Pomor Trading

Pomor trading was something that happened each summer in most of the Varanger district, between the local population and the Russians. These Russians were called "Pomor", a Russian word meaning "coastal dweller". Large trading boats docked along the coast and traded with the locals in Varanger. Varanger got a glimpse of a colourful and different culture with its songs, colourful clothes and open, friendly people.

You can learn about the pomor trade and the events surrounding it by visiting Brødtkorbsjåene in the centre of Vardø. The building originates from the period 1840-1900 and is build of solid Russian timber from Siberian trees. Russian Pomor people worked and traded here until 1917. Some Russian inscriptions in the walls and tar of the building are still visible.

The Term "Pomor Trading"

When talking about pomor trading we are mostly refering to the trading that happened involving wheat and fish products. But is should be emphasised that pomor trading was never really just the exchanging of goods. Money was used in deals between local merchants and the pomor traders.

Most sources specify that pomor trading grew in scope around 1740 and stopped after the Russian Revoluion in 1917. At the same time it has been reported that illegal trading between Russians and Norwegians started back in the 1680's and continued to the end of the 1920's.