Winterly efforts for the boat builders
Despite the winter: Building the New Oseberg ship continues. The launch date has been firmly set on 20 June and there is no time to lose.
January 2012: The first proper snow fall came on the weekend of 20-21 January, but the weather has been cold and humid for the workers building the Viking ship in Tønsberg’s harbour area.
“We have been lucky so far as regards snow,” says chairman of the board, Einar Chr. Erlingsen, praising employees and volunteers for their hard work, despite the weather. The ship builders keep hoping this will be a winter with little snow. Erecting a temporary tent is very expensive, and would also hem in the process, which is supposed to be open to the public.
Launching in June
The date has been set for 20 June! And five days later the scene will be set for a huge Viking happening. On the 25 June, 250 visitors will enjoy Viking activities on the site, in cooperation with Quality Oseberg hotel. The event will be open to the public; the details are not quite clear yet. Watch this space.
More activities
There is still a lot of work remaining after the Viking ship has been launched, and intense efforts are being made to secure funding for the activities to continue in the summer months. One idea is to make a replica of the Oseberg wagon; another is building one of the smaller boats from the Gokstad find.
“We are receiving so much attention from everywhere, and have found that it’s the process itself that fascinates people – experiencing how the Vikings worked and learning about the tools and handicraft. We are working hard to keep the business going over this coming summer. We believe this is important for Tønsberg,” says Erlingsen.
A great reference
The local newspaper, Tønsbergs Blad, agrees that the Oseberg project is good for the city. Its editorial for 23 January states:
“Building the new Oseberg ship is the most important thing for communicating Vestfold history that has happened in many, many years. The hours spent by volunteers are invaluable to Tønsberg, as are the funds donated by the city, the county, private citizens and local businesses. Lindahlplan has become the new meeting place. People meet here for a chat, learn something new, and have a coffee. Professionals and visitors from all over the world come together here.”
We need more oak trees
“We are extremely grateful for all support – from the media, our sponsors, our volunteers and the thousands of private citizens who have donated small gifts and larger ones. Without these contributions and enthusiasm this project would not have been possible,” claims Erlingsen.
A large thank you to people who have donated oak timber for the frame these past few months.
“We now have enough timber for about half the frame, so we still need some more. Please get in touch with us if you have a suitable oak tree!” says Erlingsen, wishing all Oseberg friends a very Happy New Year!
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