2025 marks the 200th Anniversary of the first organized emigration of Norwegians to the United States. The single mast sloop, Restauration, left Stavanger on July 4, 1825, with 52 people on board. Often referred to as the “Sloopers,” they arrived in New York City harbor on October 9, 1825.
The coordinated undertaking for the 200th anniversary has been identified as Crossings, Norway & North America, 1825 – 2025. The Crossings Bicentennial in North America is managed by a group of dedicated professionals representing numerous organizations that include the Norwegian American Historical Association (NAHA), Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, Norway House, The Norwegian American newspaper, with representation from Sons of Norway and the Sons of Norway Foundation.
Sons of Norway Involvement
Sons of Norway lodges and other cultural organizations and educational institutions have an opportunity to partner to create exceptional, entertaining and memorable programming in recognition of this anniversary. It should be noted that 2025 is being referred to as a commemoration, not a celebration: immigration brought opportunities to new arrivals, but also negatively affected existing nations.
Sons of Norway Foundation
The Sons of Norway Foundation has made a financial contribution to assist in the communication efforts for Crossings as this milestone is likely beneficial to many of our lodges. Now is the time for Sons of Norway lodges to consider their options, potential partners, and begin planning for 2025.
The Sons of Norway Foundation grants and scholarships program is a funding resource for lodge projects and programs. Grants reach grassroots communities across the country and Norway, and scholarships bolster education and cultural exploration domestically and internationally. 2025 projects related to the 200th anniversary will be given preference for grants. There are also grants available to non-Sons of Norway groups. Find out more at sofn.com/foundation/grants.
Crossings Website
The Crossings website crossings.norwegianamerican.com is continually being updated. Recent additions include a Planning Guide and Style Guide. The Resources tab has a growing number of resources. The Calendar tab has a button to Register an Event and lodges are encouraged to add their events.
Enduring Value
The Crossings Executive Committee encourages projects and initiatives that will have enduring value and long-term use. Can our 200th Anniversary in 2025 become part of the discussion that will unfold in 2026 as part of America’s 250th anniversary? The 250th has been in the planning stages for several years and will engage communities across the country and historical organizations in every state. These are potential partnerships that could yield visibility and credibility to external audiences for Sons of Norway lodges.
References: America250.org and aaslh.org/programs/250th