HISTORY
The NCC was born during the Great Depression. A group of men of Norwegian descent were members of an organization called the Odinian Society, which was limited to Norwegian Masons. To broaden the base of their prospective membership, it was decided that the Norwegians could form a group to help each other. Counsel Eli Paulson drew up the Articles of Incorporation and 69 members signed. The meetings were held in the Gowman Hotel. Eventually, the Club moved to the Norway Center and membership grew steadily.
The prime attraction for the attending members was the social hour, where Old Crow and Old Granddad seemed to be the favorites. These days, it’s apparently McNaughton’s. At one meeting, Rangval Flakstad, an importer, decided to treat the members to Aquavit and Norwegian beer. That meeting ended in what is politely described as “utter confusion.” Another attraction were the poker games which followed every meeting.
Over the years, our membership has included mayors, councilmen, governors, congressmen, senators and kings. Valdemar Holm was treasurer for many years. Valdemar was succeeded by Fred Scheel who held the position so long, that they made him an honorary life member. Member Allen Pomeroy was also Mayor of Seattle and later, U.S. Attorney for Western Washington. Dr. K. Falkenberg, membership chairman for many years, was the most beloved. Whenever a guest was introduced at our meeting, he’d present him with a membership card. Thanks to him, we became a viable organization, now with a membership exceeding 400.
The proudest days of the NCC have been those when the committees functioned well. Frode Frodeson was in charge of Civic Affairs and our club was represented well at most of the Chamber of Commerce and Port Commission meetings. The efforts of the NCC were instrumental in getting the Shilshole Marina built. Our Fisheries Committee has done valiant work on Fishermen’s Night and many students have benefited from the work of our scholarship committee. Over the years, we’ve present scholarships in the tens of thousands of dollars. Most of that money is generated on Fishermen’s Night, always held the second Thursday in December, where the prestigious King Neptune Award is presented.
Meetings
Meetings are normally held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from September th
Meetings are normally held on the second and fourth Thursday from September through May. However, due to Covid restrictions, in person meetings have been suspended. In lieu, of getting together all meetings will be conducted via Zoom and Youtube.com .
Since 1932, the Norwegian Commercial Club has provided Norwegians, Norwegian-Americans and others interested in the Norwegian culture with a place to meet and discuss business issues of the day. The Club provides a means to network and socialize through their dinner meetings and activities. Meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from September through the first half of May each year. Each dinner meeting has an engaging speaker or agenda. Dinners, including beverages, are $25 for members and guests with reservations, and $28 without reservations. Make your reservation for dinner featuring popular Norwegian dishes.
Directions to the Leif Erikson Lodge Click here
Various businesses & professions represented within the Norwegian Commercial Club membership include:
Advertising Investment Services
Air Conditioning Journalism
Apt. Home Owner Kitchen Remodeling
Architecture Longshoring/Waterfront
Attorneys Mailing Services
Auto Dealers Management
Auto Repair Marine Architect
Banking/Savings/Loan Marine Pilot
Boat/Shipbuilding/Repair Marine Surveyor
Cabinet and Millwork Mariner/Master
Carpentry Maritime Consultant
Civil Engineering Marketing
Commercial Maintenance Masonry
Communications Merchant Marine
Computer Systems Ministry
Consultants Music
Contractors Naval Architect
Delicatessens Norwegian Consul
Dentists Norwegian Sweaters
Education Oil & Gas
Electrical/Electronics Painting & Decorating
Elevator Service Pharmacist
Engineers Printing
Engines Property Management
Fabrication Publishing
Farming Radio/Broadcasting
Financial Services Real Estate
Fishermen Rentals
Fish Processing Retirement Residence
Fish and Seafood Sales
Fishing Representatives Ski School
Fishing Equipment/Marine Supplies Sporting Goods
Fishing Vessel Owners Stocks & Bonds
Funeral Homes Transfer/Freight
Furniture Travel Services
Gifts Terminal Services
Heating Upholstery
Importers Visual Arts
Insulation Wholesale/Retail
Insurance
