Johan Frederik Classen

Johan Frederik Classen was a Danish-Norwegian industrialist, landowner and founder of “Det Classenske Fideicommis”, a Danish charitable foundation. Born in Oslo in modest circumstances, Classen worked his way to become one of the most important persons of his country. Classen developed an armaments and munitions factory in northwest Zeland, named Frederiksværk (Frederik's factory) in honour of King Frederik V who had provided land and incentives for its establishment. He acted as supplier of weapons to the Danish army during the Seven Years' War (1756–1763) which brought him a fortune. Thanks to his commitment Frederiksværk quickly became known as industrial centre and first factory town in Denmark. He was also interested in agriculture and forestry. In 1757 Classen was appointed war and ammunition commissioner with the rank of general and salary of 800 rigsdaler a year. Classen suffered from gout which was extremely painful at the end of life. He died childless and bequeath his fortune to charity "to educate good people to become the best in the State, to support and promote industriousness and diligence in the areas most necessary for the country's well-being, and to help to alleviate poverty and misery."