Chicago Swedish Fraternal Organization To Show New Documentary at Annual Christmas Party

Nov. 6, 2012 - PRLog -- The Vasa Order of America Austin Lodge #466 traditionally holds it Christmas party at the Grota Restaurant, 3112 N. Central Avenue on the Northwest Side of Chicago. This time, however it will be very special.

In addition to the fine food served, and Christmas music provided by noted Chicago Musician, George Banks, the Lodge will be showing the new 15 minute mini documentary about the famous replica of a Viking ship that sailed from its port in Norway to the World Columbian Exposition in 1893.  After the World's fair it was displayed in several Chicago locations and was moved, in time to Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo.  It languished there for many years and could have been totally forgotten except for the work of several to restore it after it was moved from Chicago to a Scandinavian Park in Elgin, Illinois.

This past year, Austin Lodge's resident Historian Allan Winters, who produced, a video called "Scandinavians in Chicago, (which can be seen from the link below)


proposed to Austin Lodge Chairman Bob Oberg, that he be allowed to write and produce a documentary video about the famous Viking Ship and the story of its Captain  Magnus Andersen and his crew. Oberg, who was influential in years past of keeping the ship from slipping into continued decay and descent into obscurity, agree that such a film should be made.

This inspiring tale has never, to date, been told on film, though a few articles and news items from the past are available for researchers.

Oberg says he is excited about the showing of this historical video at this year's Christmas Party.  He extends an invitation to all Chicagoans to attend the special event at Grota Banquet Hall.  The party begins at 12 noon and the cost is only fifteen dollars in advance or twenty dollars at the door, meal included.

All those interested in coming to this special event should contact the Austin Lodge by e-mail:  swedishclub@inbox.com  Phone inquiries can be made by calling Historian Allan Winters company number 708-297-1376