On July 4, 1825, a group of 52 Norwegians set sail on the ship Restauration to make the first organized migration from Norway to North America. Since that first voyage, about 900,000 people have followed, leaving their homes in search of opportunities and a better life. While many returned to Norway, most stayed and built a new home in the New World. Today nearly five million people in North America claim Norwegian ancestry.
Crossings commemorates 200 years of organized Norwegian migration to North America. It’s a year to celebrate the strong ties between Norway, the United States, and Canada. It’s an opportunity to remember what it means to take great risks and trade one home for another. And it’s a chance to better understand the movement of peoples that continues worldwide today.
Whether or not you have Norwegian roots, we invite you to learn more and join us.
Site image courtesy of Restauration Friends Association, Stavanger, Norway
Crossings and Connections Conference Videos
Now Available!
This summer, St. Olaf College hosted Crossings and Connections—a summer conference celebrating 200 years of Norwegian migration. The gathering brought people together to share history, culture, and community through tours, films, music, and engaging talks. Thanks to support from the Sons of Norway Foundation, you can now experience many of these moments online—whether you watch on your own or gather with friends. Above, enjoy the conference welcome and follow the link below to enjoy other videos from the conference.