Ancient Norwegian Architecture

While visiting in the Moorehead/Fargo area, I was intrigued by this early 12th century replica of a Norwegian church. I am so accustomed to the traditional churches with the white steeples spread through-out our nation that this was a nice surprise to come across. The craftmanship of the woodwork was amazing. The church reminds me of a viking ship with the carved "guardians" atop the roof. The Celtic cross is a replica of one that is from 995 AD.

Early Pioneer Architecture

As I drive through the heart of our nation, I can only wonder what it must have been like to "pioneer" the frontier. The old structures remind us of those who came before and made a way for the generations to come. Old barns struggling to stay erect, houses shadows of what they used to be, and land rich in history. We see the remnants of the past and are reminded of how far we have come, and how blessed we are.

I can only imagine what it must have been like to build your own house, farm your own food, and fight the natural elements with no 911 available. Many of the prairies didn't have enough timber to build homes with so they made their homes from the sod of the land, thus "soddies". They would have grass roofs with muslin cloth for a ceiling to keep the bugs and dirt off the residents. Unfortunately, the roofs weren't water resistant. Doors and windows were usually mail ordered. Flooring was packed dirt. I'm sure there wasn't much room or thought for Interior Designers, just survival.

Where's Christine?

Where have I been and where am I going? A short trip to Iowa and then a drive to Minnesota to visit family. It's amazing when you get away from your familiar surroundings how "alive" everything looks! Especially when you're not in the desert:) Over the next couple of days I will post some pictures of the architecture I encountered on my travels. I love discovering the history of our beautiful nation, where we have come from and where we are going.