Syttende Mai by P.N. (Polly) Rude

Westby in the early 1970s

With the nationality of Westby residents listed as 97% Norwegian in a Triple A book of the 1940s, celebrating Syttende Mai, or Norway’s Independence Day, on May 17 became apart of Westby’s heritage. Unfortunately both World War I and II took their toll and the observation of the day died as a major Westby holiday. 

As other towns of similar ethnic background revived their celebrations, the momentum began in Westby as well. In June of 1967 a local columnist mourned the fact that other Norwegian localities had Velkommen signs in their towns and Westby certainly should have them - and be celebrating Syttende Mai as well. At that time former mayor P.N. Rude, as a Kiwanis project designed and erected signs at the city limits of the two major highways which pass through Westby. “Nisser Lady” Evelyn Larson helped execute Rude’s unique idea: nisser in costume, painting “Velkommen til Westby” on large board signs.

This impetus led to the concern of other citizens who were also in favor of reviving a celebration on May 17. In 1968, Lyle Lund, Ella Anderson, Norvel Buros and Marian Nuttestad met a few times and discussed the possibility of having a May 17th celebration. However, it was not until the first notice of an official meeting went out on April 22, 1969, when Westby Promoters: David Vosseteig, Larry Anderson and Jim Weber, called together people who were interested in having such a festival. There was much interest in this but there was a question of who would have the time and energy to plan and promote such a celebration. P.N. Rude was elected and accepted the responsibility after the following were elected to serve with him: David Vosseteig, vice president, Larry Anderson, secretary, and Jim Weber, treasurer. Various committees were set up right away as there was very little time and no money to work with, and May 17 was only 25 days away. The committees worked diligently against many obstacles yet everything was in good order for the festive day.

The crowd at this first fest was much greater than expected and the whole celebration was termed a big success, which was the prime reason to consider having more of the same in years to come. In September a meeting was held to review past events and discuss possibilities for coming years. The following officers were elected: P.N. Rude, president - 3 years; David Vosseteig, vice president - 3 years; Margaret Gulsvig, secretary - 2 years, and Jim Weber, treasurer - 2  years. a decision was made to file necessary papers and incorporate as Syttende Mai, Inc. It was also decided that a selection of princess should be added to the festival program. Kay Vosseteig, Sharon Nelson and Armin Fruechte were elected to serve as the Princess committee.

Many features have been added to the first very simple celebration, notable from a one or two day holiday to three days of capacity crowds, enjoying all the added features. Selection of a Syttende Mai Princess, the Princess Banquet and coronation programs became a popular addition on Thursday evenings. Two live nisser in costume have added much to this evening, serving as escorts at every coronation program. Besides being main attractions at the parade on Sunday, these nisser also escort the Princess and her court in many parades throughout the area. The colorful nisser costumes, complete with flowing Santa Claus beards, were designed and executed by Eunice Sherry.

Subsequent additions have included a quilt auction displays of Norwegian arts such as rosemaling and wood carving all of which are featured at the a huge craft sale. An art exhibit and vocal concert, all at the local high school, add the right touch of Norwegian culture. A troll hunt with a monetary prize has been sponsored by Norseman Youth Club, Russell Hanson and currently Kevin Connelly. 

Though most of the first costumes were simple cotton creations, hastily fashioned into Norwegian design, ethnic bunads, or genuine costumes imported from Norway, have become more prevalent in recent years. Ethnic foods are a sellout attraction. Sunday features a Norwegian service in the Westby Coon-Prairie Church. These services are followed by traditional dinner menus of meatballs and lefse both in the churches and at other sites. Finally the huge parade on Sunday afternoon brings thousands of viewer to the Syttende Mai celebration.

Written by P.N. (Polly) Rude.