Norra Svartbyn stretches along the northern shore of Svartbyträskets and is an old agricultural settlement dating back to the Middle Ages. During the 1970s and 80s, the village’s central location became interesting for the development of modern residential areas, but the rural character was still preserved. The village is characterized by a mixed, sparse settlement with farms, log buildings, turn-of-the-century villas and more modern residential buildings. The area is quiet and close to nature, “perfect for dog owners” and others who want to be close to the forest and countryside. The heart of the village is Svartbygården, an old school that has been renovated and used as a village hall. The building includes a library, kitchen, stage and meeting rooms. The Norra Svartbyn Association and other local associations organize a variety of activities such as exhibitions, Christmas markets, children’s theatre performances and pub nights. The village has a nursery school while primary school (age 6-12) is located in the neighboring village a few kilometers away. Today it is home to around 500 people, many of them pensioners who moved in during the 1970s and 80s, but more and more families with children are moving in. The spirit of the village is often described as open and optimistic. “It’s easy to get people together and do things”.