The Sagas written by the Norse in the 13th century tell the tale of Leif Eriksson finding a faraway land with lush fields and wild game inhabited by Skraelings (North American First Nations) around the year 1000 CE.
Eriksson and his crew, after exploring this land and gathering a cargo of grapes and lumber, travelled back to Greenland to announce their discoveries and prepare for more expeditions. With promises of prosperity, a small band of people led by Thorfinn Karlsefni landed in what is now known as L’Anse aux Meadows, building dwellings, workshops, a forge, and more. Using this outpost as a base, crews explored the surrounding areas and gathered materials for trade.
Skraelings, the native inhabitants of the area, quickly became a problem as relations were increasingly hostile. While the Norse attempted to withstand the natives, they were outnumbered, making continued settlement a dangerous prospect. After only a few years this outpost in North America failed and the Norse left L’Anse aux Meadows.
Top Photo Credit: [Copyright Barrett & MacKay Photo] & [Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism]
Historic Sites Association's Contributions:
Contributed $50,000 to the development and printing of book Westward Viking: the Story of L’Anse aux Meadows.