The Sons of Norway Fjordland Lodge of Brookings observed Syttende Mai — literally May 17, Norway’s Constitution Day — this year with an event at the Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge and included an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute class. 

Michael Johnson, James Beard Award Recipient, and his staff served a Norwegian meal, and Lodge members, many of them wearing their Norwegian traditional clothing, presented a program on Norwegian bunads to the OLLI class. 

The sold-out event included a three course meal: Smørbrød (seedy rye bread with a variety of toppings like shrimp, salmon, capers, and dill); Jegermed Gjestost (Hunter’s stew); and Rømmegrøt ice cream.

 Becky Ekeland gave a brief history on bunads. The term bunad simply means Norwegian traditional clothing, some dating back as far as the 14th century, but the story of the bunad today is actually a 20th century story. When Norway became independent from Sweden in 1905 there was a rise in national pride. Norwegians rallied around symbols of national resilience and distinction. Farmers and their characteristic dress became both symbols of the mythic past and a path forward for progress.  Communities all over Norway were encouraged to design their own representative and unique bunads. Several of those authentic regional bunads were represented at the evening’s celebration.

Barbara Horten described each of the 12 featured dresses. Several bunads were displayed on mannequins which lined the stage. One was a dress from the Hallingdal region contributed by Norma Hansen. She and her husband Verne traveled to Norway to visit the city of her grandparents. Interested in owning a bunad specific to her family origins, she walked into a seamstress shop where she was measured. The dress was made and sent to her several months later.

Other dresses were worn by live models. Duane Sander and his daughter Doreen modeled bunads which were designed by Husfliden in Stavanger in the 1950s, using old museum garments dating to the early 1800s. Linda Vaa modeled a Telemark bunad. It includes a hand-woven sash which is 4 inches wide and about 80 inches long.

Norwegians today often wear bunads for special occasions like baptisms and weddings and holidays, especially for Syttende Mai.

Sons of Norway has several programs throughout the year that feature Norwegian history and customs and food, and all are invited to attend. And you don’t have to be Norwegian to become a member; Sons of Norway is open to all interested people. If you’re interested in learning more about how to join Sons of Norway, contact Barbara Horten, Becky Ekeland, or any Lodge member.