Learn about the history of different types and styles of Norwegian sweaters, including Setesdal, Fana, Marius, and Olympic from textile expert and Vesterheim Chief Curator Laurann Gilbertson. Laurann will also discuss the symbolism behind some of the patterns and colors on sweaters made today. This is an open meeting of the Grand Rapids Sons of...
Vesterheim is giving an online presentation for the Washington DC Sons of Norway Lodge. Vesterheim Preident/CEO Chris Johnson will speak about the photography of Knud Knudsen. Why do people leave their homes in search of a better life? Look for answers in the dramatic black and white photographs of Knud Knudsen, considered one of Norway’s...
With Arna Rennan. More than just stories from ancient folklore, the belief in the Hulder Folk is alive and well in the high grazing areas of Northern Gudbrandsdalen. It is a centuries-old belief that serves as an explanation for the mischief that occurs on farms as well as the practices for the protection of animals...
There are always exciting things happening at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum. Learn about Vesterheim's history and strong roots, and find out the latest news about exhibitions, events, and programs at Vesterheim. Finally, you'll hear about Vesterheim's vision for a bold future and the exciting new Vesterheim Commons building project. This is an open meeting. Visitors wishing...
Join Marcia Fox for story time! She'll feature fun stories for early ages, including How to be a Viking and I Wish – Maybe, I Wish for a Winter Time. Marcia Fox has spent 42 years in education, including as an instructor of English, German, and as a media specialist. She loves connecting with youth...
With Susan Kolstad. Join Vesterheim and the Three Rivers Fibershed for an exploration of the history of socks. The evening's presentation will cover socks in Vesterheim's collection and will include information about their construction, style, and mending.This program is free of charge. Registration is required and available here.
A Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day ticket provides free admission for two people on Saturday, September 17, 2022, to Vesterheim Museum. In the spirit of the Smithsonian Museums, which offer free admission every day, Museum Day is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian magazine in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone...
Dr. Maren Johnson, Luther College's Associate Professor of Nordic Studies and Torgerson Center for Nordic Studies Director, facilitates a monthly bokprat, discussing Scandinavian authors and Scandinavian life. Join us in September as we discuss Sophie's World: A Novel About the History of Philosophy by Jostein Gaarder. This page-turning novel is also an exploration of the great philosophical concepts of...
Vesterheim Museum invites everyone to help us welcome Luther families! Come and see Vesterheim's collection that began at Luther in 1877. Admission is always free for Luther students, faculty, and staff, and for museum members.From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., folk-art demonstrators, guides, and greeters will include current or former Luther staff, faculty, or students.Special...
Webinar with Kathleen Almelien. Woven bands played an important role in traditional Norwegian clothing. Used to close or support clothing (the way we use zippers, buttons, and snaps), they also added beauty and interest to clothing. Additionally, the symbols woven into the band communicated that the person came from a particular area of Norway and...
Vesterheim is excited to host the Norwegian band DALAKOPA! This free concert will take place outside on Washington Street between Water and Main Streets in Decorah. The rain location will be inside Impact Coffee. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket to sit back and relax or be ready to kick up your heels –...