Have you ever wondered what those imposing wooden beams and iron plates stand for? This is Styckekranen, a historical crane on Skeppsholmen. Its story speaks volumes about the city’s naval past. Styckekranen is a true survivor, having stood here since 1751, witnessing centuries of history unfold. The crane was built in 1751 after the first crane on this site failed in 1749. Imagine the struggle of a ship to load and unload its heavy cannons! Styckekranen, standing tall on its wooden base, came to the rescue. It was used to lift cannons in and out of ships, a laborious task that demanded great strength and skill. While it was busy lifting cannons, the crane’s services were also rented out to private individuals and companies, earning revenue for the crown.
It’s a testament to its sturdy construction, a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. Its use of wood and iron tells us about the materials available at the time. Styckekranen, despite its history, is still functional today. It was lovingly restored by the National Property Board in 2003. And did you know that even though it was set ablaze in 1978, it was lovingly restored and made functional again? It now stands as a reminder of a bygone era when ships relied on cranes for these essential tasks.