An Enduring Craft: Hanus Jensen’s Journey at the Viking Ship Museum
Hanus Jensen, a native of Skúvoy, has dedicated an impressive 26 years to the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, Denmark, with only two brief interruptions. Before his tenure at the museum, Hanus honed his craft by building numerous boats in the Faroe Islands, the most renowned of which is likely the Diana Victoria. This vessel was famously rowed by Ovi Joensen to Denmark in 1986, marking a significant moment in Faroese maritime history.
Hanus learned his trade under the guidance of Hjalmari Hátún, which laid the foundation for his long career in boatbuilding. Over the years, he has not only crafted traditional Faroese boats that visitors can sail, but he has also been involved in constructing a replica Viking ship, among other larger maritime projects.
During our conversation, we took a detour to a small workshop just outside Roskilde, where Hanus has been working on a boat for Livar Nysted in his spare time. The vessel is ready to set sail, awaiting only the summer waters to make its debut.
Recently, however, Hanus faced unexpected news. Just two days after a visit from a public relations representative, he learned that, starting next March, he and five other staff members would no longer be employed, as the museum braces for inevitable budget cuts. Hanus shared his thoughts on Facebook, announcing that he would be seeking new opportunities come spring.
As he reflects on his time at the museum, Hanus leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship and dedication, defining not just boats, but a rich maritime heritage.
