How many names are there?

One thousand, seven hundred sixty-seven. About 850 names were placed on the rune stones initially in 2007, and the remainder were unveiled on July 18, 2010.

Does each name get its own plaque or nameplate?

No, there are 13 plaques with 100 or more names on each plaque.

Is it just for immigrants who have passed on?

No! It’s a tribute to Scandinavian immigration and for all immigrants from Scandinavia, whether they’ve passed on or are still living. About one-fourth of the submissions are for immigrants who are still living and working in the area.

Is this just for Norwegians?

No, it’s for immigrants from all the Scandinavian countries. The donations represent: Norwegians 71%; Swedes 18%; Icelanders 3%; Danes 5%; and Finns 3%. (Interestingly, the 1990 Washington state census reported that of those with Scandinavian heritage, the percentages were Norwegian 50%, Swedish 33%, Danish 10%, Finnish 6%, and Icelandic 1%.)

Why did the Port move the statue and how far did they move it?

As part of a general renovation of Shilshole Marina, the statue was moved a very short distance within the same general area.

What happens to any money that’s left over?

We’ll use it toward our mission, which is to promote Leif Erikson’s place in history, support Scandinavian activities and culture in the Northwest, and build bridges between Scandinavia and America.

Who is Leif Erikson International Foundation (LEIF)?

We’re a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organization. We raised funds for the statue of Leif Erikson that was given to Trondheim, Norway, in 1997, and partial funding for a statue of Leif Erikson for Erik the Red’s home place in Greenland. Our Board members are Mary Englund, Barbara Grande Dougherty, Kristine Leander, Rolf Lystad, and Sharon Storbo.

Does LEIF have plans for any more statues?

Although it’s just a dream at this point, we hope to raise funds for one more statue. We’ve given statues to the Saga-mentioned locations of Norway and Greenland, and we’d like to make sure that the Viking settlement in Vinland—known now as L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland—has a replica of this statue.

How do I get more information?

For information about the project, or call LEIF president Kristine Leander at 206-778-1081.

When did this project start and how long did it take?

LEIF formally launched its statue project in 2005. The statue was removed from its 1962 base in February 2007 and installed in the new plaza in September 2007. We unveiled the first 850 names in October 2007 and the remainder in July 2010.

Where can I read more?

Read about LEIF's immigration tribute project in the Ballard News-Tribune.