Press Release – April 4, 2007
Viking Saga to Be Discussed
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For centuries the conquests and explorations of the Vikings have been a fascinating topic. Generations, young and old alike, have been intrigued by the Norsemen's boat–building abilities and their sea–faring exploits in these graceful and powerfully built craft. The Viking longboat in the photograph, dating to before AD 900, ended its career as a tomb. It was disinterred – intact – in Oseberg, Norway in 1904, and is displayed at Oslo's Viking Museum. These high–powered boats often exceeded 140 feet in length and were propelled by a single sail; and in light air, by as many as 32 pair of oars. Over the past 20 years, or so, Gary Mason, of Edmunds, a student of the Viking era, has assembled an impressive collection of books and research materials on the subject. Mr. Mason will be the guest speaker at the Trescott Historical Society's monthly Speaker's Forum, to be held at the Lubec Memorial Library on Wednesday evening, April 18th, at 6:15. His topic will be, “The Vikings – Did They Make it Beyond Newfoundland?” Teachers, parents and especially students, grade five through 12, are welcome to attend this presentation, which will focus on whether the Norsemen's explorations, over a thousand years ago, may have brought them as far south as Cape Cod, and even beyond. The program is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will follow the question and answer period. For further information call 733–5548 or contact the Trescott Historical Society below through the link below. |
Ted Spiegel Photo This vessel has been carbon dated to pre–A.D. 900. At 70 feet, about half the length of many Viking longboats, it still dwarfs the people viewing it. |