Christiansand

Christiansand, sixth city of Norway in respect of population (though great part of it was burned in 1892), is situated near its southernmost extremity, on a sandy plain. Pop. 12,813. It is a garrisoned town, was built by Christian IV. in 1641, and has been the capital of its province or stift since 1684. It has several dockyards, and a good harbour much used for refuge. The steam-packets from London, Hull, Hamburg, &c. to Christiania and the north usually call here. At the mouth of the harbour is the beautiful island of Odderø, laid out with public gardens and promenades. Christiansand has a considerable trade in timber, pitch, stockfish (salted cod), fish-oil for curries, salmon, mackerel, and lobsters, the latter chiefly for the London market. About thirty lobster smacks are regularly employed between Christiansand and Billingsgate during the season. Many thousands of white ptarmigans caught in the neighbouring districts of Lister and Mandals are shipped annually from Christiansand to England. Shipbuilding is a considerable industry. Christiansand has a cathedral and grammar-school, and is the residence of a bishop and high-bailiff and of a British vice-consul. The streets are wide, straight, and regular; the houses are built of wood and detached, presenting altogether a remarkably colonial appearance. The inhabitants are noted for their stature, said to average six feet.