The Danish Canadian Museum's naust boathouse and Freydis Joanna Viking ship (photos: Steve Morck)

A Viking Ship at the Danish Canadian Museum

By AMA Staff

Nordic culture is strong in Alberta, thanks to the migration of farmers and tradespeople from Norway, Sweden and Denmark throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Outside Red Deer, the Danish Canadian Museum chronicles Danes’ history in—and contributions to—our country with a number of finely crafted exhibits.

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Its signature artifact, however, reaches back even further: The Freydis Joanna Viking ship exemplifies Scandinavians’ mastery of the ocean, which enabled their exploration of lands near and far, long before other Europeans could claim maritime prowess. Built in Denmark using traditional methods and tools, the replica vessel now resides in a recently built naust (boathouse), which last year earned an award for heritage conservation from the City of Red Deer. For an even more immersive experience, visit during Viking Days, a weekend of storytelling, crafts, warrior demos and more.

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