The Holtanstugo farmhouse was moved from the farm Nordisugu over Holtan in 1900s. The house measures 5 by 5 metres and is divided into two rooms: living room and kove (See The Miller Son's Cottage). The farm Øvre Holtan was a local centre of a lay low-church movement in the 19th century and it is quite possible that meetings have been held herre. Mr Torstein Torstensson owned the farm from 1883 and was a prominent member of the movement. Reports about him say that:

"he never spoke the Word of God in congregations but took part therein by prayers. He had the gift of leadership and abounding in experience as well as in Christian wisdom. As he was quite well-off he discretely supported the needy of our community as well as visiting brethren - who worked unpaid - with clothing and money whenever necessary. He was regarded as a spiritual patriarch and by everyone held in highest affection, esteem and reverence."
(From: Sauherad Municipality: Local History Vol. III Farms and families)



The interior is decorated by traditional Norwegian rose painting (i.e. decorative floral painting) done by the well-known artist Mr Olav Hansson. He lived in Telemark between 1750 and 1820. His style is hallmarked by exuberant rococco elements interspersed with roses and acanthus vines as well as naively painted naturalistic scenes depicting people working, hunting, brawling, dancing and the like. Mr Hansson is one of the foremost representatives of this art form and his works are highly valued.

The Framøytangen is a small idyllic farmyard with cottage, storehouse, cockhouse and barn. Formerly this was a cotter's farm belonging to the Evju farm. A site near the farmyard served as a loading point for ironing coming to and from the Hørteverket in the 18th century.





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