History of the Villa

In 1913, Stromness could accommodate 70 men. The housing and catering conditions reflected the organisational structure and work hierarchy of the shore station.

Manger Sørlle had his own house called ’The Villa’. It was a typical Norwegian style house with a living room, dining room, a kitchen, a bedroom and guest room.

In 1917, the inventory contained the following;

• 1 set of furniture – sofa, chaise lounge and 6 soft chairs
• 1 desk with copy press
• 1 coffe table
• 1 billiard table
• 2 etchings in glass and frame
• 4 hanging lamps
• 1 barometer
• 1 barograph
• 1 regular clock
• 13 wooden chairs
• 3 wicker chairs
• 1 typewriter, brand royal
• 4 beds with matresses

Add source – Odd Galteland Whaling at Stromness, South Georgia

The rest of the men lived in a barracks with six bedrooms, each housing between 10 and 12 men (6 bunk beds). The housing was simple but well contained. Each room had an electric light bulb.