Join the 150th Anniversary Update Project

Gimli Saga Limited Edition Reprint of the 1975 Original

Help Us Update the Gimli Saga for the 150th Anniversary

The Gimli Saga is more than a book—it’s a treasured record of the people who built the Gimli region. Originally published in 1975 to commemorate the centennial of the Icelandic settlement in New Iceland, the Saga captured the histories of many early families, preserving their names, stories, and contributions for future generations.

But that first edition was just the beginning.

A New Chapter Begins — The 150th Anniversary Edition of the Gimli Saga

In preparation for the 150th anniversary of New Iceland in 2025, we are creating an updated edition of the Gimli Saga—one that reflects the full diversity of the Interlake region. We know that many families were left out of the original book, and we want to ensure that this new edition is as inclusive, accurate, and comprehensive as possible.

This is your chance to be part of history.


 

We Want to Hear From You If:

  • Your family was part of the original Icelandic settlement but was not included in the first edition.
  • You are a descendant of settlers from other cultures who helped build the Gimli and Interlake area—Ukrainian, Polish, German, Métis, Indigenous, Scottish, English, and more.
  • Your community or organization has a story to share about life in the Interlake—past or present.
  • You have photos, documents, or memories passed down through generations that belong in the story of Gimli.

 

Honouring All Histories

This new edition of the Gimli Saga will expand beyond the Icelandic story. We welcome and encourage submissions from:

  • Indigenous communities who have long called this land home
  • Métis families and leaders who played a critical role in shaping this region
  • All cultural groups who arrived in later waves of immigration and helped shape Gimli into the vibrant, multicultural town it is today

 

What We’re Collecting:

  • Family histories (short or long)
  • Genealogies and family trees
  • Photos (especially with names and dates)
  • Notable events or contributions
  • Stories of immigration, resilience, and community life

Whether you submit a few paragraphs or a full family story, every voice matters!


 

Let’s Build a Record That Future Generations Deserve

We owe it to our ancestors—and our children—to preserve these stories with care and respect. The Gimli Saga is not just a book. It’s a time capsule, a legacy, and a gift to the future.

📚 Be part of the 150th chapter. Share your story.
Together, let’s make history complete.

The Viking Roots Project Phase 1

In the first phase of this project, you can register your information and begin filling in your profile with information about yourself and your family by answering a few questions. From here, other family members can join and enter their information which may extend the family tree, connect long-lost family members, share stories, and help discover more about your lineage. Where your ancestors originated, their stories, and how their paths lead to where you are today. This can then be added by your own extended family including children to continue to story while connecting online with one another for years to come.

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Gimli Saga Book

The Gimli Saga brings the reader face to face with the stark realities of pioneer existence and the enduring power of human resourcefulness, stubborn determination and unfailing courage. This comprehensive work, replete as it is with treasured memories, depicts the transition from a small, isolated settlement to an economically and culturally progressive community with all the amenities of modern civilization. The book offers ample testimony that the pioneers' vision of a rewarding future in their adopted Canada was realized by their descendants.

GET YOUR COPY TODAY

Donate Now!

If you would like to support and get involved with our project, please click the button below to donate.

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At Viking Ancestry, we are committed to fostering a community that celebrates diversity, promotes equity, and ensures inclusion for all individuals. Our mission is to provide a platform where everybody can explore their ancestry and heritage with respect, dignity, and a sense of belonging.

We acknowledge that Viking Roots© operates on the traditional territories of the indigenous peoples of our region.