Decorah Bank & Trust Co. Continues Support of Vesterheim’s “Free Thursdays”

Vesterheim in Decorah, Iowa

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is pleased to announce that Decorah Bank & Trust Co. is once again sponsoring Free Thursdays in 2010 at the museum. Thanks to Decorah Bank & Trust Co. every Thursday admission is free and the museum is open until 8:00 p.m. Once a month the museum offers a special event in connection with these “Free Thursdays.”

“We are so excited to continue Free Thursdays, with museum hours extended into the evening,” said Steve Johnson, Vesterheim Executive Director. “We are very grateful to Decorah Bank & Trust for helping us give everyone the opportunity to visit the museum and see what’s here,” he added.

“We are fortunate to have Vesterheim in our community and realize the economic impact it provides. Free Admission Thursdays encourages everyone to discover or rediscover this local jewel and tell their family and friends to come to Decorah and experience this national treasure”, commented Joe Grimstad, Executive Vice President of Decorah Bank & Trust Co.

This month, Vesterheim volunteers will be in the museum for “A Taste of Vesterheim,” February 11 from 5-6:30 p.m., to serve free Norwegian heart waffle samples, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Check vesterheim.org for upcoming special “Free Thursdays” events.

Don’t forget to check out the “Free Thursdays” specials at the museum stores.

In addition to their Decorah location, Decorah Bank & Trust Co. operates another area division, Cresco Bank & Trust Co.

Vesterheim uses the story of Norwegian Americans to explore aspects of identity and culture common to everyone. The museum cares for over 24,000 artifacts, among which are some of the most outstanding examples of decorative and folk art to be seen in this country. Founded in 1877, Vesterheim is the most comprehensive museum in the United States dedicated to a single immigrant group. This national treasure includes a main complex of 16 historic buildings in downtown Decorah, and an immigrant farmstead and prairie church just outside the city.

From May 1 through Oct. 31, Vesterheim is open daily, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with hours extended until 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays.  From Nov. 1 through April 30, Vesterheim is open Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with hours extended until 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays and is closed Monday. For more information on the museum’s exhibits, activities, and membership opportunities, consult Vesterheim’s website at vesterheim.org, call (563) 382-9681, or write to Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, 523 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.