The first industrialised city in Finland

The Tammerkoski rapids run through the heart of region - the City of Tampere - provided a new source of energy for the industrialization that emerged towards the end of the 18th century, resulting in the establishment of a new town in 1779. Since then Tampere Region has been a forerunner in applying new technologies which is well demonstrated by the achievements in the 1800’s. These items also provide a window to the early industrial development of the region.

. 1783 Finland’s first paper mill started operation
· 1821 first textile factory
· 1842 first paper machine
· 1875 first shoe factory in Finland
· 1878 2nd phone connection in the country
· 1882 first electric light (Edison generator number 3) in Northern Europe
· 1888 first street lights (30 arc lamps) in Northern Europe

Followed by further rapid expansion, by the beginning of the 20th century the City of Tampere was the largest industrial city in Finland. Banked by old industrial buildings, the Tammerkoski rapids are a living monument to Finnish industrial heritage and one of Finland’s national landscapes.

Useful links:

More about the Region's history
Finlayson factory area