Commems Collection Classic: 1936 Delaware Tercentenary - A New Connection

On May 22, 1938, US Representative Harold Knutson (R-MN) spoke at a Swedish-American gathering in Manchester, NH. Knutson was born in Skein, United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway in October 1880 , so had a true heritage-based connection to his audience; Knutson died in August 1953.

The transcript of Knutson's speech is far too long to reproduce here, so I will include just a few extracts.

"Mr. Chairman and fellow Americans, we have assembled this afternoon in the beautiful city of Manchester to commemorate the three hundredth anniversary of the landing of the first Swedish colonists in America. To me it is a great event and I am profoundly appreciative of the privilege that has been accorded me to be present and to say a few words upon this happy occasion."

...

"It was in the early spring of 1638 that the Kalmar Nyckel, a Swedish ship of war, accompanied by a smaller vessel, the Fogel
Gnp, sailed into Delaware Bay after having been tossed about on the angry winter waters of the Atlantic for more than six months. The new arrivals lost no time in establishing themselves. In addition to a fort, which they loyally christened Christiana in honor of their young queen, they erected homes, and a church which yet stands, where school was held. It is recorded that the early Swedes were the first road builders in America and we have no record of an earlier grist mill than the one that was constructed and put into operation by the newcomers at Delaware.

"The Swedes are a member of the great Scandinavian race which includes also the Danes and Norwegians. One thousand years ago they were known as Vikings who sailed the seven seas with only the sun, moon, and stars to guide them. Wherever they have gone they have established a reputation for rugged honesty and industry, for thrift and economy...

"Swedes are to be found on the rock-bound coast of New England, amidst the forests of Michigan, out on the sun-kissed prairie of Minnesota and the Dakotas, as well as on the Pacific coast. "

...

"My friends, the history of our great and glorious Republic would not be complete without the brilliant chapters that have been written by the sturdy Swedish pioneers who began coming to these shores 300 years ago and whose descendants have contributed so greatly to the country's development and greatness. At an early date they began to take a prominent part in the affairs of the Colonies and later in those of the Republic. In many States have they left their imprint. High in the sciences, in the arts, in agriculture, in business, in commerce, in civics have been written the names of Americans of Swedish blood and extraction. Names imperishable, that glow in letters of living light and for all to see."

As the speech continued, Knutson recalled prominent Swedish contributors and contributions to United States history. He also began to introduce more and more political messaging. (What's a Congressman to do when he/she has a captive audience?) The 1936 Delaware half dollar was not a topic that Knutson covered, however.

Knutson's words ("One thousand years ago they were known as Vikings...") sparked a new thought in me - I suddenly realized that there's a legitimate thematic connection between the 1925 Norse-American Centennial medal and the 1936 Landing of the Swedes in Delaware Half Dollar. I'm somewhat embarrassed to admit that I had not connected the two before - but now I have!

So, here's to the 17th century Swedish settlers and their Viking ancestors:

1925 Norse-American Centennial Medal - Thick Variety


1936 Landing of the Swede in Delaware 300th Anniversary Half Dollar



For more of my stories about commemorative coins and medals, including more on the Norse-American medal and Delaware half dollar, see: Commems Collection.