Telelaget is an organization of descendants of immigrants from Telemark County (Fylke) in Norway and their family and friends. It was founded in 1907 by Telemark-Norwegian-American pioneers as a way to stay connected with each other and the homeland they left behind. Yearly reunions (stevner) brought together tens of thousands of people with Telemark roots to share their unique Norwegian dialect and the customs and family ties that connected them to their homeland. Publications chronicled the lives of Norwegian-Americans and their friends and family in Norway. Over the generations, the group focused on celebrating its member's Telemark Norwegian heritage. However, it now emphasizes genealogical research, educating its members about their heritage and history, and preserving the stories of Telemark's pioneers. Telelaget is a non-profit organization comprising about 500 individuals and families in the United States, Canada, and Norway.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, people in Norway felt a stronger tie to their local culture than to a Norwegian national identity. Each rural community (Bygd) in Norway shared the same dialect in speech, the same ways of preparing food, the same folkways, and the same special occasion costumes (bunad). There were so many dialects in Norway that many people could not understand each other, even though they spoke the same language. These strong local ties were the impetus for the bygdelag movement within Norwegian-American communities. Today, 30 of these organizations representing 30 Norwegian communities still exist, providing a vital link between their members and the areas of Norway from which their ancestors came.

Every Lag seeks to preserve and strengthen bonds with its home district or community of origin in Norway. Telelaget publishes a historical journal, the Telesoga, twice a year that focuses on preserving the stories of generations of Telemarkings on both sides of the Atlantic. Its newsletter, Telenews, keeps members up-to-date on current activities and projects. Telelaget also occasionally hosts mini stevne, other one-day research, or special event gatherings.

Each summer, Telelaget is one of several bygdelag that come together to coordinate the 7+ Lag Stevne, a 3-4 day get-together held at venues in the upper Midwest. Part convention, part reunion, the event offers access to each of the lag's genealogical holdings; classes on Norwegian genealogical research and the history of Norwegian pioneers; and demonstrations of Norwegian folk arts. Vendors offer a broad array of Scandinavian wares for browsing and buying. Entertainment reflects Norwegian and Norwegian-American culture. Tours of local landmarks pay special attention to their connection to Norwegian-American settlements. It's a great summer gathering where you can forge new friendships, learn more about your Norwegian heritage, and probably find a few new cousins you didn't know you had!

Every 4-5 years Telelaget organizes a unique opportunity for its members to return to Norway and take a step beyond typical tourist fare to visit the farms, communities, and churches their immigrant ancestors left behind.

What is Telelaget?