Moss

Moss lies on the eastern shore of the Oslofjord, where the Moss River descends to a harbour close to the sea. Its waterfall, surrounding forests and access to shipping encouraged industry. Moss Ironworks was founded in 1704 and began production in 1707, using water power, charcoal and a blast furnace. It supplied cannon and other military goods as well as household wares such as stoves, pots, nails and tools for the surrounding district.

The works' main building, completed in 1778, became the setting for a momentous agreement. In August 1814 Norwegian and Swedish representatives negotiated the Convention of Moss there, ending their short war. The agreement opened the way to a union with Sweden while preserving Norway's constitution, with amendments needed for the union.