The name Svartlå is Old Norse and means ‘black beach formation’. The area has probably been inhabited since the 14th century, although evidence of human presence dates back to the Stone Age. The earliest written sources date back to the 16th century and tell of a settlement of four farms living on fishing, hunting and small-scale agriculture. Over time, the site became home to sawmills and ironworks, shops, a school and several free churches. Today there are a number of small businesses and several active associations such as a village association, a snowmobile association, a dialect group (for overseas destinations) and a newly started cultural association. When asked what characterizes Svartlå, villagers are keen to emphasize the spirit of drive and openness to visitors and newcomers.