Hadeland Glassverk
– “It’s fantastic to bring these treasures back to life and revitalize a small piece of our shared cultural heritage,” says Wilhelm Hartwig, former General Manager of Amerikalinjen. “Considering how much the Norwegian America Line meant to so many people for so many years, it’s remarkable how little structured archival material exists from the era.”
Buried History
One exception is a shelf in a basement in Jevnaker. Here, Hadeland Glassverk has preserved objects, drawings, and documents that paint a vivid picture of how transatlantic travelers dined and drank on their journey.
– “The glassworks supplied Amerikalinjen for over 60 years. When I received an inquiry from the hotel project, I knew exactly where to look,” says Maud Gjeruldsen Bugge, Design Director at Hadeland Glassverk.
And what she found was remarkable—everything from intricate champagne glasses crafted for special occasions to the everyday tableware used by third-class passengers and possibly even the crew. Hadeland Glassverk also supplied sconces for the cabins, chandeliers for the dining halls, vases, and ashtrays featuring the iconic NAL logo.
Life at Sea
– “The great shipping companies were a significant market for Hadeland Glassverk, especially in the post-war years. Since 1762, the glassworks has shaped both public and private spaces in Norway. Our archives contain over 35,000 objects, each with its own story to tell,” says Gjeruldsen Bugge.
Most of these artifacts remain quietly on the shelves, waiting for a church to restore a stained-glass window or a dome—or for a new hotel to be created in the former headquarters of the Norwegian America Line.
– “It’s incredibly exciting that Amerikalinjen is being brought back to life, and that these historical objects will become part of new social settings. Both the champagne glasses and the sconces we are reintroducing are mouth-blown. The glasses are also hand-cut, with more than eight different artisans working on each one,” she explains.
A Toast to New Beginnings!
The champagne glasses have a flat bowl, a droplet-shaped stem with delicate facet cuts, and a subtly sandblasted logo. They tell the story not only of hopeful toasts to new destinations but also of a different drinking culture.
– “The glasses are refined and delicate. Drinking habits have changed since the 1950s—champagne glasses today tend to be larger. These are exclusive, handcrafted pieces unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere,” says Maud.
In addition to a limited edition of champagne glasses reserved for special occasions, a festive dinnerware set is also being produced. The porcelain features intricate designs inspired by historical maps and sailing routes.
– “This is an incredibly exciting project with passionate people. Incorporating elements from the past while creating something entirely new makes the concept both authentic and captivating,” Maud adds.
Tradition Meets Innovation
Hadeland Glassverk is one of Norway’s oldest companies. For more than 250 years, the glassworks has produced hand-blown bottles, apothecary and medical glass, and later, exquisite glassware, chandeliers, and tableware. With dedicated designers and artists on board, the company has continued to innovate while maintaining a tradition of timeless, high-quality craftsmanship.
Wilhelm Hartwig at Amerikalinjen deeply values the collaboration.
– “Working with Hadeland Glassverk has been an incredible journey. They are the perfect partner, with a genuine connection to history and production still based in Norway. Exploring the archives, uncovering forgotten stories among dust-covered shelves and filing cabinets, has been truly magical. Now, we look forward to welcoming guests for an exclusive opening toast with a touch of history.”