Vesterheim has opened a Book of Condolence at its Hanson Vesterheim Commons in Decorah after the reported passing of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway. The museum said the book will give community members a place to share messages of sympathy and remembrance with the Norwegian Royal Family and the people of Norway.
The in-person book is available during Vesterheim’s regular business hours at Hanson Vesterheim Commons, 508 W. Water Street, Decorah. It will remain available through Sept. 13.
How Decorah residents can sign
Vesterheim said the local book will be passed on to the Palace and included with other books and condolences. The arrangement gives people in the Decorah area a way to send messages through the museum while honoring the king’s longstanding relationship with Vesterheim.
People who cannot sign in person can use a separate digital Book of Condolence opened by the Royal Court of Norway. The online book accepts messages in any language. Messages will be reviewed automatically and published with the sender’s name, according to the information provided by the Royal Court.
The digital book is expected to remain open for one month. After that period, the online version will be archived as a PDF in the Royal Court’s archives. Vesterheim’s announcement directs readers to the Royal Court’s digital protocol for the online option.
King Harald’s connection to Vesterheim
Vesterheim described King Harald as known for his kindness and openness to new ideas. The museum also highlighted his connection to the United States, where he spent time in exile as a young boy during World War II.
His relationship with the Decorah museum spanned more than six decades. He first visited Vesterheim in 1965 while he was Crown Prince. He returned as king in 1995 and again in 2011, making three visits in all.
Vesterheim also said the king provided enduring support as the museum’s honorary board chair beginning in 1991, the year he became king. The museum’s announcement includes a photograph of King Harald at Vesterheim during his 2011 visit.
The Vesterheim community extends deepest sympathies to the Norwegian Royal family and all of the Norwegian people on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway.
The museum said staff members and trustees feel the loss of “such a great individual” and are sending peace and comfort to those close to him. Vesterheim also expressed gratitude to people who have already reached out with condolences and reflections on the king’s life and legacy.
By providing the book, Vesterheim said it is offering a place where the local community can gather in remembrance and express sympathy to the Royal Family and the people of Norway. The museum identifies the king’s passing as Aug. 28, 2026, and provides additional information about Vesterheim’s connections to Norway and the Norwegian Royal Family.