westfjords · Iceland
Hermannshús, Félagshús - hluti
About Hermannshús, Félagshús - hluti
Step back in time on Flatey Island at Félagshúsið, also known as Hermannshús, a beautifully preserved 19th-century building. With its distinctive golden-brown wooden siding, bright red corrugated iron roof, and multiple white-framed windows, this charming house, built in 1843, stands as the oldest structure on the island. It once served as both a family residence and a bustling general store, with its original shop interior still remarkably intact.
History & Background
Félagshúsið, also known as Hermannshús, holds the distinguished title of being the oldest house still standing on Flatey Island. It was originally built in 1843 by Guðmundur Scheving, making it nearly 170 years old at the time of the original description. Initially, the house served as a private residence, but it quickly evolved to play a crucial role in the island's economy. For many years, Félagshúsið operated as a general store, with its original interior fittings remarkably preserved to this day, offering a unique insight into historical island commerce. After the passing of Guðmundur, the house was acquired by Herdís and Brynjólfur, at which point it was known as Nýjahús (New House). Its current name, Félagshús (Community House), was adopted when the Verslunarfélag Eyhreppinga, a cooperative store for the island farmers, took over its operations, solidifying its role as a community hub.
Did You Know?
- ✔Hermannshús, Félagshús - hluti is one of many interesting sites in westfjords
- ✔Iceland's diverse landscape makes every region unique and worth exploring
- ✔The best way to experience Iceland is to venture off the beaten path
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Book NowAbout Hermannshús, Félagshús - hluti
Hermannshús, Félagshús - hluti offers a captivating glimpse into the past on the tranquil Flatey Island. This iconic building, distinguished by its vertical golden-brown wooden planks and eye-catching red corrugated iron roof, is the oldest standing structure on the island, dating back to 1843. Originally constructed as a residential home by Guðmundur Scheving, it soon adapted to serve the island community as a general store, a function it maintained for many years. Remarkably, the original interior fittings of the shop are still preserved, offering a tangible connection to the island's mercantile history. Visitors can admire the charming architecture, including its neatly framed white windows and the small, inviting wooden porch with a dark red bench by the entrance, where a wooden sign clearly reads 'FELAGSHUS'. The house's history is a microcosm of Flatey's development, having changed hands and names over the centuries, from 'Nýjahús' to its current 'Félagshús' (Community House), reflecting its role as a cooperative store for the islanders. The red chimney rises prominently against the often-blue Icelandic sky, a silent sentinel to the lives lived within. Surrounded by lush green grass and a simple gravel path, and with another traditional black-painted house nearby, Félagshúsið is more than just a building; it's a living piece of Icelandic heritage, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island's remarkable cultural landscape.
Why Visit
Explore Flatey's rich history within the walls of this remarkably preserved 19th-century home and shop.
Did You Know?
Originally built in 1843 by Guðmundur Scheving, Félagshúsið was known as Nýjahús before becoming the 'Community House' for a local cooperative.
Engin sérstök staðbundin þjóðsaga
Engin sérstök staðbundin þjóðsaga er almennt þekkt fyrir þetta tiltekna hús. Hins vegar geymir Flatey sjálf margar sögur um sjómennsku, viðskipti og lífið á einni af fámennustu eyjum Íslands.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
The Original Shop Interior
If accessible, step inside to witness the remarkably preserved original fittings of the 19th-century general store. It's a rare glimpse into the daily commerce of island life.
Offers a unique and tangible connection to Flatey's mercantile past.
The 'Félagshús' Sign
Look for the charming wooden sign by the front door, clearly marking its role as the community house. It's a small detail that tells a big story.
Directly links to the building's cooperative history and community significance.
Adjacent Black House
Observe the contrasting black-painted house nearby with its dark roof. This offers an interesting architectural comparison to Félagshúsið's brown siding.
Provides context for traditional Icelandic building styles and the island's unique settlement.
Practical Information
Best Time
Late morning to afternoon, Summer
Duration
30-45 minutes
Access
Accessible by foot on Flatey Island; ferry required to reach the island from Stykkishólmur or Brjánslækur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee to Félagshúsið?▾
Generally, there is no specific entry fee to view the exterior of Félagshúsið. If the interior is open as a museum or shop, there might be a small charge or donation requested.
Is Félagshúsið wheelchair accessible?▾
The exterior of the house can be viewed from the gravel path and grassy areas. Access to the wooden porch might involve a small step, and the interior, if open, may have limited accessibility due to its historic nature.
Can I go inside Félagshúsið?▾
Access to the interior of Félagshúsið depends on its current use. It sometimes operates as a small museum or shop during peak season. It's best to inquire locally upon arrival on Flatey Island.
How do I get to Flatey Island?▾
Flatey Island is accessible via the Baldur ferry, which operates between Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula and Brjánslækur in the Westfjords. Félagshúsið is a short walk from the ferry dock on the island.
What should I bring when visiting Flatey Island?▾
As Flatey is a small island, it's advisable to bring comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing (even in summer, as weather can change quickly), snacks, water, and a camera to capture the charming surroundings. There are limited services on the island.
