrying with it a wealth of fascinating history.

The museum features two spacious exhibition rooms. The first room showcases a variety of everyday items and tools from past centuries, offering a unique glimpse into life on the northern islands. Among the exhibits is an ancient slate grinding mill – an exceptional artifact that was still used to grind grain during World War II, despite its age. You’ll also find old photographs that capture the essence and history of the northern islands.

The second room, known as “The Chemistry Room”, was originally built as a draper’s shop in 1919, but from 1932 to 1961, it served as a chemistry lab. This room has been preserved in its original state, with shelves full of bottles, flasks, and various chemical tools from that era. As you step into this space, you’ll also notice 17 paintings adorning the beams of the ceiling – 11 by the local artist Eliesar Joensen, 4 by Jens Chr. Guttesen from Tórshavn, and 2 unsigned works, adding an artistic touch to the historical ambiance.

In addition to the museum itself, it owns several historical properties across the northern islands, including the abandoned village of Fossá, located north of Norðdepli, a storage building in Gerðum, Klaksvík, and a historic watermill in the village of Kunoy.