Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum
- March 27, 2004
- Rated 5 of 5 by
CheapSk8 from Chicago, Illinois
First, a disclaimer: I am not Norwegian, nor am I one of the thousands who head to Decorah every July for Nordic Fest. And I still love the Vesterheim Museum and think you will too.
The museum bills itself as "Vesterheim is the largest, most comprehensive museum in the United States dedicated to a single immigrant group." And I believe them. The museum includes everything from farming tools that are over 100 years old to folk art and separate buildings on the same block that include a stone mill, a house from Norway, several other houses, and a school. Visiting the museum really gives you a sense of the experiences and lives of Norwegian immigrants who came to America, and especially those who settled in the lovely Decorah area.
May 1-October 31, admission is $5 and includes a tour of the outdoor area. The rest of the year, admission is $4. It's well worth it! Be sure to also check out the charming museum store!
The museum's website is:
Vesterheim Museum
From journal Charming Decorah, Iowa, with Spillville included