Chris Hall's dream to establish an authentic Viking settlement on the Isle of Man has attracted quite a lot of international media attention.
According to what Hall told The Viking Herald earlier in the year, the plan is to set up robust wooden structures, likely including a "Folkvangr" area (a "field of the people") which guests could visit after participating in numerous planned activities.
Among other things, the area is supposed to serve as a platform for fun experiences such as shield building and Viking re-enactment events with professionals trained in weapon fighting.
The Viking settlement will likely include a farmhouse, barn, forge, temple, and animal pens. Hall wants the project to serve as a place where children can learn about old traditions and practices from farmers and artisans (in traditional outfits).
The Viking Herald reached out to Chris Hall to find out how the Viking settlement project has developed since October.
TVH: We last spoke three months ago when the project was officially approved. How has the Viking settlement project developed since then?
CH: Since the planning went through, we have been pushing on with the website, and social media side of things, along with setting up the bank account so we can start fundraising through the Winter.
TVH: Sounds like you were busy… The project has a new name now, "The Manx Viking Project." How come?
CH: The Sandygate Viking Project (although a beautiful name) was not synonymous with the Isle of Man, and we were advised to change it to get better exposure of the project to people both on and off the Island.
The new logo of the Manx Viking Project. Photo: The Manx Viking Project
TVH: How successfully has the project attracted sponsors, volunteers, and partners so far? What can people do to support the project?
CH: Up to now, we have not made any efforts to raise funds due to the delays in getting all the banking forms in order.
Once this is done, we can start on that phase; we are already getting offers of help, however, both locally and internationally.
TVH: What is the status of the construction of the planned Viking facilities?
CH: We will be starting construction of the actual Viking elements of the project from about April next year. There is a lot of groundwork to do in the meantime and utilities to put in place before we can accept volunteers on-site.
TVH: When do you expect the first visitors to be able to come and enjoy the Viking settlement on the Isle of Man?
CH: All being well, and if the funds/materials and volunteers are in good supply, we hope to open at least the first phase to the public in time for Beltane 2024.
A model of a Viking longhouse constructed by Chris Hall. Photo: The Manx Viking Project
We get to provide readers with original coverage thanks to our loyal supporters. Do you enjoy our work? You can become a PATRON here or via our Patreon page. You'll get access to exclusive content and early access.
Feel free to reach out to discuss potential stories that may be in the public interest. You can reach us via email at [email protected] with the understanding that the information you provide might be used in our reporting and stories.
