1858 Norwegian Paper Machine

This is reported to be the oldest photo from the Norwegian paper industry. Taken in 1860, it shows the second paper machine in Norway. The machine was built in 1858 at Alvøens Papirfabrik near
Bergen in western Norway. It was 1,5 meters (59") wide and was built by Gottschald, Nötzel & Steiner of Gremma, Germany. 

The photo appears to be from the dryer section looking towards the wet end. Note the bell hanging from the wall on the left of the photo. It was probably used to signal shift changes and other activities.

n 1931 this machine was replaced by a new one of about the same width from Escher-Wyss of Ravensburg, Germany. The 1931 machine was shut down in 1981, and is today rebuilt at the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology.

Photo reproduced from a book titled "The History of The Norwegian Paper Industry."

Paper History Channel
Story contributed by: Øyvind Haugen.
January, 12th, 2000.