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Many of these stories and history can be found at the American Emigration Museum (Utvandrermuseet) in Kvinesdal. This is located next to the city centre and is easy to find thanks to the large American and Norwegian sign at the front of the house.
Most times you visit the museum, you will meet a very friendly man called Toralf Haugland that will give you a guided tour. He has a vast knowledge about this history and had also written most of the historical plaques on the walls describing events, places and people. Do not forget to try out the old jukebox - it still works! Listen to an old Elvis tune or two.
There is also life size bronze monument in the city centre that re-creates the departure of a young family to America from Kvinesdal.
It is important to get these returning American emigrants and immigrants together, so naturally a festival is a good idea. In 1989, the American Emigrant festival (Kvinesdal utvandrerfestival) was created. Over nine days of activities at the festival include tours of the museum, a free movie based on the festival shown at the local cinema, shrimp party, concert, line dancing and a Sons of Norway party.
Sons of Norway is the largest Norwegian/American organisation in the world started in the united States by emigrants.
Check out the American Festival in Lista, Farsund located close by Kvinesdal.
The American tourists will also be glad to know that a local food store called Nico's has a large selection of American foods, drinks and dressings. From the café on the second floor at the Nico Centre, you can watch the hustle and bustle of Kvinesdal town centre whilst relaxing with a cup of coffee and a bite to eat. They are also known for their locally produced sausages. Their staff also speak good English.
Southern Norway's biggest American music and dance festival is in Farsund, Norway.
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