Let’s rewind to July 28, 2000 – More than 17,000 people were on site during the unveiling of Norstead – A Viking Village & Port of Trade (www.norstead.com) as they celebrated 1,000 years since the Vikings were the first Europeans to re-discover North America. The Province did a tremendous job marketing this summer festival.
Can you imagine the excitement on site for this new addition – an open air museum; one which provides a unique approach to education and culture, where one can gain an enriched understanding of Norse life. More than 28,000 visitors trekked through this site during the first season alone.
I have to extend a big thank-you to the interpreters and all who work at Norstead – this non-profit just 2 KM from L’Anse Aux Meadows (UNESCO Site). Some have been on-site, showing tremendous dedication to the organization for the past 11 years.
It is a pleasure to walk through the gift shop, which has an array of local product – Dark Tickle’s Teas, Jams, Sauces and Syrups; Handmade Soap, Handmade Jewellery, Norse Swords, Norse Game – 9 Man Mills, Postcards, Local Art, Pottery, Knitted Items and more. The employees make products on-site and also during the off-season.
There is a wealth of knowledge from the employees and they are quite willing to share with you – creating a warm and inviting learning experience. You have the ability to try your hand at living like a Viking.
There is much opportunity to expand on this already wonderful gem on the Great Northern Peninsula. I see much potential to work with regional partners, develop further products, expand into Learning Vacations – live like a Viking (day, weekend or week-long stopovers), workshops and other activities. The future is bright for this not-for-profit entity.
It has added much value to our Rural Economy and also the travel experience of those who are fortunate enough to take the time to visit.
Norstead is a wonder we have, it is possible because f the wonderful people who show up and do their part every day. For that, I thank you.
Live Rural NL –
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Related articles
- Norstead – Viking Village & Port of Trade (liveruralnl.com)
- Babe, Orson, Wilbur, Porky? ….All Famous Pigs, but this fellow’s name is Willie 🙂 (liveruralnl.com)
- Deep Fried Ice-cream – A must have treat at the Daily Catch, St. Lunaire-Griquet, NL (liveruralnl.com)
- I AM A Viking at L’Anse Aux Meadows World UNESCO Heritage Site (liveruralnl.com)
- A day in the sun – L’Anse aux Meadows, Canada (travelpod.com)
- Viking settlement discovery celebrated (cbc.ca)
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