Dumfries, a charming town in southern Scotland, has long been intertwined with the nation's neighbour to the north – Norway. As England prepares to face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, this transatlantic connection comes into sharp focus. The bond between Dumfries and Norway is rooted in their shared history of wartime solidarity, dating back 86 years to the tumultuous days of World War II.
Following Germany's occupation of Norway in April 1940, approximately 300 Norwegian soldiers arrived in Scotland in June that year. They were directed to Dumfries, a location many found reminiscent of their homeland. The town quickly became a vital centre for Norwegian military training, and by 1941, the number of Norwegian personnel had swelled to over 1,000. Barracks were constructed at Carronbridge, just north of Dumfries, and the Norwegian army command established its base there.
The connections between the Scottish community and their Norwegian guests grew profoundly during this period. The Scottish Norwegian Society (SNS) was founded in Dumfries in 1941, establishing a permanent meeting place known as Norway House (Norges Hus). These connections were further solidified through numerous friendships and an estimated 200 marriages between Scots and Norwegians.
Even after the war concluded and the soldiers returned home, the special relationships remained. A farewell party was held to mark their departure, underscoring the enduring bonds between Dumfries and Norway. Today, these historical ties remain vibrant – the red and blue Norwegian flag is a regular sight flying over Dumfries, and many local families can trace their ancestry back to the Scandinavian nation.
Last year's 'Alt for Norge' ('All for Norway') exhibition celebrated this unique chapter in Dumfries' history, featuring a telegram from King Haakon VII expressing gratitude to the people of Dumfries for their support. The Scottish Norwegian Connection (SNC) group also gifted a 'stone of friendship' to the burgh, serving as a permanent symbol of the enduring bond.
Beverley Thom, who organised recent celebrations for the SNC, noted that these friendships continue to thrive. She observed that shared passions, including football, have become an integral part of this cross-North Sea connection. Consequently, it is little surprise that many residents of Dumfries, affectionately known as 'Doonhamers', will be offering their support to Norway in major sporting events.
Dumfries stands out among Scottish towns with its deep historical links to Norway. However, other parts of Scotland also share significant connections – the 'Shetland Bus' operations aided the Norwegian resistance during the occupation, and Orkney considered a proposal to become a self-governing Norwegian territory, though this was ultimately not pursued.