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Viking Age Club and Society of the Sons of Norway
About Viking Age Club and Society of the Sons of Norway
Founded in 1985 by Dennis Rusinko and Gary Anderson, the Viking Age Club and Society of the Sons of Norway emerged from a shared vision to present Vikings authentically to modern audiences. Operating from Minneapolis, Minnesota, the organization has grown into a vibrant community dedicated to accurate historical representation and public education. The founders established a fundamental principle: Viking crafts and skills should be demonstrated with equal importance to weapons and combat, and historically inaccurate imagery—such as horned helmets and bear-skins—would be rejected in favor of archaeological evidence. Over nearly four decades, the club has built strong connections with schools and communities across North America, becoming a trusted educational partner. The organization's commitment to accuracy reflects its belief that history is both intellectually enriching and genuinely fun. Members join the Minneapolis-based club for varied reasons: some are drawn by scholarly interest in Viking history, others by the artistic beauty of traditional crafts, and still others by the unique opportunity to engage in live-steel combat with authentic techniques. Regardless of motivation, members unite around a shared passion for Viking Age culture and history. The club maintains an inclusive approach to membership, welcoming people of all backgrounds—Norwegian heritage is not required. For those new to Viking reenactment, the community provides supportive guidance on building historically accurate Viking kits gradually, with experienced members readily sharing knowledge about authentic versus fantasy items. The organization's distinctive wedge-shaped tents have become a familiar sight at Scandinavian festivals throughout the Upper Midwest, where visitors can observe demonstrations, attend lectures, and connect with a community that brings history to life through education, craftsmanship, and authentic cultural engagement.