An important part of the Norwegian polar history started in Larvik. Colin Archer (1832-1921), a pioneer in shipbuilding built, among others, the polar ship "Fram" for Fritjof Nansen.
Colin Archer was a self-taught boat designer and builder. Besides "Fram", he is known for his pioneering work with rescue boats. Archer built over 200 boats among them 60 pilot boats and 14 rescue boats.
Colin Archer was born in Larvik and grew up on Tollerodden.
Archer built and launched his boats from there, or from the Rekkevik Bay further out into the fjord. Archer’s rescue boats have rescued more than 3000 people from drowning.
Colin Archers home; Tollerodden is one of Vestfold's most valuable heritage buildings.