It is located along the Vågsfjorden on the island of Hinnøya about 17 kilometres (11 mi) south of the town of Harstad Its population (2001) is about 451.

The museum was founded in June 1953, and consists of several log buildings moved from various locations near Harstad Municipality.

The museum is a great opportunity to experience and view the average Norwegian home and lifestyle in the beginning of this century and earlier.

The main population of fish consists of trout, Arctic char, and some freshwater eel (Anguillidae).

Examples are Cat Eye (who will soon sign their first record with a German company), Flame Thrower (who won Norway's biggest amateur rock-contest Rock Mot Rus in 2005), Eternal Silence, and Monkey Business.