Bentse Brug - Norway's first paper mill

Bentse Brug - Norway's first paper mill

Black and white photograph from 1901 by Bentse Brug in Oslo
Photo: Anders Beer Wilse / Oslo City Archives.

Did you know that Norway's first paper mill was located by the Akerselva river? Join us in the story of Ole Bentsen, the man who gave the name to the Bentse Bridge, and his ambitious attempt to establish paper production in Norway. It will be an exciting story about ingenuity and courage, but also about disappointments and betrayals.

Black and white photograph from 1901 by Bentse Brug in Oslo
Photo: Anders Beer Wilse / Oslo City Archives.

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Bentse Brug - Norway's first paper mill

How was paper actually made in the 1600s, and what did it take to get a paper mill in operation? Through letters and historical documents, researchers have managed to reconstruct the story of Ole Bentsen and Norway's first paper mill, which was located approximately where the Beentse Bridge is today. 
 
We hear about both the technology, the people and the challenges behind a pioneering project characterized by courage and willingness to work, but also disappointments and betrayals. 
 
As usual, a simple lunch will be served in connection with the event and there will be a good opportunity to have a chat with new and old well-known NITO pensioners.
 
Welcome to a social and educational gathering with an exciting look back at Norwegian technology and industrial history. 
 

Program

Welcome
Lecture on Bentse Brug - Norway's first paper mill
Kari Greve is a paper conservator and art historian. She was employed at the National Museum until January 2026, when she retired. She is the head of the Nordic Paper History Association and takes you through the exciting history.
Serving food
As usual, a warming soup with bread is served, as well as coffee and cake for dessert.
The event is over
Thank you for now and have a good trip home.