FACTS
Arboga–Jädersbruk
Arboga officially became a town in the 13th century, but many of the buildings in the area are believed to have existed from the 900s. The name (in Arbugæ 1286) contains the genitive form of the old Swedish “å” and bughi, “bow”, “bend” or one word arbughi “travelbend”. In 1435 Arboga a parliamentary sitting was held, traditionally considered to be Sweden’s first Riksdag (parliament). Engelbrekt Engelbrektsson was, at this meeting, appointed commander of the national forces, a title he kept until he was assassinated in 1436. Arboga is also famous for its traditional Arboga beer that since medieval times was known for its uncommon strength.
Much of the iron that was produced in the Bergslagen area was taken to the port of Arboga, and then shipped on to Stockholm for further transport to international customers. By the falls in Jäder, just outside Arboga, King Gustav Vasa set up the first arms manufactory “Arboga faktori, Jäders Bruk”. An ironworks flourished into the 20th century. Today there are still manor houses and workers houses reminiscent of past grandeur, beautifully situated by the Arboga river. The first mention of Jäder in the parish of Arboga is in 1329 when Birger Röriksson leaves his mill in Jäder äs a pledge for the completion of his testament.
Today it is art and art-handicrafts in glass and clay that draw visitors to Jädersbruk. Here Gösta Grähs and Kerstin Hörnlund have their ceramic workshops and kilns. Their son Paul and Elisabeth Henriksson have built up their glass smelting-house next door. In the shop and the sculpture park that lies around the old house, that is named Museum, there are many beautiful artefacts to admire. Nature also contributes generously, with the Arboga river running close to the house and sculpture park.