Vikings and emigration
People have lived on the island for thousands of years, including Vikings. Some items of gold and an old engraved rune stone was found on the island in the mid 1800s. The population of Hidra declined rapidly during the 1800s because of the large scale emigration to America. Times were tough in Norway at the time and there was plenty of work in America, so many emigrated and sent money home.
World War 2
Before the German invasion during World War 2, there were Norwegian marines stationed at Hidra but due to the fact that Norway surrendered to the occupiers, there was no combat on the island and the marines left. Shortly after, the Germans built the fort at Hitterøya.
The German occupational numbers grew to about 100 at Hågåsen Fort. A command centre was built, residence for officers and crews, mess hall, field hospital, ammunition depots, underground passages artillery, aircraft guns and more. British aircraft passing by were shot at, but the area was not bombed.
Modern Day Hidra
In 1972 the Hidra Ferry connection was established and asphalt roads were built on the island to enable locals and visitors to get to the island where there were shops, schools and three chapels. The Hidra ferry leaves daily all year round and the road are always cleared of snow so that the locals can get to Flekkefjord for work.
Today, tourism is the main source of income for the locals. Back in the day, fishing was the main industry, but this has changed to mostly salmon fishing farms and local fishing only. Buy fresh fish and sea food at the local fish monger.
There are many farms on the island, so be wary when driving on the roads as cattle can sometimes escape the fencing. Occasionally you may also see deer crossing the road.
Today the island has 600 permanent residents, but during the summer months the number rises drastically.
