Norwegian Immigration Sesquicentennial papers, 1975

Biography/History:
Papers of the Norwegian Immigration Sesquicentennial document the 1975 commemoration held in both Norway and the United States, marking 150 years since the arrival of the Restaurationen in New York with the first group of Norwegian immigrants, known as the “Sloopers.” In the United States, five regional commissions were established, based in New York, Chicago, Ottawa (Illinois), Minneapolis, and Seattle. A National Coordinating Committee oversaw collaboration among these groups and maintained ties with the organizing committees in Norway. The American celebrations featured a wide range of church, cultural, educational, entertainment, and sporting events, all widely covered in the press. The highlight of the commemoration was the tour of King Olav V of Norway, who visited each of the regional centers between October 2 and 29, 1975.

Scope and Content:
Clippings, correspondence, publicity materials, photographs, minutes, and other records from the 1975 Norwegian Immigration Sesquicentennial. The collection reflects the work of the central commission and its regional subgroups. Events in Chicago, Minneapolis, and New York are especially well documented, though activities from other cities across the United States are also included.

Processing Information:
Processing and finding aid by Kristina Warner.

Location:
20/C/6