Danish Days September 19 - 21, 2014

VELKOMMEN

Celebrate Danish Days in Solvang, California ANGELIQUE HERON 2014 DANISH MAID

S E P T E M B E R 19 21, 2014 ENTERTAINMENT  DANISH HERITAGE & CULTURE  FOOD  FUN

Danish Food

See our fine selection of Danish and Scandinavian foods, including imported cheeses, liquor, wine and our delicious homemade Danish sausage.

Nielsenʼs Market had its beginning in 1911, the year Solvang was founded. With our heritage so deeply rooted in our communityʼs history, we are proud to be a part of this great Solvang Danish Days Celebration.

Nielsenʼs Market

608 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, Ca 93463 • 805-688-3236 • www.nielsensmarket.com

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

elcome to Solvang and the 2014 Danish Days Celebration, sponsored by the Solvang Danish Days Foundation. This year’s celebration takes place from September 19 to 21, 2014. We welcome visitors from around the world to join our celebration. Danish Days weekend is an open invitation for guests and locals to celebrate the history of our beautiful town, enjoy Danish-style hospitality, and recognize our strong ties to our Danish culture.

Originally, the Danish Days celebration was a simple, small town affair. There were few, if any, visitors.

It wasn’t even known as Danish Days. It was simply a home-inspired fete designed to remind Solvang residents of their ties with the “Old Country.” Solvang celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1936 and out of those festivities came what is now known as Danish Days.

Velkommen to Danish Days!

Through the years Danish Days has seen many changes. What has not changed is the pride in Solvang’s Danish heritage and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation. Thousands of visitors, many returning year after year, come to enjoy the festival. Danish and American flags line the streets, residents don their colorful costumes, and dancing, singing, and entertainment are plentiful throughout the town. Even if you are not Danish, you’ll have a great time being a “Dane for a Day” here in Solvang.

Solvang was settled by a group of Danish educators in 1911 on 9,000 acres of a former Spanish land grant. The name of the town is a Danish word meaning “sunny field.” To the small group of Danish settlers, refugees from Midwestern winters, the area looked like heaven. They immediately went to work building the town and a Danish folk school. Atterdag College is gone, but its spirit still lives in the town.

When The Saturday Evening Post featured Solvang in a 1946 article, tourists came, attracted by the setting, the customs, and the idyllic life. Shops, galleries, restaurants, and hotels soon grew, each reflecting the area’s Danish architectural heritage. Solvang evolved into the jewel it is today: a charming town with roots planted firmly in Danish tradition.

A visit to Solvang is to enter the Danish Capital of America. Old World architectural styles blend with flower-lined streets in our walkable village. Storks peek down from thatch, copper, and tile roofs. Delightful shops offer imported European wares: porcelain collectibles, linens, wrought iron, ceramics, and every form of handicraft. The aromas of chocolate, baked goods, coffee, and beer-garden fare scent the streets.

Although Solvang has developed into a major tourist mecca, its many Danish-American residents continue to perpetuate their Danish heritage. Danish and Danish-American fraternal and social organizations are active in Solvang, including Danish Brotherhood and Sisterhood Lodges, Dania Men’s and Ladies’ Lodges, and a Solvang chapter of the Rebild National Park Society. Other ties with Denmark are also evident. Some locals are members of the Royal Order of Dannebrog, awarded in recognition of their contributions towards strengthening the bonds between the United States and Denmark. In addition, Solvang and Aalborg in Denmark are sister cities.

To learn more about the history of Solvang, visit the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art, where displays of how early settlers lived can provide you with fascinating facts about early Solvang. You can also check out the Visitors Center on Copenhagen Drive to pick up information about Solvang, and the new Centennial Plaza on Alisal Road, a shade structure with benches and display kiosks of historical and centennial information.

We hope you enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Danish Days as Solvang takes to the streets for our annual festival. Our well-known “Danish hospitality” invites you to enjoy all there is to see and do in our beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. We hope you have a wonderful weekend and “kom snart igen!” (come back soon) solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

C O N T E N T S PAGE

PAGE

1..........Velkommen (Welcome) 3..........Danish Days Parade Application 3..........Danish Days Festival Highlights 4..........Torchlight Parade 5..........Win a Trip for Two to Denmark 5..........Artisan Marketplace 6..........Greetings from the Danish Maid 8..........2014 Limited-Edition Collector’s Pin 9..........Angelique’s Danish Heritage 10........Æbleskiver: A Unique Danish Treat 11........The Great Danes & Fresno Danish Dancers 11........Danish Days Organ Concert 11........Vær så god! Where is the goat?

12........Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling 13........Comedy Industries, Meltzer & Spang-Hanssen

14........“Little Red Hønen” 16........Atterdag College - 1914 20........The Carlsberg Beer Wagon 20........A Message from Solvang’s Mayor 22........The Story of “The Bells of Santa Ynez” 24........Map of Solvang with advertiser locations 26........Rejsegilde: An Old Danish Tradition 28........Where did the Danish Maid come from?

30........Danish Street Names in Solvang 32........Living History Festival at Elverhøj Museum of History and Art 39........A Solvang Landmark: The Danish Inn Building 41........Solvang Still Celebrates Danish Traditions 46........Ravens of Odin - Vikings in Solvang 47........The Solvang Village Folk Dancers

The Velkommen is published by the Solvang Danish Days Foundation, a nonprofit corporation, established in 1995.

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION P.O. Box 1424 • Solvang • CA 93464

Tel: (800)468-6765 • Website: solvangdanishdays.org Board memBers: Brenda Anderson, Hans Birkholm, Max Hanberg, Glen Jacobsen, Linda Johansen, Rick Marzullo, Rod Nielsen, Bruce Pedersen, Rose Skytt.

Professional advisors: Sorenson & Associates CPAs Committee memBers: Ken Andersen, Donna Andersen-Ineman, Carl and Beth Birkholm, Denise Birkholm, Matt Farris, Catherine Hanson, Jaeger Family, Brenda Knudsen, Linda Marzullo, Birgitte Pedersen, Petti Pfau, Mark and Maggie Ream.

velkommen

SCAN THE CODE and learn more about

danish days

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Managing Editor: Denise Birkholm

Magazine layout and production: Dean Puccinelli Illustrations: Ed Hansen, Rick Marzullo Cover photo: Connie Cody

solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

2 0 1 4 D A N I S H D AY S T H E M E

SOLVANG SUNNY FIELDS OF DREAMS

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

78th DANISH DAYS FESTIVAL

SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR UPDATES: WWW.SOLVANGDANISHDAYS.ORG

SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2014

2014 Danish Days Festival Parade Sept. 20 at 2:30 pm

FRIDAY VIKING BEER & WINE GARDEN 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Everyone is invited to join in the fun!

Marching Bands • School Bands • Groups • Individuals Complete this form and return to: Solvang Danish Days Foundation, c/o Parade Chairperson P.O. Box 1424 • Solvang, CA 93464 form also available at: www.solvangdanishdays.org

CONCERT IN THE PARK 4 p.m.

TORCHLIGHT PARADE / 7:30 p.m.

DANISH DAYS OPENING CEREMONY Velkommen Street Dance (after parade)

SATURDAY VIKING BEER & WINE GARDEN 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Name of entry:_______________________________ Contact person:______________________________ Full address:________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Type of entry:________________________________

DANISH DAYS PARADE 2:30 p.m.

DANISH DAYS DINNER DANCE SPONSORED BY THE REBILD NATIONAL PARK SOCIETY 6:00 p.m. No-host bar 7:00 p.m. Dinner served Reservations: Andy Andersen (805) 688-5157 or Marie Jaeger (805) 688-5448

Brief description and commentary about your entry: _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________

ROCK & ROLL LIVE MUSIC PARTY Midgaard Pavilion Stage - FREE and open to public 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Special Thanks to the City of Solvang, the Solvang Visitors Bureau, and the Santa Ynez Valley Hotel Association for their promotional support.

ÆBLESKIVER EATING CONTEST 11:30 a.m.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY TRADITIONAL DANISH DAYS BREAKFAST 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. / Serving Æbleskiver breakfast $7.00 and Æbleskiver breakfast with Medisterpølse (Danish sausage) $8.00

ARTISANS MARKETPLACE, FIRST STREET Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to Closing KIDS’ KORNER AND LEGO PLAY & REST CENTER 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. / Solvang Park

LIVING HISTORY DAYS Saturday & Sunday / 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Elverhøj Museum

SUNDAY

Member FDIC

CHILDREN’S PARADE 2:00 p.m.

Closing Ceremony to follow in the Solvang Park FREE ENTERTAINMENT BOTH DAYS

Thank you to our generous sponsors for 2014

Enjoy throughout the Village many talented entertainers, including: The Solvang Village Band on top of the Carlsberg Beer Wagon, the Solvang Village Folk Dancers, the Great Danes, the Fresno Danish Dancers, Scott Meltzer and Katrina Spang-Hanssen/Comedy Industries, Wood Carver George Kenny, Ravens of Odin, Viking Encampment and Randel McGee as Hans Christian Andersen.

solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

Torchlight Parade on Friday the 19th The Torchlight Parade kicks off the Danish Days celebration on Friday night. Public is welcome.

Join in and capture the spirit of Danish Days.

BE A PART OF DANISH DAYS by participating in Solvang’s annual Torchlight Parade. The parade begins at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening and takes the following route: begins on Alisal Road at Laurel Street, travels down Alisal, across Mission Drive to Copenhagen Drive, right on First Street to Parking Lot #2.

There will be a bus shuttling people from Solvang Park to the start of the parade; greeters will be available at the park to direct those interested in participating in this event. The public (all ages) is welcome.

Following the parade, food items and beer will be available. Opening ceremonies will occur, and the Solvang Street Dancers will be entertaining us all at the Midgaard Pavilion (Copenhagen Drive/Parking Lot 2, next to Solvang Park).

~ Danish Days 2014 ~ Help honor the anniversary of 100 years since the founding of Atterdag College with your own commemorative button.

A  D D  B   ~ .  Solvang Vikings’ parade boat in the Torchlight Parade Page 4

solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO DENMARK Each year a round-trip ticket for two to Denmark is sponsored by the Danish Days Foundation. Included in this Grand Prize is a $1,000 cash award. Proceeds of the sales support the Danish Days Festival.

Many local businesses throughout Solvang offer the tickets for sale in their stores for $1.00 per ticket. You may also buy tickets by mail; write the Solvang Danish Days Foundation.

Tickets will be on sale until the drawing date in October. “Mange tak!”

D

Artisans Share Skills at Danish Days

anish Days is once again featuring the Old World Artisans Marketplace as part of the annual festival. The Artisan Marketplace will feature works created by demonstrators and skilled craftspeople. The First Street “Artisans Marketplace” is a festive celebration of handcrafts and skills.

The Solvang Danish Days Foundation’s goal is to promote authentic old-world Arts and Crafts. Our goal is to introduce and demonstrate traditional Scandinavian arts to the general public and at the same time to provide a venue for those artisans to sell their work. Some of these artisans create traditional forms of their chosen discipline, while others have a more Scandinavian-modern approach to a traditional handcraft.

Some of the items shown in the Old World Artisans Marketplace in past years include: • Danish Sisterhood - handmade items and delicacies created by members • Wood Turners (Trædrejer) - Mike Magrill, Chris Hansen, SYV Woodturners • Master Papercutter (Papirklip) - Rick Marzullo, who cuts intricate designs out of paper with his scissors • Viking Age carving (Vikingetiden udskæring) and other demonstrations - Earl Jepson • Pottery (Pottemager) - Petti Pfau with her rich-toned ceramics • Fine Arts and Crafts from the Baltic Region - Alfreds Stinklus of Baltic Crossroads • Scandinavian Decorative Painting (Rosemaling, Dalamalning, Almuemaling) and more - Solvang Husflid Ceramic clay art and finely detailed jewelry (Keramisk kunst og Smykker) with Norwegian flair - The Sisters, Mette & Sissel • • Beautiful jewelry (Smykker) - Sylvie Terrel • Unique apparel along with some fun items (Tekstil kunst) - Cari Summers • Handmade Chip Carved furniture (Udskårne møbler)- Robert Laufer of Wild Hare Woodworks • Uniquely carved designs with wildflowers and more (Træskærer) – Darrell Janssen Artisans who specialize in traditional Scandinavian style wares are encouraged to consider demonstrating or selling at Danish Days. The Husflid/Handcrafts area will also consider unique items for consignment. For more information and guidelines for artisans, please contact SDDF Board member Rick Marzullo at vikingpressprint@verizon.net or contact Rick Marzullo, SDDF Artisans Marketplace, PO Box 612, Solvang, CA 93464-0612. solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

2014 DANISH DAYS MAID

Angelique Heron

Velkommen til Solvang and Danish Days 2014!

H

ello, my name is Angelique Heron and I am honored to be the 2014 Danish Maid. Ever since I was a little girl I have aspired to be the Danish Maid. Every year I would admire the Maid and her beautiful dress, anxiously waiting for my turn to come. And now my turn has come and I proudly represent my family’s heritage. Danish is in my blood and Danish Days seems to be too.

To say the least, my family has been a part of Danish Days for a long time. It all started with my great grandfather Axel Nielsen, literally. Axel, Connie Cody photo the son of immigrant parents Marcus and Andrea Nielsen from Mors, Denmark, wanted to commemorate passed on to my uncle, Rodney Nielsen, who is still in Grundlovsdag (Denmark’s Constitution Day). So in charge of it today. My great uncle, Don Nielsen, was 1936 Danish Days was born. At first it was just for chairman of the Danish Days board in 1953 and my the local residents of Solvang, not a tourist attraction, grandpa, Roger Nielsen, was also chairman in 1971. but soon word got out about the quaint little town of Also in 1971, my great grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Solvang and its celebration of Axel Nielsen, were the Grand its heritage. Now people from Marshals. My grandparents, Danish Days is a beloved part of all over come to join us in our Mr. and Mrs. Roger Nielsen, my family and I am truly honored festivities and admire our town. were also the Grand Marshals to represent them and our Danish They enjoy parades, folk dancin 2010. My grandmother Ann heritage as this year’s Danish Maid ers, and a traditional Danish Nielsen had the distinction of breakfast of æbleskiver and presiding over Solvang’s 50th medisterpølse. Speaking of which, Axel also started anniversary festivities in 1961 as official greeter, even the breakfast served every year. He was in charge though she was Norwegian. They dressed her up in a of the breakfast for many years until his son Roger, Danish Costume to help host the days events. And so my grandpa, took over. Then the responsibility was started the idea of having a Danish Maid. My mom,

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solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Betina Heron, followed in her footsteps and became Danish Maid in 1988.

When my mom married my dad, Paul Heron, he too became involved with Danish Days. Every year he and my Uncle help set up the booths and æbleskiver breakfast pavillion. I too participate in Danish Days. Ever since I was two years old I have Me and Grace Schlereth in the float our families plus the been attending Danish Nielsens made for the parade Days and helping serve one year. æbleskiver. All weekend long I am in costume. Friday night I am wearing my Danish costume in the candlelit parade. Saturday morning I am a ballerina performing behind the park.

Immediately after my performance I am transformed into a Danish girl serving or cooking æbleskiver. That afternoon you will most likely find me in the parade throwing candy or holding a sign. Sunday the process

Angelique’s mother 1988, “Betina Nielsen Heron”

Angelique & Gabby

repeats. I look forward to Danish Days every year. I have so much fun serving food with my sisters and cousins, prancing around in my dress all day long, and taking many, many pictures with the tourists. I wonder how many scrapbooks I am in? Danish Days is a beloved part of my family and I am truly honored to represent them and our Danish heritage as this year’s Danish Maid.

When I’m not serving æbleskiver, I am attending school at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. I am a seventeen-year-old senior that keeps busy with AP and honors classes. After school I am busy with dance classes. I have been doing dance since preschool and

My dad, me, Gabrielle, & Natalya

Angelique at a young age

still love it. I’m also a part of Youth and Government and National Honors Society. I work at Nielsen’s Market-which is my Grandfather’s store. I have been working there for three years and enjoy being part of the family business.

I am proud to be a part of this community and desire to keep our Danish heritage and traditions alive. I wish you all a wonderful weekend of Scandinavian fun!

solvangdanishdays.org

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Limited Edition Enamel Collector’s Pin:

2014 – Velkommen!

This year’s pin, the twelfth in the series, features a young girl welcoming visitors to our lovely home. With oak trees and rolling hills as a backdrop, the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley beckons one and all. The golden plowed farmland evokes the “sunny fields” for which Solvang was named. A carpet of California poppies covers the ground at her feet, with her extended arms holding a wreath of red and white flowers (representing Denmark), with the Danish and American flags flying.

Designed by Board Member Rick Marzullo, the 2014 Limited Edition Enamel pins will be available this year for $10.00 each. 2014 Pins will be available throughout Danish Days weekend (September 20-21, 2014) at the Pin Booth on First Street or through the Danish Days Foundation. Pins are on a first-come, first-served basis, until the edition is sold out.

Some of the designs from previous years are still available, at a purchase price of $12.00 each or three for $30.00. You can order these by mail or pick them up at the Pin Booth Danish Days weekend: 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Dancers (Little Man in a Fix) – SOLD OUT Hans Christian Andersen Viking Ship or Viking Design (two pins created this year) Stork Windmill Spillemænd Children’s Parade 75th Anniversary Celebration The Almighty Æbleskive Pan Passing On Traditions

To order your pin before Danish Days weekend by mail, please send $12.50 per pin (shipping included) for each 2014 pin ordered and $14.50 for each previous year’s pin. Make checks payable to Solvang Danish Days Foundation, PO Box 1424, Solvang, CA 93464. Please allow time for processing.

Look for other special Danish Days souvenirs which are only available during the festival weekend. All proceeds from the button, pin and T-Shirt sales go directly back into supporting our festival expenses. “Mange Tak!” for helping to support our festival – we hope you enjoy attending!

Papirklip

MANY THANKS FOR LETTING DANISH DAYS USE

by Master Papercutter

YOUR FACILITIES

Rick James Marzullo

FOR SO MANY YEARS.

Velkommen til vort dejlige by!

Hand-Cut Paper Art Scandinavian Design Décor & More

Solvang Papirklip / Rick James Marzullo P.O. Box 612 ♦ Solvang, CA 93464 ♦ 805-688-3059 vikingpressprint@verizon.net AVAILABLE THROUGH DIRECT ORDER AND AT: ELVERHØJ MUSEUM, Solvang, CA DANISH IMMIGRANT MUSEUM, Elkhorn, IA ARTISANS MARKETPLACE, DANISH DAYS WEEKEND (third weekend in September annually)

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Angelique’s Danish Heritage

Connie Cody photo

by Elaine Revelle

in September.

Angelique’s mother Betina (Nielsen) Heron was Danish Maid in 1988 and this year Angelique carries on what has become a family tradition.

In 1971 grandfather Roger was Danish Days chairman and it was during his tenure that the seeds for what has become Solvang’s Theaterfest were sown. With PCPA director Donovan Marley’s guidance a stellar performance of Shakespeare’s Hamlet was staged that year in a natural amphitheatre in what is now Hans Christian Andersen Park on Atterdag Road. So successful was the presentation that local interest in building an outdoor theatre mushroomed.

A vacant lot was obtained, plans were drawn and construction began. Built in record time, mainly by volunteers, the “curtain” was raised in 1974 on Once Upon a Mattress (adapted from Hans Christian Andersen’s Princess and the Pea) with performers trotting on a still tacky (from drying paint) stage.

With the Mors and Kolding areas of Denmark as inspiration, Angelique’s official dress represents both of these areas of Jutland. Designed by papirklip artist Rick Marzullo and beautifully sewn and hand embroidered by Roberta Skidmore, her dress is a lovely representation Danish fashions during the 1700s and 1800s.

The skirt is antiqued taffeta with a raw silk bodice. Lacy ruffles and embroidered braid are featured on her elbow length sleeves. Angelique’s hat is fashioned from the red taffeta and creamy raw silk fabrics used in her dress. Beautifully hand embroidered flowers framed with pleated satin ribbon adorn the back of her hat which is accented with a streamered bow. Her dress is complemented by an apron of embroidered material and fastened at the back by a beautifully engraved Scandinavian pewter clasp. Angelique completes her outfit with traditional wooden shoes, a fringed shoulder shawl made from the material used for her apron and a sparkling smile.

With her engaging personality, poise and that smile, Angelique will be a winning ambassador for this year’s Danish Days celebration.

solvangdanishdays.org

Connie Cody photo

Angelique Heron, this year’s Danish Maid, has solid Solvang roots and represents the third generation in her family to act as “hostess” during the annual Danish Days celebration.

Daughter of Betina and Paul Heron, Angelique is a junior at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School and is interested in art and photography. With sights set on higher education in the arts, she says that she is mainly interested in “visual communication” as a field of study.

A long time student with the Fossemalle Dance Studio, she takes ballet, jazz, point and lyrical classes and says that other activities include riding and taking part in youth in government through the High School. “During a trip to Sacramento,” she said, “I wrote news stories about our activities which were printed in the Sacramento daily paper.”

The Heron (pronounced her-ON) family also includes two younger daughters Gabrielle 15 and Christiana, 13.

“This summer,” Angelique said, “our whole family will take a trip to Denmark and Norway to visit family.”

Angelique traces her Danish heritage to great-greatgrandfather Marcus Nielsen who immigrated to the United States from Mors in Denmark. He moved his family from Danevang, Texas to Solvang in 1912 when his son Axel (Angelique’s great-grandfather) was ten years old. Axel, a cofounder of Nielsen’s Market, and his wife Margaret continued in the family business. Grandfather Roger Nielsen grew up in the Valley, eventually took over the reins of the family market and married a lovely Norwegian lass named Annlaug “Ann” Meland.

Now here’s where the generational aspect to being Danish Maid crops up. In 1961 the baker Carl Birkholm (senior) and businessman Ray Paaske came up with the idea of having a hostess for Danish Days. They persuaded Ann to take on the role of hostess (couldn’t call her a “Danish Maid” since she was from Norway) and, in a Danish bridal dress borrowed from a Los Angeles museum, Ann represented the town at its annual celebration. In fact, she did such a good job, that the naming of a Danish Maid has been part of the festivities since 1967. Each year the committee selects a young lady to represent the town and highlights her Danish ancestry.

As part of her “official” duties Angelique will spend the summer talking to local civic and government groups as well as taking a very visible role during the third weekend

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

Æbleskiver: A Unique Danish Treat

7 8 SATURDAY AND SUNDAY MORNING DURING DANISH DAYS

Breakfast during Danish Days is served Saturday and Sunday downtown.

Served with juice or milk, coffee and Danish sausage on Copenhagen Drive in the center of Solvang

ÆBleskiver are easY to make, trY tHis reCiPe: 1 cup flour • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1 cup milk 2 eggs, separated • 2 tsp. baking powder Separate eggs and beat the whites stiff. Sift dry ingredients.

Add egg yolks and milk to dry ingredients and beat until smooth. Fold in egg whites.

Put about one teaspoon shortening into the bottom of each æbleskiver pan hole and heat. Fill holes completely with batter and as soon as they get bubbly around the edge, turn quickly. A knitting needle or fork may be used for turning. Continue cooking, turning the balls to keep from burning. The fork or needle will come out clean from the center when done. Serve hot with syrup, jam, or sugar. Makes 18.

Legend has it that Danish men originated æbleskiver in Viking days.

Today they take part making æbleskiver during Danish Days.

Don’t miss the æbleskiver eating contest at 11:30 a.m.

Saturday and Sunday Page 10

solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

The Great Danes & Fresno Danish Dancers

The Great Danes and the Fresno Danish Dancers return! Joining the festivities again this year will be the Fresno Great Danes and the Fresno Danish Dancers. Both groups have been coming each year to play Danish music and dance the weekend away for the past 34 years.

The Fresno Great Danes group was started in 1980 by director Hazel Larsen who invited Band Leader, Lennart Kullberg from Sweden, to coordinate the group. Besides Danish Days, they perform at many festivals and concerts including the Oktoberfest Celebration and private functions. In addition to playing musical instruments, the four The Great Danes musicians also join in the dancing during the festival.

The Fresno Danish Dancers were originally taught by Wilma Andersen who is 91 years “young” and still dancing. Now they are directed and taught Scandinavian and ethnic dancing by Steen Skjellerup from Denmark. They meet weekly to practice and have fun dancing.

The Great Danes and the Fresno Danish Dancers joined forces in 1980 and have been wonderful and talented members of the “DD Family” of entertainers. They will be playing their instruments and dancing throughout the weekend – Don’t miss them!

Danish Days Organ Concert Saturday, September 20 at 1 p.m.

“Bach’s Lunch: An Organic Smørgåsbord” James Welch is a world-renowned concert organist, but don’t let that scare you. His concerts are full of fun, with something for everyone. This year’s concert on the Phelps pipe organ at Bethania Lutheran Church will feature the “lighter side” of the organ, with lively tunes from across the centuries, folk melodies, and some hits from Baroque to Broadway.

You’ll go out tapping your toes, ready for the big parade on Copenhagen Drive!

Vær så god! Where is the goat?

At a Gala Dinner at an annual Rebild meeting Dr. John Mark Nielsen, who is the executive director of the Danish Immigrant Museum in Iowa and retired Professor of Dana College, gave this speech. This is part of it: I am a third generation Danish American, three of my grandparents having immigrated to the United States in the early Twentieth Century. Growing up, there were many Danish customs we practiced in our home first in Minnesota and later Nebraska that I didn’t question.

Among these was the habit my father had of calling us to dinner. We would be playing in the yard or the neighborhood, and he would come out back door and call “Vær så god!” Now he wouldn’t just say this, but shout it, drawing out the syllables. “Vær.......så.......god!”

Hearing this, we knew it was time to eat, and we’d better come. One day, on hearing my father SHOUT, our neighbor, a boy then of about 10 or 11 who was of Irish

James Welch

Catholic background, asked “Why does your dad come out of the house every day and shout: ‘Where’s the goat’?”

We laughed and explained it was Danish; it meant it was time to eat. Looking back, I know that this is one of the first times I realized that our family with its Danish heritage had customs that identified us. “Vær så god”: When we think about it these are good words, words that reflect an identity and can be used even to approach the future.

For me, the phrase implies at once invitation and anticipation. They are words of welcome to the well prepared meal.

They are words of welcome to a kind of communion between people, a communion of family and friends over good food and drink. I know or certainly hope that all of us have shared that communion manifested in the smiling eyes and the spirited but respectful conversation that can so often happen around the table.

REPRINTED FROM THE “REBILD NEWSLETTER”

solvangdanishdays.org

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Hans CHristian andersen storYtelling BY

Randel McGee

randel mCgee at danisH daYs

Watch and be amazed as a classic storyteller brings stories to vivid life. Randel McGee’s portrayal of Hans Christian Andersen gives life and personality to a familiar name. With a flair for captivating audiences of all ages, this Hans Christian Andersen adds new insight to some age-old favorites.

While the audience is captivated by the story, Randel McGee’s hands are quickly at work following another one of Hans Christian Andersen's favorite pastimes, paper cutting. By the time the tale has been told, Randel McGee unfolds an amazing depiction of the story cut from a single sheet of paper with ordinary scissors.

Whether it is Hans Christian Andersen’s more popular stories like The Little Mermaid or The Ugly Duckling, or some of Andersen's lesser-known stories like The Swineherd or Silly Hans, the audience will be on the edge of their seats watching and listening with great enthusiasm. It is a fun-filled time for all ages.

Randel has appeared as Hans Christian Andersen at: The Flying Leap Storytelling Festival in Solvang, Talk Story Festival in Honolulu, Celebration of Light Festival in Midland, TX, the ’99 National Storytelling Conference, the Donnell Children’s Library in New York City, the Asian Congress of Storytellers in Singapore, and many more venues.

The

Book Loft  We feature a large selection of Danish and Scandinavian books.      

Where Danish Tradition, Craft Beer and Delicious Food Come Together in the Heart of Solvang’s Historic Downtown

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     

Hours: Main Restaurant - 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Bar/Tap Room - 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.

1547 Mission Drive, Solvang 805-688-2337 805-688-BEER

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mail@bookloftsolvang.com • www.bookloftsolvang.com

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

meltZer and sPang-Hanssen ComedY indUstries at danisH daYs

Scott Meltzer and Katrine Spang-Hanssen specialize in custom-scripted presentations for trade shows, sales meetings, and training sessions. By combining their clients’ marketing and technology messaging with jokes, tricks, and audience participation, they’ve proven over and over again that people learn more when they laugh!

Comedy Industries is constantly in demand for after-dinner shows and awards ceremonies, with a highly visual show that can be performed in multiple languages.

They’ve headlined comedy clubs, emceed game-shows, and performed at more fairs and festivals than the world’s smallest horse and the world’s largest pig combined.

We are very lucky to have Meltzer and Spang-Hanssen of Comedy Industries entertain at Danish Days. Don’t miss them!

Two shows Saturday and two shows Sunday. Don’t miss this great comedy team!

Svendsgaard’s Danish Lodge Family owned and operated for over 30 years, we welcome you to make Svendsgaard’s Lodge your destination headquarters when visiting the quaint town of Solvang. You will find our 27 standard, 17 deluxe and 4 large suites tastefully decorated, exceptionally clean, comfortable and at an affordable rate that makes visiting us a tradition! www.svendsgaardslodge.com

1711 Mission Drive • Solvang, CA 93463

(800) 733-8757 • AAA Rated Property •

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“Little Red Hønen” Years ago Solvang had the Solvang Businessmen’s Association whose name was changed to the Solvang Business Association when someone realized that women also did business in our little community.

So what has that to do with the “Little Red Hønen?” This is the tale of the hen that wasn’t little and wasn’t red.

It was decided and approved by the Solvang Business Association that our town would do well to have a carrier of some kind to tote tourists around to “the sights.” So a Corvair chassis and engine was found and a device that looked like a trolley car was built on that chassis.

Baptized as “Hønen” meaning “the hen” it successfully squired visitors around town. It also worked for local people to roam around the neighborhood and sing Christmas Carols to the neighbors during the Jul season.

In the “old days” birthdays and anniversaries were very big so Hønen was fired up and we would serenade the honored person or couple with Danish Songs and in particular “Han Skal Leve”, “De Skal Leve” or “Hun Skal

Leve.” Han, is for a man, De, is for a couple and Hun, is for a lady. The longer the song was sung, the more honored was the recipient of the song. Of course good Danish food and drink were a very important part of the festivities. The musical Sorensen family came along to accompany the singers and it was great fun for all!!

But it came to pass that the little Hønen had an engine that became too tired to push the vehicle around town from neighbor to neighbor or sight to sight. “Too costly to repair,” said the mechanic and “too costly” are red light words to the Danish business group. But relief was at hand.

An offer had been made to pass Solvang’s Hønen off to a fellow who would pull it around the community with horses. “Great idea,” said the business people, “The solution!” said the mechanic and it was done. That is why today that same Hønen travels the streets of Solvang with tourists hanging out the windows while being pulled by two beautiful strong horses. The barrel and shovel on the back step are not tourist attractions.

ww

B

COME AND TREAT YOURSELF TO OUR WORLD FAMOUS:

B

19

51

Family owned and operated since 1951 460 Alisal Rd. Solvang, CA 93463 Tel: 805.688.8188

www.birkholmsbakery.com

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by Bob Raleigh

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handmade in solVanG

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Rebild National Park Society • In Honor of the Past • In Celebration of the Present • A Society of Friends for the Future

Each year the local Rebild Chapter hosts several events for their members, including, in cooperation with the Solvang Danish Days Foundation, the Danish Days Dinner Dance beginning at 6:00 pm at the Veterans Memorial Hall this year on Saturday, September 20. They will feature a traditional Danish Dinner and music for your dancing pleasure. Dinner is served at 7:00 pm. This event is always a SOLD OUT affair where young and old come together for a truly enjoyable evening.

636 Atterdag Road, Solvang, CA 93463 A Non-profit, Continuing Care Retirement Community Lic# RCFE421700369 COA 152

You do not have to be a Rebild member to participate in this event, but if you wish to obtain further information regarding membership or make reservations for the Dinner Dance, please call: Andy Andersen 805.688.5157 or Marie Jaeger at 805.688.5448.

B IT O’

D ENMARK

Monte Cristo Sandwich with homemade raspberry jam and fruit

Restaurant

A few favorites from our menu: Roast Duck with a traditional brown sauce Apple Cinnamon Crepes Espresso

AMERICAN AND DANISH CUISINE in a unique Old World atmosphere

Lunch • Dinner • Smorgaasbord • Full Bar • Premium Local Wines • Espresso Bar Enclosed Patio for Private Parties

SOLVANG’S OLDEST RESTAURANT

473 Alisal Road • Solvang • 688.5426 • Open Every Day Visit Vinhus, at 440 Alisal Road in Solvang A SHOP LIKE NO OTHER. Family-owned and operated, we offer a unique selection of cheeses imported from all over the world. We also carry a variety of wine, beer, liquor, candies, teas, and gifts.

STOP IN FOR CHEESE TASTING. DESIGN A CUSTOM GIFT BASKET FOR A FRIEND. MAKE UP YOUR OWN CUSTOM PICNIC BASKET IN THE VINHUS, OR CALL AHEAD AND YOUR BASKET WILL BE READY TO PICK UP. THE VINHUS DELIVERS LOCALLY AND SHIPS ALL OVER THE WORLD.

4 4 0 A lisal Road Sol va ng 8 0 5 . 688.7117

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Velkommen 2014

The Extraordinary History of Solvang

Atterdag College—1914

by Esther Jacobsen Bates

Photos courtesy of Elverhøj Museum of History and Art

Atterdag, with its impressive white structure overlooking the growing settlement, became the embodiment of Solvang’s spirit: its educational efforts, cultural activities, athletics, social life, religious aspirations, and idealism.

It was also a place where young adults enjoyed themselves, made lasting friendships, and often found future spouses. The Atterdag tradition of “learning for life,” especially through lectures and the spoken word, can still be found in Solvang.

S

olvang, California, founded in 1911, began as a dream of three Danish immigrants: the Reverend Benedict Nordentoft, the Reverend J.M. Gregersen, and Professor P.P. Hornsyld. These men were educators and pastors in the Midwest. They planned to raise money to buy a large tract of land on the West Coast and subdivide it into plots for farms, homes, and a town. Profits from the sale of land would be used for building a Danishstyle folk school. Also planned was a Lutheran church.

They would invite Danes and Danish-Americans to settle

ATTERDAG GROUP Property in Fredensborg Canyon was utilized as a park for Atterdag College and the community. Lectures, sermons, plays, folk dancing, gymnastic events, concerts, and church picnics were held here. A portion was developed into an amphitheater with seating and called “Atterdag Bowl.”

In this photo, Atterdag students and some faculty are gathered under one of its many oak trees.

this new colony and realize the American Dream while preserving the culture and traditions of Denmark.

In January, 1911 the Danish-American Colony Corporation bought almost 9,000 acres of prime land in the Santa Ynez Valley. The new colony was named “Solvang” (sunny field) and glowing advertisements were placed in Danish-language newspapers. Early buyers, almost all Danish, came from California, the Midwest, and Denmark. Most were farmers. They quickly built barns for their livestock and farming equipment, then houses for

MEN’S/WOMEN’S GYMNASTICS The Danes coming to America brought with them the Scandinavian tradition of gymnastics. Gymnastic classes were at first held in the open air, rain or shine. In 1922 a Gym Hall at Atterdag was built with voluntary subscriptions. Both these photographs were taken in the new gym.

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their families. Dairy farming, a tradition in Denmark, flourished. Other settlers began establishing businesses to support the farming community.

True to its founders’ plan, Solvang built a Danish folk school in 1911.

Inspired by the charismatic Danish educator and churchman, N.F.S. Grundtvig, folk schools allowed young adults to continue learning. Designed as a “school for life,” the folk school in Solvang offered a broad range of courses, from Danish arts and crafts, singing, folk dancing, and gymnastics, to bookkeeping, history, English and Danish language classes, and more.

There were no entrance exams, course tests, grades, or diplomas. The school term ran from November through March for a modest tuition. Out-ofFOLK DANCERS town students lived at the school.

Solvang settlers brought with them the Danish tradition of folk dancing. Both folk dancing In 1914, the folk school moved to and singing were part of the curricula of the Atterdag College. Viggo Tarnow taught folk its new home, an imposing white struc- dancing as well as gymnastics, accompanying the dancing with his piccolo flute. The Solvang ture on a hill overlooking the town, and folk dancers were in great demand and often performed at community social events, plays, took a new name, Atterdag College. and festivals. In 1932 the dancers were greatly honored when they were asked to perform at For years Atterdag was the heart and the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. This photo dates from the late 1940s. soul of Solvang. It was used as a folk school, a community meeting hall, a performing arts venue, a lecture hall, a gymnastics center, a summer school, and a boarding house. Atterdag also provided church facilities. (Bethania Church was not built until 1928.) When the college finally closed its doors in 1952, its site and some of its facilities were used by the newly established Solvang Lutheran Home. (The continuing care retirement community now calls itself Atterdag Village in Solvang).

BREAKFAST BED Women students at Atterdag College. Tuition, room and board were $6 a week; for students living at home it was $2.

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Velkommen 2014

VISIT THESE FINE BUSINESSES AT THE WINDMILL & ROUND TOWER

tHe Windmill loft • toWer PiZZa JoHnson’s JeWel BoX • Windmill glassWorks

436 Alisal, Solvang

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Solvang Shoe Store ~ Serving Solvang since 1965 ~

1663 Copenhagen Dr. (805) 688-4065 www.solvangshoe.com solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

tHe CarlsBerg Beer Wagon and the Solvang Village Band

The Carlsberg Beer Wagon and the Solvang Village Band is a Danish Days favorite for visitors and locals both. A part of the Danish Days celebration since the early 1960’s, it was started by Carl Birkholm and Ray Paaske.

T

he Carlsberg Beer Wagon, with the Solvang Village Band on top, has been a welcome sight throughout the village during Danish Days and other activities and parades, since the early 1960’s. About that time two local businessmen, Carl Birkholm and Ray Paaske, were acquainted with the Danish official in Los Angeles who headed the Carlsberg Beer Foundation.

Through them an agreement was made for the beer wagon to be turned over to Solvang as an advertising beer wagon for the cost of insurance and maintenance. At the time, the wagon, originally an authentic delivery wagon in Denmark, was being stored at the Carlsberg facilities in Las Vegas in an outside storage area and was in need of

major repairs and restoration.

An army of local volunteers began the painstaking task of renovating the wagon, donating many hours of time and materials, the result of their efforts are still evident today. For over 40 years the Carlsberg Beer Wagon has been drawn through many parades and festivals, by beautiful teams of Shire or Belgian horses with the Solvang Village Band on top. The wagon is now owned and maintained by the Solvang Danish Days Foundation. Thanks to the foresight and hard work of those who started this wagon on its long journey to Solvang, and, to those who will continue to be its “keepers” the Carlsberg Beer Wagon will delight generations to come! ww

A Message from Solvang’s Mayor

Jim Richardson Mayor of Solvang

Velkommen til Solvang and the 2014 Edition of Solvang’s Danish Days celebration.

If this is your first visit we’re happy you’ve come to see first-hand Old Danish traditions and discover a bit of Denmark in Solvang. If you’ve been to Danish Days before, welcome back, you’ll not be disappointed. This year’s event is better than ever.

Some of the activities we’ve planned for you include the Friday evening Torchlight Parade, the Æbleskiver Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday morning, Saturday afternoon’s Danish Days Parade. There’ll be an ancient Viking encampment in Solvang Park, Danish Dancers dancing in the streets over the weekend, Old World Artisans Marketplace on First Street all day Saturday and Sunday, beer garden, concerts, and much much more.

Be sure to stop by the Elverhøj Museum to discover the Danish History in Solvang.

This magazine will give you information on many areas of interest in Solvang. For current listings of activities during Danish Days this year, please check the website at www.SolvangDanishDays.org.

We know your weekend will be full, so we encourage you to return to Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley to experience the wonders of this paradise. There are enjoyable activities most every week-end throughout the year.

Jim Richardson Mayor

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Velkommen 2014

Danish Days History:

The Story of “The Bells of Santa Ynez”

P

By Bob Raleigh

aul Weston composed “The Bells of Santa Ynez” with several of his sons, to fix the problem. With lots of oil after researching the early life of the people of the they did solve the situation. Unfortunately, the abundance of Mission. He used the Mission bells that rang each oil used, trailed down the front of the bell tower and it took day to call the people to worship and to work as the basis of Mario and his boys 2 days to clean the oil off the tower. The the story. The program starts with dawn and goes through bells were swung by hand with great effect at the end of the the day into the evening and includes scenes of dancing show.

Gudrun Sorensen was the accompanist for all the and solo songs from a priest to a young man who sings to his beloved. Children had a special dance sequence and rehearsals and part of the orchestra for the production.

“Goody” as we called her, conthey were also part of the chotributed her talent to many murus and the songs told of the sical activities in the Valley and events in the passing day. her husband Ferd was the dePaul and his family came signer and builder of the Danto the Valley each summer and ish motifs in many shop and stayed at the Alisal Ranch. Lynn restaurant interiors in Solvang.

Gillam was the ranch manager In time Helen Townsend, a very and he invited me to his home fine pianist, became the accomin Janin Acres one day to listen panist and was a key part of to the “Bells” album that Paul our success up to the last perhad produced through Capital formance. Louie and Juve Diaz, records. I then asked Lynn to another well known Solvang introduce me to Paul and that family, were important persons was arranged. When we met in the orchestra.

I asked Paul if I could use his The August 25 debut was music to create a performance very successful and as a result in front of the Mission. He the Danish Days committee consented. This was in May or asked if we would perform the June of 1963.

“Bells” again as part of that Then, I went about collect- Paul Weston Album “THE BELLS OF SANTA YNEZ” event. We did, and in those ing the various elements, the sound arrangements, the lighting schemes, the children to days we organized a traditional torch light parade from the dance, the romantic older dancing couple and the singers Mission down Mission Drive and to Copenhagen after the so essential to carry the main musical themes. It occurred “Bells” concluded. We performed the “Bells” for years after to me that we needed the Mission, so I asked Father Tim, and always had a good audience. Of course we had children if we could do the performance in front of the Mission and that started with the Children’s Dance group and grew up he cleared it with the church Diocese. The people of the into the adult chorus! Many friends and neighbors participatValley responded with their usual enthusiasm becoming ed in the “Bells” in all the performances from the beginning.

Lots of other Valley people contributed to the success members of the chorus, parking lot help, chair setters and so on. We were rehearsing once, then twice a week for 2 of the “Bells”. For example, the Skytts provided trucks and huge fork lifts and brought bleachers in from the high school months prior to the debut on August 25, 1963.

Interesting events took place all the time during the for the performance. The bleachers were purchased through rehearsal period up to the performance and then after. the efforts of Daryl Nielsen and funds from the Solvang It was necessary to light the bells in the Mission Tower Business Association. This did away with the need to set that were never lighted before. (The tower bells have been up and take down many chairs each evening. The bleachers lighted ever since!) A professional lighting company from were given to the high school, which resolved the issue of the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara provided exceptional storage between the annual performances.

The Mission people gave us carte blanche to use the services. The lighting provided the dawn to dusk effect so important to the story. We also had to have the bells swing building and grounds. The priest only cautioned that whoand ring at the final climax of the performance. The bells ever used the balcony should tread lightly as they might fall were frozen and would not swing. Mario Paola volunteered through. The lighting effects took a lot of electricity and

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

it wasn’t until the third or fourth year of performing the revived when Richard Overstake collaborated with Marty “Bells” that it was brought to our attention that the Mission Paisch, both entertainment professionals, to do the “Bells” electricity bill for September (month of Danish Days) was with a top-notch band, pro dancers, the Allan Hancock huge. The Danish Days committee paid the bill after that.

Choir and using known personalities to narrate, one of Besides the many folks that helped, and were not singwhich was Pat Boone. Richard wanted to turn the proers or in the program, Paul and his wife Jo Stafford wanted gram into a very big annual event separate from Danish to also offer something for the community in appreciaDays. Regrettably Paisch had health problems and passed tion of our performances. So, it was decided to do a loon and that stopped the concept. cal “Show Biz” evening with many talented Valley people The last performance to date of the “Bells” was for participating. The headliner of the 200th anniversary of the evening was the Weston’s the Mission. I was asked to daughter Amy who sang, and bring it together and did so The people of the Valley responded then Jo herself came on stage with many of the particiwith their usual enthusiasm becomand brought down the house. pants of past shows. And We raised $5,000 that evening we also had the children to ing members of the chorus, parkwhich went to the Santa Ynez dance and the tenor soloist ing lot help, chair setters and so on.

Valley Arts Association. It was to sing from the balcony.

Valley Arts that provided the Alas, the bells in the tower avenue for the then blossoming Theatrefest and that money where not able to swing to and fro for the concluding event was very useful in moving that project forward. Incidenof the evening. The bells were wired to ring and were tally, Paul and Jo attended almost every performance of the made stationary.

“Bells” at the Mission.

The pleasure of having created this program and parThe “Bells” became part of the Danish Days celebraticipating year after year, is hearing from the participants, tion for more than 20 years. It was discontinued when a many going from children dancers to choir singers. All of person on the Danish Days committee stated the program us remember the “Bells” performances as a special part of was not Danish and did not belong to the celebration. It was life in the Santa Ynez Valley. ww

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

reJsegilde

an old danisH tradition

O

By Rick James Marzullo

ne tradition that the founders of Solvang brought with them from their homeland of Denmark is that of a Rejsegilde (rye-sah-gild-ah). Roughly translated as “raise the roof tree” or Raising Party, it has also been translated as a topping-out party.

A Rejsegilde is a party given by a new home or building owner, thrown in appreciation of its builders and the tradesmen who have performed work on it (carpenters, masons, plumbers, etc.). These parties also serve as an official “launching”, so to speak, of the new building in the community. Traditionally, a Rejsegilde is held after the highest roof rafter is in place.

This custom is still prevalent all over Northern Europe and has been practiced for as long as anyone can remember!

CEA-7501-A-A5

The first written reports of a Rejsegilde in Denmark are from the 1500’s. But historians believe that the practice has its roots in pre-Christian Scandinavia.

Before Christianity came to Scandinavia, the so-called “heathens” are believed to have had a deep religious reverence for nature. In fact, some trees were considered holy.

So, when an area was cleared and trees were felled for a new building, out of reverence to the gods and woodland spirits, ceremonies were probably held to give thanks to those who supplied the raw materials for the new structure.

A small token to appease these spirits and bring good luck to the building was to place the top of an evergreen tree on the roof. This custom is more than likely where the “raise the roof tree” translation comes from.

Another tradition that is still part of a Rejsegilde is the placing of a Rejsegilde krans from Joining with our friends and neighbors to the highest rafter. These wreaths are more than likely derived from the earlier pagan rites. The krans or wreath is fashioned from evergreens and various leaves and flowers, then hung with red and white ribbon (the color of Denmark’s flag). In some cases the 78th Annual Solvang Dannebrog itself is used to decorate the wreaths.

Danish Days There are different traditional ways to make a krans depending upon what part of Denmark you are Bruce Porter, CFP® in. The type most commonly used is that of three conFinancial Advisor secutive wreaths, each one larger as it descends from 1090 Edison St Ste 101 P O Box 599 the top suspension. The three wreaths form a “topiSanta Ynez, CA 93460 805-688-9079 ary tree”. The smallest wreath represents the buildwww.edwardjones.com ers, and stands for luck and faith. The middle wreath represents the inhabitants and stands for prosperity and hope. The largest wreath represents the building and stands for growth and love. In southern Jutland, the traditional Rejsegilde kranse are hung vertically, .

Member SIPC

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

SOLVANG REJSEGILDE

On August 25, 1914, the highest rafter on the new Atterdag College structure was put into place, decorated with wreaths, and a “Rejsegilde” (rafter-raising party) was held. Photo courtesy of Elverhøj Museum of History and Art

similar to a traditional Christmas wreath.

Usually the hardest thing for these early builders to do was to raise the topmost roof rafter. Often neighbors would come to help in this endeavor. And so, typical of Danish hospitality, food was prepared and served as a thank-you to those who came to help. If this sounds familiar – yes, it is very similar to a barn raising in the United States. But where do you think they got that idea from?

Today the typical fare for a Rejsegilde consists of: pølser (Danish hot dogs) and beer, with an assortment of Danish breads and cheeses, and sweet pastries. Of course this menu can vary to include smørrebrod, medisterpølse, frikadeller…just never lasagne! (There are limits to good taste.)

Thanking those who have labored many hours to build a new building is a good thing. But if an owner is late to throw such a party, or too cheap, then the builders are within their rights to play a little mischief on the owner.

One of the mischievous acts is commonly known as a “Dead Mason” (“Død murer”). Old empty cement bags might just be crafted into an effigy of the owner and hung from the highest rafter. Another “dead mason” prank, usually reserved for the cheapest and most thankless of owners, is that of taking an empty bottle and placing it inside a chimney, so that when the chimney is lit, the heat going up

the flue creates a moaning, whistling sound. One such dead mason bottle was found in St. Olav’s Church in Helsingør.

The tradition from Denmark of hosting a Rejsegilde is still practiced today in Solvang. It has become so popular that it is also practiced by non-Danes throughout the Santa Ynez Valley and beyond. After all, no matter where you go, there are always a few Danes around, more than happy to help carry on the tradition!

Rejsegilde, 1900 - Sønderjylland, Denmark

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Velkommen 2014

Where did the Danish Maid come from?

T

by Bob Raleigh

he year before Renton Mitchell was chairman of Danish Days, and thus responsible for all matters pertaining to this annual celebration, I was the Danish Days chairman. In both years we worked together.

Mitchell decided on having the Guard Houses built and placed them around town. Easily spotted with the bright red paint and pointed roofs many of our tourist “guests” placed a friend or relative inside for a quick snap shot.

It occured to me that we needed a different symbol for our Danish Community, so, the idea of the “Danish Maid” was born. Not a queen as most celebrations might have, but a maid.

Taking the idea to Renton we both discussed who would be the first official Danish Maid. The year was 1967. At that time a very nice young person had recently come from Denmark to live in our community. Her name was Anne Jensen and she spoke with an accent and was of course, fluent in Danish, literally a perfect “product” to represent the Danish Community of Solvang. Her costume was typical of the region in Denmark in which she had lived.

Cliff Aronson operated a wonderful art shop in town and came from the advertising field in the Hollywood-Los ww

Angeles area. Through his connections and understanding of publicity he arranged to have our Danish Maid interviews on various television talk shows in the days prior to Danish Days. She had great presence and we had some rather large crowds coming for the three day celebration.

In subsequent years we found two more Danish Maids with the same credentials as our first. However, in time we ran out of Danish born folks and the job was moved over to local girls. These Maids represented various regions of Denmark with their custom designed dresses and the program continues to this day. Through the years our Danish Maids have all made brilliant contributions to the success and flavor of Danish Days.

The post script to this adventure is that Anne Jensen married a fellow with a sailing vessel and they both sailed away to somewhere in the Pacific. Marianne Ullum (1968) married a prominent Dane in our community by the name of Jack Larsen. They both continue to have a business in Solvang and have two fine sons. Another Danish Danish Days Maid was Vibeke Nielsen (1969) who married Dave Harrison. Dave was Chairman of Danish Days the year following Renton Mitchell. Today Dave and Vicki run a bed and breakfast in Etna, California.

Enjoy German, American and Danish dishes at our family-style restaurant and beer garden.

Located on the corner of Second Street and Copenhagen Drive.

Behind the Blue Windmill

805-688-6213

Part of the Solvang experience for 41 years!

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Velkommen 2014

solvangdanishdays.org

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

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Danish Street Names In Solvang DANISH STREET NAMES IN SOLVANG, WITH EXPLANATORY REMARKS. AALBORG Fairly large city in northern Jutland, where Fourth of July gets celebrated each year by Danish-Americans in nearby Rebild park. It is a manufacturing town, and in its distillery produces the Aalborg Akvavit. (Aqua vitae, Latin for Water of Life.)

AARS City in Himmerland, northern Jutland.

AARHUS Another large city, situated in the middle of Jutland.

Known for its University and Marselisborg castle, the Queen’s summer home.

ADELGADE Nobel - or nobility street. Very ancient street name in Denmark, also found in a shorter version: Algade. ÆBELTOFT A charming small medieval looking town on Djursland, close by Aarhus.

ASKOV Village in the southern part of Jutland. Has made a name for itself with its “Folk High School”.

ATTERDAG King Valdemar Atterdag ruled from 1340 to 1375.

Atterdag being a nickname, derived from the King’s motto: Tomorrow’s another day.

AUGUSTENBORG A small city with a castle of the same name, situated on the island of Als near the German border.

BAKKE WAY Means Hill road.

COPENHAGEN The capital of Denmark.

ELSINORE Helsingør in Danish, historic city north of Copenhagen. From Kronborg castle a fee was demanded of all passing ships sailing through the Sound for several centuries. The story of Hamlet supposedly took place in the ancient, early castle, leading to a British performance in the castle courtyard every summer of Shakespeare’s immortal play.

ELVERHØJ A play of this name, written by J.L. Heiberg, and first performed in the Royal Theater in Copenhagen on 6th of November 1828; became a national jewel in the annals of Danish stage plays, and is always on the repertoire in Denmark. It is a story from the days of King Christian IV, of mixed-up identities interwoven with the superstition of Elverhøj, an ancient mound in the forest, where supposedly Page 30

Shared by Max Hanberg

the “Elvergirls” dance in the moonlight. The mound can still be found today on a field south of Copenhagen.

GAMBY The name of a small village on the island of Funen (Fyn).

HORNBECK Hornbæk, a small, but much beloved seaside resort, on the north coast of the island of Zealand (Sjælland).

KANIN HØJ Means Rabbit Hill.

KOLDING A medium-sized city in the southern part of Jutland.

KRONBORG The name of Hamlet’s castle. (See Elsinore).

KRONEN The crown.

MOLLE WAY Mill road.

NORDENTOFT Peter Nordentoft - one of the founding fathers of Solvang.

NYKOBING Small city situated in the northern part of Zealand.

NYSTED Another small city, on the south coast of the island of Lolland.

REBILD A park south of Aalborg where Fourth of July is celebrated each year by thousands of Danish-Americans.

RINGSTED Ancient historical city on the island of Zealand.

ROSKILDE Next to Ringsted. Its cathedral is the last resting place for many of the Danish nobility.

SKAGEN The northernmost city in Denmark - on the tip of Jutland.

SORØ Sorø, situated near Ringsted, famous for its academy.

VIBORG Ancient city on the Jutland peninsula.

Some SuggeSted future Street nameS for the City of Solvang, in the daniSh language or in tranSlation.

ABSALON Absalon was bishop for King Valdemar I (the great), and liked to go to battle by the side of his king. The Wend’s especially did feel the wrath of their swords. (Wenden was situated on the island of Rugen on the North-German coast). Twelfth century.

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CARIT ETLAR Nineteenth century Danish author Carl Brosbøll, writing under the penname of Carit Etlar, produced many popular historical novels, all inspired by Danish history.

CARL NIELSEN One of Denmark’s great composers born 1865, died in 1931.

ESROM A lake in North Zealand, and has also given its name to one of Denmark’s well-known cheeses.

FARSTRUP Several small villages in Denmark carry this name, and the Bethania Lutheran Church in Solvang was served

by Pastor Einar Farstrup from 1952 to 1961.

FREYA The name of a goddess in Nordic mythology.

GREENLAND Classified as the biggest island in the world, belongs to Denmark.

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN (1805 - 1875). At the age of 30 H. C. Andersen wrote to a friend: “I am now beginning some ‘Fairy-tales for children’: I shall try to win the future generation, you know!” In a letter sometime later, he mentions “...they say of these stories, ‘It is my Immortal Soul’.”

HOLBERG Danish-Norwegian author Ludvig Holberg (1684 1754). Especially known for his satirical plays, which are still performed at the Royal Theatre in Copenhagen.

HIMMERLAND The name of part of northern Jutland - called Cimbria in early history.

HORNSYLD Peter Hornsyld, Nordentoft and Gregersen are considered the three founding fathers of Solvang.

JUTLAND The peninsula which makes Denmark landfast with Europe. The rest of Denmark consists of islands, big and small.

KAREN BLIXEN Danish baroness and authoress (1885 - 1962). Writing under the pen-name Isak Dinesen. Her “Out of Africa” was made into film.

KING VALDEMAR King Valdemar the Great (see Absalon), reigned in Denmark from 1157 to 1182, and came by his name “the Great” by always being victorious in battle.

KING CHRISTIAN/ KING FREDERIK Over many years the Danish kings were named Christian or Frederik. King Christian X died in 1947, and his son Frederik IX died in 1972. Queen Margrethe II who presently rules in Denmark is the daughter of Frederik IX.

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

KIERKEGAARD Søren Kierkegaard was a Danish philosopher (1813 1855). Considered to be the first existentialist philosopher.

LINDENBORG Name of an old Danish manorhouse situated in Himmerland, north Jutland.

MARSTAL Small seafaring town on the island of Ærø. Famous for its schooner building when wooden ships were the pride of the oceans. Marstal schooners were trading all over the world.

ODIN In Nordic mythology Odin is the ruler of the gods in Valhalla (which see).

PALUDAN Jacob Paludan (1896 - 1975). Danish author well known for his novels and essays.

PRINCE HAMLET From Saxonis Grammatici Historia Danica, did Shakespeare get his inspiration for his play about Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark. Saxo, a contemporary of Absalon and King Valdemar the Great, put on paper the old Norse - old Danish tales from ancient times until about 1184. Written in Latin, it has been translated several times through the centuries.

ROSENBORG This small pleasure castle, built by King Christian IV, was started in 1608 and finished in 1613. At that time it was outside Copenhagen, but today is completely surrounded by the city.

SINDAL Name of small village in Vendsyssel, north Jutland.

TARNOW Viggo Tarnow worked for many years in Solvang as a physical educator and instructor for the younger set. His motto: A healthy soul in a healthy body.

TOLNE Name of small village in Vendsyssel, north Jutland.

VALHALLA This is the name of the home of Nordic gods, also considered to be paradise. Here you lived the eternal life of a Viking. If you slew your neighbor in battle, he would rise up next morning, ready for another fight. The tables were never empty of food, and the drinking horns were always full of beer or mead - no matter how much you tried to empty them.

VITUS BERING Born in 1741 in Horsens on the Jutland peninsula, Vitus Bering found employment at the Russian court as an explorer, and discovered the strait between Alaska and Asia which today bears his name - the Bering Strait.

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Velkommen 2014

LIVING HISTORY FESTIVAL

at Elverhøj Museum of History and Art

Photos courtesy of Elverhøj Museum of History and Art

by Esther Jacobsen Bates

Celebrate Solvang’s history and cultural roots during the Living History Festival, Saturday and Sunday, September 20 and 21 at Elverhøj Museum of History and Art. Artisans, storytellers and craftspeople will demonstrate their skills and entertain visitors throughout the weekend event. The public is invited; admission is free.

“There will be hands-on activities for all ages and lots of variety this year,” said Esther JaBobbin lace making is cobsen Bates, Elverhøj Executive among the hands-on Director. “Artisans demonstrating activities offered to guests of all ages. woodworking, blacksmithing, and Viking chain mail construction will join some of our visitor’s favorite crafters showcasing bobbin lace making, Danish papirklip (papercutting), and fiber arts.”

Bobbin lace makers will create samples of their intricate work and offer guests an opportunity to try their hand at this centuriesold art. Exhibits come to life with demonstrations of spinning and weaving. Skilled craftspeople teach visitors about the centuries old fiber arts The colorful hand-painted panels in the of Viking knitElverhøj kitchen. ting, Hardanger, and Nolbinding.

Visitors are invited to linger in the Museum garden where blacksmith Hans Duus will be pounding out metal pieces. Joining him will be a stone carver and woodworkers demonstrating their craft.

Docents clad in colorful Danish folk costumes weave paper hearts and stars, a timehonored Danish Christmas Randall McGee, AKA Hans tradition. Storyteller Randall Christian Andersen, performs in the Museum gar- McGee, always a Festival favorite, will perform as world den during Danish Days.

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famous author Hans Christian Andersen.

On display in the Museum Art Gallery is “Art from the Groves: Santa Inés Mission Mills.” The exhibition celebrates the historic 39 acre Solvang property with works by 26 jury-selected artists. Their work illustrates ruins of the grist and Danish papirklip (papercutfulling mills, olive groves ting) is an exacting and centure-introducing Mission-era ries-old craft. agriculture, the Alamo Pintado Creek corridor, and vistas of the Santa Ynez Mountain range and Old Mission Santa Inés.

“There will be hands-on activities for all ages and lots of variety this year,” said Esther Jacobsen Bates, Elverhøj Executive Director.

History, heritage and art are on display year-round at Elverhøj. The Museum occupies the former residence of one of Solvang’s most artistic families. The historic handcrafted structure, two blocks south of the village center, is the former dream home of artists Viggo Brandt-Erichsen and his wife, Martha Mott. In 1949 they began building in a style derived from the large Danish farmhouses of 18th century Jutland.

Many elements of Scandinavian architecture were incorporated into the design. Ornamental wrought ironwork, sculptures, a carved redwood main entry door, and hand painted wall panels are just some of the permanent imprints of this talented family.

Since 1988, Elverhøj Museum has been welcoming and educating visitors. Among the permanent exhibits is

Elverhøj Museum occupies the former residence of one of Solvang’s most artistic families. The historic handcrafted structure is built in a style derived from the large Danish farmhouses of 18th century Jutland.

solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

S OLVANG SA

=

the Solvang Room which presents the town’s history with photos, video, artifacts and models. The Immigrant Room displays artifacts from a rural one-room Danish home as it might have looked in the 1870s when Danish emigration to the United States was at its peak. Tucked in a corner of the garden is the diorama cottage which houses small scale buildings depicting Blacksmithing will be dem1920s Solvang with its mix onstrated during the Living History Festival of architectural styles that did not yet include the Danish designs adapted in the 1950s.

The Elverhøj Museum History and Art is two blocks south of Copenhagen Drive, just off Second Street in Solvang. The Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There is no charge for admission; suggested donation is $5.

For a full schedule of Museum programs and to learn more about Solvang’s rich history, visit www.elverhoj.org.

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

= A NTIQUES

Solvang Antiques has over 35 years of experience and features an exquisite collection of fine art, restored antique clocks, watches & music boxes, antique & estate jewelry, 18th & 19th C. furniture, and decorative accessories.

Q

1693 Copenhagen Dr., Solvang, CA 805-686-2322 v solvangantiques.com

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

GAVEAESKEN (The Gift Box)

Fine Domestic, Scandinavian & European Gifts

Coffee Shop and Marketplace

Offering the best quality in wedding cakes 438 Alisal Road • Solvang • 805-688-4939

See our new line of Frigast Nordic Fairytale full porcelain dolls, made in Denmark, collected the world over.

www.solvangbakery.com

805.686.5699 • 9:30 - 5:00 Daily

Come visit us at our new location!

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433 Alisal Road, Solvang (across from the post office)

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Velkommen 2014

solvangdanishdays.org

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

No visit to Solvang is complete without a visit to

Rasmussen’s

Gifts • Lang Graphics • Fabrics • Yarns

Solvang’s Original Department Store

Featuring Scandinavian and European Imports

Rasmussen’s

1697 Copenhagen Drive • Solvang, CA 93463 (805) 688-6636 Call for our full-color Christmas catalog

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

CUrtains • laCe fine imPorted gifts CoPPer & Brass antiQUes danisH dolls roYal CoPenHagen Bing & GrØndaHl ColleCtiBles

1676 Copenhagen Drive Solvang, CA 93463

805-688-3750 805-688-4661

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1230 Mission Drive Solvang, CA

Electrical SUPPLYING SANTA BARBARA & SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

STAR DRUGS Drugs & Sundries Vitamins & Supplements First Aid Supplies

SAN TA VAL YNEZ LEY NEW S

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Authorized UPS & FedEx Shipping &Receiving Wine Shipping Color Copies & Fax Service

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order your prescriptions online!

3576 madera street, santa ynez p: 805.688.6898 f: 805.688.6047 monday-friday 830am - 630pm saturday 9am - 5pm

www.stardrugsantaynez.com

Thank you

to Cal Coast Machinery for loaning us the “little green machines.”

We don’t know where we would be without you.

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

A Solvang Landmark: The Danish Inn Building Reprinted in part from “Valley Trader”, September 17, 1986

O

by Maria Bland-Hoke

ld-timers will probably recall the original restaurant that was built by Bob Asselstine where The Danish Inn stands on Mission Drive (Hwy. 246). It was opened in 1948 by Bob Asselstine and his new bride, Jeannette, about two weeks after their marriage. “I don’t remember too much about those early days”, stated Mrs. Asselstine, “I was too caught up in being a newlywed. But I do remember that one side of the restaurant was a dining room and the other side served malts, sodas, hamburgers and French fries. A lot of kids used to stop by after school to have a soda or something.”

This landmark building is now home to the Solvang Brewing Company.

The Danish Inn at night in 1953 right after the Windmill room was added

Solvang became the first charter after the original charter at the Scandia Restaurant in Beverly Hills was formed.

Many local and out of town dignitaries frequent The Danish Inn, including President Reagan. Photographs of some of the visiting dignitaries are hung in the foyer of the Viking Lounge along with Solvang Charter for The Vikings.

Currently, The Danish Inn is owned by Vince’s sister Peggy Evans and her partner Robert P. Gleason. Last year

In 1951 the property was purchased by Borgie and Mimi Andresen and their son Per Andresen. “The Danish Inn was a family partnership between my parents and myself, and later my wife”, recalls Per Andresen. The restaurant became a home away from home for all of us.”

The Andresen’s had come to California from Denmark and first settled in Eureka. There they opened a small restaurant called Andresen’s…“which is still standing,” noted Per. From there they moved to Solvang and took over the running of the dining room of the old Solvang Inn before it burned down.

After purchasing the Asselstine property, the Andresen’s changed the restaurant to a Danish motif. The smørgåsbord they The Danish Inn in 1951 after it was rebuilt with a Danish motif by Borgie and Mimi Andresen. featured was the first one used in restaurants in the Valley. Both Borgie and his wife did Peggy Evans opened the restaurant for breakfast – for the all the cooking. “I can remember what hard workers they first time in the restaurant’s history. Her primary concept is were”, recalls Jeannette Asselstine. “They put a lot of on elegant dining, no matter what time of day.

This Thursday and Friday everyone to invited to share themselves in The Danish Inn to make it work.”

In 1953 they added the windmill section to the restau- in celebration of The Danish Inn’s 35th birthday. Complirant. This area was used primarily for the bar. As the popu- mentary æbleskivers will be served during the breakfast larity of the restaurant grew, additional space was needed. hours from 7am to 11 am while a complimentary glass of The Viking Lounge was the last part added, and its main wine will be served during the lunch and dinner hours. Kick function at that time was to enlarge the bar capacity and to off Danish Days by visiting The Danish Inn for its birthday hold private parties. It never was used as a dining room as celebration. Skål!

2014 Update: The Danish Inn became Linton’s, then it is today.

The Danish Inn was purchased by Vincent Evans in reopened with a new name and closed. After renovations, 1973. At that time the charter for The Vikings, a philan- the old Danish Inn is now home to the Solvang Brewing thropic charitable organization, was initiated by Mr. Evans. Company. Stop by and enjoy while in town! solvangdanishdays.org

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

The Santa Ynez Valley Hotel Association is happy to welcome visitors to the 78th annual Danish Days!

Our 33 member hotels have been the “home away from home” for generations of visitors to this special annual event.

Johnson’s Jewel Box Lazer Repair Services Manufacturing Jewelers Gemologists

Velkommen og kom igen!

(Welcome and come back!)

VisitSYV.com

436-B Alisal Road • Solvang, CA 93463 (805) 688-3080

The Danish Pioneer Newspaper – Since 1872 ARTICLES IN ENGLISH & DANISH

We Invite you to join The Danish Pioneer Family today! Please help us to preserve The Danish Pioneer, the oldest Danish-American newspaper in the U.S.A. Join us in celebrating 142 Years in 2014!

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Danish Days Special Offer for New Subscribers & Gift Subscriptions:

An ideal gift anytime! Features 26 quality issues per year including the Big Holiday Edition. Subscribe today!

First year only: 26 Issues for $40.00 via periodicals delivery or 26 Issues for $48.00 via first-class mail in the U.S.A. Service also available to Canada, Denmark & outside the U.S.A Please call or e-mail for rates.

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For subscription & advertising services, please write, e-mail, or call: Elsa Steffensen, Publisher, Linda Steffensen, Editor & Elizabeth Steffensen, Webmaster Bertelsen Publishing Company, 1582 Glen Lake Road, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60169 USA

Tel. 847-882-2552, Fax 847-882-7082, E-mail: dpioneer@aol.com www.thedanishpioneer.com (English) or www.dendanskepioneer.com (Danish) Page 40

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

SOLVANG STILL CELEBRATES

DANISH TRADITIONS

TRADITIONAL DANISH WEDDING CAKE

The Kransekage is a delectable Danish tradition. It is often made for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. This almond ring cake, dating back to the 1700’s is made with the following ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs almond paste 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 egg whites, slightly beaten Crumble almond paste and mix thoroughly with sugar and egg whites. Put through cookie press filling 18 kransekage rings that have been well buttered. Bake at 300’ for 20 minutes or until lightly brown.

The frosting is made with the following: 1 egg white, beaten frothy 4 drops vinegar Powdered sugar to make a thin frosting Each ring of the Kransekage must be placed on top of one another as if to build a tower.

Traditionally, the Kransekage is decorated with Danish and American flags in Solvang.

CELEBRATING A SILVER OR GOLD WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Another tradition for the Valley Danes occurs for the celebration of a couple’s Silver or Golden Anniversary. Friends and family will make an arch of pine branches, called an “æresport”, gate of honor, and will place it by the couple’s front door early in the morning and sing them out of bed. After a few songs have been sung and the couple has risen out of bed, coffee and pastries – maybe a snaps or two – that have been brought by the guests are shared for breakfast. Pictured here are Dave and Vibeke Harrison celebrating their silver anniversary.

“REJSEGILDE” A Danish custom often honored in Solvang and elsewhere in the Valley is the Rejsegilde which translates into English as “Raise the Roof Tree”. This ceremony occurs when the highest rafter is in place of a new home. A wreath is hung from the highest rafter. At this point of construction, friends and family are invited for food and drink. This is always a good time to visit, take a look around, and wish the new home owners happiness in their future home. (See related article on page 26)

STORKS BRING GOOD LUCK Adhering to Danish tradition, figures of gleaming white storks perched on top of their nests grace the rooftops of many of Solvang’s commercial and residential structures, Regarded as a symbol of good luck, legend has it that the presence of a stork’s nest not only protects the home owner from lightning, but also assures the occupant that he/she will live long and grow rich.

It was also thought that the stork that came to preside on the family roof was the embodied soul of some ancestor and took a lively interest in each anticipated descendant. (Perhaps that’s where the belief that storks bring babies came about.) solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

Holding onto tradition by sharing ‘amuyich

It’s a Chumash tradition to reach out to our neighbors and care for our community.

We call it ‘amuyich.

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians embraces this tradition to make our community a better place to live.

We are proud to support Danish Days.

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation www.santaynezchumash.org

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solvangdanishdays.org

Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Visit us at in the HC Andersen Hus, located in the courtyard by Ingeborg’s Chocolates.

We offer imported Danish needlework from:

• Eva Rosenstand/Clara Waever • Permin • Oehlenschlagers • Danish Handcraft Guild • Heritage Stitchcraft from England.

Also Featured:

Since

BIEN

1882

Our 126th Anniversary

Only Danish Weekly Newspaper Printed in the United States First with Local and Danish News!

Yearly Subscription: $45 (US)

I enclose my check in the amount of $45.00 - Please start sending BIEN to: Name: (Please print)_______________________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________________ City:____________________________________ State:________ Zip:_______________Page 25 Mail to: BIEN, Inc. PMB#519, 19360 Rinaldi St., Porter Ranch, CA 91326 solvangdanishdays.org

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SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

Celebrating Jesus Christ’s Birth for 47 Years

• Unique ornaments • Wooden Nutcrackers • Nativities • Danish Items • Collectibles

VALLEY HARDWARE & Garden Center 1665 Mission Dr., Solvang, CA 93463 805-688-4191 • 800-676-4191 Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday

Make Valley Hardware your one-stop headquarters for a great selection of gifts and unique home decor. Convenient hours to help make shopping fun. In downtown Solvang, across from the park.

Welcome to Danish Days

Page 44

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

DANISH MILL BAKERY & Coffee Shop

“Since 1960”

The Arvid Petersen family came to Solvang from Denmark in 1957 and opened the Danish Mill Bakery in Solvang on Sept 17, 1960.

Through the years the family has always maintained the finest quality baked goods.

1682 Copenhagen Dr. • Solvang • 805.688.5805

solvangdanishdays.org

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Velkommen 2014

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

VIKINGS IN SOLVANG

photo by Harrison Wang

THE RAVENS OF ODIN solvang’s viking Heritage

By Jaan Calderon

hunting of marine mammals The Danish Days festival celebrates the ancestral culwas also practiced by those tural heritage of the Danish people who founded Solvang. living in coastal regions.

Returning this year is the acclaimed historical Viking Originating from the Age educational group, Ravens of Odin. The group procountries recognized today as vides a “snapshot in time” with their portrayal of the Denmark, Norway, and SweDanish/Norse/Scandinavian culture. den, Scandinavian “Vikings” The Viking Age was an era in Scandinavian history raided, traded, and settled in spanning roughly the years 787 AD to 1066 AD. Among the lands recognized today Scandinavians, the term “Viking” was used to define the as England, Ireland, Rusactivity of individuals during this time period, rather than sia, Ukraine, Poland, Spain, to signify a distinct group or national identity. In modern France, Germany, Scotland, photo by Catherina Baghoomian times, the term “Viking” has been expanded to refer not Greenland, Iceland, Isle of only to the raiding actions Man, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, but to the entire period of Lithuania, North Africa, and the Middle East. the age.

The catalyst for this sudden expansion stemmed from The word “Viking” a technological innovation known as the Viking ship. This is derived from the Old nautical achievement, combined with maritime skill and the Norse word “Vikingr.”

Nordic cultural ethos, enabled far-ranging Scandinavians to During the Dark Ages the leave their secluded homeland and influence the European word denoted a Scandinaframework culturally, militarily, and economically. vian pirate or waterborne Norse explorers discovered North America around the raider. The root of the year 1000 A.D. and founded a colony, almost 500 years beword stems from “Vik,” which in Old Norse means a creek, fore Christopher Columbus’ voyage of discovery in 1492. fjord, river, bay, or inlet.

The Norse expansion into Eastern Europe through To “go a Viking” defined the actions of adventurous the vast network of river waterways reached the Byzantine Scandinavians Empi re/Conwho sailed out st a nt i nople.

Solvang Park is the site of the Ravens of Odin encampment during Danish Days. from the frozen This served to They appear formidable in these photos but they’re actually a nice bunch. Visit north, seeking increase the their camp and learn more about the lifestyle of the Vikings of old. their fortunes scope of the by raiding EuWestern European coastal villages and monasteries. The Norse also ropean economic state. Enterprising Norse adventurers ranged further abroad and undertook voyages of explorahelped to re-open stagnant trade avenues with the Middle tion, trade, and commerce. It is noteworthy to mention that East, which had collapsed after the fall of the Roman Emduring the Viking Age, only an estimated 3% of the Scandipire in the West. navian population actually went The Viking influence on Europe remains to this day. “a Viking.”

Many English words originated from the Scandinavian The majority of Scandinalanguage. The days of the week: Tuesday through Friday vians were farmers. They pracare named after Norse deities: Tuesday (Tyr), Wednesday ticed animal husbandry and (Woden/Odin), Thursday (Thor), and Friday (Frigga/Freya). raised crops. Cattle and sheep In an effort to recreate an accurate historical portrait to were the most important livethis exciting period, Ravens of Odin feature knowledgeable, stock, as they contributed both historically costumed men and women brought together by to diet and clothing. Barley, their passion for Norse / Viking culture. rye, oats, flax, and wheat were Ravens of Odin philosophy echoes the followamong the crops cultivated. The ing quote taken from the “sayings of Odin the high people lived in farm settlements one,” which is found in the Elder or Poetic Edda of the or villages. Fishing and the Germanic/Nordic Culture: photo by Catherina Baghoomian

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Velkommen 2014

photo by Harrison Wang

“Cattle die, kindred die, Every man is mortal: But the good name never dies Of one who has done well.”

On the hospitality table are examples of all manner of foods that were consumed.

Visitors can also view the various trade items that would have been bartered by a Viking Age merchant.

Visitors are encouraged to interact with the group members, try on armor, hold an exact replica of a Viking Age weapon, and examine such items as tents, cooking implements, fishing/fowling gear, crates, barrels, storage chests, and furniture. This provides a great photo opportunity, to be up close and personal with the Viking culture.

There is no greater reward for members of the group than to share their knowledge with those who exhibit a yearning to learn about the Viking Age. It is fitting that this quote of the Elder/Poetic Edda summarizes a visitor’s experience to the Ravens of Odin encampment.

“Hail to the speaker, Hail to the knower, Joy to him who has understood, Delight to those who have listened.”

Finally, when the crowds have dissipated, and the Danish Days festival has come to an end, the residents of Solvang will perhaps pause and embrace a moment of reflection. They can take pride that their colorful heritage has been displayed to people from all over the world with an accuracy and passion that would have made their ancestors proud.

Poems from The Havamal of Odin

The Solvang Village Folk Dancers

M

any couples who grew up in Solvang and the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley, but later left the area for career reasons, return each year to participate in Danish Days. Over the years an informal group of dancers reunite every Danish Days in Solvang to dance for up to 20 hours throughout the weekend. The group eventually adopted the Solvang Village Folk Dancers name. After

the original founders, the Cretneys, moved out of California, David Heald became the dance group leader. Although David lives in Los Angeles, he returns to Solvang on weekends to teach international dance to the group throughout the year. He also conducts practices during the months prior to Danish Days, introducing new dances and refreshing older ones for performance and participation. photo by David Wilkes A website, www.svfolkdance. com, provides information about the Solvang Village Folk Dancers and their activities. Over the years, the children of many of the original participating couples joined in the dancing, and more recently, their children’s children participate. Over the years thousands of Solvang visitors have enjoyed the lively Solvang Village Folk Dancers.

solvangdanishdays.org

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photo by Harrison Wang

This philosophy is evidenced at the events in which the group participates. They ceaselessly strive to maintain their “good name” and reputation as world class educators of Viking Age culture.

It is from Nordic mythology that Ravens of Odin takes its name. In Norse mythology, Odin, the chief Nordic deity has two ravens, Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory), which he sends forth every day out into the world. When the ravens return, they bring him information of what is happening. The members of the group view themselves as a modern version of this as they go out into the world educating people on the Norse culture.

An event will feature cutting and combative demonstrations using the weapons and techniques that were employed in Dark Age warfare. Ongoing engrossing lectures explain the construction and usage of the various weapons, armor, shields, and helmets which are on display.

Live demonstrations of Viking Age metal and woodworking are prominently displayed. All manner of items from helmets to wooden bowls and trenchers are crafted using the exact tools and techniques observed by Viking Age craftsmen.

The daily activities of the Nordic woman are faithfully recreated. Demonstrations in the arts of weaving, braiding, storytelling, sewing, cooking, and herbal lore are featured.

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

SOLVANG DANISH DAYS FOUNDATION

Velkommen 2014

These are the days to celebrate.

Celebrating Danish heritage is all part of making our communities better places to live and work. That’s why Montecito Bank & Trust is proud to support the good folks behind the 78th Annual Danish Days Festival for all their hard work bringing the Solvang community together. It’s a wonderful time to celebrate.

Member FDIC

montecito.com Call for more information 591 Alamo Pintado Road, Sovang • (805) 688-2300 Goleta • Santa Barbara • Montecito • Carpinteria • Ventura • Westlake Village

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solvangdanishdays.org

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