King and Queen visit Vesterheim

Press conference on Vesterheim grounds

Norwegian King Harald and Queen Sonja visited Vesterheim Thursday afternoon. They caught glimpses or performances by the Nordic Dancers and the Luren Singers as they entered and left the museum complex.

Inside the museum they were greeted by Vesterheim Board Chair Michael Schmidt and Executive Director Steve Johnson before they visited with honored guests. Norma Wangsness also presented the royal couple with a rosemaling/portrait of the King and Queen.

The Queen dedicated Vesterheim's new Asbjornsen Gallery.

The royal couple then headed outside, where a very brief press conference was held.  When the King was asked about enhancing the relationship between Luther College and Vesterheim, he responded, "that will take care of itself." And he added that visits like these help. In the other pressing question, King Harald confirmed that he liked the cinnamon ice cream that he had with his apple pie for lunch!

The Norwegian royalty departed Decorah shortly after 4 p.m.

Michael Schmidt and Steve Johnson welcome the King and Queen

Gift presented by Norma Wangsness

Luren Singers perform

Escorting the King and Queen