Discover Ballard’s Nordic History

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Ballard’s Scandinavian Roots

Around the turn of the 20th century, Ballard was booming as the “shingle capital of the world.” Scandinavian immigrants arrived in droves to fill positions in all aspects of the timber and shingle-making industry. The surrounding waterways provided a bit of comfort as Ballard had the likeness of a Scandinavian fishing village.  Many traditions brought by the Scandinavians remain today. From statues to Lodges and Clubs to the largest Syttende Mai festival outside of Norway to the National Nordic Museum, Ballard remains imprinted with the Nordic influences that helped shape its early history.

NNM Ext Front

There is so much to see and do at the National Nordic Museum – step into Ballard’s past, explore the cultures that shape the Nordic region and discover the innovation that connects our region with theirs at the only museum of its kind in the United States. The museum was founded in 1979.

More than a museum, it is a community hub that brings together diverse cultures and ideas to our little corner of Seattle. With year-round cultural events and exhibits, visitors and members will discover something new every time they visit the museum.

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  • Nordic America_Into the Heartland
  • Nordic_Welcome_Map
  • The Nordic Region
  • nordic fiddle
  • Fjord Hall
  • Sense of Place Gallery
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Leif Erikson Lodge Hall

The Leif Erikson Lodge sits in the center of the neighborhood and hosts cultural gatherings and community events almost every day of the year. The Lodge is the home of the Sons of Norway, a non-profit fraternal organization that focuses on preserving Norwegian heritage and culture.

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