The history of Sjötorp starts with a deed of gift as early as the 3rd of July, 1586. The name, Sjötorp, is read for the first time on this deed of gift. By this letter from duke Karl, Mr. Olof Jönsson got confirmation that he by birth was entitled to his new farm. This implied that nobody could drive him or his descendants away from the cottage as long as they paid for all taxes and other legitimate claims.

 

Today, there are no signs of  the early settlement. Too many furrows have been turned up over the original plot of land and foundations have been removed. Up to the legal partition during 1848-52, a few of the buildings remained, but most probably they were demolished at the time of the moving out as a result of the dividing of the pieces of land in larger units.

 

The oldest map, were Sjötorp is included, is a an owner-map of Slättevalla village, drawn by Sven Broddesson in the year 1701. In one corner there is a very brief plan of Sjötorp; the farm and the surrounding meadow-land.
 

Up to the years 1930-40, Sjötorp was the only densely populated area in the present rural district of Lyrestad. In comparison with other villages in the north-western part of the county Sjötorp was among the most densely populated, outstripped only by Gullspång which had five persons more or 550 inhabitants.

 

At the turn of the last century the village had about sixty dwelling-houses, in most cases occupied by two or more,often large families. The yearly salary for a family at this time was just a fraction of what we earn today. Social benefits were unknown.

 

The nearness of lake Vänern is a great asset during the seasons for the people living in Sjötorp. In the summer, the surface of water sometimes smooth as a mirror and the charming view of the sunset in the water between the islands of Kvarnholmarna, the rough sea in the fall and the shining ice in the winter.

 

Sjötorp is the most frequently visited place in the rural district. Here starts Göta Kanal with all that this implies; leisure-boats, passenger-ships, car-tourists, bicycle-tourists, fishing-trips etc. You will find shops, restaurants, sleeping accommodation, wharf, museum, tourist-office…

 

Sjötorp has -  with its spirit of community, calm and beautifully situated with commuting distance to Mariestad - become a popular place for families with children. They see the advantage by letting their children grow up in this safe and secure environment. Also, many elderly move here in order to age in our lovely village.

 

There are about 600 people living permanently, but during summer we are visited by thousands of tourists who have discovered the ' pearl' at Göta Kanal and lake Vänern. The permanently living people are today dependent of tourism and summer-guests in order to get the necessary service.

 

 

For further information about Sjötorp, send a mail to info@sjotorp.nu with your question and we will try to answer it for you.