History:
The lock at Gavelhyttan was built 1867 to 1869 when the lakes upstream were lowered. This lkae-lowering was a vast project as 2000 acres of fine soil was recaptured.
The works were led by Lilliehök.
The Gavelhytte creek had an important role for transports in the area since ages, especially for the works at Hammarby. The iron was taken in small boats from Hammarby to Gavelhyttan. From Gavelhyttan to Storhyttan to Storsjön the iron was transported on land. New transports on boat across Storsjön to Forsbacka, were the iron was landed again for transport on land to Gävle.
At this time Hammarby works were owned by the Petre's who invited more then 200 persons to a big party at opening of the canal on September 2 in 1869.
However in 1879 the works were buncrupt and the Petre's had to leave. But the business continued as well as transports on the creek and through the lock.
Boat trips on Storsjön and along the creek were popular well into the 20th century.
You can still see the locks stone walls and maybe also some remnants of the wooden gates, but it is not possible to get through on the water.
Årsunda canal
Right across Storsjön is Enköping-Ockelboåsen, a ridge. In the 1920ies a road was built on this ridge. A short canal was cut through and above is Bångs bridge for the road.
A bit further south is another cut through, called the "Cold cut". Strong currents here usually keep this cut free from ice during winters.
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