Exciting autumn with theme evenings and tours.

In October and November 2025, Rauland invited history groups to two exciting, but different theme evenings.

On October 21st there was a film screening of We are building a community center, about the construction of Rauland community center, also known as Raulanshuset, in the 1950s. In addition, Birger Kjellingtveit showed pictures and told about the road to the community center being built in 1954. Many people turned up to watch a film, see older relatives and friends, and hear about the history of the community center that many have a close relationship with.

On November 18th, there was a more international theme, when Vetle Hylland Olsnes told the exciting story of his great-uncle, Sveinung Aanondson Olsnes (1866-1955), who was one of many who emigrated to America in the 1800th century. Sveinung was 20 when he left, and had a fulfilling life as a farmer, businessman and politician. You can also read more about Sveinung in the Vinje Historlelag's annual from 2025.

2025 marked the 200th anniversary of the start of emigration from Norway to America, and in conjunction with the theme evening, the Local History Archive had created an exhibition about the emigration and the history of several of the locals who emigrated to the United States, including several letters.

Trip to the Defense Museum in Vinje

It wasn't just theme nights this fall. On Wednesday, October 22, the history team also went on a trip to the defense museum in Vinje. As usual, it was an exciting tour and historical information.