in Norway. The earliest known owner was Olav Torsteinsson (Gyldenhorn) in the 15th century in Sweden The term was originally used for any farm where a nobleman chose to reside. In 1639 the status of seat farm was restricted to farms that for at least the previous forty years had enjoyed this status. After 1660, when
absolute monarchy was introduced in
Norway, non-noble persons could also achieve this status for their farm of residence. Seat farms had, especially, freedom from
taxes and
tithes. After 1800 the tax exemption was modified, and under the 1821
Nobility Law the exemption ended upon the death of the person owning the farm at the time of the law's enactment. • Approximate number of seat farms in 1639: 100 • Approximate number of seat farms in 1821: 25 == List of Seat farms in Norway ==