New Exhibit Honors Norwegian Heritage

Two hundred years ago, the first Norwegians came to America on the sloop ship “Restauration” and hundreds of thousands followed during the 1800s, some for religious freedom and some for economic prosperity. The newest exhibit at the history center honors Leland’s early settlers.

The exhibit features early Norwegian businesses, treasured family heirlooms, and traditional Norwegian costumes.

“From Norway to Leland” celebrates Leland’s Norwegian heritage in conjunction with Norway, Illinois’ October 3-5 celebration of the 200th anniversary of the first “sloopers.” The Leland Area History Center will be closed that weekend.

Leland Historical Society will host an Open House on October 18, 11 am—4 pm with tours of the exhibit and refreshments in the Community Room of Resource Bank. The exhibit will run through 2026. 

Among the family heirlooms on display are the handmade bunad of Phyllis Benson, the spinning wheel that came over with Cecilia Gudmunsen in 1872, and the Norwegian flag brought over by Charlie Knight’s great-great grandfather. This particular flag design was used from 1844-1905 while Norway and Sweden were united.