The Nitter family probably originated from Scotland. A member of the family came to Bergen in the 1500's and enjoyed success as a trader in Western Norway. Some members of the family moved to Sogn in the early 1600's. Christen Nitter, who was later to become the founder of that which today is the Walaker Hotel, had grown up in Inner Sogn. He went out into the world to learn a trade, and spent a few years as a goldsmith's apprentice before returning to Solvorn in 1690 and renting the trading station at Vollåker.

Together with his wife, Birgitt, he started up in business as trader and innkeeper in Solvorn. They had seven children, and it was the youngest son, Ludvig, who took over. Ludvig was well known as a brewer of excellent beer. He brewed his stocks from barley during the winter months, and stored it in a cold cellar so that he had enough to last through the summer.


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