James C. Brogan

“ Next the Northmen anchored in a deep bay, which they called Straumfjord, on account of its currents, and they then reached an island frequented by eider-ducks in great numbers. They named it Straumey, and it is supposed to be either Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket. They wintered at Straumfjord, and, resolving to plant their settlement on its shores, landed their flocks, built booths, and spent the spring in cultivating the land, fishing, and exploring the country. But when the next winter came their resources were nearly exhausted, and Thorfinn was deserted by some of his companions. ”

“ The remains of such a ship were discovered in 1880 in a mound at Gogstad, Norway, and are now to be seen in a good state of preservation at Christiania. The erection of the tumulus is ascribed by antiquarians to the most ancient iron age, or the 10th century of our era — most probably to the age of Harold the haired, founder of the Norwegian state. ”

“ First he explored the coast in the neighborhood of Mount Hope bay, visiting several harbors and making inquiries as to the productions of the soil. He is believed by some to have ascended the Potomac. He then passed the winter in Straumfjord, when the turbulence of his followers forced him to sail homeward. One ship was lost, so that of the three vessels that left Ericsfjord in 1007 only that of Thorfinn returned in 1011. ”