The oldest signs of humans living in Ranua stem already from Stone-age. Next the collectors of iron ore came to the area. In the 1700s came the farmers from the South to settle the harsh but beautiful and fertile land - they became the woodsmen of Ranua.

Hunting, fishing, logging and dishorning created permanent settlements. Peatlands were waded, stones and stumps were turned, houses were carved, families were raised as well as cattle and lands were fostered.