The “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” to be back on public display after 40+ years
Viking Ship Restoration Project
(Courtesy: Save Our Ship, Inc.)
KNIFE RIVER, Min. – Following more than 40-years of restoration the “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” will be on display and open to the public.
Save Our Ship, Inc. has been working on the restoration.
It will debut at the annual “Julebyen Christmas Village” celebration in Knife River.
The boat was built in Norway in 1926 as a replica of the type of ship the Vikings used in their settlement to North America and right here to the shores of Lake Superior.
The Leif Erikson Viking Ship almost ready
(Courtesy: Save Our Ship, Inc.)
“One-of-a-kind ship. This is an antique that’s been restored,” said Neill Atkins, chair of the Leif Erickson Restoration Project.
The city of Duluth purchased the ship back in the late 1920s to preserve its rich history.
But mayor after mayor, council after council let the wooden ship rot away until citizens stepped up in 1985 and created the the non-profit SOS or Save Our Ship.
The event where it will be seen again is hosted by the non-profit Knife River Recreational Council.
Julebyen is a centuries-old Nordic tradition celebrated with ethnic foods, crafts, holiday decorations, and music. There is Free admission and Free parking.
It is hours are on December 6, from 9 AM to 4 PM; and Sunday December 7, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
RELATED: Roof Nears Competition Over Leif Erickson Viking Ship In Knife River
RELATED: 40 Years Later, Leif Erickson Viking Ship To Become Housed Exhibit In Knife River
