Hamrånge

Hamrånge lies on the coast of northern Gästrikland, where farms and fishing places adjoin extensive forest. In 1671 the Axmar ironworks received its privileges beside a stream with access to woodland for charcoal and a harbour for transport. The works drew skilled smiths, including people of Walloon origin. In 1721 Russian troops landed in the parish and burned much of the district during the final phase of the Great Northern War; the church was plundered but spared the flames.