[1] Originally the two halves of Muskö were separated by a natural sound, but post-glacial rebound had rendered this route unusable by the early 1700s.

The first artificial canal was constructed in 1719 by the Russians as part of their campaign of raids at that time.

Over time and with the land continuing to rise, the first canal became less usable and eventually, by the start of the 20th century, it had disappeared.

[1][2] In the 1930s the local fishermen proposed that the canal be re-excavated, as it would save them an hours voyage between their fishing grounds and market.

As built, a hand-operated bascule bridge was provided to carry the road between the two halves of the island, but this proved difficult to operate and was fixed in position.