The exhibition “Who Owns History?” showcases several unique South Sámi artifacts. New research methods and archaeological findings reveal Sámi presence in Southern Norway much earlier than previously thought.

Advancements in research techniques and archaeological discoveries continually provide us with exciting new insights into the past. In this exhibition, we present some results from research conducted at NTNU University Museum and other institutions.

Tjåerviebuste – The South Sámi Horn Spoon:

In the cultural-historical collections of the University Museum, there exists a special type of spoon made from reindeer horn. These spoons have a distinctive shape, and their blades are ornamented with characteristic South Sámi braided patterns.

The horn spoons were discovered in the city grounds of Trondheim and are dated to the medieval and early modern periods. However, the exact reasons for how and why these spoons ended up in Trondheim remain unknown. Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to see these beautiful spoons firsthand.

Aernie – Hearth from the Past:

In the summer of 2006, an extraordinary archaeological find was made near Aursjøen in Lesja municipality. The discovery consisted of four well-laid hearths arranged in a row. Such hearths indicate Sámi settlements in the Dovrefjell area as far back as the Viking Age.

In 2023, the regulated Nesjøen near Sylan in Tydal was partially drained, allowing for archaeological investigations. The sites uncovered by archaeologists confirmed earlier assumptions about extensive Sámi use in the area dating back over 1,200 years.

Among the findings were 45 hearths, spanning from around 800 CE to more recent times. These results provide valuable insights into the long-standing Sámi presence in the region.

The exhibition also features aernieh (hearths) from both Aursjøen and Nesjøen. It’s a remarkable opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the South Sámi people in Norway