Vestfoldarkivet, the Vestfold Archive, is located in the Pindsle area of Sandefjord and preserves historical documents, photographs and records from across Vestfold. Here you can explore how people lived and worked in the past, investigate the history of local businesses and organisations, or research the region's heritage. The reading room provides access to original archive material, reference books and guidance from archivists who can help you find the information you need.
Discover the stories hidden in the archives
What can old letters, meeting records, accounts and photographs reveal about life in Vestfold? Vestfoldarkivet preserves historical sources documenting the development of local communities, working life, businesses and organisations over generations.
The archive holds approximately 6,300 linear metres of material from companies, private individuals, associations and the former Vestfold County Municipality. Its collections include records relating to industrial history, shipping, whaling and the region's labour movement.
These resources are particularly useful for family history research, local history projects, academic studies and anyone interested in exploring the past through original documents.
From whaling and industry to everyday life
Vestfoldarkivet preserves records from many of the businesses and organisations that have shaped the region. The collections include material from shipping companies, whaling businesses, industrial enterprises, trade unions and other associations. These historical sources can help you understand how businesses developed, how people worked and how changes in society affected communities across Vestfold. If you are particularly interested in the region's whaling history, you can combine your research with a visit to the Whaling Museum in Sandefjord. Its exhibitions explore the history of whaling, the people involved and life in the Southern Ocean.
Research historical documents in the reading room
At the Vestfold Archive reading room, you can examine original records, search databases and catalogues, consult reference books and receive guidance from the archive staff. You can also request copies of archive documents.
Seating is limited, so visitors are encouraged to arrange an appointment and request materials in advance. This allows the archivists to prepare the documents before you arrive. First-time visitors must register and complete a user agreement. Some collections are subject to access restrictions for privacy or copyright reasons.
Explore the collections online
You can begin your research before visiting. Vestfoldarkivet publishes archive catalogues through Arkivportalen, a national service that helps users discover historical collections. Some documents have also been digitised and made available through Digitalarkivet and other online resources.
The catalogues are a useful starting point when looking for records connected to a particular company, organisation or historical event. However, catalogue descriptions do not necessarily mean the original documents are available to view online.
Plan your visit
Vestfoldarkivet is located at Hinderveien 10, 3223 Sandefjord, in the Pindsle business and industrial area. The reading room is open on Wednesdays from 9 am to 3 pm. On selected Wednesdays, extended opening hours are available until 7:30 pm. Specific dates are announced by the archive. Visitors are encouraged to book a place and request archive material in advance, as the reading room has limited capacity.
Contact the archive on +47 970 67 296, with telephone hours Monday to Friday from 9 am to 3 pm, or by email at vestfoldarkivet@vestfoldmuseene.no. Free parking is available outside the building. From Sandefjord railway station, the walk takes approximately 35–40 minutes. Local bus services also connect the station area with Pindsle.
There is no café on site, but visitors can bring food and eat in the foyer. Complimentary coffee and tea are available. Bags must be stored outside the reading room, while laptops and cameras are permitted.
Visit the Vestfold Archive website for current opening hours, reading room regulations and information about requesting archive materials.