Verla Groundwood and Board Mill in Finland

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
National Board of Antiquities
Verla Groundwood and Board Mill

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1996
Size of heritage: 23 ha
- Buffer zone: 80 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 26,641°
Latitude: 61,062°

Summary

The Verla groundwood and board mill and its associated residential area is an outstanding, remarkably well-preserved example of the small-scale rural industrial settlements associated with pulp, paper and board production that flourished in northern Europe and North America in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Only a handful of such settlements survive to the present day.

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Verla Groundwood and Board Mill

The Verla Groundwood and Board Mill is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Municipalities of Jaala and Valkeala, in the Region of Kymenlaakso, Province of Southern Finland. It is a unique industrial complex that represents the development of the Finnish forest industry from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.

History

The Verla Mill was established in 1872 by Hugo Neuman, a Finnish industrialist, to produce groundwood pulp and boards. The mill was strategically located near the Verlankoski Rapids, which provided the necessary hydropower for the operations. Over the years, the mill expanded and modernized its facilities, becoming one of the largest and most advanced mills in Finland.

During its peak, the Verla Mill employed hundreds of workers and played a significant role in the local economy. It produced high-quality groundwood pulp and boards, which were used for various purposes, including book printing, packaging, and construction. The mill's success was also attributed to its innovative production methods and the utilization of new technologies.

However, with the advent of new manufacturing techniques and the decline in demand for groundwood pulp, the Verla Mill faced challenges in the early 20th century. In 1964, the mill ceased its operations, and the buildings were left abandoned.

Current State

Today, the Verla Groundwood and Board Mill stands as a well-preserved testament to Finland's industrial heritage. The site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. The mill complex consists of several buildings, including the main mill building, drying rooms, workers' houses, and a power plant.

Visitors to Verla can explore the mill and its surroundings, gaining insights into the industrial processes and the lives of the workers. The main mill building houses a museum that showcases the machinery and equipment used in the production of groundwood pulp and boards. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the mill's history, its impact on the local community, and the technological advancements of the time.

The workers' houses, located nearby, have been converted into a guesthouse and a café, offering visitors a chance to experience the atmosphere of the mill village. The surrounding natural landscape, including the Verlankoski Rapids and the nearby forests, provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.

The Verla Groundwood and Board Mill is not only a significant historical site but also a living cultural landscape. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the forest industry in Finland's development and the ingenuity of its people. The site's preservation and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from this remarkable industrial complex.