Saturday, October 21, 2023

Ole-Bolle Troll at Nordic Northwest

I know many people have already been to see the troll, but we have finally made it as well.

This is really a blog about two things, and for both of them there is much more to know.

You can visit Ole-Bolle at Nordic Northwest, near Washington Square.

https://www.nordicnorthwest.org/ 

Beginning as the Scandinavian Heritage Foundation, Nordic Northwest preserves culture and language. It's main building is Nordia House, which includes exhibition space, a gift shop, and the Broder Sรถder cafe.

Fogelbo House is a landmark and offers tours, but there are also some smaller buildings.

It is here where one troll has lifted up part of of the roof for a peek inside.

The song his name comes from sounds like it is referencing eating the humans, but this troll has such a nice face he is probably just looking for fresh bread or cake.

It turns out that Fogelbo Trollpath is just a small section of Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King

https://www.nwtrolls.org/

That full way would probably be too far to walk. 

The other trolls are all in Washington, in Vashon, Issaquah, Ballard, West Seattle, and Bainbridge Island.

I am not sure how Ole-Bolle got so far from the rest of his friends, but I saw him described as a curious troll... maybe it was that.

Then, trying to find out more about the origins of those trolls, I discovered they were part of a global network.

https://trollmap.com/

Creator Thomas Dambo's book refers to the first 100 trolls; I have no idea how many there are now. However, I only have pictures of Ole-Bolle.

He is nonetheless a very popular resident.


If you visit you will see activities like scavenger hunts for exploring the grounds and friendly volunteers to answer your questions.


COVID: The troll himself is outside, and even going in the little cottage you will find it well-ventilated. Obviously if you go inside the center or take the cottage tour, that would be different.


Accessibility: There is a ramp to enter the troll cottage. Some of the other buildings do not seem to have them, and the path is not terribly smooth. Use caution.

The only other thing I will add is that looking over the larger Troll Map, some of the trolls appear to be deceased. These gentle giants made of reclaimed materials may not be permanent.

I don't know the lifespan of a troll, but don't procrastinate for too long.

https://www.nordicnorthwest.org/

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