A Nobel Peace Prize winner’s legacy lives on. That legacy is Nansen Field. This field stands as a testament to Norwegian heritage in Southern California.
Nansen Field is more than just a park. It is an eight-acre home for the Sons of Norway’s Ulabrand Lodge. The lodge celebrated its 94th anniversary in 1926. The field welcomes people from all nationalities. Many have enjoyed Norwegian meals here.
Nansen Field was named after Fridtjof Wedel-Jarlsberg Nansen. He was a Norwegian explorer and scientist. He was also a diplomat and humanitarian. Nansen even won the Nobel Peace Prize. He embodied courage and compassion. The field’s name honors his achievements. The sign “NANSEN FIELD” stands proudly.
The land’s history is quite interesting. The Vanderlip family first owned it. They offered it to the Norwegian Seamen’s Church. The church declined. The Seamen of Norway Inc. then bought the property. It became an irrevocable trust. In 1989, the King of Norway tried to sell Nansen Field. He thought it was his. This was due to a misunderstanding about an option from 1948.
In 1993, the board members defended their ownership in court. They won against the King of Norway. This victory left them with legal debts. The Scandinavian Center at Nansen Field was then created. It expanded community outreach. This inclusiveness helped maintain its Nordic heritage. It also helped to maintain its sports center.
SCAN, or Scandinavian Center at Nansenfield, now maintains Nansen Field. It enriches the cultural and educational needs of the Scandinavian community.
Over the years, Nansen Field has welcomed the entire European community. User clubs pay an annual fee. In return, they use Nansen Field for activities and events. These clubs include SCAN and Sportsklubben FRAM. Others are the Norwegian Fish Club and the Swedish School of South Bay.
The vision for the future includes a Children’s and Heritage Garden. They also want improved facilities. More cultural offerings are planned. These include films and concerts. Cooking classes and language courses are on the list too.
Currently, Harald Myring manages the Sons of Norway and the Ulabrand Lodge. Members dream of delicious Norwegian dinners. They are waiting for social distancing to end. They want to meet face to face again at Nansen Field.
Nansen Field stands as a symbol of community. It represents the enduring spirit of the Scandinavian community. It offers a space for gathering, learning, and celebrating Nordic heritage. It also provides a place where everyone is welcome. Nansen Field is a treasure.