Hälsingegården-en långlivad historia : En studie av resiliens i hälsingegårdskontext

Sammanfattning

This paper challenges the prevailing narrative about Hälsingegårdar by examining them archaeologically. Research questions include assessing settlement continuity from the younger Iron Age to the 1850s and identifying factors influencing continuity at farm, village, and district levels. The study focuses on the Voxnan and Ljusnan valleys in Hälsingland, spanning from the younger Iron Age to 1850. Spatially, districts and villages are selected based on proximity to the rivers, presence of ancient monuments, and 16th-century documentation. Data sources include the Swedish National Heritage Board's register, historical maps, and a tax roll from 1535. The paper argues for continuity in the localization of the farmsteads. The theoretical is the resiliencetheory and the perspective of palimpsests. Methods involve identifying Iron Age sites and using map material for geographical context. Results indicate settlements from the younger Iron Age persisting into the 1850s, demonstrating both site and area continuity. Fundamental factors for resilience and continuity include resource diversity, flexible resource use, micro-level soil awareness, and long-term residence security. The study emphasizes the importance of conscious organization and planning in socio-ecological systems, enabling communities to manage change and crises effectively. A diversified economy supports this resilience, offering various livelihood opportunities such as hunting and trade. Overall, the analysis suggests that regulation and feedback are vital for long-term sustainability and survival.