War 1940—1945
The exhibition links the German local occupation with elements of the Russian prisoners, the Resistance and everyday life during the war. Ålesund's central position in Shetland traffic gave the town the nickname “Little London” which had its origins in a well-developed and organised resistance movement as well as hosting the Shetland traffic.
The artefact collection consists of the museum's own and objects loaned by the Defence Museum. Besides the museum's own, the driving force behind the exhibition were Norwegian war heroes such as Joachim Rønneberg and Gunnar Sønsteby.
Joachim Ronneberg
Joachim Holmboe Rønneberg is the city's most famous resistance fighter. His leadership during the “Tungtvanns-aktionen” is both nationally and internationally appreciated and respected and the action has gained its place. The exhibition pays attention to his upbringing, the war years and the decades after. Also referred to here is the “Fieldfare operation”. The exhibition includes items related both to Joachim's personal equipment and the operations.
Joachim Rønneberg was a good friend of Aalesunds Museum for many years. He was a force for the war history department and was frequent on museum visits. His life and memory have found their rightful place. The exhibition has been established in 2025 with the help of volunteers, Joachim's family and local supporters.
