Alsvåg's traditions as a trading post date back to the early 17th century. Initially, it served as a skipper's station and later became one of the very first places in Nordland to receive a guesthouse privilege (granting trading rights). The site hosted a large farm, trading activities, and a jekte (cargo ship) operation. Alsvåg farm also served as a judicial assembly site throughout the 18th century. In the 19th century, postal services and eventually a telegraph station were established. Alsvåg farm was the center of the village and employed many people. There were also numerous tenant farms under Alsvåg farm.