FRONNINGEN IN MODERN TIMES
Frønningen played a very important role at the end of World War 2, as the resistance group «Siskin» had their base there along with their weapon storage. Since the war, the population has seen a steady decline, and as of 2020 the village was left with 7 permanent residents.
The forestry and sawmill operations which constituted the economic basis of the traditional village throughout more than 400 years were no longer able to provide profitable jobs. In the 1990s some new businesses were started.
Frønningen Turistservice (Tourist Services) opened a restaurant and village store by the harbour in 1998, but since it has closed down.
In the 1990s some businesses within the mussel industry were also established, but these were not successful. The estate started up hunting lease, which has proved to be a success. Through his company (Frønningen Skog), the owner now wants to develop the estate within the tourism industry, offering low and high season activities.
In 2019 Freyja Vin made its home in the village with planting grape vines and planning to craft exceptional wines at 61 Degree North. This latest business aims to boost tourism, also provides opportunities to researchers in climate change.
Frønningen is a place of considerable historic interest as the home of the artist Knut Rumohr.
In this context some houses may be available for rent to artists on favourable terms. Frønningen Skog has also tried out production of timber for special purposes from the remaining old pine timber. This was considered a success, and gave valuable experience for further development.
Today Frønningen is the largest forest estate in Western Norway, with a collective area of 6000 hectares, of which approximately 5000 hectares are woodland. It is possible to pay a visit to the main house, museum buildings (collected by Knut Rumohr), or enjoy a guided vineyard tour. High-end private gatherings, parties or corporate, business meetings are available on request.
