Leif Erikson (ship) facts for kids

Leif Erikson is a special Viking ship replica. It was built to remember the amazing journey of Leif Erikson, who sailed to North America over a thousand years ago! This ship helps us imagine what it was like for Vikings exploring new lands.

Building a Modern Viking Ship

The Leif Erikson ship was built in Korgen, Norway, in 1926. A man named Gerhard Folgerø wanted to sail across the Atlantic Ocean in a ship like the old Vikings. The ship is made of strong Norway Pine wood. It looks a bit like a "knarr," which was a type of Viking cargo ship. This replica is 42 feet long and about 13 feet wide. It even has a cool dragon's head and tail, designed by an architect named Gerhard Johan Lilletvedt.

An Epic Journey Across the Ocean

In 1926, the Leif Erikson set sail from Bergen, Norway. It was invited to Duluth, Minnesota, by a Norwegian-American immigrant named H. H. Borgen. The ship first traveled to Labrador and then to big cities like Boston and New York City.

Sailing the Great Lakes

After visiting the East Coast, the ship sailed through the Great Lakes. It reached the western part of Lake Superior. On June 23, 1927, Captain Folgerø and his crew arrived in Duluth. They had traveled an incredible 6,700 miles! This was the longest distance a ship of its size had sailed in modern history.

A Gift to Duluth

Soon after its amazing journey, a Norwegian-American businessman from Duluth, Bert Enger, bought the ship. He bought it with the wife of his late business partner, Emil H. Olson. They then gave the ship as a gift to the City of Duluth. The Leif Erikson was put on display in Duluth's Lake Park. This park was later renamed Leif Erikson Park in honor of the ship.

Saving the Ship

Over many years, the Leif Erikson started to fall apart. It was neglected and damaged. By 1980, it was in such bad shape that some people thought about burning it. This was a traditional Viking way to honor a ship.

Restoration Efforts

However, this idea inspired Emil Olson's grandson, Will Borg. He gathered volunteers and started raising money to fix the ship. Through donations and special events, they collected $100,000. Boat builders began working on the restoration in 1991.

In 2001, the ship was almost completely restored. It was put back on display at the eastern end of Leif Erikson Park. But sadly, it was damaged again. In 2013, the ship had to be moved for more repairs.

Future Plans

Today, the Leif Erikson is still being restored. People are raising money to build a new, safe home for it in the park. The new building is designed to protect the ship for future generations. Currently, the Leif Erikson is kept at the Lafarge cement terminal while it awaits its new display structure.