The exhibit Swedes, Norwegians, and Finns Work and Settle on Vinalhaven, focuses on Vinalhaven's Scandinavian population - those who left their homes, friends, and families, for a new world of opportunity. Movements of large groups of people have often been the result of war, disease, or environmental change; also, by new opportunities. This particular migration started in the mid-1800s and lasted for nearly 90 years, led primarily by young men seeking work, some with a spouse or other family members, some who later sent for family. Many would settle permanently on Vinalhaven, a place that physically resembeled their Scandinavian homeland and made them feel "at home."
Jeannette and Tullio Lasansky have done extensive research into island Scandinavian families. They dove head-first into family pictures, documents, family belongings, and census records to create this wonderful summer exhibit. The exhibit will be up until the end of September - don't miss it!
*Photos courtesy of Tullio Lasansky
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