Buskerud

Buskerud was a county in Norway, located in the eastern part of the country, part of the Viken region. It bordered the counties of Akershus, Oslo, Oppland, Sogn og Fjordane, Hordaland, Telemark, and Vestfold. The county was known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from coastal areas along the Oslofjord to mountainous terrains in the north. The administrative center of Buskerud was the city of Drammen, which is known for its vibrant cultural scene and history as a significant Norwegian trading port.

History

The history of Buskerud can be traced back to the old formannskapsdistrikt law in 1837, which laid the groundwork for local government in Norway. The name "Buskerud" originated from the old Buskerud farm (Old Norse: Biskupsruð) in Modum, where the first known county governor resided. Over the years, Buskerud developed into an important agricultural and industrial region, with significant activities within forestry, mining, and textile manufacturing.

Geography

Buskerud's geography was characterized by its varied landscape. The county encompassed parts of the Scandes mountain range, including areas of the well-known Hardangervidda plateau and Hallingskarvet National Park. The Numedalslågen, one of Norway's longest rivers, flowed through the county, providing vital resources for the region's timber and hydroelectric power industries. Additionally, Buskerud was home to several large lakes, including Tyrifjorden and Krøderen, which were popular recreational areas.

Economy

The economy of Buskerud was diverse, with strong sectors in agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The region was particularly noted for its production of timber and hydroelectric power, thanks to its extensive forest resources and numerous rivers and streams. Manufacturing industries in Buskerud included metalworking, food processing, and textiles, with many factories located in and around Drammen. Tourism also played a significant role in the local economy, with attractions such as winter sports facilities in Geilo and Hemsedal, and the historic Silver Mines in Kongsberg.

Culture

Buskerud had a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals. The Kongsberg Jazz Festival and the Drammen Theatre were among the key cultural institutions in the county. Traditional crafts, such as silverwork from Kongsberg and glasswork from Hadeland, were also significant aspects of Buskerud's cultural identity. The county was known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine, with local specialties including game and fish dishes.

Administration

The county was administered by the Buskerud County Municipality, which was responsible for secondary education, transport and economic development, cultural affairs, and management of county roads. Municipalities within Buskerud were responsible for primary education, health services, senior citizen services, and various social services.

Transition

In 2020, Buskerud merged with Akershus and Østfold counties to form the new Viken county, as part of a nationwide municipal reform in Norway. This reform aimed to streamline local government by reducing the number of counties in Norway.