Archive of the website of the former museum of regional geology and archaeology, Den Oever (Wieringen)
 

Wieringer Courant, April 3, 2001

Article from the Wieringer Courant Normans take possession of rink

Den Oever - On Saturday het Huis van de Aarde celebrated its five year anniversary and the start of a new season with an Open House. There was even a reconstruction of a Viking Settlement on the site of the local rink.

Mayor Baas opened the celebrations Saturday afternoon with a toast. He explained that this was a special event for him, not just because the museum was five years old, but because he had been present at the original opening. In fact, attending the opening had been his first official duty as mayor.

Since then, the focus of het Huis van de Aarde has changed somewhat. Founded by Bert de Vries, the museum's original emphasis was on the geology of Wieringen. However, following the discovery of a number of Viking related coins and other objects in Westerklief, the museum dedicated itself to local archaeology. The museum now showcases how the Vikings of early Wieringen lived.
Where the local skating rink normally lies, a Viking encampment was set up. The re-enactors came not only from Wieringen, but from all over the Netherlands. Some were members of De Wierde Wironii and Bifrost, two organizations that recreate the early history of the Netherlands. While these two groups are primarily interested in the Viking period, a third participating group, "Feniks", studies a larger period (500 A.D. - 1800 A.D.).

The encampment demonstrated what daily life was like for the early inhabitants. Tents were pitched, and there were demonstrations on making clothes and preparing food. And these Vikings needed lots of food, for they had to ready themselves for the sword fighting demonstrations. A 9th century fashion show also took place.

It was rather cool, and when it started to rain, not everyone could take shelter inside the tents. But the organizers were prepared, and visitors were given directions to het Huis van de Aarde, where they could escape the rain and learn more about where and how the Vikings lived. And for those who correctly answered the quiz along the walking route, there were even free refreshments.

There were two new exhibits on display at the museum. One was a collection of dolls sporting costumes of Franks, Frisians, Vikings, and even Russian Norsemen, or "Rusviks". The second exhibit was in a small showcase, and consisted of a very interesting display of cloak pins, buckles, a belt fitting, a viking ring, jewels and Arabian coins. These coins show that the Vikings had undertaken trade with people from distant lands. The museum also contains information on the geology of Wieringen.

Volunteers were on hand, selling various articles, with proceeds going to the museum.  Many visitors came out to enjoy both the Viking camp and the museum. Het Huis van de Aarde is open Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1 to 5. Group tours can be arranged at other times. For information call 511191.


 

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