Formannskapsdistrikt

Formannskapsdistrikt was a type of local government in Norway, established by law in 1837 and abolished in 1936. The term is derived from the Norwegian word formannskap, which translates to "chairmanship" or "presidency", and distrikt, which means "district".

History[edit | edit source]

The Formannskapsdistrikt law was passed on January 14, 1837, marking a significant milestone in the development of local self-government in Norway. This law was inspired by the Danish municipal system, which was considered progressive at the time. The law divided the country into basic units called formannskapsdistrikter, each governed by a formannskap elected by the local population.

File:Formannskapsdistrikt map.png

Map of Formannskapsdistrikt in 1837

Structure and Function[edit | edit source]

The formannskap consisted of 4-5 members, including a chairman (formann). The members were elected by the local population for a term of three years. The formannskap was responsible for local administration, including education, poor relief, and road maintenance. It also had the power to levy taxes for these purposes.

Abolition and Legacy[edit | edit source]

The formannskapsdistrikt system was abolished in 1936, replaced by the municipality system that is still in use today. However, the legacy of the formannskapsdistrikt system is still evident in the strong tradition of local self-government in Norway.